Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

The C Spire Wireless Foundation provides sponsorships primarily focused on STEM education, aiming to enhance digital literacy and workforce development in underserved communities. Organizations eligible for support must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities dedicated to these educational initiatives. Preference is given to projects based in the foundation's service region. Proposals should be submitted at least 90 days prior to events for consideration, with a review process taking two to three weeks.

Monarch Watch offers a Free Milkweeds Grant for habitat restoration projects aimed at supporting the monarch butterfly population. The program provides free milkweed plugs to schools and educational non-profits that demonstrate clear educational goals, long-term maintenance plans, and adequate space for the plants. With over 730,000 milkweeds distributed since 2015, this initiative plays a vital role in restoring habitats along key migration routes in the eastern and western U.S.

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

No organization has all the answers, but together, with our partners and donors, we have the means and the will to chart a new course—one that will build upon generations of philanthropy and strengthen the fabric of Herkimer and Oneida counties.

Adirondack Construction Scholarship

A scholarship established by Adirondack Construction in Vernon to support the future career goals of students pursuing business or construction management.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is dedicated to advancing emergency care through the Strategies to Innovate Emergency Care Clinical Trials Network (SIREN). This initiative seeks to establish clinical enrollment hubs that will enhance the network's ability to conduct trials aimed at improving outcomes for patients experiencing neurological and cardiovascular emergencies. Although applications are not currently being accepted, this notice encourages potential applicants to prepare collaborative and impactful proposals.

The National Institute of Social Sciences invites nominations for its Dissertation Grants Program aimed at supporting exceptional Ph.D. students in social sciences. Grants up to $5,000 will help cover dissertation-related expenses, promoting innovative research in fields like Anthropology, Economics, History, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology. Eligible U.S. universities may nominate up to two candidates, encouraging diverse interdisciplinary projects. This initiative seeks to empower future scholars in their academic endeavors.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Thad G. Gayman Memorial Scholarship Fund honors Thad Gayman, a dedicated automotive technician and Northern York High School alumnus who tragically passed away at age 23. Established to support students in automotive technology, this fund emphasizes academic achievement, financial need, and a commitment to the field. Extra consideration is given to graduates from Northern York High School. This one-time scholarship aims to empower future automotive professionals in honor of Thad's legacy.

About

Since our founding in 1921, The Dayton Foundation and its fund holders have awarded $1.5 billion in grants to nonprofits to support education, arts and culture, animal welfare, housing and more. While the majority of grants are advised by our fund holders, our competitive grants are made possible thanks to donors who have placed little to no restrictions on their funds, allowing the Foundation’s volunteer Grants Committee and Governing Board to determine where need is greatest.

Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts Grant

Initially established as a trust fund in 1965 by Dayton leaders and supported by the community, the foundation carries forward the legacy of Miriam Rosenthal, a longtime volunteer, advocate and leader. It awards grants to professional nonprofit organizations that enrich the cultural life of residents in the Greater Dayton area.

The grant program of the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts stimulates exciting and enriching cultural activities that elevate the quality and scope of programming available in the community, takes advantage of special opportunities which otherwise might be missed and provides avenues for cooperation among arts and cultural organizations. Since the financial capability of the Foundation to assist in financing cultural activities is directly related to the size of its endowed funds and their earnings, all grant recipients will be required to publicize the general purposes of the Foundation and its desire to increase its assets through gifts of principal from area residents. Public recognition must also memorialize Miriam Rosenthal and her many contributions to the cultural life of the Dayton area.

The Community Development Block Grant Program for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages aims to foster viable communities by providing funding for decent housing, suitable living environments, and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals. Notably, the program also includes Imminent Threat Grants to address urgent public health or safety issues. These competitive grants are essential for enhancing community welfare and addressing immediate challenges faced by tribal residents.

About

Building a community of journalists committed to better health care reporting.

We believe accurate, contextual and balanced health care reporting is more important than ever.

People depend on health care stories to make life-altering decisions every day.

AHCJ International Health Study Fellowships

A fellowship for experienced journalists with a focus on international health.

In comparing the U.S. health care system to its global counterparts, journalists traveling to different countries as part of the AHCJ International Fellowship program can produce projects that provide valuable insights that can help inform policy decisions, improve health care outcomes and contribute to the ongoing evolution of health care systems worldwide.

Through the AHCJ International Health Study Fellowships, supported by The Commonwealth Fund, you can pursue a story or project comparing a facet of the U.S. health care system to that of another country. 

For 2027, the focus will be on the U.K. and France in comparison with the U.S. health care system. You’ll pursue the projects with the support of your newsrooms or arranged outlets, which commit to publish or air the work.

This fellowship allows highly experienced journalists to maintain their regular employment while working to evaluate a key component of the health care system, a health outcome, access, performance, providers, efficiency or other focal point over a six-month period.

That period allows for preparatory time, a site visit to the chosen European country, interviews and information gathering, as well as follow-up and writing time. Guidance is provided through seminars, conference calls and consultations with AHCJ fellowship leaders, a mentor and exposure to various topic experts.

The Hayswood Foundation Grant supports local non-profit organizations in northeastern Kentucky and southeastern Ohio, focusing on mental and physical health and education. Since 1985, it has awarded approximately $7.75 million to various projects. Organizations must be IRS-recognized and demonstrate that funds will benefit local citizens. While capital projects are eligible, grants are not for political or individual benefit. Matching funds are required, with the Foundation providing $1 for every $2 raised.

Emeril's Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen Grants support K-8 schools in enhancing culinary and gardening education. Schools must be 501c3 nonprofits with established programs, demonstrating the ability to impact students positively. The initiative focuses on fostering appreciation for food sources, developing life skills, and promoting healthy eating. Schools are encouraged to mentor others and must provide dedicated gardening and culinary instruction to all students. This program aims to empower children with essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

The Louise Wachter Wickham Scholarship, established in 1997 by Donna Wickham Furth, supports high school seniors pursuing a degree in elementary education. This scholarship is awarded based on financial need and academic performance. Recipients must demonstrate commitment to education and may need to submit additional documents such as transcripts and recommendation letters. The fund honors Louise Wachter Wickham, a dedicated teacher who believed in the transformative power of education.

The Ida B. Wells Graduate Student Fellowship, offered by the Coordinating Council for Women in History, provides a $1000 award to graduate students working on dissertations that explore themes of race and gender. This fellowship supports crucial stages of research or writing for students across various disciplines, not limited to history departments. It aims to foster inclusive scholarship and advance the representation of women in historical studies, encouraging emerging scholars to engage with these vital topics.

About Father John Foundation GrantIn 1997 Monsignor John P. Hourihan established this perpetual charitable foundation for the purpose of funding care for the homeless and people with disabilities, especially the deaf and hard of hearing. The purpose of the Foundation is to financially assist churches and other non-profit organizations, that do not take more than insubstantial government funding, in administering their programs. Our giving focus is broad and considers programs that are: religious, educational, rehabilitational, social, and/or vocational. A priority is given to the deaf and homeless. All funding is given regardless of nationality, race or religion. The Foundation will continue its dedication to raising and distributing grants to be used by charities devoted to providing care and services to the homeless and disabled.

The Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program (TBCP) aims to enhance broadband access and adoption on Tribal lands, supporting initiatives for remote learning, telework, and telehealth. Administered by NTIA, this program provides vital funding to eligible entities under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. This funding is crucial for fostering digital inclusion and improving connectivity in underserved Tribal communities.

The Hagerstown Garden Club Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, supports Washington County residents pursuing education in horticulture. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors and current college students with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship honors the legacy of the Hagerstown Garden Club and is part of a broader initiative to enhance community life through educational opportunities, fostering both personal and professional growth in the horticultural field.

The Zera Foundation Grant, established in 2011, supports nonprofit organizations in Oregon aimed at enhancing quality of life. With a focus on poverty, youth, animals, and Jewish-based initiatives, the Foundation seeks to fund new programs that help existing organizations achieve their mission. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities and can only receive one grant per year, ensuring a concentrated impact in their communities.

The Joe Booker Endowed Scholarship, administered by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, supports students in Indiana who advocate for limited government based on Judeo-Christian values. This scholarship aims to empower individuals to achieve their educational goals, promoting a community where everyone has equitable opportunities. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and preference is given to residents from Arcadia or Cicero, IN. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering civic responsibility and community engagement.

The Tribal Colleges Education Equity Grants Program aims to enhance educational capacity in food and agricultural sciences for Native Alaskan and American Indian students. This initiative marks the start of a new four-year funding cycle focused on key priorities such as curriculum development, faculty training, student experiential learning, and essential teaching tools. By fostering recruitment and retention, the program seeks to strengthen strategic partnerships within tribal education systems.

The Toledo Walleye Hockey Club's Wishing Well Fund, managed by the Greater Toledo Community Foundation, invites proposals from nonprofits focused on enhancing children's fitness and wellness from kindergarten to 12th grade. Grants, ranging from $1,500 to $10,000, support programming during cold weather months that promote healthy lifestyles through sports and physical education. Priority is given to projects with educational components and those that have not received prior funding. Limited funds will be awarded on a competitive basis.

The C Spire Wireless Foundation Grant supports STEM education initiatives in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. Aimed at 501(c)(3) organizations, it focuses on projects that enhance digital literacy, technology skills, and workforce development. With a commitment to community transformation, the foundation prioritizes local projects that improve tech education and broadband access, creating a stronger future for the region. Applications must be submitted 150 days before the event, with a review period of up to four weeks.

The SHAPE America: Joy of Effort Award recognizes dedicated individuals who exemplify the spirit of commitment and passion in health and physical education. Awardees are current SHAPE America members with at least three years of membership, demonstrating excellence in teaching, coaching, or leadership. This prestigious award celebrates those who have made significant contributions to the field, inspiring others to lead healthy, active lives through their efforts in education and advocacy.

The Andrews Foundation, a private family foundation based in Northeast Ohio since 1951, focuses on enriching the quality of life in the region. It offers multi-year grants ranging from 2 to 5 years to non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. In 2024, the foundation emphasizes sectors such as Education, Eldercare, Community Services, Healthcare, Social Services, and Sustainability, showcasing its commitment to community investment and adaptability in grant-making.

The NASGA Research Grants aim to enhance strawberry production sustainability in North America by addressing critical research priorities, including cultivar development, pest management, and production efficiency. Proposals that improve fruit quality, reduce environmental impacts, and align with growers' needs are prioritized. The program welcomes submissions from all researchers, with a focus on innovative solutions that promote economic viability and environmental stewardship in the strawberry industry.

The David C. J. Peters Scholarship, established by Southland Industries in honor of ASHRAE member David Peters, offers a one-year scholarship to qualified undergraduate students in mechanical or architectural engineering. Candidates must be enrolled full-time in a bachelor's program at designated institutions and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or be in the top 30% of their class. This initiative supports the mission of ASHRAE to promote sustainable practices in engineering.

The Guido's Fresh Marketplace Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Guido Masiero, a dedicated educator and entrepreneur. This scholarship aims to support graduating high school students from public schools in Pittsfield, Lenox, or Great Barrington, Massachusetts, who are pursuing higher education in physical education, health, wellness, or business studies. The fund reflects the foundation's mission to enhance community opportunities and economic mobility.