The Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation is a private philanthropic organization established in 2004 by Elsa M. Heisel Sule, a Northern Kentucky native and television industry entrepreneur. The Foundation is headquartered in Greater Cincinnati and serves communities within a 70-mile radius of downtown Cincinnati, spanning parts of Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. It does not operate programs directly but provides grants to qualifying 501(c)(3) nonprofits to carry out charitable projects in the tri-state area. The Foundation’s governing body meets three times a year—in April, July, and October—to review grant applications.
The Foundation emphasizes support for programs and projects in the areas of education, community development, and the arts. Other priority interests include health and wellness, children’s welfare and sports, animal welfare, environmental stewardship, civic affairs, and scientific research. Grants are typically awarded for one-year periods unless otherwise stated in writing. Multiyear or renewable grants are possible under special circumstances. Organizations must reapply each calendar year they seek funding.
To be eligible, an organization must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit and use the funds to operate programs benefiting communities within 70 miles of downtown Cincinnati. Organizations are discouraged from applying if their unrestricted endowment exceeds $12 million or if the requested funds are for general operating expenses not tied to specific programs or projects. Funding will not be considered for individuals, scholarships, bundled regrants, or concluded programs.
Additional limitations apply to frequency of funding: organizations that have received funding for three consecutive years or more than $20,000 over two years must wait one calendar year before reapplying. Preference is given to nonprofits with annual budgets under $10 million. The Foundation values staff well-being, offers support for salaries embedded in project budgets, and expects applicants to have an active, diverse board that demonstrates financial contributions and organizational sustainability.
Grant applications can be submitted without prior approval through the Foundation’s open application process. Organizations interested in submitting capital campaign proposals are advised to contact the Foundation in advance. In all cases, applications are expected to reflect diverse funding sources and alignment with the Foundation’s mission. For more information, applicants should consult the Foundation's website or contact the office directly.
