Best Grants for After School Programs in Ohio

State Library of Ohio

The State Library of Ohio is a state agency that serves Ohio’s state government, public and academic libraries, and residents statewide. Its vision is to create a “Smarter Ohio” where people of all ages have access to the resources they need to be informed and engaged citizens, succeed in the workforce, expand their knowledge, and pursue their personal and professional interests. The State Library’s mission is to inspire and support literacy and lifelong learning for all Ohioans by expanding access to information, strengthening communities, and advancing high-quality library services. Through partnerships, funding, and statewide initiatives, the agency works to enhance library capacity and promote equitable access to educational and informational resources across Ohio.improve population health outcomes.

Summer Library Program Grant (OH)

The purpose of the 2026 Summer Library Program (SLP) grant program is to empower libraries to enhance their 2026 summer programs with library-led activities that spark creativity and learning, engage individuals of all ages, and benefit their communities. Libraries may apply for federal LSTA funds to support summer programs for children, teens, and/or adults. Grant funds may be used to purchase program materials, supplies, and/or contractual services for presenters and programs offered to the community during the 2026 summer. Please refer to the FAQ page for specific guidelines on the use of awarded funds. Applying libraries are encouraged to submit proposals that address specific needs, including targeted programming for adults, new populations, or underserved community members. Applying libraries are also encouraged to identify ways they might collaborate with other community entities, organizations, or agencies. For this grant a local cash match of 25% is required. This means federal funds cannot exceed 75% of the total project cost. 

The Ohio Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant provides crucial funding for out-of-school time programs aimed at students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Administered by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, this grant supports educational initiatives that enhance academic performance and personal development. Eligible applicants include schools, community organizations, and local agencies, with a focus on services for low-income areas. The program emphasizes a range of enrichment activities, promoting holistic growth for children in need.

About Us

Stewarding Education in Cincinnati

Woodward Trust’s Board of Trustees is steadfastly committed to managing funds for the educational enrichment of underserved children in Cincinnati

What We Do

Fostering Innovation in Education

We value remaining open and accessible to new organizations and new ideas. Our annual grant requests unlock opportunities to empower Cincinnati's educational future.

Our Essential Need Components

The Trust's focus is currently divided into three needs:

This includes providing essential items like school supplies, covering testing fees, and ensuring access to proper footwear

We aim to offer educational benefits by means of scholarships, immersive experiences, and exciting field trips.

We relentlessly pursue systemic change initiatives to eliminate the root causes behind the first two needs.

Summer Fellowship Program Nonprofit Application

The Summer Fellowship Program helps build the organizational capacity of Franklin County nonprofits by facilitating a powerful partnership between the nonprofits and students interested in the nonprofit sector.

The Summer Fellowship Program engages young leaders in the sector through career-related work with selected nonprofit host sites for a 10-week period. Fellows receive valuable experience through their work and immersion with the host sites, and the nonprofits benefit from the increased capacity Fellows provide through the completion of, or progress made towards, a specific program or objective. Inspire the next generation of nonprofit leaders by hosting a Summer Fellow at your nonprofit!

Program Details

• The 10-week fellowship for 2026 starts June 1 and ends August 7.
• Nonprofits must have a specific project or program to assign to the Fellow with specific objectives that will be completed during the 10-week period.
• Organizations selected will receive a grant to cover a stipend for the Fellow.
• All Fellows are required to work full-time as designated by their host organization.
• Fellows are matched with nonprofits based on interests, skills, and the nonprofit’s specific needs or objectives.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

The Wabtec Direct Grant Program focuses on creating sustainable impacts in local communities by funding 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Emphasizing education and environmental stewardship, the program supports initiatives that improve literacy, academic outcomes, and workforce readiness. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, prioritizing organizations that engage local Wabtec employees in volunteerism. The program promotes equitable access and non-discrimination while ensuring measurable results in funded projects.

The Youth For Youth Grant, previously known as Fondersmith and Summertime for Kids, is an annual initiative by the Middletown Community Foundation designed to support youth-serving programs and projects. Funded by local high school students on the Youth Philanthropy Council, the grant aims to empower organizations that enhance the lives of youth in the Greater Middletown area. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and local agencies, fostering community engagement and development.

The Tickets for Kids Grant Program, offered by the Tickets For Kids Foundation, aims to support low-income, at-risk children and youth by providing access to ticketed experiences at no cost. Organizations eligible for partnership include nonprofit agencies, schools serving primarily low-income students, and government agencies. The application process typically takes 2-4 weeks, with responses expected within five business days after review. This initiative enriches existing programming through valuable experiences.

The Greater Cincinnati Foundation's Building Bright Futures: Education initiative aims to empower children and young adults by funding innovative programs that foster academic success. This inaugural grant cycle focuses on evidence-based solutions that enhance mentoring, tutoring, and socio-emotional development. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to high-quality education in the Greater Cincinnati region. Funding can support new initiatives, program expansions, or operational support, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

The Frank Hadley Ginn & Cornelia Root Ginn Foundation Grants aim to enhance education and community-based healthcare for low-income individuals in Greater Cleveland. The foundation supports programs that foster academic success and social emotional growth for children, as well as healthcare services for families. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $15,000, and both current and former grantee organizations are encouraged to apply for funding.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

The National Girls and Women in Sports (NAGWS) Legacy Award, established by SHAPE America, honors exemplary contributions to increasing opportunities for women in sports. This annual award recognizes current SHAPE America members who submit impactful proposals related to women's sports, with a monetary prize of $1000. The award will be presented at the National Convention & Exposition, with a special deadline of November 1st. Nominations can include various initiatives aimed at empowering women in sports.

The Rocky Community Improvement Fund Grant, established by Rocky Brands, Inc., aims to enhance local communities by providing grants that promote safety, health, and cleanliness. With a focus on addressing the needs of disadvantaged populations in Athens County, Ohio, this fund prioritizes projects that align with its mission and foster collaboration among organizations. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations and government agencies, ensuring impactful contributions to community improvement initiatives.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation Summer Fellowship Award provides funding for undergraduate, graduate, or medical students to gain hands-on experience in pediatric oncology. With a stipend of $5,000 awarded to the mentor's institution, this fellowship supports the next generation of researchers dedicated to finding cures for childhood cancers. Since its inception, the foundation has mobilized volunteers through various fundraising events, fostering a community committed to transforming lives and advancing cancer research.

The Sachs Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals and families. The Foundation supports self-sustaining charitable organizations focusing on economic and educational opportunities, particularly in low-income communities in the U.S. and developing countries. Grants are available for various initiatives, including education, housing, and job training, with a keen interest in programs that demonstrate clear potential for sustainability.

The AES Ohio Foundation's Power Grants aim to create lasting community impact through innovative programs across its 24-county service area. With $822,000 allocated for 2024, these grants support initiatives addressing basic needs like food and housing, enhancing education, and fostering diversity and inclusion. The Foundation commits to at least two grants annually, prioritizing projects that demonstrate measurable outcomes. This approach aligns with their goal to uplift local communities and empower individuals to improve their lives.

The Project SEED Fellowship aims to provide high school students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds with hands-on summer research experiences in chemistry and related fields. Over 50 years, it has engaged more than 11,000 students, offering mentorship and support for college readiness. Participants work under the guidance of scientists for 8 to 10 weeks, with opportunities for scholarships and travel grants, thereby fostering interest in STEM careers and promoting diversity in the sciences.

The NEA Federal Rescue Implementation Network Grant provides up to $100,000 per year for two years to state affiliates for hiring a coordinator to implement the American Rescue Plan in support of public education. This funding is specifically for backfilling a position that must remain filled for at least ninety days, ensuring effective oversight of federal recovery initiatives within the affiliate.

The Walking Classroom Grant Program, offered by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, enables classroom teachers in public schools to receive donated materials for their students. This innovative program promotes physical activity while maintaining instructional time through engaging podcasts. Ideal for grades 3-8, it enhances cognitive function and retention. Schools with the greatest need, both socioeconomically and academically, are prioritized, ensuring that all students can benefit from this unique educational approach.

The Aim High Grant Program offers one-year grants of $20,000 to support out-of-school time programs for middle school youth. Funded by the New York Life Foundation, this initiative aims to enhance students' transition to high school by providing essential skills and guidance. Programs must demonstrate effective engagement strategies and serve low-income communities. This grant represents a vital investment in the future of young people, helping them develop academically, socially, and emotionally.

The Best Buy Teen Tech Center is offering a Mini Tech Skills Workshop Grant to support local and national non-profits in providing STEAM skills workshops for youth aged 13-19. These workshops, which include topics such as coding, filmmaking, and robotics, aim to enhance technical skills and career exploration. Funding can reach up to $24,999, with a focus on hands-on, facilitator-led experiences, and additional programming opportunities may be considered.

The Reinberger Foundation offers education grants to support underserved individuals in Northeast and Central Ohio. Priority is given to organizations with recent funding history. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits serving low-income populations, including schools, adult education, and workforce development programs. The foundation focuses on Cuyahoga and Franklin Counties, with specific considerations for grant requests. Organizations should discuss their proposals with the foundation before submitting applications.

The Piedmont Natural Gas Company Grant Program, part of the Duke Energy Foundation, supports community vitality through grants of $20,000 or less. Focus areas include vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and promoting opportunity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and serve communities without discrimination. The foundation prioritizes measurable community impact and does not fund certain entities, including for-profits and religious organizations. Applications are accepted year-round on a rolling basis.

The McGraw Foundation offers annual grants to not-for-profit organizations, primarily in the greater Chicago area, focusing on education, conservation, and human services. Grant amounts typically range from $2,000 to $10,000, with larger grants available for particularly impactful projects. While supporting diverse initiatives, the Foundation does not fund individuals or specific events. Organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS regulations to qualify for funding. The Foundation encourages innovative approaches and partnerships in grant applications.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Ted Kohler Music Scholarship

The Ted Kohler Music Scholarship benefits Calistoga students who are committed to music and wish to advance their musical development. The scholarship can be used to pay for activities such as music lessons or summer camp, or for college tuition (where the student demonstrates their desire to continue their musical education). The Ted Kohler Scholarship was established in 1997 to promote musical participation and aspirations in honor of Ted, who upon retirement from San Francisco State University, became a full-time musician and leader of the Napa Valley Jazz Band. He encouraged people of all ages to express themselves musically.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Coppola Family Travel Scholarship

The Coppola Family Travel Scholarship benefits Napa County High School students in grades 10-12 who have a desire to explore the world. This one-time award (“educational enrichment grant”) can be used to pay for tuition and associated costs for participation in a summer enrichment program in the United States or in Europe. Applicants must show a commitment to hard work and diligence in the pursuit of their goals. 

The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.