Best Financial Assistance Grants in Ohio

Residential Fellowships

Fellowships offer scholars the time, space, and support they need to pursue their work and the opportunity to take part in the Center’s vibrant intellectual community.

The National Humanities Center’s Residential Fellowship is one of the most prestigious humanities fellowship programs in the world. Fellows enjoy a beautiful and serene space to write, unparalleled library and reference support, excellent dining services, and a stimulating and supportive intellectual community.

A key feature, meanwhile, that differentiates us from many other fellowships is our residential requirement. Researchers are especially encouraged to apply when they expect to benefit from, and actively contribute to, an in-person community of other humanities researchers. If you prefer a research fellowship that allows you to do field work or to work in your own local space, this may not be the fellowship for you.

To be considered for this program, applicants must select that their institution is an HBCU when prompted in the online application system to identify the type of institution with which they are affiliated. Applicants may apply for a residential fellowship for the fall semester (September through December), spring semester (January through May), or academic year (September through May).

The Union County Foundation Grant Program supports non-profit organizations in Union County through quarterly grants. Applications are reviewed by the Distribution Committee, prioritizing projects that address community issues, enhance organizational efficiency, validate charitable impacts, foster collaboration, and boost the local economy. Eligible applicants include non-profit groups based in Union County, while grants typically exclude funding for buildings, unrestricted operating support, endowments, and individual benefits.

The James L. Bass Legal Scholarship, established by the Foundation for Rural Service, honors the legacy of James Bass, who significantly impacted rural telecommunications. This scholarship supports students entering their first year of law school with a focus on rural communities. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens. Through this initiative, the scholarship aims to foster new legal talent committed to enhancing the quality of life in rural America, continuing Mr. Bass's dedication to community service.

The SBB Research Group Grant offers $5,000 to 501(c)(3) organizations with a focus on addressing unmet needs through sustainable strategies. The application process is streamlined, consisting of just ten questions. The evaluation includes a review by the Philanthropy Committee, which selects nominees for interviews and finalists for presentations. Winners receive funding and further opportunities, while all finalists receive $1,000. This grant aims to empower organizations with 5 to 49 full-time employees.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County offers grants to recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities that benefit Shelby County residents. Priorities include efficient resource use, collaboration among organizations, and innovative approaches to community issues. Applicants must provide specific project details, including funding requests and timelines. Note that certain projects, such as ongoing operational funding or those not serving Shelby County, are ineligible. For more details, contact the Grants Administrator before applying.

The Mellon Emerging Faculty Leaders Award supports early-career faculty committed to building inclusive campus communities. Funded by the Mellon Foundation, it offers a $20,000 stipend to assist with summer research and academic year support. Eligible candidates are assistant professors in tenure-track positions who have passed their third-year review and are engaged in fostering diversity and inclusion in their academic fields. This fellowship not only aids their research but also emphasizes their role in mentoring underrepresented students.

The John C. Williams Charitable Trust Grant focuses on supporting organizations in Steubenville, OH and Weirton, WV that provide essential services to their communities. Eligible applicants must have public charity status and demonstrate measurable outcomes, sustainability, and collaboration with other organizations. The trust prioritizes projects addressing community needs and benefiting underserved populations, while avoiding funding for general operating costs or discriminatory practices.

The Carroll Community Fund Grant, established in 1994, supports various projects in Carroll County, Ohio. It funds tax-exempt organizations, private agencies, and government entities that address local issues. Eligible applicants include religious institutions with primarily secular programs, private schools focusing on nonreligious educational activities, and arts or recreational projects demonstrating community support. The fund aims to enhance community impact while ensuring grants are awarded based on specific eligibility criteria and local needs.

The Margaret Tisher Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives in the Steubenville area that provide essential year-round programming and direct services. The trust seeks projects addressing community needs with measurable outcomes, collaboration with other organizations, and effective financial accountability. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years of operational history and demonstrate prior measurable impact. The trust prioritizes initiatives benefiting underserved populations while avoiding support for general operating costs, new programs, and for-profit entities.

Donors within the Community Foundation of Western PA & Eastern OH have a primary goal of bringing out the best in our neighbors. This objective can only be reached by partnering with our amazing local service organizations and dedicated citizens. To this end, we welcome grant applications which represent local charitable programs that match the eligibility requirements outlined below.

The Roothbert Fund Scholarship, established by Albert and Toni Roothbert, provides financial assistance to individuals pursuing education in the U.S., emphasizing candidates motivated by spiritual values. Since its inception in 1958, the fund has supported over 1,350 fellows, fostering a community with annual retreats and online connections. Open to all regardless of background, the scholarship prioritizes graduate students and those with a year of college completed, ensuring a lasting impact on the lives of young idealists.

The Radiance Gives Fund Grant, established in 2022 by Radiance Technologies, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in local communities. This employee-run charitable initiative ensures that 100% of contributions go directly to grant awards, enhancing community impact. With no administrative fees deducted, Radiance empowers its employees to make meaningful contributions to the causes they care about, fostering a culture of giving and community support.

Rick Robinson Hotstart Scholarship

Applicants must be children or grandchildren of full-time Hotstart employees who have a minimum of two years employment with Hotstart as of the application deadline date. 

Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply, but an individual may receive an award no more than four times. 

The Schwarzman Scholars program offers a fully-funded, one-year master's degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing, fostering global leadership through academic excellence and cultural exchange. It seeks diverse candidates with strong leadership skills, integrity, and intellectual ability. Scholars receive comprehensive support, including tuition, accommodation, and travel expenses. This initiative aims to cultivate future leaders who can bridge cultural divides and understand the complexities of global affairs, enriching their fields and communities.

The Jack J. Smith Jr. Trust Grant supports impactful projects in the Greater Cincinnati Area, prioritizing year-round programming and direct services that address community needs. The grant favors initiatives that demonstrate measurable outcomes, sustainability, and collaboration with other organizations. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years of operation and show documented results from previous projects. However, the Trust does not support general operating costs or new pilot programs.

The Esther Simmons Charitable Trust aims to support impactful projects within Jefferson County and Steubenville, Ohio. The trust prioritizes initiatives that provide year-round programming, direct services, and measurable outcomes, while addressing community needs. Eligible organizations must demonstrate financial accountability and collaboration with others, and have a proven track record of at least three years in operation. The trust does not support general operating costs, pilot programs, or for-profit entities.

The Irene Stetson Charitable Trust Grant supports impactful projects in Jefferson County and Steubenville, focusing on year-round programming that meets community needs. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate financial accountability and sustainability. The grant prioritizes initiatives that benefit underserved populations and require measurable outcomes. While it encourages collaboration, it does not fund general operating costs, capital campaigns, or for-profit entities. Organizations must have a track record of at least three years in service.

The Patterson Foundation Scholarship offers $4,750 annually to children and legal dependents, aged 24 and under, of full-time employees at Patterson Companies in the U.S., U.K., and Canada. Renewable for up to four years, this scholarship can total $19,000 for higher education at accredited institutions. All undergraduate degrees are eligible, and students can reapply even if they have previously been denied. A selection committee from Scholarship America, Inc. reviews applications each summer.

The American Australian Association's Graduate Education Fund provides vital financial support for American and Australian students pursuing advanced degrees in each other's countries. With scholarships up to $40,000 available for Masters, Ph.D., and Postdoctoral research in various fields, including STEM and Indigenous studies, this initiative promotes educational exchange and global collaboration. It is open to eligible Native Americans and Indigenous Australians, fostering opportunities for transformative learning and cultural connections.

The Thomas J. Henry Sponsorship Requests program emphasizes community support and global outreach. With a commitment to enhancing lives, Mr. Henry has been a pivotal figure in South Texas, ensuring that his legal success translates into meaningful contributions. The program invites various organizations to apply for sponsorship, aligning with Mr. Henry’s vision of fostering closer connections through philanthropic efforts. This initiative aims to empower communities and promote collaborative growth on both local and international levels.

The Belmont County Enrichment Fund Grant, established in 2013 by local landowners and Rice Energy, aims to enhance the quality of life in Belmont County, Ohio. It supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and emergency services, funding impactful projects that foster community betterment. The fund prioritizes donor intent and adapts to emerging community needs. However, it does not support salaries, fundraising events, or completed projects. The Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley administers this vital initiative.

The Capital Improvements Grant from The Columbus Foundation supports nonprofits in Franklin County looking to enhance their facilities and equipment. Grants range from $10,000 to $100,000 and prioritize requests that demonstrate a clear impact on service delivery. Eligible projects include purchasing new buildings, updating existing facilities, or acquiring essential equipment. Letters of intent are due the first Friday in June, and successful applications will show progress and sustainability in their capital campaigns.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Smart Family Fund is a private foundation dedicated to supporting early-stage non-profits that demonstrate the potential for scalable, positive impact. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, they aim to assist organizations in refining their models and preparing for larger investments. The foundation, guided by three brothers, focuses on mentoring and backing social entrepreneurs facing challenges in securing funding for innovative yet untested ideas, fostering a brighter future for communities.

The Everett Kneece Scholarship, offered by the Foundation for Rural Service, provides a $7,000 award annually to a graduating high school senior who shows commitment to returning to a rural community. To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens sponsored by an NTCA member and express interest in rural community service. This scholarship honors Everett Kneece's legacy of philanthropy and dedication to enhancing rural life through education.

The Papé Family Foundation seeks to positively impact communities where its members reside, emphasizing family unity, service, and stewardship. It funds small capital projects, building improvements, equipment needs, and operational requests for new programs (under two years old) but does not cover salaries. Eligible organizations must be within 50 miles of trustee-residing cities, including locations in Arkansas, California, Idaho, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.

The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley offers rolling grant applications for eligible nonprofit organizations in the Mahoning Valley. Funding decisions are typically made within three months after submission. Grants support various needs, including programmatic, general operating, and capital expenses. Organizations connected to the Healthy Community Partnership are prioritized. However, applications from individuals or for activities influencing election campaigns are not eligible. Previous applicants may reapply if declined.