Best Community Development Grants in Ohio

The PACF: Special and Urgent Needs (SUN) Grants provide up to $4,000 to support organizations facing unforeseen emergencies or opportunities requiring immediate funding. Open to 501(c)(3) non-profits and public institutions in the PACF’s 11-county service area, these grants aim to quickly address urgent community needs. Applications can be submitted anytime to the Foundation's Senior Program Officer, ensuring timely assistance for critical projects.

The Ashtabula Foundation offers grants of $5,000 or less to support non-profit organizations serving Ashtabula County. With a focus on Human Services, the foundation also considers requests from categories such as Arts, Education, and Community Development. Eligible organizations must have a 501(C)(3) status and utilize funds for the benefit of local citizens. Applications are limited to one per year, ensuring careful consideration for impactful projects.

The Defiance Area Foundation Grant supports various programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Defiance County. Eligible applicants must be not-for-profit organizations focused on addressing unmet community needs. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of project costs or $25,000 per organization annually. The foundation emphasizes prevention and collaboration, avoiding funding for individual grants, sectarian activities, and operating expenses of established organizations.

The Ashtabula Foundation offers grants of $5,001 and above to support community development, religious initiatives, and other charitable efforts in Ashtabula County. Eligible organizations must possess a 501(C)(3) status and serve the local community. This foundation prioritizes human services but considers various requests based on available funding and community impact. Applications are limited to one per organization annually, ensuring focused support for each initiative.

The Akron Community Foundation's Community Fund Grants for Civic Affairs support nonprofits in Summit County to enhance community well-being through citizen engagement and quality-of-life programs. Grants promote organizational strength, systemic impact, accountability, and inclusiveness, ensuring that funded initiatives address immediate needs while fostering long-term improvements. Eligible applicants must be approved 501(c)(3) organizations serving the region, while ineligible requests include endowments, scholarships, and direct financial support to individuals.

The Sorenson Legacy Foundation Grant aims to improve lives through support for education, health care, community development, and innovation. Established by James and Beverley Sorenson, the foundation focuses on enhancing art education, medical technologies, and community assistance in Utah. It prioritizes projects that foster artistic growth, promote innovative solutions, and address health care challenges while aiding vulnerable populations. The foundation's commitment to enriching lives reflects a deep-rooted belief in the power of education and community engagement.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The Wean Foundation's Community Investment Grants support organizations that prioritize resident engagement and address racial equity challenges in the Mahoning Valley. With grants starting at $5,000, they focus on community revitalization, economic and educational opportunities, and civic leadership. Eligible organizations must demonstrate nonprofit status, mission alignment, and capacity to implement viable solutions. The foundation aims to foster sustainable change through funding that reflects the community's demographics and needs.

The Wean Foundation's Resident Engagement Grants aim to boost community engagement by funding grassroots organizations in Warren and Youngstown. Grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 support initiatives that prioritize race equity and inclusion, enhance resident participation, and leverage local resources. Participation in a prerequisite workshop is required, ensuring that funded projects align with the foundation's commitment to sustainable community development and racial equity. For more information, visit the Wean Foundation's website.

The FirstEnergy Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations within FirstEnergy's service areas, aiming to enhance community quality of life, workforce development, and safety initiatives. Grants are directed towards local economic development and volunteer efforts aligned with corporate interests. However, the Foundation does not fund individuals, political activities, or certain organizations, ensuring support is focused on broad community benefits. Interested applicants should consult local FirstEnergy management before applying.

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 Menasha Corporation Foundation, established in 1953, supports nonprofit organizations across North America, focusing on community betterment, education, environmental sustainability, and health initiatives. Grants are awarded to projects that enhance the lives of individuals and strengthen communities, particularly in areas where Menasha Corporation operates. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and prioritize non-public funding. The foundation also encourages involvement from Menasha Corporation employees in supported projects.

The Presbyterian Committee on the Self-Development of People Grant Program supports projects led by economically disadvantaged communities to combat poverty and injustice. By promoting justice, building stronger communities, and advocating for economic equity, this program empowers individuals and groups to address the root causes of their struggles. The initiative seeks sustainable solutions that respect the environment and reject violence, fostering long-term positive change in society.

The Meigs County Foundation Grant, established in 2011, supports philanthropic initiatives in Meigs County. It invites applications from nonprofits and public organizations for projects that address community needs across five key areas: arts and culture, education, economic development, environmental stewardship, and health services. Grants range from $500 to $5,000, with larger requests considered based on impact. The foundation aims to empower individuals and enhance community well-being.

The Community Foundation for Perry County Grant aims to improve life quality in Perry County by funding projects in arts, education, environment, and health. Established in 2012, it supports local nonprofits and organizations, offering approximately $46,000 in grants ranging from $500 to $5,000. The foundation emphasizes community-driven initiatives that address pressing needs and foster development, ensuring lasting benefits for residents and their future generations.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

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 EQT Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofits with a focus on community enrichment, education, and environmental preservation in areas aligned with EQT Corporation's business operations. Since 2003, it has awarded over $74 million, emphasizing impactful, evidence-based proposals that foster safe and sustainable communities. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate effective resource management. The foundation prioritizes projects that promote STEM education, community engagement, and conservation efforts to enhance quality of life in the regions it serves.

The CenterPoint Energy Foundation aims to enhance community vitality through grants supporting affordable housing, environmental education, and workforce development. Focusing on low- to moderate-income populations, the Foundation prioritizes innovative programs that foster community connections and educational opportunities. By investing in both community vitality and education, they strive to create vibrant neighborhoods and empower individuals with the skills needed for success in today's workforce. Their commitment extends across Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Texas.

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 Hardin County Community Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that benefit Hardin County residents. The foundation prioritizes innovative projects that address community needs in areas like education, health, and arts. It seeks to enhance the quality of life, encourage volunteerism, and ensure efficient distribution of social services. However, it does not fund operating expenses, political activities, or projects already in progress. The foundation aims to create long-term community resources and support self-sustaining initiatives.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The Turner Foundation Grant, established in 2001, aims to improve the quality of life in Springfield and Clark County through community investments. It supports tax-exempt non-profits that serve local residents and have a governing board. However, it does not fund individuals, churches, legislative groups, or annual campaigns. The foundation promotes a spirit of hope and creativity, contributing to a thriving community.

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.

The Caesars Foundation supports community-focused organizations through monetary and in-kind donations, prioritizing strategic areas like social equity, climate action, and mental health. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and educational institutions operating within the U.S. Requests must align with these focus areas to enhance community impact. Organizations that discriminate or operate outside the U.S. are ineligible. By fostering collaboration, the foundation aims to uplift vulnerable populations and promote sustainable practices.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

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.