Best Grants for Performing Arts 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.

The Republic Bank Grants program supports non-profit organizations in Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, and Florida that enhance community welfare through various initiatives such as education, healthcare, and civic projects. By providing financial and in-kind donations, Republic Bank aims to strengthen community ties and foster impactful change. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c) status and submit grant requests in writing at least two months in advance, ensuring timely support for their initiatives.

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 AES Ohio Foundation, a leading corporate foundation in the Dayton region, offers Community Impact Grants aimed at improving quality of life and fostering sustainability. With a focus on poverty reduction, workforce development, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation supports initiatives that address basic community needs. Organizations seeking funding must align with these priorities while demonstrating measurable outcomes and a commitment to equity. The application deadline for 2024 is October 15, 2024.

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 David C. Herriman Fund, established by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, aims to support regional performing arts organizations in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. This fund prioritizes proposals that enhance performances and foster youth education in the arts. Grants range from $200,000 to $350,000 for larger projects and $15,000 to $50,000 for smaller initiatives, with a total budget not exceeding $400,000. Eligible applicants include local 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to the arts.

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.

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 Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Reinberger Foundation, established in 1966, aims to empower individuals towards self-sufficiency while enriching communities in Ohio. The foundation focuses on supporting organizations in areas such as arts, culture, and humanities, including museums, visual and performing arts, and arts education. Priority is given to past grantees and organizations within the greater Cleveland and Columbus areas. For new applicants, discussions prior to application are encouraged to align missions effectively.

The Nord Family Foundation Grant Program focuses on supporting a variety of initiatives in the areas of arts and culture, civic affairs, education, and health and social services. The foundation prioritizes projects that engage youth, strengthen communities, and address basic human needs, particularly in Lorain County, Ohio. Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations and selected public sector activities that can demonstrate a significant impact and engagement with disadvantaged populations.

The Covington Education Foundation Grant supports educational enrichment projects in Covington, Ohio. Non-profit organizations and Covington Exempted Village Schools can apply quarterly for funding to enhance academic achievement, performing and fine arts, athletics, and general enrichment programs. Applications are reviewed in January, April, July, and October, with deadlines on the 15th of the preceding month. This initiative aims to foster community engagement and improve educational opportunities for local residents.

The Ohio Arts Council's Capacity Building Grants support organizations in enhancing their internal capabilities through external expertise. The program funds projects focused on improving business practices, staff development, and organizational skills. Eligible applicants include arts organizations, educational institutions, and other entities providing arts programming. A 1:1 cash match is required, and grants can cover fees for consultants, training, and registration costs for professional development events. This initiative aims to strengthen Ohio's arts community.

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 OAC: Sustainability Grants provide essential operational support for large and mid-sized nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in Ohio. The program aims to enhance the state's cultural ecosystem by ensuring high-quality artistic experiences are accessible to all. Grants are awarded based on a formula considering panel evaluations and organizational income, with a requirement for a 1:1 cash match. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to arts programming and meet specific financial criteria to qualify.

The ECCF: Huron Playhouse Fund for the Arts supports creative performing arts projects in Erie County, emphasizing theatrical initiatives. The Erie County Community Foundation seeks proposals that enhance collaboration among local organizations and demonstrate sustainability. Eligible applicants include IRS-designated non-profits and entities under group exemptions, with projects aimed at benefiting Erie County residents. This fund carries on the Huron Playhouse's legacy, fostering community engagement through the arts.

The Ohio Arts Council's ArtsNEXT program offers competitive funding for innovative and experimental projects aimed at enhancing the arts in Ohio. With awards typically up to $25,000, this grant supports bold ideas that push artistic boundaries, improve accessibility, and encourage diversity in arts experiences. Projects may include collaborations, new programming strategies, or technology advancements that foster community engagement. Organizations must demonstrate a commitment to artistic evolution and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply.

The MCMF: Arts Grant, offered by Peg's Foundation, aims to enhance lives impacted by serious mental illness through arts initiatives. We foster innovative projects and partnerships to drive systemic change in Ohio. Our vision promotes mental wellness as essential for a healthy life, ensuring recovery from mental illness is the norm. This grant supports programs and performances within Summit County, creating a vibrant and engaged arts community that embodies compassion and innovation.

The CALT Experiences Grants, provided by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, support public projects in Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia that celebrate traditional arts and cultural knowledge. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and individual artists from Appalachian Regional Commission-designated areas. Funded activities may encompass workshops, public art, performances, and exhibitions. This initiative fosters community engagement and enhances appreciation of living traditions while promoting artistic skills and cultural heritage.

The Central Appalachia Living Traditions grants from the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation support community projects in designated Appalachian counties. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, these grants aim to enhance public understanding and appreciation of folk and traditional arts. Ideal projects include workshops, public art, performances, and educational initiatives that foster multi-generational participation, particularly in under-resourced communities. Applications should focus on new or expanded programming that diversifies cultural activities.

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.

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 OAC Project Support: ArtSTART program, managed by the Ohio Arts Council, offers flexible funding up to $5,000 for nonprofit organizations in Ohio. This initiative supports short-term projects that enhance community arts programming, including performances, exhibitions, and educational activities. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and educational institutions committed to arts initiatives. Notably, funds cannot be used for fundraising or hospitality expenses, ensuring that financial support directly benefits artistic endeavors.

The CALT Emerging Traditional Artists Program, funded by Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, supports early-career Appalachian traditional artists with $5,000 grants and personalized professional development. Artists engage in learning opportunities, including workshops and mentorship, to enhance their skills. Eligible applicants must be traditional artists from designated Appalachian counties in Ohio, Virginia, or West Virginia, at least 18 years old, and in good standing with Mid Atlantic Arts. This initiative fosters cultural preservation and artistic growth in the region.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.