Best Ashland County Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

The FirstEnergy Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations within FirstEnergy's service areas, aiming to enhance community quality of life, workforce development, and safety initiatives. Grants are directed towards local economic development and volunteer efforts aligned with corporate interests. However, the Foundation does not fund individuals, political activities, or certain organizations, ensuring support is focused on broad community benefits. Interested applicants should consult local FirstEnergy management before applying.

The Peter Linneman Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and have been accepted to Ashland University. This scholarship aims to facilitate higher education for dedicated students, enhancing opportunities for academic growth and success. Ideal candidates are those who exemplify commitment and excellence in their studies, paving the way for future achievements.

The Frances Freer Scholarship, established by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports Ashland County high school graduates pursuing a degree in education. Eligible applicants must be juniors or seniors in college with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship honors Frances Freer, a dedicated educator with over 35 years of experience, who aimed to empower future teachers through financial assistance, ensuring a strong educational foundation for the community.

The Frank Goschinski Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who participate in athletics. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher and plan to pursue further education at an accredited college or university. This scholarship aims to encourage academic and athletic excellence, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future educational endeavors.

The Friesen Family Christian College Scholarship, provided by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who plan to attend Grace College, Cedarville University, or Liberty University. This renewable scholarship requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 and prioritizes Ashland High School students. The foundation empowers local nonprofits and invests in the community's future, ensuring charitable gifts effectively address present needs and foster a brighter tomorrow.

The George & Rhea Wertman Hartman Scholarship, managed by the Ashland County Community Foundation, provides financial support to graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools. This scholarship honors George and Rhea, who dedicated their lives to education and community service. Eligible students must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher and be accepted into an accredited college or university. This initiative aims to empower local youth to pursue higher education and build a brighter future.

The Harold & Pauline Obrecht Agricultural Scholarship, established in 1997 by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports Ashland County high school seniors pursuing higher education in Agriculture. This initiative honors Harold Obrecht, a retired livestock farmer, and his wife Pauline, a dedicated public school teacher. The scholarship aims to encourage students to explore promising careers in Agriculture, ensuring that they receive the necessary training for a successful future in this vital field.

The Harold & Pauline Obrecht Education Scholarship, established by the Ashland County Community Foundation in 2007, aims to support high school seniors from Ashland County pursuing careers in education. Eligible applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and be accepted to an accredited college or university. This scholarship honors Harold Obrecht, a retired farmer, and Pauline, a dedicated teacher, reflecting their commitment to education and community development.

The Harvey N. Young Business-Finance Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from any Ashland County high school who aim to major in Business or Finance. This initiative encourages young minds to engage with and enhance our free market economy. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher and have been accepted to a private college or university in Ohio, fostering both academic success and community growth.

The Hiller School/Community Club Scholarship, established in 1997 by the Hiller Community Club, honors the legacy of the old Hiller School and its community. This scholarship supports graduating seniors and recent high school graduates from Ashland County seeking higher education. Applicants must either reside in Mifflin or Milton Townships or be direct descendants of former students. The goal is to promote education and community involvement for future generations.

The James H. and Mary K. Nearhood Family Scholarship for Education, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from Ashland County and students from Mansfield St. Peter's High School planning to pursue a major in Education. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted to an accredited four-year college or university. This initiative aims to foster educational advancement and community growth.

The James Sherwood Tipton Eagle Scout Scholarship, provided by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who plan to major in Language Arts. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted to accredited colleges. This scholarship honors James Tipton's commitment to scouting and community service, reflecting his values of respect for life and dedication to helping others.

Ohio Department of Transportation

With a mission to provide a transportation system that is safe, accessible, well maintained, and positioned for the future, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) supports the state highway system and promotes transportation initiatives statewide. As a more than $3 billion per year enterprise, ODOT invests the bulk of its resources in system preservation through maintenance, construction, and snow and ice operations.

ODOT's regional district offices and Central Office divisions work together to fulfill the department's mission of providing safe and easy movement of people and goods from place to place.

Specialized Transportation Program (5310)

Program Goal and Description

The Specialized Transportation Program, as authorized by the Federal Transit Administration, 49 USC Section 5310, is intended to enhance mobility for seniors and persons with disabilities by providing Federal Transit Administration funds for programs in small urbanized and rural areas that serve the special needs of transit-dependent populations beyond traditional public transportation services and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complementary paratransit services. The program provides 80% of the cost of capital projects; the remaining 20% must be provided by local funding, which may be derived from other federal (non-U.S. DOT) transportation sources or the Federal Lands Highway Program.

Project Types: Vehicle Funding; Preventive Maintenance (PM) Funding; Mobility Management Funding; Computer Hardware and/or Software & Equipment Funding; Operating Assistance; Contracted Transportation Service Funding

Operating Assistance

The objective of the 5310 operating assistance project is to provide financial support to subrecipients in the day-to-day transportation operations for seniors and persons with disabilities. Operating assistance funding is explicitly intended to be spent on operations. ODOT will reimburse 50% of the operating cost and the subrecipient is required to provide the 50% local match. All of the local match must be provided from sources other than U.S. Department of Transportation funds. To be eligible for Section 5310 operating funds, an applicant must provide open-door services. FTA defines open door as regular, continuing shared ride surface transportation services that is open to the public or open to a segment of the public defined by age or disability.

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 Jane L. Taylor Scholarship, established by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools pursuing nursing degrees. This scholarship honors Jane's legacy as a dedicated nurse and aims to assist future Registered Nurses. Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and be accepted into an accredited college or university. The scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering healthcare professionals in the community.

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.

The F26AS00083 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants are part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for Fiscal Year 2026. These grants, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support state-level management plans to combat aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes region. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and their designees, with funding awarded through a competitive selection process.

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 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 Elinor & T.W. Miller Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt organizations that enhance Winter Park, Florida, and Ashland, Ohio. Founded in 2004, it honors the Millers' commitment to education, health care, athleticism, and community engagement. Grant applications are by invitation only. Eligible organizations may submit inquiries to determine eligibility, but reapplying for the same grant request after a denial is generally not allowed. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with the Millers' interests.

The F26AS00084 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes Tribes, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support the development and implementation of Tribal Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plans. Eligible Great Lakes tribes can apply for competitive grants to address invasive species issues within the Great Lakes Basin, including outreach and prevention efforts. This initiative focuses on early detection and control, significantly contributing to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

The Sam J. Frankino Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children and families in need through monetary grants for education, health care, and community support. With a focus on initiatives that empower disadvantaged youth and support the Italian-American community, the Foundation aims to foster growth and development in Northeast Ohio. Guided by philanthropic excellence, it seeks to create lasting change through strategic partnerships and innovative programs for social betterment.

The Ashland County North Central State College Scholarship aims to support residents of Ashland County pursuing education at North Central State College. Established by Tim and Sandi Rowsey, this scholarship reflects the community's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities. It is designed for graduating seniors or high school graduates accepted into the college, providing crucial financial assistance to those in need. This initiative showcases the community foundation's role in fostering educational growth and empowering students to achieve their academic goals.

The Small City Program in Ohio allocates federal funds to small cities with populations between 5,000 and 24,999, not included in Metropolitan Planning Organizations. With an annual budget of $10.5 million, this program supports road, safety, and signal projects. The funding covers up to 80% of eligible construction costs, and a scoring system prioritizes projects based on various factors, ensuring effective use of resources and improved transportation infrastructure for eligible communities.

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 O'Neill Brothers Grants support 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations in Northeast Ohio, providing approximately $300,000 in grants annually. With a focus on Catholic, educational, human service, cultural, and conservation initiatives, the foundation prioritizes requests for unrestricted operating support from financially stable entities. Grant amounts typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. The review process can take up to six months, but emergency funding requests may be considered at the discretion of the Trustees.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.