Best Akron Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

The Mitsui U.S.A. Foundation, established in 1987, focuses on supporting educational and community welfare initiatives across the U.S. It prioritizes qualified 501(c)(3) organizations that enhance the quality of life, particularly through international education and U.S.-Japan exchanges. With over 50 active programs, the Foundation promotes good corporate citizenship and encourages employee volunteerism while avoiding support for individuals, political groups, or non-monetary requests. Collaboration with local Mitsui offices is preferred.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, Barberton City Schools, and the City of Barberton serving residents in Summit County may apply for Barberton Community Foundation’s Education, Workforce and Economic Development Grants, with awards up to US $15,000 for projects. Eligible programs must benefit Barberton citizens and demonstrate measurable community impact, which can include Akron-area initiatives within Barberton’s service area.

County of Summit ADM Board

The County of Summit ADM Board provides a person-centered approach to prevention, treatment, and recovery. In Summit County, no one walks the recovery journey alone. Together with our partners, we will find a path for anyone who needs the services our system provides.

The County of Summit ADM Board is responsible for planning, funding, monitoring, and evaluating treatment, prevention, and support services for people who experience Substance Use Disorder and/or Mental Health Disorder. The ADM Board does not provide direct services, but it contracts with local agencies to provide quality, affordable services for people at critical times in their lives.

Mini-Grants

This funding is targeted for grass roots efforts in our community to promote overall mental wellness. Please note, this funding is not for traditional treatment, prevention or recovery supports as defined by the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (Ohio DBH). For more information regarding these services and and definitions, visit the Ohio DBH website.

Priority may be given to programs/events that target ADM Board identified priority populations (LGBTQ+, older adults, African Americans, immigrants/refugees, pregnant women with substance use disorders and families with dependent children impacted with substance use disorders).

Please note the following:

• Completed applications must be received no less than 60 days prior to the proposed event.
• Grants are awarded on a reimbursement basis only.
• Applicants are only eligible for one mini grant per calendar year.
• All requests must receive final approval from the ADM Board’s Board of Directors.

The GAR Foundation supports nonprofits in Akron, Ohio, focusing on initiatives that enhance education, community development, and cultural enrichment. They prioritize strategic collaboration across sectors to foster vibrant community solutions. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations benefiting Akron residents. However, the foundation does not fund special events, anniversaries, individuals, national or religious organizations, and medical research, ensuring a targeted approach to grantmaking.

The Andrews Foundation, a private family foundation based in Northeast Ohio since 1951, focuses on enriching the quality of life in the region. It offers multi-year grants ranging from 2 to 5 years to non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. In 2024, the foundation emphasizes sectors such as Education, Eldercare, Community Services, Healthcare, Social Services, and Sustainability, showcasing its commitment to community investment and adaptability in grant-making.

The Bascom Little Fund Grant supports Northeast Ohio composers by funding the performance and recording of contemporary music. Established in memory of architect Bascom Little, the fund aims to promote new works through concerts and publications. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities, and composers must reside in Northeast Ohio. The fund does not support the commission of new works or operating expenses. Special consideration is given to those with additional financial backing.

Fred Frese Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established by NAMI Summit County to honor and memorialize Dr. Frederick J. Frese III by providing scholarships to graduate-level students seeking a degree in the area of mental health treatment. Dr. Frese was a renowned psychologist and fierce health advocate for the rights and dignity of people with a mental illness. His life experience as a person with schizophrenia, as well as living a life of tremendous accomplishment, gave Dr. Frese a unique perspective and a unique voice.

Amount:

• Varies (contingent on available funds)

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• Must reapply annually by submission of a new application.

Esther Simonetti Owen Future Educators Scholarship Fund

Established to honor Esther Simonetti Owen's half-century of work in the education field by providing scholarships for Akron Public Schools students who plan to major in education.

Amount:

• $1,000

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• No

Kate Lieberth Lytton Education in Dance Fund

Established by David Lieberth and Alec Lytton in memory of Kate Lieberth Lytton to provide scholarships for Summer Study to aspiring young male and female dancers from Summit County.

Amount:

• Varies

Number of awards

• Varies

The Ohio Forest Legacy Program aims to protect vital forests from conversion to non-forest uses through conservation easements. This partnership between the State and USDA Forest Service encourages landowners to participate voluntarily in preserving working forests, which are essential for biodiversity, water quality, and economic productivity. The program also promotes the management of forests for timber harvesting while maintaining ecological benefits, ensuring sustainable land use practices for future generations.

About Knight Foundation

John S. and James L. Knight believed that a well-informed community could best “determine its own true interests” and was essential to a well-functioning, thriving democracy. They pursued those beliefs, building and leading one of the largest and most successful newspaper companies in American history.

For 75 years, Knight Foundation has supported the people, ideas and insights that lead to thriving communities. The foundation invests in local journalism, arts and culture and community development in the 26 cities and towns where the Knight brothers once published newspapers.

Since our founding in 1950, we have been committed to the communities we serve and to providing those communities with the tools they need for residents to thrive.

Knight Cities Challenge

Knight Foundation is currently accepting applications for the Knight Cities Challenge, a $5 million open call inviting individuals and organizations across its 26 communities to submit new, creative ideas for projects that can spark change and leave a lasting local impact.

Building on a long history of open challenges across programs, Knight democratizes access to grantmaking to unlock the best and brightest ideas. This spring, KCC returns to invest in its first cohort of community-centered solutions to local challenges and help promising ideas take root and grow.

Project ideas must focus on at least one of Knight’s investment areas: strengthening local news and information, creating pathways for economic opportunity or cultivating connection through arts, culture and the places that bring people together.

You may submit one idea, either as an individual or on behalf of your organization. While you are limited to one application as the lead applicant, you may collaborate on other projects submitted by different partners. Each individual or organization may receive funding for only one project.

For large institutions such as universities or city governments, schools or departments are considered separate entities. 

The Northern Ohio Golf Charities Foundation Grant supports education, health and human services, civic organizations, and arts and culture within Northeast Ohio. Grants are awarded to organizations with a current 501(C)(3) status, and funding requests should not exceed $10,000. However, applications for program or operating support, endowment funds, or requests from religious organizations are not accepted. This grant aims to encourage impactful projects that align with its mission.

About Us

Since its founding in 1875, the Akron Bar Association has served as the primary guardian of the Summit County legal system. Through education, advocacy and community service, the Akron Bar empowers its members to reflect the highest professional standards, enabling them to earn the community’s utmost respect so our legal system will be recognized as fair, accessible and just.

Mission Statement

The Akron Bar Association, through education, advocacy and community service, empowers its members to reflect the highest professional standards, enabling them to earn the community’s utmost respect so our legal system will be recognized as fair, accessible and just.

Vision Statement

The Akron Bar Association will be recognized as the voice of the legal community to promote the highest respect for the law and justice system, thereby creating a thriving democracy.

Grants

The Akron Bar Foundation (Foundation) welcomes grant requests from 501(C)(3) nonprofit organizations to fund law-related programs or projects that serve the communities of Summit County, Ohio.

Qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving the Green community in Summit County can receive up to US $3,000 for civic, community, education, health, or nonprofit development initiatives. With a mission to strengthen community life, Akron Community Foundation provides Akron-area nonprofits with annual grants through the Green Community Fund endowment.

The Ridgecliff Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations focusing on mental health and chemical dependency in Northeast Ohio. This funding is aimed at education, prevention, and treatment initiatives. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and operate within specific counties. The foundation does not fund general operating support, construction projects, or research. Grants are limited to one per organization annually, and multi-year projects require yearly re-application.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with capital projects benefiting Summit County residents can seek US $2,500 - US $25,000 to renovate or repair facilities or purchase essential equipment. Akron Community Foundation supports arts and culture, civic affairs, health and human services, education, and related priorities in Akron, Ohio, with preference for safe, sustainable, community-informed projects.

Mission

Be the premiere provider of information resources concerning living with Parkinson's Disease to both those with Parkinson's and their caregivers in the sixteen counties of northeast Ohio. Provide advice and assistance to existing Local Support Groups and Classes while also promoting the creation of new Local Support Groups and Parkinson's exercise, dance and related classes. To promote and offer educational events that provide support and awareness for people with Parkinson's in our region.

Ohio Parkinson Foundation Northeast Region

The Ohio Parkinson Foundation Northeast Region (OPFNE) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life for those affected by Parkinson's Disease (PD). Our focus is local! We want to be your resource for information on local events, classes and services. The foundation offers an annual free educational symposium, supports the efforts of many charitable organizations involved in the development of wellness programming for Parkinson community, and provides funding for local PD research. The Foundation also maintains contact and general information for the Parkinson Support Groups in the 16 counties that it serves.

Grants

OPFNE offers a grant program for organizations needing funds for Parkinson’s programs. Grants are reviewed quarterly.

The typical project duration is six months and funds requested are typically less than $5K.

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

Environmental Stewardship: Community Grants

FAO, through its Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund, offers funding opportunities to advance conservation, environmental stewardship and the greater well-being of Appalachian Ohio.

To support locally driven projects that preserve and enhance our natural environment.

Community grants empower local communities to preserve and enhance our natural environment.

We know relatively modest projects can make an outsized difference when they promote environmental stewardship and engage whole communities in conservation. More details about these grants and how to apply can be found on page 5. At least $50,000 is available to support community grants.

The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

The Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant aims to support projects that deliver significant ecological improvements to the Great Lakes region. The Fund seeks transformative initiatives that involve collaboration among diverse stakeholders and rely on scientific rigor. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and businesses, and the projects must demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Importantly, the Fund does not support advocacy or compliance-related activities.

The Specialized Transportation Program (5310) aims to enhance mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities through federally funded projects. This program supports various initiatives, including vehicle funding, preventive maintenance, and contracted transportation services. With an 80% federal cost coverage, local funding must cover the remaining 20%. The Ohio Department of Transportation oversees this program, ensuring accessible transportation options in urban and rural areas, thereby addressing the unique needs of transit-dependent populations.

The Akron Community Foundation offers Community Fund Grants focused on Arts & Culture, aimed at enriching the community's quality of life. These grants support diverse artistic and cultural initiatives that foster inclusiveness and systemic change in Summit County. Eligible applicants include approved 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to addressing community needs through effective and sustainable programs. However, grants do not cover endowments, scholarships, or direct financial support to individuals.

The Akron Community Foundation's Community Fund for Education Grants focuses on investing in the future of Summit County students. By partnering with local schools and community members, the foundation aims to support programs aligned with the Cradle to Career continuum. Grants target key transition points in education, particularly for early learning initiatives, ensuring children from birth to age five are equipped for success. This holistic approach enhances educational outcomes in the community.

The Akron Community Foundation's Community Fund Grants for Civic Affairs support nonprofits in Summit County to enhance community well-being through citizen engagement and quality-of-life programs. Grants promote organizational strength, systemic impact, accountability, and inclusiveness, ensuring that funded initiatives address immediate needs while fostering long-term improvements. Eligible applicants must be approved 501(c)(3) organizations serving the region, while ineligible requests include endowments, scholarships, and direct financial support to individuals.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.