Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Ohio

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 Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations in the Greater Cincinnati area, focusing on education, health, arts, and community welfare. Established in 2004, the foundation prioritizes projects that enhance community well-being, ensuring grants are awarded to nonprofits with operating budgets under $10 million. Organizations must apply annually and adhere to specific eligibility criteria, including geographical and operational restrictions. The foundation aims to empower local initiatives that promote positive societal impact.

Women's Hub and Spoke Grant

DBH is seeking information in providing funding opportunities to non-profit organizations serving pregnant and postpartum women, interested in providing more information to DBH regarding the Women’s Hub and Spoke Grant, to access funding to strengthen and expand integrated, evidence-based substance use disorder (SUD) and maternal behavioral health services. The program seeks to improve maternal and infant health outcomes by addressing SUD and co-occurring substance use and mental health conditions through comprehensive screening, treatment, recovery supports, and workforce development. This opportunity may provide up to $500,000 for facilities that are already appropriately licensed and certified by the DBH in Ohio communities. Funds must be used for any expenses in developing a hub-and-spoke maternal care model in areas with little maternal healthcare integration. Expenses may include, hiring appropriately credentialed staff to fulfill hub and spoke requirements, early identification of women through evidence-based screening tools, timely enrollment, care coordination, and MAT/MOUD workforce expansion to train and mentor healthcare professionals with prescribing authority for buprenorphine and naltrexone products. All grant recipients are expected to participate in a Six Sigma systems improvement process that will bring alignment among stakeholders around creating a safer, more coordinated, and more compassionate care journey for perinatal women.

2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG)

OCJS and JAG

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 the state, 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 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (JAG) Grant Program.

Proposed to streamline justice funding and grant administration, the JAG Program allows states, tribes, and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own local needs and conditions. JAG blends the previous Byrne Formula and Local Law Enforcement Block Grant programs so that agencies can prioritize their funding needs and choose where to place justice funds.

In 2024, OCJS implemented its strategic plan (PDF). The action items included identifying priority areas for funding and encouraging projects to use evidence-based practices in their funded programs. The “Goals, Priorities and Requirements” section of this document outlines these priorities, and references evidence-based practices for OCJS funding areas. Fiscal year 2026 applicants must continue to follow these most recent guidelines.

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

Strengthening Advocacy in Ohio

Advocacy: People with I/DD, their family members and others will participate in and have information about a broad range of leadership and advocacy development opportunities

Annually, council will provide support to strengthen a state advocacy organization led by individuals with I/DD, opportunities for people with disabilities to provide other people with disabilities training and expand participation in cross-disability and culturally diverse leadership.

The DD Act, as reauthorized, includes a requirement that every Developmental Disabilities Council address these three areas:

(I) establish or strengthen a program for the direct funding of a State self-advocacy organization led by individuals with developmental disabilities;

(II) support opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities who are considered leaders to provide leadership training to individuals with developmental disabilities who may become leaders; and

(III) support and expand participation of individuals with developmental disabilities in cross-disability and culturally diverse leadership

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

UPWARD for Youth: Unlocking Potential with Advocacy, Resources and Development for Youth

(K) (i) DEMONSTRATION OF NEW APPROACHES TO SERVICES AND SUPPORTS. The Council may support and conduct, on a time-limited basis, activities to demonstrate new approaches to serving individuals with developmental disabilities that are a part of an overall strategy for systemic change. The strategy may involve the education of policymakers and the public about how to deliver effectively, to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, services, supports, and assistance that contribute to the achievement of the purpose of this subtitle.

Advocacy: People with I/DD, their family members and others will participate in and have information about a broad range of leadership and advocacy development opportunities

People with I/DD will learn self-advocacy and leadership skills each year and put the skills into practice

Ohio Partners for Cancer Control(OPCC) Cancer Coalition Coordination (CA27) Continuation Solicitation

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

Funds may be used to support personnel, staff training, travel and supplies directly related to planning, organizing, and conducting the program activity. Itemize, in the Equipment Section, all equipment (minimum $1,000 unit cost value) to be purchased with grant funds.

Subrecipients will not receive payment from ODH grant funds used for prohibited purposes.ODH has the right to recover funds paid to subrecipients for purposes later discovered to be prohibited.

Goal

• Support partnerships for cancer control and prevention:
• Convene and maintain a multisectoral cancer control coalition that includes high value leaders from sectors such as business, labor, civic/social, urban planners, education, health services, housing, media, public safety, and members from the populations and communities that have as their focus cancer prevention, early detection, and improving quality of life for persons affected by cancer and those who care for them.

The AdvoCare Foundation, established in 1993, aims to promote health and wellness for children through its grant program. Focused on year-round initiatives, the foundation supports local communities where AdvoCare distributors operate. Grants typically last one year with an average funding of $25,000, although multi-year support may be available. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster positive health changes and encourages collaborative efforts with previous grantees.

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

Untapped Potential

People with I/DD and their family members will have access to services and resources so they can participate fully in their communities.

Annually, key stakeholders will receive information on the benefits and resources to hire people with disabilities. This will allow employment and self-employment outcomes to improve for people with disabilities.

In Ohio, state policymakers are committed to ensuring individuals with developmental disabilities have greater opportunities for employment and advancement of their careers. Individuals with developmental disabilities can use their strengths and talents to increase their income, have a sense of accomplishment and create their own social identity. Employer engagement is essential to furthering this progress.

Hiring people with disabilities is good for business. However, many employers are not aware of this untapped resource or how to effectively recruit, retain and advance people with disabilities.

Business associations in Ohio promote the growth and prosperity of a specific community, region, sector or function of business, by supporting businesses, attracting new investment, and creating jobs. They offer various services like networking opportunities, advocacy, and resources to help businesses grow and thrive within the community. They act as a voice for the region or community and work to improve the local economy. These can include Chambers of Commerce, economic development organizations, safety councils, manufacturing associations, Ohio Means Jobs Centers etc.

Business associations could be a valuable resource in reaching employers who are not aware of this untapped resource. The Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (ODDC) will fund a project to reach business associations across Ohio to inform them of the benefits of hiring people with disabilities.

ODDC will support activities that build capacity and systemic change through outreach, training, research, technical assistance, supporting and educating communities, interagency collaboration and coordination, demonstration of new approaches, informing policymakers and eliminating barriers, and system design and redesign.

ODDC will provide funding as outlined below for each year of the project. Proposals should address each year of the project. Proposals should address, if necessary: transportation, accessibility, use of technology, replication, sustainability, if the project reaches entire state or a specific region, cross-disability, and cultural diversity.

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

RightFit Resources: Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Access Initiative

(7) (4) ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICE.—The term ‘‘assistive technology service’’ means any service that directly assists an individual with a developmental disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. Such term includes— (E) providing training or technical assistance for an individual with a developmental disability, or, where appropriate, a family member, guardian, advocate, or authorized representative of an individual with a developmental disability;

People with I/DD and their family members will have access to services and resources so they can participate fully in their communities

Increase the availability of and access to essential resources and services annually for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

The Ohio Environmental Education Fund General Grant, administered by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, provides funding to support innovative projects that enhance public awareness of environmental issues in Ohio. Grants range from $500 to $50,000, aimed at various audiences including students and the general public. Priority areas include environmental careers, ecological restoration, and reducing pollution. This initiative encourages informed decision-making and promotes sustainable practices, with approximately $500,000 available annually.

The Joyce Foundation's Democracy Grants aim to enhance participation and representation in the electoral process across the Great Lakes region. With a focus on combating voter suppression, gerrymandering, and disinformation, the Foundation supports policy changes that protect voting rights and ensure fair representation. Through public engagement and litigation, it seeks to empower communities of color and young voters, fostering a more equitable democracy for all residents.

The EDA Chicago FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance regional economic development through comprehensive planning and technical assistance. By supporting the development and implementation of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS), EDA empowers designated organizations, including Indian Tribes, to create jobs and foster economic resilience in distressed areas. This initiative focuses on strategic investments to facilitate effective economic development practices, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity across regions.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Ohio aim to support small rural businesses through technical assistance and training. Eligible businesses, defined as having fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in revenue, can apply for grants with no maximum limit, although smaller requests receive priority. Fund usage includes project planning, equipment acquisition, and business training, helping foster economic development in rural communities.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

Women's Residential ASAM Pilot Grant

DBH is seeking information in providing funding opportunities to non-profit organizations serving ASAM level of cares 3.5 and 3.7, interested in providing more information to DBH regarding the Women’s Residential ASAM Pilot Grant, to access funding for developing ASAM 4th edition co-occurring enhanced (COE) services and biomedically (BIO) enhanced services at the 3.5 and 3.7 levels of care. The target population for these funds are pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorders.  Funds must be used for any expenses used to establish these services including, hiring appropriately credentialled staff for COE and BIO enhanced services, purchasing medical equipment necessary for BIO enhanced services, and providing housing for women and their children.

The State of Ohio Security Grant (OSG) provides funding to nonprofit organizations, houses of worship, chartered nonpublic schools, and licensed preschools for security improvements. Authorized by House Bill 33, eligible organizations can apply for funding up to $125,000 per site, with a maximum request of $250,000. This grant aims to enhance security measures against potential acts of terrorism, ensuring safety and preparedness in the community.

Notice of Availability of Funds: Innovations to Advance Breastfeeding and Health Equity Competitive Solicitation

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), Bureau of Maternal, Child, and Family Health announces the availability of competitive grant funds to comprehensively address breastfeeding and health equity. Up to $465,926 in funding is available. Multiple grants may be awarded. Funding levels for all applicants will depend on the number and scope of proposals received, recommendations from the review panel, quality of each application, justification for the amount of funding requested, need of the service area, and adherence to the goals and objectives outlined in this solicitation.

No applicant is guaranteed a certain percentage of the total funds available. ODH reserves the right to modify the number of grants awarded or amount of funding based on the applications, geographic representation, and funds available. No grant award will be issued for less than $30,000.

Qualified applicants include local public or non-profit organizations that have the capacity to accept an electronic funds transfer (EFT).

The Youth Pathways Grant for Careers in Agriculture, offered by the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, aims to empower young individuals to explore agricultural careers. With Ohio's agriculture sector projected to require 470,000 new workers in agribusiness and 90,000 in direct farming in the next decade, this grant supports innovative programming that fosters partnerships between organizations. Grants of up to $75,000 will help sustain programs that prepare students for future roles in this vital industry.

The National Sea Grant Law Center is inviting proposals for the Coastal Resilience Program to research laws and policies addressing coastal resilience challenges such as sea level rise and flooding. With a funding cap of $150,000 over two years, this initiative aims to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and promote informed decision-making in coastal management. Up to two projects will be selected for funding, supporting innovative solutions to enhance community resilience against environmental threats.

The Jeffris Heartland Fund Grant, provided by the Jeffris Family Foundation, supports significant historic preservation projects across several Midwestern states, including Iowa and Wisconsin. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, covering 50% of costs for Historic Structure Reports, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies, focusing on projects with historical significance, architectural merit, and strong community ties. Applications are accepted anytime, with decisions made approximately 30 days after submission.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

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 Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Research and Development Grant Program by the Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA) supports innovative projects in wastewater, water management, solid waste, and energy resource development. Eligible applicants include local government agencies and higher education institutions. Priority is given to proposals that enhance water quality, technology, equity, and resilience. Grants are contingent upon available funding, and applicants are advised to review the Participation Agreement before applying.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

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.