John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation Grant

The John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation offers the Growth and Resilience Grant to support nonprofit organizations that address key community challenges in Northwest Ohio. This grant opportunity reflects the Foundation’s commitment to strengthening access to essential resources such as stable housing, nutritious food, and educational opportunities for youth. The Foundation emphasizes systemic, long-term solutions that not only address immediate needs but also tackle root causes, aiming to build generational opportunity and community well-being through strategic investments in local capacity. The Growth and Resilience Grant is designed as a one-year funding opportunity to assist nonprofit organizations in expanding their operational effectiveness, enhancing program delivery, and sustaining resilience amid ongoing challenges. This includes coverage of programmatic expenses and support for small capital purchases that contribute to organizational development or scaling of impact. Funding may be applied toward initiatives that promote growth or ensure continuity during periods of difficulty or transition. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations operating in Northwest Ohio with a mission focus in one or more of the Foundation’s priority areas: housing stability, food security, and youth education. Both new and returning applicants are encouraged to review the program guidelines and begin preparing materials in advance. While the Growth and Resilience track is broadly accessible, the Foundation also maintains two additional pathways: Capacity Building grants for internal development needs, and invitation-only Operational Sustainability grants for organizations with established impact and leadership capacity. To apply for the Growth and Resilience Grant, interested applicants must submit their proposals through the Foundation’s online grantmaking platform. The application portal opens on February 2, 2026, at 8:00 AM ET and closes on March 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. Applications must include proof of nonprofit status, recent financial information such as budgets and financial statements, narrative sections detailing the funding request and expected impact, and a letter of support when collaborations are described. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted under any circumstances, as part of the Foundation’s commitment to equitable review processes. All eligible submissions will undergo review by a committee composed of Foundation staff and community stakeholders. Evaluations will be based on alignment with strategic priorities, the feasibility of the proposed initiative, organizational readiness and capacity, and the potential for community impact. Final award decisions are expected in June 2026. At this time, no additional documentation is required beyond the listed components, and no pre-application or LOI phase is necessary for this track. The Foundation notes that the Growth and Resilience Grant cycle occurs annually, with recurring opportunities anticipated. Additionally, Capacity Building applications will open in June 2026, and Operational Sustainability grants continue to be awarded by invitation only. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the Foundation with any questions at [email protected] or by calling (419) 574-9801. The Foundation’s mailing address is PO Box 351959, Toledo, OH 43635.

Align proposal with the Foundation’s focus areas and demonstrate organizational capacity and community impact potential.