Best Toledo Grants for Nonprofits in Ohio

Nonprofit organizations hosting fundraising events or needing general operating support in Toledo, Ohio (Lucas or Wood County) may be eligible for community sponsorships focused on education, workforce, and community development. With a mission to prepare individuals for thriving futures, KeyBank provides event-based or general support to nonprofits in areas where it operates.

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.

Nonprofit corporations, academic institutions, state agencies, and local governments in Toledo, Ohio can seek funding for coastal conservation, habitat restoration, planning, and public access projects. Grants from Ohio Department of Natural Resources help Toledo nonprofits working in Lucas and Wood Counties with Lake Erie water quality, waterfront redevelopment, and protection of historic and cultural coastal resources, with awards of US $50,000 - US $150,000.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

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.

Focused on financial literacy and housing, Union Home Foundation invites Toledo, Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits to apply for grants over US $1,000 supporting families’ economic self-sufficiency. Eligible organizations in Lucas and Wood counties working on financial education, equitable housing, or supportive housing and shelters can seek one-year project or program support through quarterly application cycles.

Toledo-area accredited schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits needing help with transportation for student or youth field trips can receive US $100 - US $1,000 to attend Toledo Mud Hens baseball or Toledo Walleye hockey games. Lucas and Wood County organizations can access funding through Toledo Community Foundation to cover bus or charter transportation costs only.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

Nonprofit organizations running K–12 youth fitness and wellness programs during cold weather months in Toledo, Ohio and nearby counties can seek support for activities encouraging healthy lifestyles, exercise, sports, and physical fitness education. With a mission to enrich regional quality of life, Toledo Community Foundation awards competitive grants of US $1,500 - US $10,000.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations seeking capital project funding for facilities or equipment in Toledo, Ohio can apply for more than US $20,000 through the Andersons Fund Supporting Organization. With a mission to enrich regional quality of life, Toledo Community Foundation supports education, social services, health, neighborhood and urban affairs, natural resources, and arts initiatives in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan.

The Constance L. Smith Education Scholarship, offered by the Erie County Community Foundation, supports graduates from Erie County high schools pursuing education degrees at Bowling Green State University. Established in 1995, this scholarship emphasizes financial need and is renewable at the committee's discretion. Preference is given to Edison High School graduates and students demonstrating a strong work ethic while balancing academics and community service, ensuring a lasting impact on the local educational landscape.

The Lake Erie Environmental Justice Grant, awarded by the Ohio Lake Erie Commission, aims to support restoration projects in historically underserved communities within Ohio's Lake Erie watershed. Funded through the U.S. EPA’s Great Lakes Environmental Justice Grant Program, this initiative focuses on enhancing stormwater management, strengthening coastal resilience, and advancing environmental justice. With a significant grant of up to $750,000, OLEC collaborates with partners like Black Environmental Leaders and Rural Action to ensure equitable resource distribution and impactful outcomes.

The Bowling Green Community Foundation Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in the Bowling Green area by funding innovative programs that support health, education, safety, and the arts. Open to 501(c)(3) organizations in specific zip codes, the foundation encourages community involvement and partnership. Grants are awarded annually after thorough evaluation of proposals, ensuring that diverse initiatives receive support. Through this program, countless lives are positively impacted by the generosity of local donors.

The Helen B. and Elam P. Sabroske Educational Fund, established in 1995, aims to enhance the quality of life in Erie County, Ohio, by providing scholarships to local high school graduates attending Bowling Green State University. This 501(c)(3) non-profit prioritizes financial need, academic excellence, and student leadership, allowing scholarships to be renewed for up to three additional years. The fund seeks to empower individuals to make lasting contributions to their communities.

The Steel Dynamics Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community quality of life and local economies by supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Priorities include higher education, economic development, and human services, particularly in communities where Steel Dynamics operates. Grants are awarded based on community impact, employee involvement, and organizational integrity. Applicants must demonstrate a strong ethical track record and effective community engagement to qualify for funding opportunities.

The Kenneth R. and Rhonda Hill-Watt Scholarship, administered by the Erie County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Erie County, Ohio, attending BGSU Firelands. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Since 1995, the foundation has aimed to enhance the quality of life in the community by empowering individuals to make meaningful contributions. This scholarship represents a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and leadership within the region.

The Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grant Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, provides a 50/50 cost-share opportunity aimed at enhancing rural fire departments. Eligible departments can secure funding for essential wildland fire equipment, personal protective gear, and communication devices. Grants are capped at $10,000, promoting community collaboration while ensuring departments meet specific eligibility requirements. This initiative supports the vital role of fire services in protecting Ohio's communities and natural resources.

The Toledo Neighborhoods Foundation Grant supports projects that enhance the quality of life in Toledo neighborhoods through initiatives in land reuse, neighborhood improvement, safety, and youth engagement. Funded by the Greater Toledo Community Foundation's solar energy revenues, this grant prioritizes collaborative proposals and those addressing significant community needs. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and successful proposals are expected to demonstrate sustainability and community coordination.

The Ruth F. Parker Scholarship, established by Ruth Parker in honor of BGSU Firelands, supports individuals from Erie, Huron, or Ottawa counties pursuing education at BGSU Firelands. This scholarship aims to enhance the quality of life in the community by empowering students with financial assistance and recognizing academic promise. Renewals are available for up to three additional years, contingent on the Scholarship Advisory Committee's discretion.

The Greater Fostoria Community Foundation (GFCF) supports local charitable organizations by awarding grants from its endowment. Established in 1998, GFCF emphasizes community improvement through funding in areas such as education, health, and the arts. Grants are available twice a year to 501(c)(3) organizations, fostering innovative programs that meet emerging community needs. Over $3 million in grants have been distributed to enhance the quality of life in Fostoria and surrounding areas.

The GM on Main Street Grant Program, led by Main Street America, focuses on enhancing the safety and vibrancy of downtowns through innovative road safety and traffic calming projects. Funded by General Motors, this program seeks transformative ideas that promote pedestrian safety and accessibility, making downtown areas more inviting for residents and visitors. Eligible applicants include non-profits and local governments in designated counties, with a strong emphasis on projects that are inclusive, feasible, and easily replicable.

Mobile Beacon's Connect for Success program addresses the digital divide by providing schools with essential technology resources. This initiative offers up to 25 laptops and 4G devices with 12 months of complimentary high-speed internet service. By targeting students and communities facing digital inequities, the program ensures that all students can complete homework and access educational content from home. With ongoing support options available post-grant, Mobile Beacon is committed to fostering equitable learning environments and empowering educators to enhance digital inclusion.

The GM Corporate Giving Grants support U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education and transportation initiatives. Applications are accepted from January to September, with a requirement to submit requests at least three months before the program’s start date. GM emphasizes charitable contributions in the communities where it operates, ensuring that organizations align with its values. The grant amount is not limited and is assessed based on the proposed program's merit and needs.

Valorie Wolcott Mendelson Ohio School Psychologists Association Scholarship Fund

The Ohio School Psychologists Association established the scholarship to benefit graduates students who are in the second term of their first year at one of the eight Ohio Graduate Training Programs in School Psychology.

Award Amount:

• Two $4,000 Scholarships

The Six Flags RAAM Scholarship is designed to support students enrolled in Bowling Green State University's Resort and Attraction Management Program who have recent work experience at Six Flags. Established by the Erie County Community Foundation, this scholarship prioritizes college juniors and seniors, considering financial need as a key factor. Scholarships may be renewed at the discretion of the Scholarship Advisory Committee, promoting lasting contributions to Erie County's quality of life.

The Lake Erie Protection Fund Grant provides small grants up to $50,000 for projects aimed at preserving and restoring Lake Erie and its watersheds in Ohio. It emphasizes research and practical initiatives that improve environmental management and economic development. Funded through donations, this grant supports projects that may change annually in focus and funding amount, contributing to the health of Lake Erie.

The Arts and Culture Fund, managed by the Greater Toledo Community Foundation, invites nonprofit organizations to apply for funding of up to $100,000 for public arts projects that enhance community connections. These projects should engage local residents and address cultural heritage, aligning with the Toledo Strategic Plan for Arts & Culture. Collaborative proposals are encouraged, focusing on civic engagement and the revitalization of Toledo neighborhoods.