The Dayton Foundation offers discretionary grants to a wide range of 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organizations. The purpose of these grants is to support worthy community projects across various sectors, including social services, arts, health, and environmental efforts. These grants are primarily designed to help initiate new projects that are not already being addressed by other groups, or to provide support for special initiatives by already established nonprofit organizations.
Eligibility for these grants is limited to programs serving the Dayton Region, specifically within Montgomery, Miami, Greene, Darke, Preble, and northern Warren counties in Ohio. The Foundation places a strong emphasis on addressing the greatest community needs and is guided by the scope of impact and alignment with donor restrictions. The size and number of grants awarded in each cycle vary based on available funds and donor-imposed limitations.
Applicants must request a minimum of $7,500 and may request up to $75,000, though grant awards cannot exceed 25 percent of the total cost for projects that are under $300,000. All applicants must complete an application via the Foundation’s grants portal, and a downloadable worksheet is available to assist with preparation. Organizations without a formal audit must refer to the Foundation’s Audit Exemption Policy, and those applying for vehicle purchases must review the relevant policy.
Applications are due three times annually, with upcoming deadlines on January 3, 2025, July 7, 2025, and October 3, 2025, each by 4:00 p.m. Applicants are encouraged to watch a pre-recorded Grants Orientation session to familiarize themselves with the process. Previously funded organizations must submit a final report detailing how funds were used.
For further assistance, applicants may contact Tania Arseculeratne, the Senior Community Engagement Officer, by phone or through the general contact information provided. The Dayton Foundation's office is located at 1401 S. Main Street, Suite 100, Dayton, Ohio, and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
