Best Grants for Charities in Ohio

The Dorothy E. Ann Fund (D.E.A.F.) offers Technology that Supports Literacy Mini-Grants aimed at enhancing educational experiences for deaf and hard-of-hearing youth. School administrators can apply on behalf of teachers, with each teacher eligible for grants up to $1,000 to purchase necessary technology. The initiative encourages hands-on learning and skill development, fostering leadership, self-esteem, and effective communication within the community.

The Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BigP) Tier I provides funding for constructing transient mooring facilities for large non-trailerable vessels (26 feet or longer). Eligible projects include mooring buoys, day-docks, and navigational aids. The maximum reimbursement is $300,000, and projects are competitive statewide. Ineligible expenses encompass maintenance activities and facilities for trailerable boats. This program aims to enhance boating access and support recreational boating on federally navigable waters.

Stark Community Foundation

Since 1963, Stark Community Foundation has been helping individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits like you support the causes you care about.

In addition to personalized donor services, we manage a competitive grantmaking program and award grants to address local needs. Today, the Foundation stewards over 1,000 charitable funds totaling $485 million in assets and has granted more than $300 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond.

Scholarships

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties.

The Lt. Colonel Robert G. Moreland Vocational/Technical Fund

The Lt. Col. Robert G. Moreland Vocational/Technical Fund assists students pursuing vocational or technical education or training in a school or college within the State of Ohio with training or education which will lead to an associate degree, certificate or diploma but not to a baccalaureate degree. 

This scholarship is renewable.

Stark Community Foundation

Since 1963, Stark Community Foundation has been helping individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits like you support the causes you care about.

In addition to personalized donor services, we manage a competitive grantmaking program and award grants to address local needs. Today, the Foundation stewards over 1,000 charitable funds totaling $485 million in assets and has granted more than $300 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond.

Scholarships

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties.

The Margaret S. Gilbert Scholarship Fund

The Margaret S. Gilbert Scholarship Fund was established to assist Stark County public high school female graduates, who attend or will attend, Oberlin College and major in one of the sciences, mathematics or history.

This scholarship is renewable.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Whirlpool Corporation One Power STEM Scholarship

Whirlpool Corporation, in conjunction with One Energy LLC, created a scholarship fund at Marion Community Foundation in 2017 to support education in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). For each wind turbine installed as part of a Wind for Industry® project, Whirlpool/One Energy scholarship partners are giving back to the community with scholarships. These scholarships will impact Marion County high school seniors and graduates pursuing studies in STEM fields.

Annually, this scholarship fund awards one $5,000 scholarship to a student attending any eligible educational institution. An additional $10,000 in scholarships is available to students attending The Ohio State University at Marion, Marion Technical College, or other eligible educational institutions.

The Ohio DNR Boating Safety Education Grant supports the development and promotion of safe boating programs to enhance public safety in compliance with state education laws. Grants range from $1,000 to $30,000, requiring a 25% cost share. The initiative aims to reduce boating accidents and improve education on boating risks and regulations. This program will not be available for 2026, emphasizing the importance of immediate participation.

Ohio's National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for students in elementary to high school. Over two weeks, participants learn essential archery skills, promoting safety, technique, and self-improvement. This program enhances students' self-esteem, confidence, and attendance while fostering an inclusive environment across diverse backgrounds. By providing standardized equipment and training, NASP ensures equal opportunities for all, positively impacting behavior and academic performance in schools.

Mission

The Ohio Arts Council is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally, and economically.

The Ohio Arts Council was created in 1965 to foster and encourage the development of the arts and assist the preservation of Ohio's cultural heritage. With funds from the Ohio Legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts, the OAC provides financial assistance to artists and arts organizations. The Council accomplishes this charge in two primary methods; first, through the various grant funding programs that the Council operates to provide support to artists and to make arts activities available to a broad segment of Ohio's public; and secondly, by providing services that help to enhance the growth of the arts.

Artists with Disabilities Access Program

Professional Development Support for Artists with Disabilities

The Artists with Disabilities Access Program (ADAP) provides funding that gives individual artists with disabilities the resources they need to further their artistic development. Creative expression by artists of all abilities is essential to building dynamic and diverse communities throughout Ohio. ADAP awards help artists with disabilities advance their artistic practices, making Ohio a more accessible and inclusive place to build an artistic career.

Grant Awards

Grants are awarded to individual artists at both the emerging artist level and professional artist level, with no cash match required. Applicants may receive only one ADAP award per year. Artists with Disabilities Access Program grantees generally receive their full request.

How the Program Works

The Artists with Disabilities Access Program provides support to individual artists with disabilities to:

• introduce their work to new audiences and to raise their artistic profile, through exhibitions, performances, publications, or screenings.
• develop a new artistic skill through participation in activities such as conferences, artist residencies, workshops, fellowships, master classes, or apprenticeships.
• advance their career through activities like production of marketing materials, website development, equipment purchases (not to exceed $1,500), materials, services, or rental fees for equipment or facilities. 

Carol Jenkins Nursing Scholarship

The scholarship was established to support nurses with an RN who seek to further their education and deepen their knowledge of the profession.

Award Amount:

• $1,000

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5418 - Optimizing PFAS Treatment Systems for Multi-contaminant Removal and Operational Benefits

Project Objectives

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Program Area Improvements

For I/DD specific 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) looking to add/improve programming potential via equipment and property improvements, updates and additions.

The FCIDD Nonprofit Project Grants are designed to support 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various states. Grants are awarded for projects that enhance accessibility, provide educational opportunities, and promote community engagement. The foundation encourages collaboration with local Civitan clubs, particularly in October and March funding rounds, while also offering open applications in July. The initiative aims to empower nonprofits to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

TU27 Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Grant

Purpose:

The Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program (TUPCP) at the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is a state-administered program that receives funding from the CDC, state general revenue funds, and other grant funding sources. Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program Main Goals:

• Prevent youth and young people from starting using tobacco and nicotine-containing products.
• Helping adults to stop using tobacco and nicotine products by focusing on populations with higher use rates.
• Policies to limit the availability of tobacco products and limit secondhand smoke exposure.
• Build sustainable statewide tobacco use prevention and cessation infrastructure through cross-sector partnerships and collaboration.
• Decrease tobacco-related disparities to ensure all Ohioans have the opportunity to live a tobacco and nicotine-free life.

Policy and Procedures:

The Continuation Funding Application consists of three parts: Program Updates(if applicable), Program Budget and Budget Narrative, and Other Required Attachments. Submission ofthe continuation application constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance ofODHGrants Administration Policies and Procedures (OGAPP) manual rules, ODH policy and procedure updates posted on the GMIS bulletin board, federal, state, and local laws and ordinances, and any other program-specific requirements as outlined in the competitive solicitation. Thissolicitation pertainsto budget period: 07/01/2026-06/30/2027ofthe total project period, 07/01/2025-06/30/2030.

Number of Grants and Funds Available:

Funding for the Local Tobacco Prevention and Control grant is supported by state funds with an anticipated funding of $2,192,750. Applicants must apply for the required elements and the selected projects as selected in TU26.

No grant award will be issued for less than $30,000. The minimum amount is exclusive of any requiredmatching amounts and represents only ODH funds granted. Applications submitted for less than theminimum amount will not be considered for review.

The Food and Agricultural Sciences National Needs Graduate and Postgraduate Fellowships program, managed by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the training of new graduate students in food and agricultural sciences. It provides essential funding for master's, DVM, and doctoral students, focusing on developing the next generation of experts to address critical needs in agricultural sciences. This initiative supports U.S. citizens and residents in achieving their educational goals and contributing to the USDA's mission.

The NCR-SARE Partnership Grant Program aims to enhance sustainable agriculture by fostering collaboration between agricultural professionals and groups of farmers. By facilitating innovative research and educational activities, this program supports projects that test new cropping strategies, develop marketing approaches, and enhance food security. Focused on the North Central Region, it encourages partnerships that drive on-farm research, ultimately improving economic viability and environmental stewardship for communities across 12 states.

The Appalachian Region Healthcare Support Program aims to enhance healthcare delivery in rural areas by providing technical assistance to organizations such as critical access hospitals and rural health clinics. By focusing on planning and implementing healthcare service improvements, the program seeks to strengthen the operational performance and quality of care within these communities, ultimately benefiting the residents served by the Appalachian Regional Commission.

The Cribs for Kids Program, funded by the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, aims to enhance safe sleep practices among caregivers in Ohio. By distributing Safe Sleep Kits and providing education, the program seeks to prevent infant deaths associated with unsafe sleep environments. With Ohio's infant mortality rate exceeding state targets, this initiative addresses critical health disparities. The program focuses on equipping vulnerable caregivers with essential resources and knowledge to ensure safer sleep for infants, ultimately improving health outcomes across the state.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

Ohio Department of Health

The Ohio Department of Health’s mission is advancing the health and well-being of all Ohioans by transforming the state’s public health system through unique partnerships and funding streams; addressing the community conditions and inequities that lead to disparities in health outcomes; and implementing data-driven, evidence-based solutions.

OPCC Cancer Coalition Coordination

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), Medical Director, Bureau of Health Improvement and Wellness announces the availability of grant funds.

Policy and Procedures: The Continuation Funding Application consists of three parts: Program Updates(if applicable), Program Budget and Budget Narrative, and Other Required Attachments.

No grant award will be issued for less than $30,000. The minimum amount is exclusive of any requiredmatching amounts and represents only ODH funds granted. Applications submitted for less than the minimum amount will not be considered for review.

Subrecipient: Franklin County Public Health

About The American Chestnut Foundation:

Our mission is to return the iconic American chestnut to its native range.

Our vision is a robust eastern forest returned to its splendor.

Small Grants Program

Are you looking for funding to support your American chestnut research? External small grants offer recipients a variety of benefits such as professional development and an expanded network. Grant activities contribute to the continuous renewal and development of faculty and staff, to the education and motivation of students, and achievement of our mutual interest — restoration of the American chestnut. This is a small grants program. TACF does not ordinarily fund projects in excess of $10,000.

About OFIC

he Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) was founded in 1950 as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization representing higher education in Ohio.

OFIC believes all students who enroll at a member campus deserve the opportunity to complete their college education. Every day we connect and partner with corporations and foundations to make this dream possible by helping to keep education affordable through scholarships, internships and career opportunities. Our goal is to facilitate an exceptional appreciation of independent higher education and its impact on the state of Ohio’s citizens, economy, and culture. Through OFIC’s Scholarship Management Resources, we create national scholarship opportunities by partnering with organizations in Ohio and beyond.

Ohio Scholars Program

Welcome to The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) Ohio Scholars Program homepage! OFIC partners with private, liberal arts institutions around the state to offer scholarships to students like you, as well as to sponsor campus initiatives that together can make an impact in the great state of Ohio. The scholarships we offer students are funded by a variety of donors who earnestly desire to support students by enabling them to further their education. More information about OFIC can be found here. 

OFIC launched the OSP application in the 2023-2024 academic year as one way to practice good stewardship of the funds received by our donors to select students who meet complex criteria and to supplement established best practices gained from decades of scholarship experience. We are seeking to do the same for the 2027-2028 academic year to find the best qualified students for the available scholarships we have to offer. 

Submission of the continuation application constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of ODH Grants Administration Policies and Procedures (OGAPP) Manual rules, policy and procedure updates posted on the GMIS Bulletin Board, and any other program-specific requirements as outlined in the competitive Solicitation. The competitive solicitation for this grant program can be found here. 

website atPolicy and Procedures: The Continuation Funding Application consists of three parts:

• Program Updates (if applicable),
• Program Budget and Budget Narrative, and
• Other Required Attachments.

Number of Grants and Funds Available: Genetics Services grants are comprised of funds generated from a portion of the state newborn screening fee. Only the previously awarded applicants during the State Fiscal Year 2025 competitive application may apply for continuation funding for this initiative. These are: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center; Dayton Children’s Hospital; Toledo Hospital; The Research Institute of Nationwide Children’s Hospital; MetroHealth System; University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center; Cleveland Clinic Foundation; and Children’s Hospital Medical Center – Akron. The total grant funding for the SFY2027 budget period (07/01/2026 – 06/30/2027) is anticipated to be approximately $2,320.043.

No grant award will be issued for less than $30,000. Theminimumamountis exclusive of any requiredmatching amounts and represents only ODH funds granted. Applications submitted for less than the minimum amount will not be considered for review.

The Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BigP) Tier II provides funding for the construction of facilities that support non-trailerable recreational boats, primarily when these vessels are in transient status. This program focuses on transient mooring facilities for large vessels, defined as 26 feet or longer, allowing stays of 10 days or fewer. The program has two tiers, requiring a 25% match, with Tier II offering up to $1,500,000 for nationwide competitive projects.

About Us

The Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal, based in Reynoldsburg, is the oldest office of its kind in the United States. Its mission is to protect people, property, and the environment from fire and related hazards through education, investigation, and enforcement.

Fire Department Equipment Grant

The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal (SFM) is pleased to announce the availability of 2027 Fire Department Individual and Joint Equipment Grant for qualifying fire departments and local government entities. Allowable equipment grant requests include personal protective clothing, SCBA, communications equipment and other miscellaneous equipment. Eligible fire departments must serve a population of less than 25,000, be in compliance with the Volunteer Firefighters’ Dependents Fund outlined in Ohio Revised Code 146, and have submitted incident fire reports for the previous calendar year. The State Fire Marshal is accepting Individual and Joint Equipment Grant applications online only. The Fire Department Equipment Grant application packets are being provided as a worksheet guidance document (Individual and Joint) only. This will allow you to gather all of the necessary information prior to submitting the grants online. Grant award notifications up to $15,000 will be made in the spring.

The Division of State Fire Marshal offers the Fire Department Equipment Grant to qualifying fire departments to buy protective clothing, breathing apparatuses, communications gear, and other equipment. Applications open in winter.

About Us

The Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal, based in Reynoldsburg, is the oldest office of its kind in the United States. Its mission is to protect people, property, and the environment from fire and related hazards through education, investigation, and enforcement.

Fire Department Training Reimbursement Grant

The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal is pleased to announce we are now accepting electronic applications for the Fire Department Training Reimbursement Grant for eligible classes completed in calendar year.

Fire Departments that provide primary fire protection to an area with a permanent population of 25,000 or less qualify for the grant. Reimbursement is available for specific fire training classes, including the cost of training manuals and student workbooks up to the maximum amount that is authorized. Training grants awards are subject to availability of funds. Applications are available mid-December through mid-January annually.

The Fire Department Training Reimbursement grant application packet is being provided as a worksheet guidance document. This will allow you to gather all the necessary information prior to submitting the grants online.

Fire departments that provide primary fire protection to an area with a permanent population of 25,000 or fewer may qualify for training reimbursement. Reimbursement covers approved training classes and associated training manuals and student workbooks, up to the authorized maximum.

The Department of Commerce, Division of Financial Institutions is committed to supporting financial literacy for children, young adults, and adults within Ohio through the Financial Literacy Grant Program.  The fund will award grants to programs focused on providing the knowledge and skills needed to develop and integrate personal financial literacy whether virtually and/or in-person. 

The NCR-SARE Graduate Student Grant Program funds up to $20,000 for graduate student projects addressing sustainable agriculture in the North Central Region. Established in 2002, it supports Master's and Ph.D. students at accredited institutions. Projects can last up to 36 months, and applicants may receive only one grant during their academic career. The program aims to promote innovative solutions to agricultural challenges and enhance sustainability practices in the region.