Best Grants for Community Service Projects in Ohio

The EDA FY25 Disaster Supplemental program provides critical funding to support communities recovering from severe economic distress caused by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. With no submission deadlines for Readiness and Implementation Paths, and a specific deadline for Industry Transformation applications, this initiative aims to enhance community resilience and improve economic trajectories through strategic projects that engage local stakeholders and private industries.

The Hawkins Family Foundation Grant supports diverse non-profit initiatives including healthcare, education, and community development. Primarily funding organizations in Chattanooga, Dublin/Columbus, and Tampa Bay, it requires applicants to be 501(c)(3) public charities or have fiscal sponsors with this status. This grant aims to uplift local communities and enhance the quality of life through various supportive programs.

The Ardelle and Theresa Glaze Foundation Grants support nonprofits that align with five key focus areas: The Arts, Community Empowerment, Conservation, Education, and Urban Design. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations that improve education, strengthen communities, promote the arts, and advocate for environmental stewardship. Grants are available exclusively to 501(c)(3) organizations, and unsolicited proposals are not accepted. The foundation emphasizes measurable outcomes and strong leadership in the nonprofits it supports.

The Crawford Taylor Foundation focuses on enhancing programs that create lasting legacies in St. Louis. With priorities in community development, women's health, animal welfare, and environmental preservation, the foundation seeks to support 501(c)(3) organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria. They avoid funding multi-year grants or for-profit initiatives, emphasizing support for local causes and relief efforts deemed important by the Taylor family.

The Peter Chortek Leadership Award honors Jewish high school students in San Diego who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to community service through tikkun olam. Awardees receive a $9,000 stipend, $540 to set up a Donor Advised Fund, and a professional video showcasing their project. This award encourages students to create or enhance community initiatives, fostering engagement in social justice and service projects.

The Japan – U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program aims to foster collaborative projects addressing global issues through partnerships between Japanese and American organizations. It focuses on policy-oriented research and dialogue among diverse professionals, including academia and grassroots practitioners. Key thematic areas include resilience, inclusivity, and advancements in science and technology. Projects outside these themes may also be eligible if aligned with grant goals, covering topics like climate change, public health, and digital transformation.

The Ohio Valley Jaycees Charitable Fund Grant, administered by the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley, supports local charitable organizations in Ohio and West Virginia. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt and provide services in specific counties. The fund emphasizes community improvement and accepts one application per cycle, ensuring fair distribution. Note that grants are not available for individuals or for-profit entities, and applications must follow strict submission guidelines.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

The COAD Appalachian Development Fund Grants, offered by the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, aim to enhance the quality of life in Appalachian Ohio through innovative programs. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to nonprofit and public organizations serving the region. Priority is given to projects led by local organizations, promoting community development and addressing specific needs. Past awards include housing coordinators and infrastructure improvements, reflecting a commitment to sustainable growth and support for COAD member agencies.

The CDV5 Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations, churches, and government entities that meet IRS 501(c)(3) requirements. This grant aims to nurture successful children, foster stronger families, and cultivate healthier communities. Through partnerships, the foundation provides resources to help individuals reach their full potential. Applicants may submit one request annually for operating, capital, or program support, while event sponsorships are also considered. The foundation encourages applicants to consider their budget and history with the foundation when requesting funding.

The .ORG Impact Awards, organized by the Public Interest Registry, honor individuals and organizations connected to .ORG domains for their impactful contributions in areas such as health, education, diversity, and environmental stewardship. Participants can receive up to $50,000 for their chosen non-profit and gain visibility through various promotional platforms. This initiative not only recognizes excellence but also fosters community support and encourages innovative solutions to pressing societal issues.

The Cleveland Foundation supports the needs, priorities and opportunities identified by communities and residents in Cuyahoga, Lake and Geauga counties, with grantmaking for long-term impact and grantmaking for immediate impact. 

Lake-Geauga Fund

The Lake Geauga Fund, established in 1988 at the Cleveland Foundation, aims to promote community philanthropy and strategic grantmaking to support transformative projects in Lake and Geauga counties.

Impact Areas 

Capital: Focus on new projects that provide a direct benefit to the community. This includes both pre-development and capital needs. 

Capital projects should accomplish one of the following: 

• Strategic and Long-Term Focus: Has a generational impact, not a focus on day-to-day operations.  
• Community Centered: Aim to enhance quality of life or address critical community needs.   
• Sustainability: Incorporate LEED environmental standards. 
• Advances the advantage and competitiveness of the region. 
• The organization demonstrates financial stability and sound operations 

Economic Development: Support for projects and programs that strive to improve economic and workforce conditions in Lake and Geauga Counties for its residents. 

Economic Development projects should accomplish one of the following: 

• Increase the number of individuals qualified for high-demand, high-growth jobs in through training and/or upskilling. 
• Addresses barriers to individuals engaging in work or workforce development.  
• Support growth of small- and mid-sized businesses.  
• Expand resources for entrepreneurs starting new businesses. 

Critical Knowledge and Infrastructure: Support infrastructure and systems needed in order to achieve catalytic community impact. 

Critical Knowledge and Infrastructure projects should accomplish at least one of the following:  

• Improve implementation ability for an organization executing catalytic or transformative projects.  
• Pilot innovative operating structures to promote efficiency, quality, and community-wide impact.  
• New models or unique partnerships that will improve impact. 

The Smart Growth Grants program, managed by the National Association of Realtors, aims to enhance community development through educational initiatives aligned with Smart Growth Principles. Available in three levels, the grants support REALTOR Associations in promoting sustainable land use, community planning, and stakeholder engagement. Maximum awards range from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the grant level. Note that the program is currently not accepting applications for 2025 and will reopen in January 2026.

The Wightman Wieber Foundation Grant, established in memory of Michelle Wightman and Karrie Wieber, supports various community needs in Erie County. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 are available to tax-exempt organizations that enhance collaboration, strengthen capacity, and deliver substantial community benefits. The foundation encourages projects that serve the underserved and demonstrate sustainability. Eligible applicants include churches, schools, and other entities serving Erie County residents.

The Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Corridor Community Grants, provided by Keep America Beautiful, aim to empower communities to revitalize and beautify MLK corridors across the U.S. These grants support various projects, including murals, community gardens, and cleanup efforts, contributing to the initiative's goal of beautifying 25,000 communities by 2026. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, local governments, and community organizations, with a focus on sustainable impacts and local engagement.

The Sachs Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals and families. The Foundation supports self-sustaining charitable organizations focusing on economic and educational opportunities, particularly in low-income communities in the U.S. and developing countries. Grants are available for various initiatives, including education, housing, and job training, with a keen interest in programs that demonstrate clear potential for sustainability.

The Edelweiss Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting transformative initiatives in Greater Cincinnati. Their mission focuses on enriching the community by funding projects led by visionary leaders. The foundation primarily supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and community development, aiming to enhance the physical, intellectual, and emotional well-being of Cincinnatians. With a commitment to fostering growth and potential, the foundation seeks proposals that align with its mission.

The GAR Foundation provides essential funding for capital projects within Summit County, focusing on mission-critical initiatives such as new buildings or significant renovations. Eligible projects must align with GAR's strategic priorities in education, community development, and the arts. Organizations can apply for grants up to $50,000, with funds required to be utilized within 18 months. The next funding round will open in late 2026, promoting sustainability and community impact.

The NOPEC Foundation Fund offers grants primarily to nonprofit organizations within NOPEC communities, focusing on health, economic development, community development, environment, and social services. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $40,000, aiming to address diverse community needs that are often overlooked by traditional funding sources. Eligible applicants are those operating significantly within NOPEC areas, ensuring support reaches those most in need.

The Berry Family Foundation Grants aim to support entrepreneurial initiatives and strengthen the Dayton community. Emphasizing core beliefs such as the importance of free enterprise and the encouragement of youth education, the foundation seeks to partner with organizations that align with these values. Funding requests are evaluated based on their potential to improve community quality of life and enhance organizational sustainability. Please note that requests from ineligible organizations will not be considered.

The KeyBank Foundation offers Community Sponsorships to support local organizations in their fundraising efforts. These sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000 and can fund events or provide general operating support. Applications are accepted from January to October, with a decision made within 90 days. Eligible nonprofits must serve areas where KeyBank operates and adhere to strict ineligibility criteria, including no support for individuals or organizations that discriminate based on various identities.

The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) by the Ohio Department of Transportation funds projects enhancing non-motorized travel, historic preservation, and environmental efforts. It supports local governments in implementing initiatives that improve accessibility and safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Eligible projects include shared paths, bike lanes, and upgrades for ADA compliance. The program prioritizes connections to activity centers, ensuring public accessibility and engagement in transportation planning.

The Affirm Cares Employee Foundation Grant, established by Affirm, aims to support non-profit organizations making a significant impact in financial literacy, community enrichment, and technology education. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, focusing on sustainable initiatives that empower communities and alleviate housing insecurity. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) designated non-profits operating within the U.S. The foundation prioritizes measurable outcomes in its funding efforts, fostering civic engagement and vibrant communities.

BMO Gives is committed to fostering positive societal impact through community support and charitable initiatives. It focuses on enhancing community and economic resilience, as well as environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants must be registered charities or non-profits operating in Canada or the U.S. and align with BMO's corporate values, which promote inclusivity and non-discrimination. The program aims to support projects that address significant societal needs and empower local communities.

OneRural provides essential technical assistance to rural organizations, fostering the development of affordable housing and community initiatives. This program offers tailored support, helping organizations enhance their operational capabilities and drive impactful change. By accessing expert resources and training, participants can effectively navigate challenges, improve program outcomes, and strengthen community resilience. This initiative targets nonprofits and tribal entities, ensuring that rural communities receive the guidance needed for sustainable growth and development.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Share the Bounty Grant, offered by The Andersons Inc Charitable Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in communities through support for agriculture, social services, civic engagement, education, arts, and health initiatives. By investing in these key areas, The Andersons seeks to foster environments where individuals and families can thrive, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for all residents in the regions they serve.