Best Grants for Religious Nonprofits in Ohio

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

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.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

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.

The Cecil L. Mauger Charitable Trust Grant, administered by the Licking County Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in Licking County, Ohio. This grant supports nonprofit organizations that launch innovative projects, empower underserved residents, and foster collaboration among local groups. Priority is given to unique initiatives that address community needs while complying with eligibility criteria, including IRS charitable status. This grant seeks to make a significant impact through effective, practical solutions.

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.

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.

The Paul and Carol David Foundation Community Grant Program supports local organizations that enhance the lives of children and families in Stark County, Ohio. This foundation prioritizes funding for educational, health, and faith-based initiatives. Eligible applicants include nonprofit, philanthropic, and charitable organizations dedicated to these causes. By addressing community needs, the foundation aims to foster a positive impact in the lives of families, ensuring better educational and health outcomes for children.

The Marion Community Foundation's Community Grants Program aims to address pressing needs in Marion County, Ohio, by providing funding to local nonprofits. This initiative supports projects that enhance food security, health, education, and community development while encouraging innovative solutions to local challenges. Eligible organizations include 501(c)3 nonprofits, public schools, and governmental entities. The foundation seeks to empower nonprofits to propose transformative ideas that foster positive change and collaboration in the community.

The Carroll Community Fund Grant, established in 1994, supports various projects in Carroll County, Ohio. It funds tax-exempt organizations, private agencies, and government entities that address local issues. Eligible applicants include religious institutions with primarily secular programs, private schools focusing on nonreligious educational activities, and arts or recreational projects demonstrating community support. The fund aims to enhance community impact while ensuring grants are awarded based on specific eligibility criteria and local needs.

The Mary Jane Ritson Charitable Trust Grant supports eligible nonprofit organizations in Jefferson County and Steubenville, Ohio, by distributing one-time awards from a variety of charitable trusts and foundations. The grant focuses on projects that demonstrate social impact, sustainability, and effective financial accountability. Organizations must have at least three years of operation and show measurable outcomes from previous projects. The grant does not support general operating costs or for-profit initiatives.

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.

The Laura B. Frick Charitable Trust Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Wooster, Ohio, focusing on scientific, educational, and charitable initiatives. Eligible projects must demonstrate community impact, measurable outcomes, and collaboration with other organizations. The grant emphasizes sustainability and financial accountability. Ineligible requests include general operating costs and funding for for-profit entities. Organizations must have a minimum of three years of operation and prior measurable impact reports to qualify for funding.

The Barnitz Fund Grant provides financial support for religious and charitable purposes in Middletown, Ohio, and its surrounding areas. It focuses on various program areas including animal welfare, arts and culture, and community development, among others. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply, while individuals are excluded from submitting applications. This grant is a valuable resource for organizations aiming to make a positive impact in their communities.

The Weber W. Sebald Foundation Grant supports charitable endeavors primarily in Middletown, Ohio, and nearby areas. It funds nonprofit organizations as defined by IRS section 501(c)3, focusing on various program areas including animal welfare, arts and culture, education, and health research. Grant applications are limited to organizations, as individuals are not eligible to apply. For more details, visit the foundation finder.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

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 Alfred & Lillie Dunlavey Charitable Trust Grant supports education and civic organizations in Jefferson County, Ohio. This private foundation, administered by JPMorgan, focuses on charitable initiatives in various program areas, including animal welfare, arts and culture, and health research. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, as individuals cannot apply. This grant aims to enhance community development and foster educational opportunities.

The Ohio Living Lifelong Learning Fund, created by the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, supports educational programs for seniors in Mahoning County. Grants range from $500 to $1,500, aimed at enriching the lives of senior residents through learning opportunities. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded over $60 million to various local charitable initiatives, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving community well-being and lifelong education.

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 Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Fifth Third Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations in the Greater Cincinnati area, focusing on education, arts, community development, and health services. It aims to enhance community vibrancy and provide opportunities, supporting various funding interests from several benefactors. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in Cincinnati, Dayton, or Northern Kentucky. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that empower women, support children, and promote environmental conservation, among other charitable purposes.

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 O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.