Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Ohio

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program in Ohio offers funding and support for non-infrastructure projects aimed at encouraging K-12 students to walk or bike to school. With an annual budget of $5 million, it funds activities like education, encouragement, enforcement, and evaluation. Reimbursement for eligible costs can reach up to $120,000 for two-year projects, promoting safety and accessibility around schools. This initiative helps foster healthier transportation choices for students.

About PCORI

PCORI funds patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER).

Our Mission

PCORI helps people make informed healthcare decisions, and improves healthcare delivery and outcomes, by producing and promoting high-integrity, evidence-based information that comes from research guided by patients, caregivers, and the broader healthcare community.

Broad Pragmatic Studies PCORI Funding

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA), seeking to fund patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. 

Research Initiative Highlights

CER compares at least two available health treatments, services or care delivery strategies. PCORI seeks proposals that compare clinical interventions (e.g., pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, screening and diagnostic approaches) and healthcare delivery system interventions (e.g., workforce, technologies, healthcare service delivery designs) to evaluate potential benefits and harms of different treatment and care delivery options, thus generating evidence that empowers patients, caregivers and the broader healthcare community with information to make informed choices that reflect their needs and preferences.

Special Areas of Emphasis

For Cycle 2 2026, PCORI is particularly interested in submissions that address the following Special Areas of Emphasis (SAE) within the BPS funding opportunity. The purpose of identifying these SAEs is to encourage submissions to these areas, rather than limiting submissions to these topics. Applicants addressing one of the below SAEs should identify the area that is best associated with their research approach:  

• Addressing Obesity
• Diabetes Prevention, Care and Treatment
• Management of Urogynecological and Pelvic Pain
• Pain Management for Individuals Living With Sickle Cell Disease

In PCORI-funded research, patients and other research partners are expected to meaningfully contribute their lived experience or professional expertise to ensure studies are patient-centered, relevant and useful for healthcare decision making. Applicants must address PCORI’s Foundational Expectations for Partnerships in Research — an evidence-based framework supported by tools and resources to guide effective engagement strategies. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to consider the inclusion of a broad range of patient-centered burdens and economic outcomes. 

Broad Pragmatic Studies PFA: Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 Study Specifications

PCORI will commit up to $120 million in direct costs through this funding opportunity. This funding opportunity contains three categories for funding:

• Category 1: Category 1 will support research projects with direct costs up to and including $5 million.

• Category 2: Category 2 will support research projects with direct costs greater than $5 million and up to a maximum of $12 million. Applications for funding under Category 2 will be required to provide additional information in the Letter of Intent (LOI) and application to justify the size and scope of the proposed research projects and to explain how additional funds are necessary with respect to the scale, scope and complexity of personnel and material resources needed to address the research question.

• Category 3: Category 3 will support research projects with direct costs up to $12 million that utilize PCORnet® to conduct observational studies and/or pragmatic trials that are national in scale. Category 3 PCORnet Studies® must include two or more Clinical Research Networks and share study progress, performance metrics and best practices with the network to promote continuous learning and improvement. PCORnet Studies® will leverage the PCORnet Common Data Model® as appropriate. Additional details about Category 3 can be found on the PCORI website.  

The REALTOR® Care Day Grant, offered by the Columbus REALTORS® Foundation, supports local realty associations with up to $500 in matching funds for service projects. Since its inception in 2005, this initiative has mobilized hundreds of volunteers, contributing over $676,000 towards community improvements in central Ohio. With a mission to enhance the real estate landscape and advocate for affordable housing, the foundation plays a vital role in fostering healthy communities through dedicated service and collaboration.

The Integrated Maternal Wellness Pilot Project, initiated by the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health, aims to enhance integrated health care services for pregnant and parenting women struggling with substance use disorders in Northwestern and Western rural Ohio. This initiative seeks applicants to collaborate with a consultant to implement the MATernity Journey framework, focusing on increasing access to care and improving health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

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 Mylander Foundation Grant, established in 1987, supports charitable, educational, and civic organizations in Erie County, Ohio. It mandates annual grants to seven key organizations while also distributing additional funds to others twice a year. Grants typically start at $1,000 and focus on projects benefiting Ohio residents. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, with considerations for projects that significantly impact community goals.

The Andrea Rose Teodosio Foundation Grant supports various charitable organizations, showcasing a commitment to the elderly, children, the arts, and nature. Notable beneficiaries include the Akron Children's Museum and the Akron Food Bank. The foundation aims to enhance community service and education while addressing environmental issues, reflecting the values dear to Andrea Rose Teodosio. Through its funding efforts, the foundation strives to make a significant positive impact in the community.

The Yellow Springs Community Foundation offers General Discretionary Grants to enhance community life in Yellow Springs and Miami Township. These grants support projects, programs, and events that address community needs. Applications are accepted quarterly, with deadlines at the end of March, June, September, and October. The Foundation prioritizes one-time projects, collaborations, and reasonable compensation. Eligible applicants include registered nonprofits, while individuals and ongoing operational support are typically not funded.

The Bryan A. Champion Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Bryan A. Champion, a dedicated nurseryman and leader in the landscape industry. Established by his peers, this scholarship aims to support deserving horticultural students who demonstrate a passion for the field. Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited program, maintain good academic standing, and have a minimum GPA. Preference is given to those intending to work in the green industry after graduation.

Summit County Master Gardeners Scholarship Fund

Established by Summit County Master Gardeners to provide scholarships to Summit County students or residents who are interested in attending an Ohio university to pursue a two- or four-year degree in horticulture, agriculture, environmental studies or closely related field. A non-traditional student currently employed in a green industry is eligible to apply as well as members and relatives of SCMG.

Amount: Varies

• $1,000 minimum

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• No

What Do We Fund?

HealthFirst funds projects that serve or benefit Clinton County. Projects and program proposals should address one or more of the following areas:

Education: improving individual and community wellness and health awareness through direct outreach and creative communication about nutrition, emergent health issues, disease prevention or management, and similar topics.

Innovation in Community Health: improving care delivery methods and services, including novel outreach methods for at-risk communities.

Promotion of Community Health: improving the good health of community members, including medication assistance, health and wellness screenings, and wellness initiatives (including exercise and vaccination initiatives).

What Do We Look for in a Grant Application?

High Priority Projects

• Proposals that are new, unique, pilot, or address unmet needs in Clinton County
• Projects designed to improve equity with a focus on supporting underserved communities
• Projects designed to take a systemic approach to improving outcomes for underserved communities
• Projects that include alliances, partnerships, and collaboration between providers and organizations that broaden, deepen, and diversify participation in the provision of services

​Lower Priority Projects

• Projects for remodeling, renovation, maintenance, repairs, and site improvement for existing facilities
• Projects that support or meet the basic educational, health, and safety functions of government agencies and/or schools

The Charles D. Berry Foundation, established in 2018 by Chuck Berry, aims to enrich the Greater Dayton community through grants in arts, education, health, and community services. The foundation emphasizes support for programs that foster creativity, education, and well-being, ensuring a positive impact on local residents. They prioritize requests for operating and capital support, while maintaining a commitment to social equity and inclusion. Organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria, including having 501(c)(3) status.

The W. & H. Bender Memorial Fund Grant supports charitable organizations in Ohio, focusing on those located in Youngstown and Columbus. This grant is dedicated to enhancing community welfare and providing essential resources to nonprofits that serve these areas. Organizations seeking funding should demonstrate a clear impact on local communities and align with the foundation's mission to foster positive change. For more information, please visit the foundation's website.

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

Who is OCJS

The Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) is a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. By statute, OCJS is the lead justice planning and assistance office for Ohio, administering millions of dollars in state and federal criminal justice funding every year. OCJS also evaluates programs and products, develops training, resources, and best practices for criminal justice professionals and communities. OCJS has been designated by Governor Mike DeWine to administer the FY 2025, Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Program for State Prisoners (RSAT). The RSAT funds are used to support treatment services in addition to the services the prison or jail is already required to provide.

Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment Grant Program Request For Proposals

The goal of the RSAT Program is to prepare individuals for reintegration into communities by delivering community-based treatment and other broad-based aftercare services. RSAT assists states and units of local government in developing and implementing residential substance abuse treatment programs within state correctional facilities, local correctional, detention facilities, and juvenile detention centers where inmates are incarcerated for a period of time sufficient to permit substance abuse treatment. OCJS recommends applicants target high-risk offenders as program participants. RSAT funds may be used to implement four types of programs: residential, jail-based, aftercare, and jail-based pretrial SUD treatment programs. A minimum of 10 percent of Ohio’s RSAT allocation must be available for local correctional and detention facilities for any of the three following program areas:

Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment

• Engage participants for a period between six (6) and 12 months.
• Establish a therapeutic community (i.e., program participants are set apart from the general population). Therapeutic Communities are residential treatment facilities that are set apart from the general correctional population in either a separate facility or a dedicated housing unit that is used exclusively for RSAT and/or other SUD treatment programs.
• Focus on the inmate’s substance use diagnosis and addiction-related needs.
• Develop the inmate’s cognitive, behavioral, social, vocational, and other skills necessary to solve the substance use and related problems.
• Require urinalysis and/or other proven reliable forms of drug and alcohol testing for program participants, including both periodic and random testing, and for former participants while they remain in the custody of the state or local government.
• Prepare participants for successful community reintegration, including post-release referral to appropriate
• evidence-based aftercare treatment and service providers that support the use of medication-assisted treatment.

Jail-Based Substance Use Disorder Treatment

• Engage participants for at least three (3) months.
• Focus on inmate’s substance use diagnosis and addiction-related needs.
• Develop the inmate’s cognitive, behavioral, social, vocational, and other skills to solve the substance use and related problems.
• Require urinalysis and/or other proven reliable forms of drug and alcohol testing for program participants, including both periodic and random testing, and for former participants while they remain in the custody of the state or local government.
• Prepare participants for successful community reintegration, including post-release referral to appropriate evidence-based aftercare treatment and service providers that support the use of medication-assisted treatment.
• Jails that do not have the capacity to establish a therapeutic community are encouraged to group RSAT program participants within the general correction setting.

Aftercare

• Projects must provide aftercare services. These services must involve coordination between the correctional treatment program and other social service and rehabilitation programs, such as education and job training, parole supervision, halfway houses, self-help, and peer group programs. To qualify as an aftercare program, the head of the substance abuse treatment program must work in conjunction with state and local authorities and organizations involved in substance abuse treatment to assist in the placement of program participants into community substance abuse treatment facilities on release
• Jail-based pretrial SUD treatment programs
• Projects that initiate or continue evidence-based SUD treatment programs, including medication-assisted treatment, in pretrial populations during their confinement and/or foster connections to SUD treatment in the community upon pretrial release. Programs supporting pre-trial populations do not need to meet above criteria for jail-based residential SUD treatment programs.

The Peoples Bank Foundation Grant aims to create a significant impact in local communities by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With over 20 years of service, the foundation has awarded more than $7.5 million in grants and scholarships across several states. It prioritizes initiatives that assist low to moderate-income individuals and families, encouraging organizations within its footprint to apply for funding to enhance their community-focused programs.

The Ohio History Fund Grants support history-related projects through a competitive matching grant program. Non-profit organizations and local government entities in Ohio can apply for funding ranging from $2,000 to $20,000. Eligible projects include public programs, exhibits, and conservation efforts. The grant covers 60% of total costs, with a 2-year project length. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and preserve Ohio's rich history, showcasing the importance of local heritage.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

Notice of Funds Available (RFP): Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

Empowering Independent Living Grant

(F) providing training or technical assistance for professionals (including individuals providing education and rehabilitation services), employers, or other individuals who provide services to, employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of, an individual with developmental disabilities.

Independence: People with I/DD will have tools and skills needed to lead self-determined lives.

By expanding support and resources annually, people with I/IDD living alone for the first time and involved in future planning will have improved outcomes.

Develop methods to improve the support and resources for those living away from family for the first time.

The OVSOT Early-Stage Investigator Platform Presentation Award, offered by the Society of Toxicology, provides a unique opportunity for early-career researchers to showcase their work at the annual OVSOT meeting. Candidates must be OVSOT members with active or pending SOT memberships, and should be within ten years of receiving their terminal degree. This award aims to enhance professional development and recognition in the field of toxicology.

The Exhibitions Abroad Support Grant Program, initiated by the Japan Foundation in New York, offers financial aid to U.S. museums and art institutions organizing exhibitions that showcase Japanese art and culture internationally. This program supports a range of events, including biennials and triennials featuring Japanese artists. Eligible applicants are non-profit organizations from designated states, with a focus on promoting cultural exchange and understanding through art.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.