Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

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 Harrison County Community Foundation (HCCF) offers grants to support projects that enhance arts and culture, community development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services in Harrison County. Established in 2012, HCCF aims to create impactful opportunities for all residents. Grants typically range from $500 to $5,000, with larger amounts considered based on project potential. Nonprofits, schools, and public organizations are encouraged to apply for funding to address pressing community needs.

The Guernsey County Foundation Grant, in partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, supports projects that enhance community and individual potential across various sectors. With funding requests ranging from $500 to $10,000, applicants from nonprofits, schools, and public organizations can address needs in arts, education, economic development, environmental stewardship, and health services. This initiative aims to empower residents of Guernsey County by fostering innovative solutions and community engagement.

The Gallia Community Foundation Grant, established by the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, aims to enhance the quality of life in Gallia County through philanthropic initiatives. Grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, support projects in five key areas: arts and culture, economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. This funding prioritizes individuals and organizations that address community needs and foster local potential, ensuring sustainable resources for the future.

The NACBS Undergraduate Essay Prize, awarded by The North American Conference on British Studies, recognizes outstanding essays on British topics from undergraduates at U.S. and Canadian universities. Each year, up to eight prizes of $100 are given, encouraging submissions from diverse fields including History, English, and Cultural Studies. This initiative aims to promote scholarly engagement with British Studies, fostering a deeper understanding of its historical and cultural contexts during the 2023-24 academic year.

The Rodgers Family Civil Engineering Scholarship, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Fauquier County pursuing civil engineering degrees. Candidates must demonstrate financial need, initiative, motivation, and leadership qualities. With a history of over $39 million in community support since 2000, this scholarship exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities. Award amounts may vary and are renewable, making it a valuable resource for aspiring engineers in the region.

The Kors, Lois E., Educational Scholarship, established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, aims to support Beatrice High School graduates in pursuing higher education. With a strong commitment to academic achievement and civic involvement, the Foundation awards over $55,000 annually in scholarships. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, citizenship, and academic merit. This scholarship encourages students to enter the teaching profession, providing essential funds to help them achieve their educational goals.

Our mission is to enhance quality of life, today and in the future, by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Building a permanent endowment
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Meeting needs through grants, awards, and scholarships

CFCC: Mark C. and Dorothy I. Morgan Scholarship

Amount

(1) $2,000 scholarship, (2) $1,500 scholarships

This scholarship is not renewable and previous recipients may not reapply.

The M.A. Essay Prize, awarded by the North American Conference on British Studies (NACBS), recognizes exceptional original research by students in stand-alone M.A. programs in the U.S. and Canada. With a prize of $500, it encourages scholarly excellence and invites winners to submit their work for publication. Faculty nominations are required, ensuring deserving candidates receive recognition for their academic contributions, thereby fostering a vibrant academic community within British studies.

The Bruce J. Heim Foundation Grant supports organizations that empower young individuals with exceptional potential in academics and the arts. Established in 1986, this private foundation aims to provide financial assistance that fosters skill enhancement and personal growth. The Board evaluates grant requests monthly, assessing the viability and significance of each organization’s project. The Foundation's goal is to inspire recipients to realize their potential and contribute to philanthropic efforts, echoing the support they received.

The NeuroNEXT Small Business Innovation program invites small businesses to apply for exploratory clinical trials involving investigational agents, including drugs, biologics, and devices. These trials aim to gather critical data to support the design of future clinical studies, particularly focusing on diseases aligned with the NINDS strategic plan. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization, emphasizing the importance of timely submissions.

The Judith R. Walkowitz Article Prize, awarded annually by the North American Conference on British Studies, recognizes the best published article addressing gender and sexuality in British culture. This prize honors Professor Walkowitz’s significant contributions to the fields of gender and cultural studies. Open to scholars in North America, it encourages diverse perspectives across disciplines and time periods, with a cash award of $250 to support ongoing research and scholarship in British Studies.

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Beth Bryan Creative Arts Fund Scholarship

Graduating senior from any high school in Cumberland County.

August Corso Scholarship Fund

Scholarships shall be awarded to residents of Erie County, Ohio pursuing a post-secondary education. Preference shall be given to students pursuing a degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science or Agricultural Business. Financial need is a consideration for the scholarship award.

Scholarships are available for students planning to attend an accredited nonprofit college or university, or planning to receive licensure, accreditation, or a certificate from a nonprofit vocational or apprenticeship program in the United States.

The scholarship may be renewed for a second, third, and fourth year.

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 Dennis Schuman Charitable Foundation Grant supports qualified Jewish organizations and charities in the United States, focusing on arts, education, health, human services, public benefit, and religion. Established by Dennis Schuman, the foundation continues his philanthropic legacy, providing funding exclusively for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. Organizations must be exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code to qualify for funding.

The Community Foundation for Perry County Grant aims to improve life quality in Perry County by funding projects in arts, education, environment, and health. Established in 2012, it supports local nonprofits and organizations, offering approximately $46,000 in grants ranging from $500 to $5,000. The foundation emphasizes community-driven initiatives that address pressing needs and foster development, ensuring lasting benefits for residents and their future generations.

About AGC of California

Since 1920, we have worked together with our members to provide advocacy, education, career development, and networking opportunities to experienced and next generation construction and contracting professionals. From the moment you become an AGC member, we go to bat for you with state and local governments, while helping you connect with industry leaders through services, innovative programs, and events.

The AGC Construction Education Foundation (AGC CEF) provides resources, support, and training through innovative programs in order to attract, develop, and retain a strong, motivated, and skilled workforce. We believe construction careers transform lives. We connect people and communities to meaningful work and rewarding futures. We inspire the industry to be a place where people belong, grow and build lasting legacies.

AGC CEF Skilled Trades Scholarship

This scholarship is designed to support students pursuing post-secondary construction industry training programs. Scholarship amounts range from $500 to $2,500.

The Frances Freer Scholarship, established by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports Ashland County high school graduates pursuing a degree in education. Eligible applicants must be juniors or seniors in college with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship honors Frances Freer, a dedicated educator with over 35 years of experience, who aimed to empower future teachers through financial assistance, ensuring a strong educational foundation for the community.

The John M. O'Quinn Foundation Grant, established in 1986, has contributed over $192 million to various charitable activities, focusing primarily on Houston and its surrounding areas. The Foundation supports tax-exempt organizations and governmental units, emphasizing conservation, education, healthcare, and programs for underprivileged youth. Grants are not available for type III supporting organizations, individuals, or foreign charities, ensuring a targeted impact within the local community.

About NABT

Since its establishment in 1938, the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) has been the recognized "leader in life science education." Thousands of educators have joined NABT to share experiences and expertise with colleagues from around the globe; keep up with trends and developments in the field; and grow professionally.

NABT Mission

The National Association of Biology Teachers empowers educators to provide the best possible biology and life science education for all students.

Lindsey Fields Allied Health Education Award

Established to honor Lindsey Fields, this award recognizes innovative, student-centered classroom instruction that supports an understanding in the diverse fields that comprise allied health sciences (Ex. Human A&P, Pre-Nursing/Med, Pathology, etc.). This award is sponsored by NABT, and includes a $500 honorarium. The recipient also receives a recognition plaque to be presented at the NABT Professional Development Conference and one year of complimentary membership to NABT. 

The Catholic Foundation

The Foundation of the Catholic Diocese of Columbus was founded in 1984. It was the inspiration of John Sauter, Richard Stedman, and Robert Morosky, who approached Bishop James A. Griffin with the concept of establishing an independent corporation to manage perpetual endowments for the parishes, schools, and other ministries within the diocese of Columbus.

The Catholic Foundation exists to connect Catholics with the profound joy that comes with Christ-inspired generosity. We meet our donors wherever they are in their charitable journey and turn their gifts into real-world impact. As experts in philanthropy, we help our donors support their favorite causes through Catholic-aligned investments. Our Mission in Christ is to transform generosity into real-world impact by investing in the future of parishes, education, vocations, and ministries in our Catholic community

Catholic Foundation: Responsive Grants for Parishes

Since our inception in 1984, The Catholic Foundation has granted over $250 million and counting. The Catholic Foundation awards grants annually within the 23-county diocese of Columbus through responsive grants, scholarships, endowment distributions, and special granting opportunities.

Through Responsive Grants for Parishes, we partner with the faithful to multiply inspired generosity through the strategic investment of parish endowment funds and assist in meeting the needs of the local community of Catholic believers.

This grant pertains to the capital and infrastructure needs of diocesan parishes.

The CRSJ Racial Justice in Education Grant, administered by the National Education Association, aims to enhance racial equity within education by funding initiatives that promote awareness, leadership development, and solidarity among diverse racial groups. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $75,000, supporting projects that address racism and foster equitable policies in educational settings, thereby accelerating efforts towards social justice.

The Rachael and Ben Vaughan Foundation offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $20,000 for projects focused on animal rights, education, environmental preservation, poverty reduction, and religious initiatives. The foundation prioritizes local Texas projects but accepts applications from outside the state. Grants are awarded only to tax-exempt organizations, and projects should be completed within twelve months. The foundation aims to support initiatives that benefit local communities without duplicating existing efforts.

The Sandusky-Firelands Alzheimer’s Scholarship provides financial support to residents of Erie County, Ohio, pursuing degrees in the Medical and Health Care fields, particularly those interested in working with geriatric patients. Established in 1995 by a dedicated non-profit organization, this scholarship aims to enhance community well-being and quality of life. Renewals for up to three additional years are possible, depending on financial need and the discretion of the Scholarship Advisory Committee.

Raymond John Wean Foundation

Established in 1949, The Raymond John Wean Foundation is dedicated to community building in the under-resourced communities of Warren and Youngstown in Ohio’s Mahoning Valley. The Wean Foundation leverages a dynamic combination of grantmaking, capacity building, convening and partnerships to provoke new thinking, strengthen communities, and disrupt the status quo to achieve its vision: empowered residents creating an equitable Mahoning Valley.

Grantmaking Philosophy

• Value Alignment - We support the development and implementation of viable solutions and organizations whose work strongly aligns with our values and whose leadership reflects the racial demographics of the communities in which they work.

• Race Equity & Inclusion - We prioritize principles of racial equity to focus attention and resources on the Mahoning Valley’s most entrenched challenges. Our grantmaking seeks to address long-held assumptions, redistribute decision-making power, and challenge the lack of equitable access to resources, knowledge and opportunity.

• Capacity Building - We support the sustainability (strong leadership, thoughtful strategy and impact) of organizations with a focus on Black and Hispanic/Latinx-led organizations. Each year, Wean staff engages new organizations to explore opportunities for capacity building through best practices, networking, and leadership development.

• Strategic Priorities - We focus support on viable solutions well-aligned with our mission, values, racial equity outcomes and the strategic priorities of: Community Revitalization; Economic Opportunity; Educational Opportunity; and Public and Civic Sector Leadership

Sponsorships

As a general practice, the Wean Foundation does not provide sponsorships for golf outings, award banquets, or similar fundraising events so that we can remain focused on advancing our mission and strategic priorities.

In limited circumstances, we may consider modest sponsorship support for events of particular significance to the Mahoning Valley that closely align with our mission, values, and strategic priorities. Please note that submitting a request does not guarantee approval.

The Latham Foundation for the Promotion of Humane Education, established in 1918, emphasizes humane education to foster kindness and respect for all living beings. With a focus on innovative programs for teenagers and animal-assisted activities, the foundation invites U.S. organizations, particularly nonprofits, to apply for grants. However, funding does not extend to capital projects, salaries, or conference travel. Latham aims to instill core values that promote compassion within communities and across nations.