Best Financial Assistance Grants in Ohio

The Data-Driven Reporting Project (DDRP) supports local news journalists and freelancers in the US and Canada, focusing on document-based investigative projects for underrepresented communities. It provides financial awards up to $35,000, covering 80% of project costs, along with specialized training on Google Journalist Studio tools. Recipients are encouraged to share their core source documents post-publication to benefit the journalism community. Applications are open to small to midsize newsrooms and freelance journalists with proven track records.

The Leo and Piney Scott Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors the legacy of Leo and Piney Scott, who dedicated their lives to education and community service. This scholarship supports students who have completed at least one year of higher education, maintain a 2.0 GPA, and prioritize African American students from the Big Country area. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, reflecting the foundation's commitment to empowering future leaders.

The Margaret Wheeler Kennedy Scholarship Fund, established by the children of Margaret Wheeler Kennedy, supports graduating high school seniors who are active members of Holy Family, Sacred Heart, St. Francis, or St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Churches in Abilene. Eligible students must rank in the top 25% of their class and have participated in religious education. Awards are sent directly to educational institutions, assisting students in pursuing their academic and career goals.

The Nolan County Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial assistance to eligible graduating seniors from Nolan County high schools. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000 and are sent directly to educational institutions. This initiative supports various students, including those pursuing trade certifications, ensuring broader access to higher education opportunities. Applications require a completed acceptance form before payment processing in August and January.

The Perry Bentley Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, awards a four-year scholarship to a high school senior selected as the winner of the annual art show at McMurry University. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing higher education and is part of a broader initiative that provides various scholarships to deserving candidates. Eligible applicants must plan to attend McMurry University to qualify for this prestigious award.

The Rodney Holder Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors the legacy of a dedicated police veteran who served his community for 28 years. This scholarship supports graduating high school seniors and current college students, particularly children of Taylor County first responders. With awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, it aims to ease educational expenses and ensure that Rodney Holder's commitment to service continues to inspire future generations.

The Ruth and Bill Burton Memorial Scholarship, established by Shellie B. Evans, honors her parents' legacy of community service and education. This scholarship supports Abilene ISD seniors and alumni with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, providing financial assistance to those pursuing higher education or vocational training in the U.S. Payments are made directly to institutions in August and January, promoting educational advancement for deserving students.

The Ruth Hatcher and Joe Williamson Music Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial support for McMurry junior or senior students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music or a Bachelor of Music Education. This scholarship, honoring the legacy of Ruth Williamson's parents, is part of a broader initiative that supports various students with awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, ensuring accessibility to music education.

The Henry Luce Foundation’s Religion and Theology: Responsive Grants program seeks to enhance understanding of religion in society by supporting innovative projects that challenge traditional narratives and foster diverse voices. With a focus on racial justice and public discourse, the program encourages organizations to explore the intersections of religion, culture, and social movements. This initiative aims to cultivate inclusive knowledge communities and promote scholarship that contributes to a more equitable future.

The Second Chances Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports non-traditional students seeking to complete their degrees. With awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, this scholarship aims to make education accessible for those returning to school. Payments are made directly to institutions in August and January, ensuring that funds are available when needed. This initiative honors Kay Billings, who dedicated her life to education and fostering student success.

The Scripps Howard Fund, a public charity established by The E.W. Scripps Company is dedicated to creating informed and engaged communities through journalism education, childhood literacy and local causes. At the crossroads of the classroom and the newsroom, the Fund is a leader in supporting journalism through scholarships, internships, minority recruitment and development and First Amendment causes. The Scripps Howard Awards stand as one of the industry’s top honors for outstanding journalism.

Students with internship experiences are more likely to find employment upon graduation than those without, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. During the past decade, more than 500 students have honed their skills in newsrooms across the country, thanks to Scripps Howard internships. The Scripps Howard Fund created the internship program in 2023, in partnership with the Institute for Nonprofit News (INN), aimed at giving students an equal opportunity for high-quality, hands-on experience. INN leads a network of more than 500 independent newsrooms across North America. 

The WesTex Drilling Co – Robt. B. Cockrell Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating seniors from select Abilene high schools. Applicants must have a 3.5 GPA and plan to pursue careers in engineering, science, or math. Scholarships range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments directed to educational institutions in August and January. This fund is part of a larger initiative to assist students in achieving their educational goals.

The Todd Moore Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors a passionate golfer and student. This scholarship supports high school seniors from select schools who have played varsity golf. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments made directly to educational institutions. Todd's legacy lives on through this scholarship, reflecting his love for golf and education. Eligible students must demonstrate academic commitment and athletic participation in golf during high school.

The Stanley and Claudie Wilson Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports deserving students from Taylor County and surrounding areas who aim to pursue higher education, particularly in legal or literary fields. Applicants must be graduates in the top 20% of their class or possess a minimum 3.0 GPA. Scholarships range from $500 to over $5,000, with awards sent directly to educational institutions for fall and spring semesters.

The African-American Community Foundation - Idotha Bootsie Neal Scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors from Dayton Public Schools accepted to Central State University. Established in 2021 in memory of Idotha Bootsie Neal, the scholarship honors her legacy as a trailblazer in the community. Applicants must demonstrate successful employment or volunteer experience, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to empowering local youth and fostering educational opportunities in Greater Dayton.

The African-American Community Foundation - Paul R. and Frieda M. Miller Memorial Scholarship, managed by The Dayton Foundation, offers financial support to African-American high school seniors in Montgomery County planning to attend historically Black colleges. This scholarship honors the legacy of educators Paul R. and Frieda M. Miller, aiming to promote educational success. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need, with preference for those majoring in education.

The African-American Community Foundation offers the Pearl A. Dale and Audrey Parker Scholarship to support students who demonstrate resilience and academic achievement. Established by The Dayton Foundation, this scholarship honors the legacy of Pearl Dale, who overcame significant barriers in her education. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, score at least 21 on the ACT, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative fosters educational opportunities for African-American students, ensuring they have the resources to succeed.

The African-American Community Foundation offers the Professor E. Champ and Alma Warrick Memorial Scholarship to high school seniors from the Miami Valley planning to attend Wilberforce or Central State University with a focus on liberal arts. Established by Warrick Barrett in 2017, this scholarship honors his grandparents and aims to support students pursuing education and careers in the liberal arts while demonstrating financial need.

The African-American Community Foundation - Robert S. Early, Sr. Memorial Youth Scholarship, established in 2017 by the Roosevelt High School Class of 1968, supports African-American graduates from Montgomery County high schools. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be accepted into an accredited college or vocational program. The scholarship emphasizes participation in sports, particularly golf, baseball, or softball, honoring Robert S. Early's legacy as a dedicated community member and scholar.

The African-American Community Foundation - Scott Neal Simpson Scholarship, established in 1999 by The Dayton Foundation, honors Scott Simpson, a promising athlete and scholar. This scholarship supports Montgomery County high school graduates pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. With a focus on leadership, academic achievement, and community involvement, it aims to empower students who demonstrate resilience and dedication to their education, fostering a brighter future for the community.

The African-American Community Foundation - Thyrsa Frazier Svager Scholarship, offered by The Dayton Foundation, supports African-American women studying mathematics at select universities. This scholarship honors Dr. Thyrsa Frazier Svager, a pioneering mathematician and educator. Applicants must be full-time students with a GPA of B or better, and have sophomore, junior, or senior status. This initiative aims to promote educational equity and empower underrepresented students in the STEM fields.

The Dayton Business Club Education Foundation Scholarship, provided by The Dayton Foundation, aims to support students enrolled in physical therapy or nursing programs at select local universities. Established in 1921, the Foundation focuses on enhancing educational opportunities and promoting community welfare in Greater Dayton. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate financial need, and plan to reside in the Dayton area post-graduation. This scholarship embodies the Foundation's commitment to fostering local talent and addressing community challenges.

The Dayton Daily News Si Burick Scholarship honors the legacy of sports editor Si Burick, awarded annually to a graduating senior from specific counties in Ohio pursuing journalism. The scholarship emphasizes academic success and journalistic aspirations, supporting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrated financial need. Established by The Dayton Foundation, this initiative reflects a commitment to fostering talent in journalism while contributing to the community's cultural and educational landscape.

The Dorothy Reynolds Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2013, supports seniors graduating from Dayton Public High Schools or members of St. Benedict the Moor Church. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate leadership, provide community service records, and show financial need. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of acceptance to an accredited college or university. This scholarship aims to empower students in the Greater Dayton area to pursue higher education.

The Dunbar High School - Carson/Byars Scholarship Fund, established by The Dayton Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Dayton Public Schools who have participated in varsity sports. This scholarship aims to recognize scholar-athletes who demonstrate academic excellence, community involvement, and personal growth. By providing financial assistance, the fund encourages these students to pursue higher education and continue their journey of success. The Dayton Foundation, a key philanthropic partner in Greater Dayton, has a long history of supporting education and community development.

The Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Awards, established by the National PTA, recognize excellence in diversity, equity, and inclusion among PTAs. These awards honor outstanding efforts to foster inclusivity and end discrimination, celebrating PTAs that actively promote these values. Each year, three awards are granted to state, district, and local PTAs, with winners receiving cash awards, plaques, and recognition at the National PTA Convention, enhancing community engagement and commitment to educational equity.

The Dayton Catholic Women's Club Scholarship, established in 2010, supports female high school graduates of the Roman Catholic faith in their pursuit of higher education. With a commitment to promoting unity and cooperation among Catholic women since 1923, this scholarship awards $1,000 to eligible applicants who demonstrate financial need and are members of a Dayton area Roman Catholic Church. This initiative reflects the organization's dedication to educational advancement and community support.