Best Ottawa County Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

The Michigan Botanical Foundation Grant supports research and educational initiatives that enhance the understanding and preservation of Michigan's flora. Grants are available for projects involving rare species, environmental awareness, and educational programs. The foundation welcomes applications from individuals and organizations that align with its goals. Grant amounts typically range from $100 to $1,500, with preference given to projects based in Michigan or the Great Lakes region. Funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

DOH 59808- Rural Health Transformation Program- Healthier Ohio Initiatives - Preventing and Addressing Chronic Disease- Track One

Project Background:

The Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) was authorized by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Section 71403 of Public Law 119-21) and empowers state to strengthen rural communities by improving healthcare access, quality and outcomes by transforming the current system. Five key strategic goals of the program, as defined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) are:

• Make Rural America Healthy Again
• Sustainable access
• Workforce development
• Innovative Care
• Technology Innovation

Ohio’s plan aligns with federal priorities to improve the health of rural residents by building an innovative movement to bridge medicine and preventive behaviors into a holistic and collective impact approach to improve chronic disease outcomes. This Request for Proposals (RFP) is designed to strengthen preventive and clinical care for improved blood glucose and hypertension indicators across Ohio’s 73 non-urban counties (See Appendix B. Applicants could be but not limited to the following:

• State-level associations that support implementation in multiple clinics, health centers, and/or hospitals.
• Regional collaboratives or health system with multiple locations.
• Individual hospitals, health centers and clinics

Project Objective:

Based upon data analysis from Ohio’s State Health Assessment, including a supplemental deep dive into Appalachian health, 2025 Summary Assessment of Older Ohioans, the Ohio Chronic Disease Atlas 2025, and other publicly available data, Ohio seeks to reduce the prevalence and mortality rates associated with chronic disease. The collective aim of the strategies is:

to reduce hemoglobin A1C for patients diagnosed with prediabetes and diabetes by 10% and

to manage blood pressure at clinically appropriate levels for patients diagnosed with hypertension.

The TCF: First Solar Community Giving Fund focuses on civic engagement and environmental impact through grants that support green education, access to clean energy, and innovative technologies. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and those demonstrating charitable purposes. The fund prioritizes impactful community initiatives while excluding requests for sectarian activities, annual campaigns, or scholarships. This initiative aims to foster sustainable solutions and positively influence underserved areas.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

Ottawa County, Ohio transportation providers serving seniors and people with disabilities can access funding through the Ohio Department of Transportation for preventive maintenance of vehicle fleets. The Specialized Transportation Program (Section 5310) reimburses 80% of eligible maintenance costs, with a 20% local match required, helping preserve vehicles used for specialized transit services.

Grants for nonprofits and public agencies in Ottawa County, Ohio and other eligible counties help expand specialized transportation and mobility management projects for seniors and people with disabilities. The Ohio Department of Transportation funds capital projects that improve access to transportation options, build local capacity, and integrate transportation into community and regional planning efforts.

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem and a vibrant Southeast Michigan community. Since its inception, it has invested over $180 million in environmental, cultural, and educational initiatives. As it transitions to spend down its assets by 2034, the Foundation aims to make bold, impactful investments that address urgent community needs and promote sustainable development.

Public and nonprofit transportation providers in Ottawa County, Ohio can apply for Ohio Department of Transportation’s Specialized Transportation Program (5310) computer hardware, software, and equipment funding to enhance mobility for seniors and people with disabilities. Awards cover 80% of eligible capital costs for technology that supports Section 5310-funded vehicles, with a required local match and letter of intent.

Emergency response organizations in Ottawa County, Ohio can seek US $1,000 - US $10,000 to fund safety equipment, professional training, or safety education programs. With a mission to strengthen community safety, Enbridge provides fire departments, EMS, 9-1-1 centers, ambulance services, and law enforcement near its operations with support through the Safe Community First Responder Program.

Focused on transportation services for seniors and people with disabilities, organizations in Ottawa County, Ohio can seek operating assistance to support day-to-day transit service. Eligible providers must offer open-door, shared-ride transportation, with Ohio Department of Transportation reimbursing a portion of operating costs while subrecipients supply the required local match.

Nonprofit and public transit providers in Ottawa County, Ohio that offer open-door shared-ride services for seniors and people with disabilities can apply for the Specialized Transportation Program (5310) Contracted Transportation Service funding from the Ohio Department of Transportation. Funds reimburse 80% of contracted transit service capital costs; a 20% non-U.S. DOT local match is required.

The Great Lakes Foundation Grant supports projects aimed at preserving wilderness areas and promoting marine safety in the Great Lakes region. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the foundation has awarded over $318,212 since its inception in 1993. Grants have funded various initiatives, including breakwater construction and academic research, to enhance appreciation and safety of the marine environment for both members and the general public.

Ottawa County, Ohio environmental and conservation organizations can access funding through the Great Lakes Protection Fund for projects that measurably improve the Great Lakes ecosystem. Eligible teams may include nonprofits, universities, government agencies, businesses, and individuals, as long as they collaborate and pursue science-based, action-oriented strategies that drive basin-wide, transformational ecological change.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

The F26AS00083 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants are part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for Fiscal Year 2026. These grants, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support state-level management plans to combat aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes region. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and their designees, with funding awarded through a competitive selection process.

Ottawa County, Ohio nonprofits and other organizations working on freshwater conservation and habitat restoration can access funding through the Ohio Lake Erie Commission to support projects in the Lake Erie watershed. Grants up to US $50,000 back research or on-the-ground efforts that reduce harmful algal blooms, restore wetlands, reuse dredge materials, and improve long-term water quality.

The Great Lakes Fisheries Trust offers grants for ecological and biological research aimed at enhancing ecosystem health and sustainable fish populations. These grants support competitive fisheries research, focusing on resilience, sustainability, and stakeholder value. The next funding cycle will open with a request for proposals in late 2026 for the 2027 program year, promoting innovative research and capacity-building efforts within the fisheries sector.

The FirstEnergy Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations within FirstEnergy's service areas, aiming to enhance community quality of life, workforce development, and safety initiatives. Grants are directed towards local economic development and volunteer efforts aligned with corporate interests. However, the Foundation does not fund individuals, political activities, or certain organizations, ensuring support is focused on broad community benefits. Interested applicants should consult local FirstEnergy management before applying.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is offering a cooperative agreement for research on the long-term demography of imperiled bumble bee species, particularly the rusty patched bumble bee. This initiative aims to leverage collaborations to enhance understanding and recovery strategies for these species. Research will focus on site surveys, innovative monitoring technologies, and data compilation to address significant knowledge gaps. The project aims to produce actionable insights for land management partners to support conservation efforts.

Nonprofit and charity organizations in Ottawa County, Ohio can seek funding for education, community services, or environmental work. Focused on creating long-lasting community investments, Makulinski Family Foundation invites proposals and may match donations of time or money to increase impact, with match ratios varying based on the beneficiaries’ circumstances.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Township Safety Sign Grant Program, funded by ODOT, allocates $2 million annually to enhance safety signage on Ohio's township roads. For FY 2025, $845,040.42 has been designated for 38 projects across 30 counties, supporting local townships. Eligible townships may request up to $50,000 for signs, posts, and hardware, provided they meet specific criteria related to crash rates and prior funding. This initiative aims to improve road safety significantly.

Government and 501(c)(3) nonprofit entities in Ottawa County, Ohio can seek funding for environmental restoration, clean water, and habitat projects through the Lake Erie Community Grant, with awards up to US $750,000. With a mission to restore Lake Erie watersheds, Ohio Lake Erie Commission supports projects like pollution reduction, stormwater management, job training, and Great Lakes education.

The F26AS00084 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes Tribes, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support the development and implementation of Tribal Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plans. Eligible Great Lakes tribes can apply for competitive grants to address invasive species issues within the Great Lakes Basin, including outreach and prevention efforts. This initiative focuses on early detection and control, significantly contributing to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

Focused on public infrastructure, Ohio Department of Transportation invites Ottawa County, Ohio small cities to seek funding for road, safety, and signal projects on the Federal-aid system. Eligible municipalities with populations between 5,000 and 24,999 can receive up to US $2,000,000 for construction and inspection costs on qualifying transportation improvements.

Focused on habitat and ecosystem restoration, federal, tribal, and other eligible entities in Ottawa County, Ohio can apply to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for US $250,000 - US $30,000,000 to restore Great Lakes fish habitat. Projects must advance Great Lakes Restoration Initiative goals for native fish populations and priority environmental areas.

The Ottawa County Community Foundation Inc supports charitable programs through its Community Grants, addressing needs in education, health, social services, and the arts. Nonprofit organizations in Ottawa County can apply for funding to promote efficient resource use and enhance community quality of life. Grants prioritize innovative solutions and long-term benefits for residents, ensuring a sustainable impact aligned with the Foundation's mission of 'Doing Good. Forever'.