Best Grants for the Arts in Ohio

The AFI Grant, administered by the Adient Foundation, Inc., aims to support philanthropic organizations in the U.S. that are tax-exempt. While primarily offering one-time grants, the Foundation evaluates proposals based on organizational structure, community impact, and management capacity. The Foundation complements public institutions and does not guarantee future funding based on past contributions. Grantees must operate with equal opportunity objectives, and past recipients must submit new applications each year.

The ACTA Apprenticeship Program has been supporting California's cultural traditions for nearly 25 years by providing $5,000 contracts to mentor artists for intensive training of eligible apprentices. This program fosters the continuity of traditional arts through one-on-one mentorship, culminating in public presentations and documentation of the learning process. Eligible applicants must submit a collaborative application, demonstrating commitment and quality in their respective art forms. This initiative not only preserves cultural practices but also enhances community engagement.

The Millstone Fund aims to foster a vibrant, equitable community in Greater Cincinnati by supporting nonprofit organizations focused on health, education, and arts. The fund prioritizes initiatives that promote innovation, capacity building, and collaborative efforts among organizations. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, with a commitment to inclusion and equity. Requests exceeding $50,000 require prior approval. The fund seeks to invest in organizations that demonstrate a clear plan for sustainability and impactful services.

The Roy and Gloria Dinsdale Foundation, established in 2022, is dedicated to enhancing lives in rural Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado through grants exceeding $10,000. It supports nonprofits and government entities focused on food, shelter, healthcare, education, and the arts. The foundation prioritizes local initiatives that enrich communities and improve access to essential services, while maintaining a commitment to assisting veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities.

The 2025 Vilcek Foundation Grants aim to support nonprofit organizations that celebrate immigrant contributions to the arts and sciences. The foundation invites applications from organizations operating under U.S. IRS Section 501(c)(3) that promote diversity and inclusivity. Grants will be prioritized for new partners and those in states without prior funding. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering appreciation for immigrant communities and their impact on society.

The Impact100 Global Veterans Awards empower women to make a significant difference by awarding grants up to $100,000 to nonprofits that serve veterans. Focus areas include art and culture, education, health and wellness, environment, and family initiatives, promoting the well-being and support of veterans across the United States. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including tax-exempt status, and are encouraged to submit proposals that utilize funds effectively within two years.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The Creation & Development Fund, administered by the National Performance Network, supports the creation and mobility of artistic works that promote racial and cultural justice. It fosters collaboration between artists and communities through financial support, enabling artists to develop meaningful relationships and present their work. The fund emphasizes equity, access, and the importance of public engagement, ensuring that diverse voices are represented while addressing systemic injustices in the arts.

The Vilcek Foundation's 2026 Prizes for Creative Promise in Fashion & Design and Fashion & Culture will award six $50,000 prizes to young immigrant professionals. This initiative recognizes early- and mid-career creatives in fields such as fashion design, writing, and styling, highlighting the vital contributions of immigrants to the arts in the U.S. Eligible applicants must have at least five years of experience and intend to pursue their careers in the country.

The Harry Sudakoff Foundation Grant supports qualified charities in Sarasota, Florida, focusing on arts, community, education for youth, environment, human services, and science. Established by builder Harry Sudakoff, the foundation prioritizes organizations with a history of support. Grants are restricted to 501(c)(3) entities, excluding individuals and certain funding types like endowments and operating expenses. A commitment to impactful contributions is central to the foundation's mission.

The Highland County Community Foundation Grant, managed by the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, aims to enhance the quality of life in Highland County through a permanent endowment fund. Grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 support projects in five key areas: arts and culture, community development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. This initiative focuses on empowering individuals and organizations that address community needs and foster sustainable growth in Highland County.

The Hocking County Community Fund, initiated by the Logan-Hocking School District, aims to enhance community investment through grants and scholarships. It supports projects across five key areas: arts, economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. This fund invites applications from nonprofits and organizations benefiting Hocking County residents, with funding requests ranging from $500 to $5,000, allowing for larger amounts based on impact potential. Join us in fostering growth and opportunity in Hocking County.

The Jackson County Community Foundation Grant supports projects that enhance the community's development across five key areas: arts and culture, economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. Grants range from $500 to $5,000, with larger requests considered for impactful initiatives. This grant is open to nonprofits, schools, and public organizations working to benefit Jackson County residents, fostering local pride and sustainability for future generations.

The Monroe County Community Foundation Grant supports projects that enhance community well-being in Monroe County, Ohio. Established in 2014, it encourages initiatives across five key areas: arts and culture, community development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. Grants range from $500 to $2,500, with larger requests considered based on impact. Nonprofits, schools, and public organizations are eligible to apply, fostering local growth and addressing pressing community needs.

The Nelsonville Community Foundation Grants support projects that enhance the community's quality of life across five vital areas: arts and culture, economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. With funding requests between $500 and $5,000, the foundation, in partnership with the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation, aims to empower local initiatives and ensure lasting benefits for Nelsonville and its neighboring communities.

The James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Foundation focuses on enriching lives and making a positive impact in local communities. They prioritize funding for tax-exempt organizations that enhance education, health care, and support the under-served. The Foundation seeks to partner with those who demonstrate accountability and effective resource management, aligning with their mission for community enrichment and leadership development.

The Upper Arlington Community Foundation's Good Neighbor Fund Grant provides emergency financial assistance of up to $3,000 for Upper Arlington residents facing unforeseen circumstances that threaten their stability. Established in 2017, this fund acts as a crucial safety net, ensuring that individuals can access support for urgent needs like living expenses, utilities, and medical fees. The grants committee evaluates applications based on sustainability and collaboration, aiming to foster ongoing community support.

The Greater Oxford Community Foundation Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life in the Greater Oxford area by awarding grants for diverse programs such as education, arts, and social services. They support tax-exempt public charities and prioritize proposals that promote community development. The Foundation emphasizes diversity, equality, and non-discrimination, ensuring that funding is accessible to a wide array of community projects while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The Women’s Fund of The Shelby Foundation Grants aims to enrich the community by uniting 100 women dedicated to philanthropy. Through the '100 Women for Shelby' initiative, funds raised support programs that foster growth in various aspects of women's lives, including intellectual, physical, and social development. Grant applications must align with the foundation's mission to enhance community needs and promote sustainable change in Shelby and surrounding areas.

Brooks Brothers, founded in 1818, is committed to social responsibility through its donation program. The company partners with local and national non-profits focused on health issues and education. They seek to enhance community well-being while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity. Notably, they do not support organizations that discriminate based on protected categories. Their donations are aimed at fostering positive change in society, reflecting their belief in the importance of community engagement.

The Greater Versailles Area Foundation Fund aims to enhance the quality of life for citizens in the Versailles School District by supporting charitable, educational, and recreational initiatives. Grants are awarded to projects that address community needs, helping to establish new opportunities and sustain existing programs. The foundation prioritizes public benefit, ensuring funds are used responsibly and ethically, without personal gain or political influence, thereby fostering community development and engagement.

The Minster Community Fund supports civic projects, education, recreation, health, conservation, and the arts within the Minster School District. It aims to enhance community resources through unique projects, volunteer involvement, and efficient collaboration among organizations. Grants are awarded based on available funds, with a focus on addressing diverse community needs and promoting innovative solutions. The Fund encourages proposals that cannot be funded by other sources, strengthening local non-profits and fostering citizen participation.

The Mansfield City Schools Fine Arts Fund supports K-12 teachers by providing grants aimed at enhancing arts education within the Mansfield City Schools. With an annual budget ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, the fund encourages grant requests for field experiences at local cultural resources and for art integration programs that align with educational standards. This initiative aims to enrich students' exposure to the arts and foster creativity in the classroom.

The Chisholm Foundation offers grants to support arts, education, and religion projects across the United States. Applications for May and November grants should be submitted by March 1st and September 1st, respectively. The Foundation evaluates each application individually and encourages innovative projects that can attract additional funding. Grants may be awarded as lump sums or in installments, and applicants are advised to seek matching gifts to enhance their proposals.

The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative provides funding for energy efficiency projects in visual arts museums, addressing climate change through innovative cultural leadership. Grants up to $25,000 support institutions in evaluating energy mitigation opportunities, enhancing efficiency, and reducing emissions. Eligible applicants include museums and visual arts schools across the U.S. The initiative encourages sustainable practices while assisting organizations in understanding their energy needs and planning for effective interventions within a project timeline of 18 months.

The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative offers implementation grants aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in visual arts museums, addressing climate change through innovative projects. With deadlines extended for those affected by the LA Fires, eligible institutions can apply for funding ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. This initiative supports museums of all sizes, helping them reduce emissions and operational costs while promoting sustainable practices in the arts sector.

The Jandy Ammons Foundation, established in 2012, is committed to enhancing local communities through innovative, project-driven initiatives. Focused on 'shovel ready' projects, it supports wildlife conservation, educational efforts, artistic installations, and Christian mission endeavors. By providing resources to IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charities, the foundation aims to inspire community engagement and sustainable growth. The foundation reflects the collaborative spirit of its founders, Andy and Jan Ammons, who believe in hard work, integrity, and maximizing available resources.