Best Crime Grants in Ohio

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

The Violence Against Women Act Grant Program (VAWA), administered by the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services, aims to enhance awareness and response to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence. Through funding initiatives from 2022 to 2025, VAWA seeks to foster collaboration among courts, law enforcement, and victim services, establishing a coordinated approach to eliminate violence against women and improve community safety.

2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG)

OCJS and JAG

The Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) is a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. By statute, OCJS is the lead justice planning and assistance office for the state, administering millions of dollars in state and federal criminal justice funding every year. OCJS also evaluates programs and products, develops training, resources, and best practices for criminal justice professionals and communities. OCJS has been designated by Governor Mike DeWine to administer the FY 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (JAG) Grant Program.

Proposed to streamline justice funding and grant administration, the JAG Program allows states, tribes, and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own local needs and conditions. JAG blends the previous Byrne Formula and Local Law Enforcement Block Grant programs so that agencies can prioritize their funding needs and choose where to place justice funds.

In 2024, OCJS implemented its strategic plan (PDF). The action items included identifying priority areas for funding and encouraging projects to use evidence-based practices in their funded programs. The “Goals, Priorities and Requirements” section of this document outlines these priorities, and references evidence-based practices for OCJS funding areas. Fiscal year 2026 applicants must continue to follow these most recent guidelines.

The Gun Violence Prevention & Justice Reform Grant by The Joyce Foundation aims to create safer communities in the Great Lakes region. It focuses on reducing gun violence, addressing racial disparities in the justice system, and promoting violence intervention strategies. The foundation invites innovative proposals that support these goals, emphasizing research, policy advocacy, and community engagement to effectively address the challenges of gun violence and promote racial equity.

Office of Criminal Justice Services

The Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) is Ohio’s lead justice planning agency.

OCJS administers grant funds to Ohio’s criminal justice constituents and coordinates Ohio’s comprehensive criminal justice plan. To safeguard federal and state criminal justice funds against waste, grants are monitored for compliance, audited for accuracy, and evaluated for effectiveness.

OCJS is also home to a team of researchers and policy specialists who provide practitioners and policymakers with valuable information on criminal justice issues. Additionally, OCJS facilitates initiatives such as the Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force, the Ohio Collaborative Community-Police Advisory Board, the Ohio Incident-Based Reporting System, the Statistical Analysis Center, and the Ohio Consortium of Crime Science.

Direct Services for Victims of Human Trafficking State Grant

Summary

The Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS), Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) is seeking applications to provide direct services to victims of human trafficking. This program aims to expand the availability of supportive services to victims of sex and labor trafficking throughout Ohio.

Services funded through the program include but are not limited to victim advocacy, mental health services, education and employment support, and shelter/housing programs.

There are two funding categories available: Funding Category 1 and Funding Category 2. Please indicate which funding category you are applying for at the beginning of the application. OCJS will not fund applications seeking support solely for human trafficking awareness building or community training.

Funding Category 1

Organizations can apply for up to $50,000 in total to support existing programming and smaller projects. Please review goals and priority funding areas.

The Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) is inviting applications for the Direct Services for Victims of Human Trafficking State Grant: Funding Category 2. This initiative aims to enhance support services for victims of sex and labor trafficking in Ohio, offering funding up to $150,000 for victim advocacy, mental health assistance, education, employment support, and housing. Applicants must specify their chosen funding category at the start of their application.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The African American Community Fund Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for African Americans in Lorain County by supporting organizations that promote self-sufficiency, education, public safety, and community development. With a focus on the most disadvantaged residents, the Fund encourages innovative programs and collaborative efforts, while prioritizing projects that address pressing community needs. Grants cover specific purposes for a year and are awarded to tax-exempt organizations within Lorain County and, occasionally, outside it.

The Women’s Giving Circle, part of the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley, offers grants to enhance the lives of women and girls in specific counties in West Virginia and Ohio. The focus is on increasing life skills, promoting young girls' development, and addressing gender disparities. Grants support innovative and proven programs aimed at systemic change, sustainability, and measurable impact, ultimately fostering empowerment and community growth.

The Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, aims to support initiatives that enhance public safety and reduce violent crimes. This program is designed for local governments and non-profit organizations seeking funding for innovative projects that address crime prevention and community safety. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify for funding, promoting effective solutions to combat violence in Ohio.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Ohio Sexual Assault Investigations Grant Program is designed to reimburse law enforcement and prosecutors for expenses related to sexual assault kit (SAK) testing. This funding supports investigations into sexual assaults, including drug-facilitated cases, by covering costs such as lab testing, transportation, and expert witness fees. There is no maximum reimbursement amount, ensuring agencies can effectively address these critical investigations and enhance their capacity to respond to sexual assault incidents.

The Extradition Reimbursement Program, administered by the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services, provides funding to local law enforcement for in-state and out-of-state extraditions of dangerous offenders. There is no maximum reimbursement limit per extradition, and agencies can apply without restrictions. This program aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that violent offenders face justice in Ohio, supporting law enforcement agencies effectively.

VOCA/SVAA Grants for Advocates

The Crime Victims Services section is responsible for the administration of the State Victims Assistance Act (SVAA) and the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) grant programs. The funds are provided to eligible crime victims assistance programs operating in public and non-profit agencies throughout the state of Ohio.

The State Victims Assistance Advisory Board and Ohio Attorney General staff make funding recommendations, which are submitted to the Attorney General for final consideration.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.