Best Financial Assistance Grants in Ohio

Greater Toledo Community Foundation

Greater Toledo Community Foundation transforms generosity into lasting impact. With over $510 million in assets across 1,000+ funds, we've granted more than $370 million to strengthen education, health, arts, and social services throughout our region.

We connect donors with causes they care about while bringing together leaders, organizations, and resources to tackle our community's biggest challenges. What began with Walter E. Terhune's vision in the 1920s continues today as we help individuals, families, and businesses create positive change that will benefit our region for generations.

Healthy Aging Fund

The Community Foundation is funding programs that help older adults (60+) stay healthy, connected and independent.

This initiative follows the Ohio Department of Aging's State Plan, shaped with input from the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio. Priorities of the plan include cognitive health, chronic disease reduction, mental health, social inclusion, and nutrition access, plus engagement opportunities, physical activity, and preventive screenings. The plan is built on research and input from content-area experts.

The Foundation’s Focus

The Healthy Aging Fund is seeking proposals aligned with the State Plan and the Community Foundation's place-based priorities: programs that promote physical and mental health, reduce social isolation and strengthen community connections for older adults.

The Community Foundation seeks to identify collaborative approaches that work well enough to scale. This is a chance for northwest Ohio providers to test new approaches and collaborations: the kind with real potential to increase impact for participants and move the needle on broader community goals.

Funding Priorities

• Multiple partners with complementary expertise, prioritizing diversity of resources across agencies
• Programs delivered through or including senior centers, community centers or long-term care facilities
• Diverse programming that reaches more participants
• Accommodations for specific needs — memory care, vision loss, etc.
• An educational component

The Community Foundation is seeking cross-agency partnerships that expand access to diverse programming and have real potential to scale. Available for projects up to two years. See more in the Grant Guidelines. 

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Hunting Heritage

Ensuring our hunting heritage is central to RMEF’s mission. Hunters—America’s first conservationists—remain the driving force behind wildlife conservation. RMEF funds hunting heritage and conservation education to help more people experience the outdoors, learn the skills of hunting, and carry forward the traditions that define big game country, including outdoor skills programs/events, hunter or conservation outreach, mentored hunts, and other similar activities.

The Quadratec Cares 'Energize The Environment' Grant Program is dedicated to supporting individuals and organizations in the U.S. focused on environmental improvement. With two grants of $3,500 awarded annually, the program encourages initiatives like trail restoration and community educational projects. This grant aims to empower passionate individuals to enhance environmental awareness and stewardship, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

The Ethel Strickarz Memorial Scholarship aims to address community needs through educational support in special education and related fields. Funded by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, it encourages students pursuing careers in human services, nursing, psychology, speech pathology, or therapy. This scholarship reflects a commitment to holistic community development by fostering future professionals dedicated to improving lives and addressing urgent societal challenges.

The Philadelphia Chromosome Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) Grant, offered by the Patient Advocate Foundation, provides crucial financial assistance to patients facing this cancer type. It covers out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays and insurance premiums, ensuring those affected can access necessary treatments. With a focus on personalized case management, the foundation has supported millions in navigating their healthcare needs, emphasizing the importance of timely and affordable care for patients diagnosed with MPN.

Hungry for Music

The Hungry for Music story began in 1992, when Founder and Director Jeff Campbell (in photo) organized a street musician concert to benefit the homeless. Within three years, he formed a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to expanding opportunities in music for children.

Since then, Hungry for Music has placed more than 27,000 instruments into the hands of aspiring musicians. Children whose trajectory has been altered by the uplifting and life-changing gift of music.

We've delivered everything from guitars and trombones to violins and xylophones to kids in 50 states and 35 countries.

We collect and redistribute more than 2,000 instruments annually and, in our 31-year journey, we've become a full-time force for good in the musical community.

Request an Instrument

Hungry for Music collects and distributes instruments including brass, woodwinds, strings, electric keyboards, drums and other percussion, as well as amps and accessories.

Who Hungry for Music Helps

• Music teachers at Title One schools who identify children who cannot participate because of lack of funding.
• Music directors at innovative after-school music programs.
• Social workers who have young clients who would benefit from music therapy.

We only accept requests from public school music teachers, administrators, after-school/summer music program directors, and social workers. 

In our history, we have supported music programs in 40 different countries through stateside sponsors (i.e. business, school, church). We do not accept requests directly from international programs.

After-School & Summer Programs

Hungry for Music supports more than three dozen after-school/summer music programs annually across the United States. To be added to our distribution, a site visit is required.

The Broadcasters Foundation of America Monthly Grant provides essential financial assistance to broadcasters facing acute hardships due to serious illnesses or accidents. This initiative aims to support those who have dedicated significant years to the broadcasting profession, ensuring they receive medical aid and relief from financial burdens. Eligible applicants can apply for monthly grants if they meet specific employment and hardship criteria, helping them navigate difficult times with dignity and support.

The AWWA Arcadis Scholarship offers a $5,000 award to graduate-level students from underrepresented racial and ethnic minority groups pursuing STEM fields. This initiative by the American Water Works Association aims to promote diversity and inclusion in the water service industry, recognizing the critical role of future leaders in ensuring sustainable water supply. Eligible candidates include Black, Latinx, and American Indian or Alaska Native students with the potential for impactful contributions in the sector.

The AWWA Abel Wolman Fellowship, established in 1984, supports highly qualified students conducting meaningful research in water supply through doctoral programs. Named after Dr. Abel Wolman, this prestigious award recognizes excellence and creativity in the water sector. The fellowship provides up to two years of financial support, with an initial award of $30,000 for the first year, aimed at fostering the next generation of water professionals in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The 2026 National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share Grant Program aims to tackle economic, health, and environmental issues in communities through innovative tree resource utilization. By transforming wood from various sources into valuable products like lumber and biochar, this initiative promotes local economies and enhances community resilience. Projects should align with community forestry plans, adhere to safety standards, and provide job creation opportunities, ultimately fostering sustainable urban forest management and utilization.

Harry C. Anthony, Jr. Scholarship

Essay:

• Describe yourself and explain why you are interested in a career in medicine.

Awards:

• One-time award of $2,500

The Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.

The Rare Impact Fund, founded by Selena Gomez, is dedicated to transforming mental health support for young people. With a commitment to mobilizing $100 million, the fund aims to enhance access to mental health services and promote a stigma-free community. Through public Requests for Proposals, the initiative seeks to strengthen the nonclinical youth mental health workforce, ensuring effective support systems that reflect the diverse backgrounds of youth. This innovative approach fosters lasting change in mental health care.

AARP Foundation

AARP Foundation strengthens financial resilience for and with older adults by empowering individuals and improving systems.

AARP empowers people to choose how they live as they age. There are 125 million Americans who are 50 or older, and people want their money, health and happiness to last as long as they do. We are a wise friend and fierce defender, focusing on the priorities of older Americans.

Purpose Prize® from AARP

Honoring extraordinary people 50-plus who put their purpose into action.

Purpose is a powerful force for good. The Purpose Prize from AARP honors extraordinary older Americans who put their purpose into action to support AARP’s mission of empowering people to choose how they live as they age. Winners receive $75,000 and a year of organizational support from AARP to grow the impact of their nonprofits. Examples of organizational support include data and evaluation, governance and succession planning, fundraising strategy, and prospectus development.

The Spaulding Foundation

The Spaulding Foundation was established in 1998 by Ruth E. Spaulding, who was born in Northside and remained a lifelong resident of Greater Cincinnati. During her life, many people were touched by her benevolent and charitable giving. This private foundation is funded by her estate.

The Spaulding Foundation focuses its grant-making in the areas of mental health, physical and mental disabilities, substance abuse/chemical addiction, and domestic violence, rape and abuse. In addition, The Foundation has continued Mrs. Spaulding’s close relationship with The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.

The Foundation welcomes opportunities to partner with organizations sharing our common goals. 

The FY25-FY26 Advanced Transportation Technology and Innovation (ATTAIN) grant program aims to enhance transportation through the deployment of innovative technologies. It focuses on improving safety, mobility, and efficiency while fostering economic competitiveness. Projects funded will prioritize core infrastructure improvements and address roadway congestion, aligning with the Trump Administration's goals. The program emphasizes economic opportunities and community benefits, ensuring that selected projects contribute positively to families and communities, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

The NIH is offering access to biospecimens from the ABCD, HBCD, and PATH studies to promote research on health and disease across a lifetime. This initiative encourages projects that utilize these samples to deepen understanding of genetic and environmental influences, particularly substance exposure. Researchers can submit proposals to maximize the scientific utility of these resources, in alignment with the goals outlined under federal health regulations.

The Murphy Family Foundation, established in 1986, focuses on combating poverty in the greater Cleveland area. It primarily supports organizations that provide food, shelter, and educational services to the disadvantaged. The foundation's mission stems from a long-standing commitment by the Murphy family, who have been involved in manufacturing specialty chemical products for generations. While it has a strict policy on grantmaking, it may consider proposals outside its primary mission based on individual family interests.

The AAAP Foundation: Poultry Scholarship supports students pursuing careers in poultry health and food safety in North America. Offered by the American Association of Avian Pathologists, the scholarship aims to enhance scientific knowledge and promote the well-being of poultry. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited veterinary colleges or universities with relevant programs. Scholarships may reach up to $1,500, with undergraduate awards capped at $500, fostering the next generation of poultry medicine professionals.

The Park Foundation Grants: Media support public interest media that raises awareness of critical environmental and social issues. They prioritize funding for investigative journalism, media policy, public broadcasting, and documentary films to promote a better-informed citizenry. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified, and funding is aimed at projects that ensure diverse perspectives and community engagement. The foundation is committed to fostering a robust democracy and independent media, reflecting its mission to advance a just and sustainable society.

Impact100 Cincinnati empowers women to enhance lives in Greater Cincinnati by funding transformative grants focused on culture, education, environment, family, and health. They aim to address community needs with measurable goals, ensuring grants are utilized effectively over 1-3 years. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities and align projects with the mission of Impact100. The initiative fosters collaboration while prohibiting funding for operating costs, travel, and faith-based advancements.

The Jim Flynn Outstanding Corporation Award, presented annually by NALMS, honors the corporation that has made significant contributions to advancing lake management goals. This award emphasizes the importance of facilitating information exchange, promoting public awareness of lake ecosystems, and supporting management programs at all levels. Eligible nominations can come from any individual or entity, focusing on achievements in lake and reservoir management. Notably, current NALMS board members and awards committee members are excluded from eligibility.

The Chemical Countermeasures Research Program (CCRP) Initiative aims to support vital research on the harmful effects of acute exposure to Ultra-Potent Synthetic (UPS) opioids, including fentanyl and its combinations. This funding opportunity encourages studies that enhance understanding and mitigation strategies for these substances, focusing on both immediate and long-term health impacts. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent accepted 30 days prior to the proposal deadline.

The NALMS Achievement Awards: Secchi Disk Award recognizes outstanding contributions to lake management by its members. NALMS aims to unite citizens, scientists, and professionals to ensure the protection and management of lakes and reservoirs. This prestigious award is open to NALMS members, with nominations encouraged from any individual or entity. However, current board and committee members are ineligible. The award celebrates those who significantly advance NALMS's goals and objectives in fostering lake ecosystem awareness and management.

The Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation offers Collections-Related Grants for Nonprofits, aimed at enhancing public interest in art through innovative projects. Grants support exhibitions, academic convenings, research, and catalog publication, focusing on art from the Spanish Americas, digital media, and more. The foundation prioritizes proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S., particularly from New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, fostering partnerships that advance art scholarship and cultural engagement.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Quest Diagnostics Foundation

Our purpose

Working together to create a healthier world, one life at a time.

About the Foundation

The Quest Diagnostics Foundation® (the Foundation), established in 1991, is a nonprofit corporation exempt from tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, for charitable, educational, scientific, and literary purposes including:

• Promoting the benefits of healthcare and wellness
• Promoting the prevention, early detection, monitoring, and treatment of disease
• Educating the general public and healthcare professionals regarding healthcare issues

About Quest for Healthy Communities Champions

Through the Quest for Healthy Communities Champion program, the Foundation will recognize and give monetary awards to up to 15 individuals or organizations across the US that have committed to improving health in their own communities. In the case of recognition to individuals, the monetary award will be given to the tax-exempt charity of their choosing.

The program reflects the importance of recognizing individuals and organizations that are committed to the purpose of Quest, “working together to create a healthier world, one life at a time” and the Foundation’s belief that increased awareness of individuals and organizations doing this work can lead to healthier communities.

Successful applicants will demonstrate their commitment to improving health in their communities through actions such as:

• Impact on community systems via policy, programming, and education in areas such as workforce development, health, environment, housing, and safety
• Ongoing community engagement in the development of innovative solutions to drive improved health outcomes
• Commitment to increasing individual health autonomy and empowerment through the advancement of diagnostic screening and testing