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Search Through Grants for Rural Development in Ohio

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Ohio provide vital funding to help rural communities prepare for or recover from emergencies threatening safe drinking water access. Eligible disasters include droughts, floods, and chemical spills. Grants can fund water transmission improvements up to $150,000, or source construction up to $1 million. This initiative, led by USDA Rural Development, aims to restore and enhance access to clean water, benefiting households and businesses in affected areas.

The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, led by The Minneapolis Foundation, supports community-based nonprofits in the Great Lakes region. With a focus on underserved communities, grants will total $40 million over three years, aiming to enhance environmental health, education, and resilience. The program prioritizes applications from federally recognized tribes and organizations with limited budgets, fostering inclusive community engagement and sustainable development. Eligible projects include environmental assessments, public health initiatives, and job training.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Big Yellow School Bus program, offered by the Ohio Arts Council, supports school field trips to arts and cultural activities by covering transportation costs. It is designed for public, private, charter, and parochial schools, as well as home-schooled student groups. With grants of up to $500 available, this initiative fosters early arts exposure, enhancing students' educational experiences and creating vital connections with Ohio's creative sector. Applications must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to the event.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Needmor Fund for Social Justice aims to promote social justice by supporting community organizing efforts in the Midwest. With a focus on low- and moderate-income communities, BIPOC groups, and other marginalized populations, the fund provides grants for up to three years to organizations committed to long-term empowerment and advocacy. The initiative seeks to foster inclusive participation in democracy, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping policies affecting their lives.

The Joyce Foundation's Education & Economic Mobility Grants aim to close income and race disparities in college and career success. The foundation prioritizes equitable access to high-quality education, supporting policies for effective educators, high school graduation, and affordable college credentials. Focused on racial equity and economic mobility, it addresses the needs of historically underserved young people in the Great Lakes region and invests in research, policy development, and advocacy to help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Joyce Foundation's Environment Grants focus on addressing critical environmental challenges in the Great Lakes region, such as climate change and water safety. The foundation prioritizes equitable, carbon-free energy solutions and clean water access for all communities. Grants are awarded to organizations committed to environmental justice and innovation in climate policy, particularly in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin, ensuring that the voices of affected communities guide project development.

The CHS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing agricultural education through its Teacher Grants program, providing up to $50,000 for innovative projects. This initiative aims to engage students in experiential learning within rural communities across various states. By supporting teachers and their creative ideas, the foundation fosters educational growth and prepares future agricultural leaders, ensuring a sustainable and empowered agricultural sector. This commitment reflects CHS's broader mission of community support and development.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Ohio provides essential funding to develop community facilities in rural areas, benefiting populations under 20,000. Eligible projects include health care, public safety, and educational services. Grant assistance is tiered, offering up to 75% funding for low-income communities. This program supports public bodies, non-profits, and federally recognized tribes, ensuring crucial services are accessible to rural residents. The application process is open year-round, promoting ongoing community development.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The CNX Foundation Grant aims to enhance the Appalachian region through strategic investments totaling $30 million. With a focus on sustainability and community development, the grant addresses pressing socio-economic challenges such as food insecurity, health and wellness for children, and technological access. By fostering local initiatives, CNX Foundation aspires to create measurable impacts that uplift communities and promote long-term growth, embodying their commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles.

The Ohio Transit Partnership Program (OTP2) provides essential financial support to urban and rural public transit systems in Ohio, aiming to optimize state and federal funding utilization. It serves public transit agencies receiving FTA Section 5307 and 5311 funds, facilitating capital and operational projects. OTP2 prioritizes Tier I projects focused on preservation while also supporting innovative Tier II projects to enhance transit capabilities. This program ultimately strengthens Ohio's public transportation infrastructure.

The Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grant Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, provides a 50/50 cost-share opportunity aimed at enhancing rural fire departments. Eligible departments can secure funding for essential wildland fire equipment, personal protective gear, and communication devices. Grants are capped at $10,000, promoting community collaboration while ensuring departments meet specific eligibility requirements. This initiative supports the vital role of fire services in protecting Ohio's communities and natural resources.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

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.

Rural Health Transformation Pharmacy Initiative

Summary

The Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) was authorized by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Section 71403 of Public Law 119-21) and empowers the state to strengthen rural communities by improving healthcare access, quality and outcomes by transforming the current system. Five key strategic goals of the program, as defined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) are:

• Make rural America healthy again
• Sustainable access
• Workforce development
• Innovative Care
• Technology Innovation

Ohio’s plan aligns with federal priorities to improve the health of rural residents through sustainable access, workforce development, innovative care, and tech advancement. As part of Ohio's Rural Health Transformation Program, the selected vendor will engage in activities to maximize the role that pharmacists and pharmacies play in ensuring access to healthcare in rural Ohio and Support systems and policy changes to allow pharmacists and pharmacies in rural Ohio to operate under an expanded scope of practice and provide training these professionals need to do so successfully. This work with pharmacists supports the RHTP objective of improving the health of rural Ohioans through chronic disease management, care coordination, and reducing drug related adverse events

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.

Ohio Rural Health Workforce Pipeline; Pathways, Upskilling, and Retention

Summary

Ohio recognizes the need to develop long-lasting pipelines that engage students at the earliest stages of career planning to educate them about the numerous opportunities that exist in healthcare. This is vitally important in rural areas where the need for workforce is great and we have the opportunity to create pathways for Ohio’s students in K-12 education settings to explore rural health careers, initiate learning in high school, continue training close to home (in technical/trade schools, community colleges, or universities with significant rural engagement), and secure careers in health provider settings within the rural communities that are most familiar to them. Our activities in this initiative will place high priority on integrating pipelines, recruitment and retention activities for 5-year work commitments, and upskilling and workforce development in RHTP sites. Projects will be implemented in partnership with academic institutions, other training facilities, and professional and paraprofessional associations to:

• In conjunction with the ODH and other state agencies, identify and prioritize rural healthcare workforce needs in Ohio’s 73 identified rural counties.
• Coordinate workforce pipeline activities between high schools, universities, community colleges, career technical schools, and healthcare employers. Activities include career awareness/exploration, pathways education awareness, and career awareness programs in K-12 education, secondary education programs, rural work-based learning/apprenticeships, career placement agreements with employers, and coordinating all Federal and State workforce development and financial resources. This could also include a multi-state approach for educational and healthcare systems that transcend state lines. A focus is placed on placements in RHTP facilities and partner programs funded through Ohio’s RHTP
• Provide rural recruitment and retention incentives and 6-month housing stipends for those who relocate to serve in rural communities for a minimum of 5-year commitments. This project will support filling workforce needs for various healthcare capacities, e.g., MD/DO, nurses, pharmacists, therapy providers, dietitians, behavioral health, oral health, optometry, audiology, Community Healthcare Workers (CHW)/navigators, etc. This could also include a multi-state approach for educational and healthcare systems that transcend state lines.
• Identify and promote continuing education opportunities for Ohio’s healthcare workforce.
• Collaborate with ODH, other state agencies, and vendors who are operationalizing RHT initiatives to support the workforce needs of those projects.

The Ohio Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant provides crucial funding for out-of-school time programs aimed at students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Administered by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, this grant supports educational initiatives that enhance academic performance and personal development. Eligible applicants include schools, community organizations, and local agencies, with a focus on services for low-income areas. The program emphasizes a range of enrichment activities, promoting holistic growth for children in need.