Is it possible to recommend a grant from my fund to an organization that has not yet obtained 501(c)(3) status?

This is not encouraged, but it is possible if the project that you wish to donate to has a fiscal sponsor who is classified as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.  A grant can be issued to the fiscal sponsor if the fiscal sponsor understands that they, legally, have financial responsibility for the use of the funds. A letter from the fiscal sponsor’s Executive Director is usually required.