The Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority is currently accepting applications for the 2025 Community Investment Fund (CIF) Grant Cycle. A total of $270,000 in no-match grant funds is available to support nonprofit initiatives that align with the Port’s mission. The program is focused on fostering job creation, economic growth, and enhancing equitable access to maritime industry opportunities within Cuyahoga County, Ohio. The available grant amounts range from a minimum of $25,000 to a maximum of $100,000 per organization.
Established by Resolution 2018-28 on October 11, 2018, the CIF was created to expand equitable access to capital and support community-focused projects. The fund is financed through 10 percent of revenues from certain Port development finance programs. The CIF emphasizes support for projects in maritime development, workforce training, sustainability, and economic and community development. Since its inception, approximately $575,000 has been awarded to eligible nonprofit organizations out of about $852,000 allocated.
To qualify for funding, applicants must be nonprofit entities legally recognized under state or federal law and located in Cuyahoga County. Eligible activities include maritime infrastructure and navigation safety projects, workforce and job training programs, environmental initiatives, international trade promotion, and logistics research. Ineligible uses include lobbying, entertainment, personal expenses, pre-completed projects, tax debts, legal disputes, and activities misaligned with the Port's values.
Applications must be submitted by June 15, 2025. The application period opened on May 1, 2025, and award announcements will be made at the Port Authority Board Meeting on July 10, 2025. A successful application must detail the intended use of funds, clearly demonstrate alignment with CIF goals and the Port’s Strategic Plan, and include measurable success metrics (KPIs). Supporting documents such as financial statements, an organizational chart, a staff and board list, and three professional references are required.
Proposals will be evaluated for completeness, project relevance, jurisdictional representation, and support for workforce diversity and community inclusion. While matching funds are not required, preference may be given to applicants who can demonstrate some financial contribution or show they lack access to other capital.
For questions, applicants may contact the Port at CommunityInvestment@portofcleveland.com. All grantees must sign a grant agreement, utilize awarded funds within 12 months, report progress based on outlined metrics, and disclose any potential conflicts of interest. Attendance at a Port Board meeting may also be required. Final award decisions are not subject to appeal and remain contingent on Board approval and compliance with local and state regulations.
