GIVE 365 Grants

GIVE 365 is a grantmaking initiative established in 2016 as an affiliate fund of the Wayne County Community Foundation, which serves the residents of Wayne County, Ohio. Each year, the GIVE 365 membership contributes to a pooled fund and collectively selects an annual funding theme to guide that year's grantmaking. This approach allows members to target pressing local issues and support nonprofit projects that deliver meaningful community impact. Grant awards are tailored to align with the chosen focus area, and the specifics of the annual theme are typically announced each January through the Foundation's website and press releases. The GIVE 365 grant program is open to qualified tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit public organizations and qualified government entities, provided the projects proposed directly benefit the residents of Wayne County, Ohio. While collaborations among multiple organizations are encouraged, one must be designated as the lead applicant. The program offers support across various grant types, including project grants for existing or expanded programming, start-up grants for emerging organizations showing promise, and capacity-building grants aimed at enhancing service delivery or expanding client reach. The program does not fund individuals, religious or political activities, capital campaigns, debt reduction, or activities deemed discriminatory. Agencies of state or federal government may only apply if part of an eligible local collaboration. Grants are limited to a one-year period, with the expectation that awarded funds will be fully expended during that time. While annual funding totals may vary based on the Foundation’s endowment spending policies, approximately $25,000 is available each year. Award amounts have historically ranged between $1,500 and $19,000. Proposals that demonstrate an effective, efficient use of funds in support of the year’s thematic priorities are viewed most favorably during evaluation. Each application must be completed and submitted through the Wayne County Community Foundation’s online portal, with all required questions and supporting documentation provided. Collaborative efforts should clearly define roles, responsibilities, and working relationships, and applicants are encouraged to include letters of support. All grant applications begin with the submission of a Letter of Interest (LOI). Within three business days, applicants are informed via email whether they are invited to submit a full application. Completed applications are due by March 1 each year, and funding decisions are announced no later than June 1. The review process includes potential site visits or interviews, and evaluation criteria focus on project clarity, alignment with the annual theme, collaboration, feasibility of the budget, and organizational capacity. Final decisions are subject to approval by the Foundation's Board of Trustees. Successful grantees are required to submit interim and final written and fiscal reports, with the possibility of an in-person debriefing. Additional information and resources, including a grant portal tutorial, FAQs, and photo release forms, are available on the Foundation’s website. Questions about the GIVE 365 program may be directed to the Foundation's grants email address.