Best Biology Grants in Ohio

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.

Educational institutions, government programs, and eligible nonprofits in Ohio can seek funding for community safety, education, and development projects from State Farm Companies Foundation. Focus areas include auto and home safety, disaster preparedness and recovery, affordable housing, job training, financial literacy, food insecurity, and K–12 or higher education, including STEM initiatives that may support biology-related programming.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

Non-healthcare 501(c)(3) nonprofits and eligible public or governmental organizations working on humanitarian, social, education, or community programs in Ohio and other Amgen communities can seek support for charitable projects. With a mission to advance science and improve lives, Amgen Foundation provides donations and sponsorships that may benefit biology-related education or community initiatives.

Ohio accredited charities running science, education, health, environmental, or arts initiatives may access funding through Roche for innovative, high-quality projects. Support focuses on humanitarian and social development, science and education for young people, community and environment, and contemporary arts and culture, with projects managed locally by Roche affiliate offices in the same country where programs operate.

Ohio 501(c)(3) organizations working in scientific, medical, educational, or broader charitable fields can access funding through the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust to support programs that materially benefit the public. Projects must use awarded funds within the U.S., and biology-focused initiatives housed in eligible institutions may be competitive if they advance general welfare and scientific understanding.

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.

Doctoral candidates in biology-related fields at Big Ten Academic Alliance universities, including those based in Ohio, can receive up to US $50,000 to conduct Smithsonian-based research in areas like molecular, evolutionary, or environmental biology. Grants from Smithsonian Institution support 3–12 month dissertation research fellowships with an annual stipend and research allowance.

Environmental and justice-focused organizations working on climate, freshwater, and drinking water policy in Ohio and other Great Lakes states can seek funding to advance systemic solutions. The Joyce Foundation primarily supports policy and advocacy efforts on carbon-free power, Great Lakes protection, and equitable access to safe, affordable drinking water, with an emphasis on communities facing historic disinvestment.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Ohio working on basic needs, community development, cultural enrichment, or volunteer-driven programs may be eligible for Ameriprise Financial support. Focused on strengthening community vitality, Ameriprise Financial invites U.S.-based nonprofits with measurable outcomes and strong volunteer engagement to apply for funding in areas like hunger relief, housing, workforce readiness, and arts access.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

Students and researchers conducting biology and conservation studies in Ohio can receive up to US $5,000 for field research expenses, including equipment, supplies, stipends, and travel. With a mission to preserve Ohio’s natural heritage, Ohio Department of Natural Resources provides funding through the Natural Areas Research Grant for projects on habitats, species, and ecological systems.

Young and mid-career chemical biology PIs at nominated institutions, including those in Ohio, can apply for Ono Pharma Foundation’s Ono Initiative Grant; awards Up to US $1,035,000 for three-year research projects. Eligible applicants must hold an MD and/or PhD and propose innovative, high-impact work at the chemistry–biology interface.

Ohio graduate students of Polish descent pursuing full-time master’s or Ph.D. studies can access funding through Kosciuszko Foundation, with awards from US $1,000 - US $12,000 for tuition. Eligible U.S. citizens and permanent residents in biology or other fields may study at accredited U.S. institutions or English schools of medicine in Poland.

Undergraduate natural science majors of Polish descent in Ohio and across the U.S. can receive support for full-time biology or related studies through this competitive scholarship. Grants from Kosciuszko Foundation help eligible U.S. citizens and permanent residents fund tuition with a US $5,000 award for one academic year of study in the U.S.

Dependents of full-time ODW Logistics or Dist-Trans associates planning higher education or technical training in the U.S. can apply for The Columbus Foundation’s Robert & Lynn Ness Scholarship, with awards up to US $40,000. Ohio-based employees’ families pursuing biology or related studies may benefit if they meet the employment and age requirements.

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.

Ohio organizations that are NNLM Network members can seek funding to expand access to trustworthy health and biomedical information, especially for underrepresented communities. Focused on health information outreach and education, the National Library of Medicine supports projects like training, technology access, and integration of NLM resources into community and professional health programs; awards are US $25,000.

College juniors and above studying environmental science, conservation, ecology, biology, or related fields who live in or attend school in eligible Ohio counties can apply for the Arnold W. Fritz Scholarship. Focused on nature and environmental studies, Canton Audubon Society offers up to US $1,500 to support full-time students’ academic pursuits.

Undergraduate biology and dentistry students in Ohio at The Ohio State University can receive scholarships supporting their studies. Focused on higher education in biological sciences and dental health, the Columbus Foundation’s Harold E. McDaniel Family Fund offers two annual $1,000 awards, with preference for students active in organizations advancing African-American and Black professionals.

Graduating high school seniors in Ohio who are dependent children of long-term R+L Carriers employees can receive US $5,000 for full-time study at a two- or four-year U.S. college or university. The Columbus Foundation’s R + L Carriers Scholarship supports higher education goals for eligible employee families, which may include students pursuing biology or related fields.

Ohio college students in water-related biology and science fields can access funding through the Columbus Foundation’s Water Management Association of Ohio Scholarship. Ohio residents enrolled full time at public or nonprofit Ohio colleges, who are WMAO members or relatives and maintain at least a 2.75 GPA, may receive US $500 - US $1,000 toward their studies.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Ohio working on youth development, food security, housing, or environmental stewardship can apply for Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards, with grants of US $30,000 - US $350,000. Programs involving environmental education, community gardens, or related biology-focused initiatives for underserved youth may be especially competitive.

Early-career assistant professors running independent biomedical research labs at nominated institutions in Ohio and across the U.S. can receive US $75,000 - US $300,000 to support creative, high-impact work in biology and health. Pew Charitable Trusts funds basic, translational, and applied biomedical research through flexible awards to the scholar’s institution.

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.

Ohio organizations restoring or protecting high-quality streams and wetlands in Ohio can access funding through the Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program. Ohio Environmental Protection Agency provides Ohio biology and water resource projects with up to US $24,599,060 to address habitat degradation, hydromodification, and siltation that impair overall water quality and ecological function.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.