Community Impact Grant Program

The Community Impact Grant program is administered by the Greater Toledo Community Foundation, a public charitable organization focused on enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, particularly in the greater Toledo area. The Foundation supports a broad range of services including education, social services, physical and mental health, neighborhood and urban development, natural resources, and the arts. This grant program aims to provide seed funding for innovative new programming that addresses unmet community needs or expands successful programming to reach new or underserved audiences. It prioritizes initiatives that help create safe, positive living environments, empower families with skills and resources for nurturing each member, and foster the development of young people toward their fullest potential. Data-driven projects that show a commitment to continuous service improvement are especially encouraged. Applicants may request funding amounts of $50,000 or more. Multi-year grants are eligible and encouraged if the proposal outlines a clear project progression over time. While year one must request at least $50,000, subsequent years may request less. The grant strictly supports direct programmatic expenses, and not general operations, capital campaigns, or purchases like vehicles or equipment. To be eligible, organizations must be established 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a minimum of five years of operation and an operating budget of at least $500,000. Organizations that do not meet this financial threshold may apply in collaboration with a partner if their combined operating budgets meet the minimum. Applications must propose services benefiting residents of northwest Ohio or southeast Michigan. Entities pursuing deep organizational partnerships or potential mergers are advised to consider the Foundation’s Strategic Alliance Partnership opportunity. Applications are reviewed twice per year, with Letters of Intent (LOIs) due by January 15 and July 15. The application process is conducted online. The LOI is the first step and should concisely outline the project’s goals, methods, location, timeline, budget, and partners. If invited, a full proposal must then be submitted, detailing purpose, needs, implementation strategy, population served, evaluation plans, sustainability, and budget. The grant review process involves staff and board review, and awards are announced within a week following the Board’s decision. Applicants are advised that expenses incurred prior to notification are not eligible for reimbursement. Required documents for a full proposal include IRS exemption proof, organizational background, board list, financial statements (audited or unaudited within 18 months), and a current board-approved budget. Questions can be directed to Patrick Johnston, Vice President of Community Investments, via email at patrick@toledocf.org or phone at 419-241-5049.