American Electric Power Foundation Grants

The American Electric Power Foundation, established in 2005 by American Electric Power, serves as the company’s primary philanthropic arm, focusing on improving quality of life and fostering equitable, sustainable development within the communities where AEP operates. With a service footprint spanning Appalachia, the Midwest, and the Southwest, the Foundation supports projects that advance education, meet essential human needs, and promote social justice, environmental stewardship, and cultural enrichment. Its mission aligns closely with AEP’s vision of “powering a brighter future,” emphasizing community investment as a core corporate value rather than a supplemental activity. The Foundation’s educational focus prioritizes lifelong learning, emphasizing access to high-quality programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from early childhood through postsecondary education. Grants may support classroom programs, out-of-school learning, scholarships, and partnerships between schools and community organizations. By fostering education in STEM disciplines, the Foundation aims to build pathways to economic mobility and prepare a skilled workforce for the future energy and technology sectors. In parallel, the Foundation funds initiatives that address fundamental human needs such as hunger, housing, and emergency assistance. Grants in this category support food banks, affordable housing projects, and social service agencies helping vulnerable populations achieve stability. The Foundation also invests in organizations that promote equitable access to basic resources, ensuring that community development efforts include underserved or marginalized groups. Social justice is another key funding priority. The Foundation supports organizations that pursue systemic equity and inclusion through sustainable programs and measurable outcomes. Eligible projects may focus on civil rights education, workforce inclusion, community leadership development, and bridging gaps in opportunity. Additional funding may also be available for programs that enhance healthcare access, improve safety, protect natural resources, and enrich communities through art, music, and heritage initiatives. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, a government entity, or an exempt operating foundation. Applicants must either be located within AEP’s service territory or have a national or regional scope that benefits AEP communities. The Foundation does not fund individuals, religious activities with sectarian purposes, or organizations that discriminate on any basis. Fraternal, veteran, and purely athletic programs are generally excluded unless connected to broader developmental goals. Applications are accepted by invitation only and must be initiated through the applicant’s local AEP operating company. Invited organizations receive a link to an online submission portal, and proposals are reviewed during the Foundation’s regular board meetings throughout the year. There is no fixed deadline, making the process effectively rolling. Interested organizations should contact their respective AEP operating company representatives for further details and eligibility review. Regional contacts include AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power, Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, PSO, and SWEPCO, each providing regional oversight and local community coordination.

Applications accepted year-round; emphasize alignment with AEP community priorities and STEM, equity, or basic needs focus.