Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

The FCIDD Nonprofit Project Grants are designed to support 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various states. Grants are awarded for projects that enhance accessibility, provide educational opportunities, and promote community engagement. The foundation encourages collaboration with local Civitan clubs, particularly in October and March funding rounds, while also offering open applications in July. The initiative aims to empower nonprofits to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Austin E. Knowlton Foundation Grant, established in 1981, provides financial support to students pursuing higher education in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. With a focus on STEM fields, the Foundation aims to promote academic excellence through direct grants to qualified colleges and universities. Since its inception, it has awarded millions in scholarships, making a significant impact on the educational landscape. The Foundation invites suggestions for expanding its reach and enhancing its contributions to higher education.

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Food and Agricultural Sciences National Needs Graduate and Postgraduate Fellowships program, managed by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the training of new graduate students in food and agricultural sciences. It provides essential funding for master's, DVM, and doctoral students, focusing on developing the next generation of experts to address critical needs in agricultural sciences. This initiative supports U.S. citizens and residents in achieving their educational goals and contributing to the USDA's mission.

The NCR-SARE Graduate Student Grant Program funds up to $20,000 for graduate student projects addressing sustainable agriculture in the North Central Region. Established in 2002, it supports Master's and Ph.D. students at accredited institutions. Projects can last up to 36 months, and applicants may receive only one grant during their academic career. The program aims to promote innovative solutions to agricultural challenges and enhance sustainability practices in the region.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Ohio provides essential funding to develop community facilities in rural areas, benefiting populations under 20,000. Eligible projects include health care, public safety, and educational services. Grant assistance is tiered, offering up to 75% funding for low-income communities. This program supports public bodies, non-profits, and federally recognized tribes, ensuring crucial services are accessible to rural residents. The application process is open year-round, promoting ongoing community development.

The Carol Ann and Ralph V Haile Jr Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Established by Carol and Ralph Haile, the foundation focuses on funding initiatives in arts and culture, civic engagement, education, and human services. It supports organizations that are tax-exempt and aligns with their mission across ten counties. By fostering collaboration, the foundation seeks to create a vibrant community and drive meaningful change.

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 Ohio State Bar Foundation's Racial Justice Initiative Grant, launched in 2020, has allocated $1 million to support impactful projects that confront systemic racism in Ohio. This initiative seeks proposals that identify and challenge biases, provide frameworks for change, educate stakeholders, and collaborate with legal systems. However, the OSBF discourages proposals focused on internal organizational improvements related to diversity and equity, as funding is intended for external, systemic change.

The Joyce Foundation's Journalism Grants support independent, nonpartisan reporting to address critical issues in the Great Lakes region. By investing in high-quality journalism, the Foundation aims to promote informed decision-making and strengthen community cohesion. Eligible applicants include nonprofit journalism organizations and projects that enhance local news and support early career journalists, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. The application process requires advance planning, with funding decisions made quarterly.

The NIDCD is offering funding to advance HIV/AIDS research, particularly focusing on areas related to communication disorders. This initiative supports low-risk clinical trials and encourages researchers to align their proposals with high priority topics identified by the NIH Office of AIDS Research. Applications must be submitted by the local deadline, with optional Letters of Intent due 30 days prior to the proposal deadline. This opportunity aims to enhance understanding and treatment in this crucial health area.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Whirlpool Corporation One Power STEM Scholarship

Whirlpool Corporation, in conjunction with One Energy LLC, created a scholarship fund at Marion Community Foundation in 2017 to support education in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). For each wind turbine installed as part of a Wind for Industry® project, Whirlpool/One Energy scholarship partners are giving back to the community with scholarships. These scholarships will impact Marion County high school seniors and graduates pursuing studies in STEM fields.

Annually, this scholarship fund awards one $5,000 scholarship to a student attending any eligible educational institution. An additional $10,000 in scholarships is available to students attending The Ohio State University at Marion, Marion Technical College, or other eligible educational institutions.

Submission of the continuation application constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of ODH Grants Administration Policies and Procedures (OGAPP) Manual rules, policy and procedure updates posted on the GMIS Bulletin Board, and any other program-specific requirements as outlined in the competitive Solicitation. The competitive solicitation for this grant program can be found here. 

website atPolicy and Procedures: The Continuation Funding Application consists of three parts:

• Program Updates (if applicable),
• Program Budget and Budget Narrative, and
• Other Required Attachments.

Number of Grants and Funds Available: Genetics Services grants are comprised of funds generated from a portion of the state newborn screening fee. Only the previously awarded applicants during the State Fiscal Year 2025 competitive application may apply for continuation funding for this initiative. These are: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center; Dayton Children’s Hospital; Toledo Hospital; The Research Institute of Nationwide Children’s Hospital; MetroHealth System; University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center; Cleveland Clinic Foundation; and Children’s Hospital Medical Center – Akron. The total grant funding for the SFY2027 budget period (07/01/2026 – 06/30/2027) is anticipated to be approximately $2,320.043.

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

The Citizens Grants: Financial Empowerment program supports nonprofits focused on creating measurable impacts in financial education for low to moderate income individuals and small businesses. This grant emphasizes partnerships with established 501(c)(3) organizations and encourages collaborative efforts that demonstrate alignment with funding priorities. By investing in financial literacy, Citizens aims to enhance fiscal health in underserved communities across select geographic areas.

Ohio Department of Health

The Ohio Department of Health’s mission is advancing the health and well-being of all Ohioans by transforming the state’s public health system through unique partnerships and funding streams; addressing the community conditions and inequities that lead to disparities in health outcomes; and implementing data-driven, evidence-based solutions.

OPCC Cancer Coalition Coordination

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), Medical Director, Bureau of Health Improvement and Wellness announces the availability of grant funds.

Policy and Procedures: The Continuation Funding Application consists of three parts: Program Updates(if applicable), Program Budget and Budget Narrative, and Other Required Attachments.

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 the minimum amount will not be considered for review.

Subrecipient: Franklin County Public Health

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Ohio provide vital funding to help rural communities prepare for or recover from emergencies threatening safe drinking water access. Eligible disasters include droughts, floods, and chemical spills. Grants can fund water transmission improvements up to $150,000, or source construction up to $1 million. This initiative, led by USDA Rural Development, aims to restore and enhance access to clean water, benefiting households and businesses in affected areas.

The Louie F. Cox Scholarship, established by the Middletown Community Foundation, honors Mr. Louie Cox, an influential civil rights advocate. This scholarship supports African American students graduating from high schools in Butler or Warren Counties, Ohio, recognizing their academic achievements as well as their community service and leadership. With a legacy rooted in community support, this scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to empowering future leaders and fostering educational opportunities.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

Ohio's National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed for students in elementary to high school. Over two weeks, participants learn essential archery skills, promoting safety, technique, and self-improvement. This program enhances students' self-esteem, confidence, and attendance while fostering an inclusive environment across diverse backgrounds. By providing standardized equipment and training, NASP ensures equal opportunities for all, positively impacting behavior and academic performance in schools.

The Ohio DNR Boating Safety Education Grant supports the development and promotion of safe boating programs to enhance public safety in compliance with state education laws. Grants range from $1,000 to $30,000, requiring a 25% cost share. The initiative aims to reduce boating accidents and improve education on boating risks and regulations. This program will not be available for 2026, emphasizing the importance of immediate participation.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

The Partners for Places Jobs and Inclusive Infrastructure Initiative Grants aim to support communities by leveraging infrastructure funds to create equitable projects that benefit underserved areas. This pilot program will provide funding for local workers through career training and inclusive economic practices. With grants ranging from $45,000 to $120,000, the initiative focuses on enhancing human infrastructure, fostering collaboration among key partners, and ensuring that frontline communities directly benefit from project implementations.

About

The Costume Society of America (CSA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded on March 23, 1973, and incorporated in the state of New York on September 12, 1973. CSA serves it members, and promotes its goals with national symposia and publications including the journal Dress and its monthly electronic newsletter CSA e-News.

The organization began forming regional groups in 1978. There are six regional groups in the United States and Canada, and one international group. Individual regions hold annual meetings, sponsor programs and publish newsletters.

Our Mission

The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion.

Midwest Region Student Travel Award

Each year, CSA travel funding in an amount up to $750 is available for a Midwest Region Student Member to present at the National Symposium of The Costume Society of America. Awards may be distributed among multiple student members.

The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation's MHJF Open Grants support innovative projects that enhance student learning and teaching in Ohio's PK-12 schools. Eligible applicants include public school districts, non-religious private schools, and 501(c)(3) organizations. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $55,000, with a focus on deep learning and excellent teaching. Note that proposals from new applicants will not be accepted during the August and October 2025 cycles, as the foundation prepares for a new strategic vision in 2026.

The Cribs for Kids Program, funded by the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, aims to enhance safe sleep practices among caregivers in Ohio. By distributing Safe Sleep Kits and providing education, the program seeks to prevent infant deaths associated with unsafe sleep environments. With Ohio's infant mortality rate exceeding state targets, this initiative addresses critical health disparities. The program focuses on equipping vulnerable caregivers with essential resources and knowledge to ensure safer sleep for infants, ultimately improving health outcomes across the state.