Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

The Midwest Culture Bearers Award honors and supports nine folk arts practitioners annually, providing each with a $5,000 unrestricted grant. This initiative aims to amplify the essential work of culture bearers across the Midwest, fostering opportunities for recognition and community connection. By prioritizing traditional practices and knowledge sharing, the award not only celebrates cultural heritage but also strengthens the creative roots of the region, ensuring vibrant artistic expression for future generations.

The NRP Young Investigator Award is designed to support research on optimizing newborn care during delivery using Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) techniques. This grant encourages innovative projects addressing gaps in transitional physiology and resuscitation practices. Eligible applicants include researchers from Canadian and US institutions, particularly those in training or within four years of completing medical training. Awardees may receive up to $15,000 to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.

The ODA Foundation Access to Oral Care Grants support nonprofit organizations improving dental care access in Ohio. With over $400,000 awarded, the foundation prioritizes projects demonstrating community need, sustainable outcomes, and capacity to serve underserved populations. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, endorsed by an ODA member dentist, and committed to continuing their projects post-grant. This initiative aims to enhance oral health through targeted, impactful programs.

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 Toy Foundation Program offers a unique opportunity for nonprofit organizations to apply for toy donations to support children in need. The application period runs from January to June, with approved applicants receiving toys by the end of the year. This initiative, part of the Toy Chest program, has positively impacted over 35 million children since 2003, promoting play as essential for emotional and educational development.

The Ohio Geology Student Research Grant Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, offers a $2,500 grant for the 2025–2026 academic year. This grant supports geology departments at Ohio colleges and universities, facilitating research in areas of geological interest across the state. Eligible candidates include both graduate and undergraduate students enrolled full-time. This program aims to enhance the understanding and management of Ohio's rich geological resources.

The Ohio Environmental Education Fund Mini Grant, administered by the Ohio EPA, supports environmental education projects for students and the public. With approximately $700,000 available annually, funding priorities include promoting environmental careers, ecological restoration, air quality improvement, and addressing harmful chemicals. Grants range from $500 to $5,000, aiming to enhance awareness and understanding of critical environmental issues in Ohio.

The High Priority HIV and Substance Use Research funding opportunity aims to support innovative research that addresses the intersection of HIV and substance use. Researchers are encouraged to submit proposals that include a detailed research plan and preliminary data, exploring new avenues for prevention, treatment, and potential cures for HIV among people who use drugs. Applications are due by 5 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior.

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.

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

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.

Voll Family Bowling Green State University Scholarship

The Voll Family Bowling Green State University Scholarship Fund was created by Fran Voll in honor of his wife, Marty. Fran created this scholarship fund in her memory to benefit countless future students attending their beloved Bowling Green State University.   

The scholarships will be awarded to Marion County high school seniors or graduates attending Bowling Green State University. 

Erwin & Katherine Geis Scholarship Fund

Established by the Geis family to provide scholarships for Geis Companies employees and their children, as well as the children of the company's subcontractors and vendors. Wild Eagle and Metropolitan at The 9 employees and their children are also eligible.

Amount:

• $5,000 per year each for seven college students (up to $5,000/$2,000 based on financial need); $2,000 per year each for two private or tuition-based high school students.

Number of awards:

• 9

Renewal:

• Must reapply annually by submission of a new application.

The OAC Arts Learning: Arts Partnership program, funded by the Ohio Arts Council, supports innovative arts education projects that cater to the unique needs of learners and their communities. By fostering collaboration among partners, this initiative emphasizes comprehensive arts study and leverages arts learning outcomes to enhance educational practices. This grant encourages creativity and community engagement through the arts, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and represented in educational settings.

The Delta Dental Foundation (DDF) aims to enhance oral health access and equity through strategic partnerships and funding initiatives. Established in 1980, the DDF focuses on underserved populations, promoting education, and addressing health disparities. The foundation prioritizes grants that align with its strategic plan, emphasizing oral health equity for people with disabilities. With a commitment to improving overall health, the DDF supports innovative programs and initiatives that ensure everyone has access to quality dental care.

Stark Community Foundation

Since 1963, Stark Community Foundation has been helping individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits like you support the causes you care about.

In addition to personalized donor services, we manage a competitive grantmaking program and award grants to address local needs. Today, the Foundation stewards over 1,000 charitable funds totaling $485 million in assets and has granted more than $300 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond.

Scholarships

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties.

The Harry Mestel Memorial Accounting Scholarship Fund

The Harry Mestel Memorial Accounting Scholarship Fund assists students enrolled at an Ohio college or university in their third, fourth or fifth year of accounting studies (pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accounting) whose permanent address is in Stark County, Ohio. 

This scholarship is renewable.

The Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools and alternative education programs pursuing a degree in wildlife-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into accredited colleges or vocational programs. This scholarship fosters educational growth while promoting conservation efforts, reflecting the commitment of the Ashland County Community Foundation to enhance community development and support future leaders in wildlife conservation.

The Tony Marley Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County public high schools who aim to pursue a degree in Teacher Education. This scholarship honors Tony Marley, a dedicated educator and World War II veteran. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be accepted into an accredited four-year college or university in Ohio, ensuring that future educators receive the financial assistance they need to achieve their goals.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Lester and Eleanor Webster Fund

The Lester and Eleanor Webster Fund was established to assist students residing in Stark County who are pursuing a degree at an accredited school in Ohio and who have attained at least sophomore status in college. 

Amount: Varies.

• Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Growing Justice Fund provides grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 to support community-led initiatives that enhance equitable food procurement. This initiative aims to empower Tribal, Indigenous, Black, Latinx, Asian, and immigrant communities by facilitating access to institutional contracts and promoting local economic viability. With a focus on health, environmental justice, and collective action, these grants are designed to foster sustainable food systems and build wealth in historically marginalized communities.

The Delta Dental Foundation provides in-kind dental donations, including educational materials and hygiene products, to support organizations in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. These donations aim to promote oral health awareness and equity among underserved communities. Interested organizations should plan ahead, as applications are reviewed after the submission period closes. Supplies may be limited, and quantity restrictions may apply. For more information, preview available materials through the Foundation's website.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

The OSGC Mini-Grant Program supports innovative STEM projects for Ohio K-12 teachers, offering up to $1,000 in funding with a required 1:1 cost share. This initiative encourages proposals that promote STEM education, have a lasting impact, and are replicable. Eligible projects may include purchasing materials or supporting field trips, provided they feature structured STEM programming. Applications are particularly welcomed from schools in urban and rural areas, with all awards contingent on available funding.

The Ohio Space Grant Consortium (OSGC) is dedicated to promoting STEM education through the Informal Education Innovation Proposal (IEIP). Established in 1989, OSGC supports a diverse network of institutions to enhance public engagement in NASA-related projects. With a focus on cost-sharing and collaboration, the IEIP aims to advance informal education initiatives that benefit the community. Funding is limited to $2,500 and is contingent on availability, making this a vital opportunity for fostering scientific literacy.

The Big Yellow School Bus program, offered by the Ohio Arts Council, supports school field trips to arts and cultural activities by covering transportation costs. It is designed for public, private, charter, and parochial schools, as well as home-schooled student groups. With grants of up to $500 available, this initiative fosters early arts exposure, enhancing students' educational experiences and creating vital connections with Ohio's creative sector. Applications must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to the event.

Mission

The Foundation was established in December 2013 by Kathryn B. McQuade, after retiring from 33 years of working in the business community. I was blessed to have been born into a loving middle class family. My father worked very hard to insure that all of his children were given an opportunity for a good education and my mother, “a stay at home Mom’ was always there for us. My world was safe and comfortable. My life is in stark contrast to how much of the rest of the world lives. I continue to read of the terrible injustices waged against women and children globally and hope that this foundation can provide them the opportunity and resources to succeed. We will support organizations that help us achieve our goal of Striving to make sustainable improvements in women and children’s rights education and welfare.

Kathryn McQuade Foundation Grant

The Foundation will make timely decisions on your grant request and provide clear communications on our expectations of reporting progress.

Women

The Foundation’s goal is to provide women assistance and provide them an opportunity to succeed. Assistance can take many forms, however our goal is to help them become self sufficient and enable them to lift themselves out of poverty and provide for their children. Access to education, job training and professional skills, even access to capital in order to build a business are possible ways we will consider helping women to succeed. Grant requests should focus on enabling the women to sustain financial independence.

We look forward to hearing of the many creative ways organizations are working on helping women succeed through out the world. To help women is to help their children and the communities they live in.

Children

Too many children in the US and across the world live in poverty and lack the access to education. Education and/or appropriate skills training are necessary to break the cycle of poverty and crime. While the assistance to women may take many forms, the foundation’s focus for children will target education and/ or skills training. The Foundation is open to many ideas on how to accomplish this goal and look forward to receiving proposals to help all children achieve their potential.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.