Oberlin Community Grant Program

The City of Oberlin Community Grant Program is an initiative designed to support nonprofit and community-based organizations in delivering services that are not currently offered by the City of Oberlin itself. The overarching aim of the program is to enhance the well-being of Oberlin residents, reinforce equity-centered development, and contribute meaningfully to the implementation of the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Social Equity Principles. Funding is specifically directed to programs that improve lives across three core focus areas: Human Services, Youth and Recreation, and Community Development. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations classified under 501(c)(3), community-based organizations that serve Oberlin residents, and groups operating in good standing with the City. The program is structured into two tiers. Tier 1 Major Community Grants are intended for more established organizations and support initiatives requesting $5,001 or more, potentially over multi-year periods with required quarterly and final reporting. Tier 2 Small Community Grants support initiatives up to $5,000 and are tailored for smaller organizations or new projects. These grants require only a final report upon completion. All projects must be completed within a 12-month duration, although multi-year projects may be considered under Tier 1 if accompanied by annual reporting and reauthorization. The program emphasizes proposals that directly serve Oberlin residents and address needs currently unmet by municipal services. The evaluation framework prioritizes equity, program impact, measurable outcomes, and cost effectiveness. Programs must demonstrate alignment with Oberlin’s Social Equity Principles, which emphasize fairness, inclusion, and reducing systemic barriers, especially for historically underserved populations. Applications are reviewed based on five weighted criteria: Program Impact (30%), Equity & Alignment (20%), Goals & Success Indicators (20%), Organizational Capacity (15%), and Budget & Cost Effectiveness (15%). The application and review process is managed in a multi-step format. Initially, the application forms are made available to the public, with separate versions for each grant tier. After submission, City staff review each application for eligibility and alignment with stated criteria. Following this, a detailed review and scoring process takes place, potentially including follow-up requests for clarification. Staff then compile funding recommendations for review by the City Manager, who makes final award decisions based on available funds, equity considerations, and program balance. Successful applicants enter into formal grant agreements and receive funds as specified therein. Grantees are accountable for demonstrating measurable progress and outcomes. For Tier 1 grants, quarterly and final reports are required; for Tier 2, a final report suffices. Noncompliance with reporting expectations can negatively affect future funding eligibility. The program also highlights the City’s interest in funding a diverse portfolio of organizations, with a preference for partnership-driven initiatives and a readiness to provide partial funding when appropriate. Awards will be announced following the review process, and program performance may influence future eligibility.

Prioritize programs with measurable community benefit, equity alignment, and clear goals.