Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children, families, and communities can seek operating and program support for education, health care access, basic needs, arts, culture, and environmental initiatives; awards are more than US $1,000. With a mission to enhance quality of life, Sam J Frankino Foundation prioritizes work primarily in Northeast Ohio counties listed.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 509(a) organizations can seek McGraw Foundation grants of US $2,000 - US $10,000 for general operating support, specific projects, or occasional capital needs. While grants are generally limited to the greater Chicago area, Ohio organizations working in education, human services, health, conservation, or cultural programs may be eligible if they meet location criteria.

Ohio agricultural and forest producers seeking support to enhance environmental stewardship on working lands can apply for the Conservation Stewardship Program, which provides technical and financial assistance for conservation practices and ongoing operations. Focused on resource concerns like soil health, water quality, habitat, and fire management, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Ohio offers five-year contracts with annual payments for whole-operation conservation improvements.

Ohio nonprofit organizations providing charitable programs in Pickaway County can receive funding to improve local quality of life across areas like education, health, human services, arts, environment, and community development. Pickaway County Community Foundation offers competitive grants countywide, with guidelines, priorities, and eligibility standards that vary by opportunity and available funding each year.

Graduate students conducting research on drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 to advance projects with actionable outcomes for the water industry. Focused on water-related research, American Water Works Association’s Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship may benefit Ohio-based students whose work ultimately supports community health and environmental protection.

Agricultural producers, non-industrial private forest owners, Tribes, and other entities managing eligible Ohio farm and forest lands can receive financial and technical help to implement conservation practices that improve soil, water, air quality, and wildlife habitat. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Ohio’s EQIP supports working lands, including cropland, pasture, rangeland, and environmentally sensitive areas.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Ohio seeking support for economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, or community arts and culture programs may be eligible for this funding. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation help organizations in designated U.S. Bank communities, with priority for leaders of color and initiatives advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Grassroots resident groups in Cleveland and East Cleveland can receive US $500 - US $5,000 to run neighborhood-based projects in areas like arts and culture, community-building, or senior and intergenerational activities. Focused on local civic engagement, Suite 1300 Services invites Ohio community initiatives to strengthen trust, belonging, and justice among residents.

With a mission to support environmental sustainability, American Honda Motor provides Ohio nonprofits and schools with US $25,000 - US $100,000 for programs focused on decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient use of natural resources. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and school districts can seek programmatic support that benefits communities where Honda associates live and work.

Nonprofit charitable organizations in Ohio working on community development, education, workforce preparation, or basic human needs can apply for KeyBank Foundation grants of US $10,000 - US $25,000 to support their programs. Grants from KeyBank Foundation help strengthen affordable housing, homeownership, small business growth, financial literacy, and academic and career success initiatives.

Nonprofit organizations in Ohio supporting women, children, and families through humanitarian aid, education, homelessness services, or job readiness can apply for funding from The Father's Table Foundation. This highly selective grant, offering up to US $750,000, favors projects that build long-term self-sufficiency and resilience while addressing immediate needs.

Undergraduate students in Ohio pursuing environmental science or environmental engineering degrees can receive nonrenewable scholarships supporting tuition, fees, books, and field-related equipment. Focused on environmental fields, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency funding may benefit students connected to Ohio nonprofits or community programs working in environmental education or conservation.

Ohio nonprofits and eligible educational or religious organizations offering non-discriminatory social services can access funding and in-kind support for community impact programs through The Caesars Foundation. Ohio organizations working on education, workforce development, social equity, housing, homelessness, food security, climate and environmental sustainability, or mental health may be eligible for operating or program support tied to Caesars properties.

Schools, park and recreation departments, conservation groups, local governments, and other Ohio organizations with federal tax IDs can seek up to US $7,500 for aquatic education and stewardship programming. Focused on aquatic ecosystems, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources invites Ohio nonprofits and public entities to deliver hands-on learning, such as water quality monitoring, teen retreats, or Trout in the Classroom projects.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions in Ohio conducting small-scale biomedical research can apply for funding to expand student research experiences and strengthen their research environment. The National Institutes of Health provides up to US $375,000 for colleges and universities that award baccalaureate science degrees and have limited prior NIH support; operating needs tied to these research projects may be eligible.

Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on economic mobility, workforce readiness, or affordable housing can access funding and a two-year leadership development program through Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Neighborhood Builders Program. Eligible organizations must operate in designated Ohio markets, meet revenue and leadership tenure requirements, and be prepared to share learnings and advance a three-year strategic plan.

Local education agencies and community-based organizations in Ohio can access funding to run high-quality after-school, summer, and expanded learning programs for students from economically disadvantaged families. The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce’s Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC grant offers more than US $50,000 to support academic enrichment, youth development, and family engagement activities over multiple years.

Grants from Cleveland Cliffs Foundation help Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits fund projects in education, environmental protection, and healthy, vibrant communities. Eligible organizations must serve communities where the company operates, including workforce preparation, STEM education, conservation, health services, and community development initiatives, rather than general operating deficits or individual assistance.

Early-career medical and health researchers at academic or research institutions in eligible low- and middle-income countries can apply for National Institutes of Health Emerging Global Leader Awards to support mentored clinical research careers. Grants from NIH help Ohio-based nonprofits collaborating with LMIC investigators, or supporting related global health projects, connect eligible scientists with this funding opportunity.

Perrigo Company Charitable Foundation Grant

The Perrigo Foundation is committed to empowering individuals and global communities by supporting programs and organizations that promote health, well-being, and education. We aim to prepare students and young adults for the workforce, providing accessible career pathways that inspire and empower individuals to reach their full potential. The Foundation is proudly funded by Perrigo Company plc.

Mission Statement

To provide financial support to non-profit organizations that promote our commitment to enhancing the health, well-being and education of individuals and families in the communities in which Perrigo operates. 

Vision Statement

To help improve and positively impact communities by improving access to quality health services, creating educational opportunities, and supporting the needs of the under-served.

Giving Back to Our Communities

Healthcare

We are providing program stability and capacity building for key community agencies, supporting local nonprofits to improve the quality and accessibility of services, and increasing the quality of mental health services, especially for children and families. 

Education

 Education, post-secondary scholarships, and support for first-generation and low-income students primarily focused on a STEM career, advancement for STEM curriculum, and resources in the K-12 classrooms. 

Supporting the Underserved

Community engagement and well-being, ensuring access to basic human necessities such as food, housing, end-of-life support, and necessary social services.

Nonprofit and charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) or 170(c)(1) status serving communities within Huntington’s footprint can seek program-specific funding for community revitalization, services, affordable housing, and economic development. Focused on strengthening self-sufficiency and equity, Huntington National Bank invites Ohio organizations addressing low- and moderate-income needs to explore partnership opportunities with local Community Development Relationship Managers.

The Fogarty Emerging Global Leader Award supports early career research scientists from low- or middle-income countries (LMIC) by providing research funding and mentored career development for three to five years. This program encourages LMIC scientists in health-related fields to develop projects aligned with their country's health priorities, fostering independent research careers within their institutions. Applications are welcomed from junior faculty members, enhancing global health research and capacity in LMICs.

The Ohio AmeriCorps Formula Grants, administered by ServeOhio, engage over 80,000 Americans annually in meaningful service across various sectors. These grants support local nonprofits and community organizations in addressing critical needs in education, health, and the environment. By participating in AmeriCorps, members gain valuable skills and experience while earning educational scholarships, fostering stronger communities through civic engagement and volunteerism.

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 John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.

The SHF Responsive Grant Program, offered by Sisters Health Foundation, supports projects aimed at enhancing healthy eating, active living, thriving neighborhoods, and mental health in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public institutions targeting specific counties in West Virginia and Ohio. The program prioritizes evidence-based strategies to promote health and well-being, foster community resources, and improve access to essential services, making it a vital resource for local organizations seeking funding.

Biogen Corporate Sponsorships provide funding to support congresses, events, and initiatives in exchange for tangible benefits such as marketing opportunities and recognition. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and requests must be submitted 50 days in advance. Biogen considers various disease areas for sponsorship, including Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. Approval depends on funding availability, alignment with interests, and event details, ensuring transparency for all potential sponsors.