African American Community Fund Grant

The African American Community Fund (AACF), established in collaboration with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO), represents a philanthropic initiative deeply rooted in the Black communities of Appalachian Ohio. As an affiliate fund of FAO, AACF was created by and for African American residents of the region to serve as a sustainable vehicle for expanding charitable resources, addressing disparities, and enhancing the overall quality of life. Its guiding mission is to foster a flourishing African American community by funding projects and organizations that reflect local priorities and leadership. AACF awards grants annually to Black-led and Black-serving nonprofit and public organizations that operate within the 32 counties comprising Appalachian Ohio. These grants are focused on advancing opportunity and addressing pressing community needs in five key areas: arts and culture, community and economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health and human services. The program prioritizes efforts that unleash the potential of African American individuals of all ages, support local leadership, and deliver measurable community impact. The 2026 application window for AACF grants opened on Tuesday, February 10 and will close on Tuesday, March 24. Grant amounts typically range between $500 and $5,000. However, proposals requesting higher funding amounts may be considered, particularly if the anticipated impact justifies the investment. Applicants are encouraged to clearly articulate their project’s significance, alignment with AACF’s priority areas, and the anticipated outcomes for African American communities in Appalachian Ohio. Applications must be submitted via the Foundation Cloud Community Portal. First-time applicants are required to create an account within the portal, while returning applicants may log in using their existing credentials. The portal provides a streamlined method for submitting proposals, tracking application status, and managing communications with FAO. Submission through other formats will not be accepted. AACF evaluates proposals based on the strength of the proposed activities, alignment with one or more of the five funding areas, leadership involvement of African American individuals or organizations, and the potential to address needs and create opportunities in the applicant’s community. The fund seeks to support a wide range of innovative and community-driven efforts that reflect lived experience and grassroots expertise. For further assistance or questions about the application process, applicants may contact the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio directly by emailing [email protected] or calling 740-753-1111. Additional information may also be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section on the foundation’s website. All applicants should ensure their submission is completed prior to the March 24 deadline in order to be considered.