Best Community Development Grants in Ohio

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 Sam Noble Foundation Grant aims to uphold the philanthropic legacy of Lloyd Noble by funding agricultural research and supporting charitable initiatives that enhance health, education, and community strength. Geared towards 501(c)(3) nonprofits in the U.S., the foundation prioritizes projects in Oklahoma and does not entertain multiyear commitments or funding for individuals or for-profit entities. The foundation seeks to address agricultural challenges while expanding educational and health services.

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.

The Thomas J. Emery Memorial Grant, established by prominent Cincinnati philanthropists, aims to enhance the lives of individuals in the Greater Cincinnati area through grants that support social, cultural, educational, civic, and physical betterment. Founded in 1925, the grant prioritizes nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) status, focusing on collaborative projects and impactful initiatives, while not providing ongoing operational support. This initiative honors the legacy of Thomas and Mary Emery in fostering community development.

The Knox County Foundation Small Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Mount Vernon and Knox County. With a legacy of over 75 years, the Foundation prioritizes charitable giving that addresses education, health, and community development. It supports innovative projects that fulfill unmet needs and encourages collaborations among local nonprofits. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public entities. The Foundation prefers to act as a funding partner rather than the sole source.

The Knox County Foundation, active for over 72 years, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Mount Vernon and Knox County through charitable giving. It supports diverse projects, prioritizing those that address unmet community needs, foster volunteerism, and promote collaboration among nonprofits. The foundation encourages innovative solutions and aims to make a significant impact on the community's well-being, while also developing a permanent endowment to sustain its efforts.

The PACF Community Action Grants support nonprofits in West Virginia through a competitive grant process twice a year. Grants up to $20,000 are available for diverse fields such as Arts, Education, and Community Development. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities serving the Foundation's 11-county area. Projects addressing community needs and enhancing organizational capacity are prioritized, especially in areas with limited support options. Interested applicants should ensure project eligibility before applying.

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.

The ACCF Community Grants support a diverse range of programs and projects in Ashland County, focusing on charitable organizations that benefit the community. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations. Funding can be used for project grants, program development, seed money, equipment, building renovations, capital campaigns, and matching grants. This competitive funding opportunity aims to enhance community welfare and promote impactful initiatives.

The Polaris Foundation Grant focuses on long-term community investment, emphasizing areas such as environment, community development, youth safety, and education in STEM and trades. The foundation prioritizes funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific communities where Polaris operates. Organizations are encouraged to promote responsible land use and create vibrant environments for residents, while adhering to eligibility requirements and avoiding politically affiliated or discriminatory programs.

The Brown-Forman Grants aim to enhance community vitality through strategic funding focused on arts, essential living standards, and responsible living. Emphasizing support for nonprofit organizations, the Foundation prioritizes initiatives that improve well-being, education, and environmental sustainability, particularly in Louisville, Kentucky. Organizations seeking funding must align with these goals and demonstrate measurable project outcomes. The Foundation does not accept unsolicited requests or applications from ineligible entities, ensuring that resources are directed towards fostering impactful community engagement.

The Heistand Family Foundation Grant aims to empower children in poverty through impactful programs and partnerships. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance human health, community well-being, and education, focusing on practical applications. Nonprofit organizations and governmental entities are encouraged to apply, particularly those located in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area or western Iowa. This grant supports initiatives that foster job skills and improve the quality of life for disadvantaged children.

The Sterkel Fund Grant provides support for charitable purposes in Mansfield, Richland County, Ohio. This private fund aims to enhance various program areas including animal welfare, arts and culture, civic activities, community development, education, environmental initiatives, scientific research, human and social services, religious activities, and health and medical research. Organizations seeking funding can find more details through the foundation finder.

The Harrison County Community Foundation (HCCF) offers grants to support projects that enhance arts and culture, community development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services in Harrison County. Established in 2012, HCCF aims to create impactful opportunities for all residents. Grants typically range from $500 to $5,000, with larger amounts considered based on project potential. Nonprofits, schools, and public organizations are encouraged to apply for funding to address pressing community needs.