Ohio Arts Grants

The City of South Bend Department of Public Works is currently accepting applications for its 2024 Lamppost Lighting Program. This initiative is designed to assist homeowners within South Bend's city limits by providing lighting enhancements for their neighborhoods through a cost-share program. The program directly aligns with the city's mission to improve public infrastructure and enhance community safety and quality of life for its residents. By offering solar-powered lampposts for residential front yards, the program aims to address practical needs while promoting sustainable solutions. The primary beneficiaries of this program are homeowners residing within the City of South Bend. The program specifically targets two areas selected based on income levels, the number of vacant lots, and the existing need for improved lighting. Homeowners in these target areas receive a reduced cost share of $50, compared to $250 for those outside these areas, demonstrating a focus on supporting communities with greater need. The overarching impact goal is to enhance neighborhood safety, visibility, and overall aesthetics by increasing accessible lighting. The program's priorities and focuses include ease of installation, accessibility, and community empowerment. It offers easy self-install, solar-powered lampposts, placing responsibility for pickup, installation, and maintenance on the homeowner, fostering a sense of ownership. While the City's Division of Engineering will inspect installations, the emphasis is on enabling residents to directly contribute to their neighborhood improvements. A limit of one lamppost per household ensures equitable distribution among participating residents. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a greater number of illuminated residential front yards, particularly in historically underserved or underlit areas. Success can be measured by the number of lampposts installed, the geographic spread of the installations, and anecdotal evidence or surveys from residents regarding perceived improvements in safety and neighborhood appearance. The cost-share model is a strategic priority, allowing for broader participation while distributing costs, and fostering a collaborative approach between the city and its residents for community betterment.

The Mansfield City Schools Fine Arts Fund, administered by the Richland County Foundation, provides grants to enhance arts and visual cultural integrated education in Mansfield City Schools. The fund supports classroom experiences that connect students with local and regional arts resources. Grants may support structured field experiences at local cultural institutions, as well as participation in regional, state, or national art integration programs. Applicants should outline measurable goals and educational outcomes and coordinate details such as budgets, scheduling, and transportation with partner organizations prior to applying. The annual grant budget generally ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 dollars. Eligibility is limited to teachers employed by Mansfield City Schools. Applicants must identify the appropriate approver for funding requests and ensure projects align with educational objectives. The fund does not support storage containers and rugs, substitute teacher costs, seating and furniture, or physical technology items such as cameras or tablets. Applications are due May 1, 2024. Grant duration is not stated. Additional information is available from the Richland County Foundation.

The 2024 Housing Development and Beautification Grant Program in Ohio offers substantial redevelopment grants of $5,000 for eligible projects exceeding $20,000 per unit, with contractor estimates required. There is also a $7,500 grant for eligible new home construction, with developer budgets required. The grants can be used to subsidize the cost of constructing new housing units or rehabilitating existing ones, as well as for creating new housing units through adaptive reuse of non-residential properties. Additionally, there is a 50% grant assistance (up to $3,000) for exterior home repairs visible from the street, such as painting and roof repairs. The program also provides a $5,000 grant for eligible home purchases of one-, two-, and three-family residences that will be owner-occupied. Certain permits, inspections, and registered contractors may be required to participate in the program.

The Delaware County Foundation's Community Grant Program aims to bolster numerous non-profit organizations dedicated to community improvement within Delaware County, Ohio. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and government entities with projects that directly benefit Delaware County residents. The foundation strategically partners with organizations that demonstrate a commitment to addressing critical community needs, operating under a theory of change that by investing in key focus areas, they can foster a healthier, more vibrant, and prosperous community. The grant program targets a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, including animals through welfare initiatives; individuals enriched by arts and cultural activities; low-income residents combating food insecurity, seeking affordable housing, or facing barriers to transportation, childcare, and education; students of all ages through innovative educational programs; and the broader workforce through economic opportunity initiatives. The impact goals are comprehensive, aiming to promote proper animal care, enrich lives through arts, combat basic needs deficiencies, provide quality education, build prosperity, create jobs, and foster a healthier and more sustainable environment. The foundation's priorities and focuses are clearly delineated across six key areas: Animal Welfare, Arts & Culture, Basic Needs, Education, Economic Opportunity, and Environment. Within these broader categories, preference is given to programs specifically addressing recovery, housing, mental health, basic needs (such as food insecurity and utilities), ESL, and workforce development. This targeted approach ensures that funding is directed towards areas identified as having the most pressing needs and potential for significant positive change within the community. Expected outcomes include improved animal well-being, increased participation in cultural activities, reduced food insecurity, enhanced access to affordable housing, removal of transportation and childcare barriers, improved educational outcomes, greater economic prosperity, and tangible improvements in environmental health. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the qualitative descriptions of impact, the grant duration of one year suggests that projects are expected to achieve their objectives within this timeframe, allowing for regular assessment of progress and impact by the foundation. Grants are expected to range from $2,500 to $20,000, providing crucial support to qualifying organizations.

Leap Funding, provided by Main Street Ventures, offers equity-free funding ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 to promising, revenue-generating businesses. The primary goal of this program is to help these businesses scale their community impact and enhance their long-term survival prospects. Main Street Ventures' mission, as evidenced by this grant, is to foster economic growth and community development by supporting local enterprises, particularly within the Greater Cincinnati region. This aligns with a strategic priority to strengthen local economies through direct investment in businesses that demonstrate strong potential and customer demand. The target beneficiaries of Leap Funding are established business entities, specifically C-Corps, S-Corps, or LLCs, that possess a Federal Tax ID (EIN). The program focuses on businesses within key industry areas, including retail storefronts (restaurants, coffee shops, retail shops), manufactured goods (consumer packaged goods, clothing, sporting goods), and technology companies (hardware, software). A critical geographical focus is the Greater Cincinnati region, encompassing specific counties in Ohio (Hamilton, Butler, Clermont, Warren), Kentucky (Boone, Campbell), and Indiana (Dearborn). Grant requests from outside this region are explicitly not considered. The program prioritizes funding for specific growth projects rather than general operating expenses. Main Street Ventures defines a growth project as a step that will accelerate business expansion. Suitable direct expenses include key equipment, packaging support, and technology product development. Conversely, general operating expenses such as existing payroll, rent, insurance, marketing, and legal fees are not eligible for grant funds. Businesses are also required to demonstrate customer demand and consistent progression since their founding, ensuring that the funding supports businesses with a proven track record and clear growth trajectory. Expected outcomes include accelerated business growth, increased community impact, and improved long-term survival rates for the funded enterprises. Measurable results would likely include job creation, increased revenue for the businesses, expansion into new markets, or enhanced product development. Special consideration is given to women and minority-owned businesses, as well as those that can secure matching funds from other sources, reflecting a strategic priority to promote diversity and leverage additional investment. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by providing targeted, equity-free capital for specific growth initiatives, they can empower local businesses to expand, thereby creating a ripple effect of economic benefit and community resilience within the Greater Cincinnati area.

This grant provides financial assistance for transportation to local baseball and hockey games for accredited schools and nonprofit organizations in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan that demonstrate a need.

The Visit BG Ohio 2025 Tourism Grant Program offers financial support ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for projects, events, and activities that promote tourism, increase overnight stays, and provide economic benefits to the City of Bowling Green, with a focus on capital improvement, sports, conferences, festivals, large events, and arts and culture.

The Noble County Community Foundation, in partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, is offering grants to nonprofits, schools, and public organizations for projects and programs that benefit Noble County residents and communities. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to advance opportunities within the county by addressing key areas of need, known as the Pillars of Prosperity. The program seeks to empower local efforts and unleash the potential within Noble County. The grant program targets individuals of all ages within Noble County. The core impact goal is to create opportunities, meet pressing needs, and foster the potential of the community. The focus is on supporting a wide range of projects and programs that contribute to the overall well-being and development of the county's residents. Priorities for funding are centered around five critical areas: arts and culture, community and economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health and human services. The foundation emphasizes supporting efforts that are spearheaded by local individuals and organizations. While funding requests typically range from $500 to $2,500, larger requests may be considered based on their potential for significant impact within these priority areas. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements and advancements across the Pillars of Prosperity. Measurable results will likely be tied to the specific goals of each funded project, demonstrating how they address community needs and create opportunities. The foundation's strategic priorities are deeply rooted in community development and empowerment, with a theory of change that posits by investing in these key areas, the overall quality of life and future prospects for Noble County residents will be significantly enhanced.

This grant provides financial support to artists in Franklin County, Ohio, for creating public exterior murals, requiring a secured location and partial funding from a commissioning organization.

The Highland County Community Fund, in partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, is currently requesting grant applications to support projects and programs benefiting residents and communities within Highland County, Ohio. This grant program aligns with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio's broader mission to advance opportunities and address pressing needs in the region. The fund's strategic priorities are rooted in fostering progress across five key Pillars of Prosperity: arts and culture, community and economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health and human services. This framework reflects a theory of change that by investing in these critical areas, the foundation aims to unleash the potential within Highland County and improve the overall well-being of its population. The target beneficiaries for this grant program include individuals of all ages within Highland County who are leading efforts that create opportunities, meet urgent needs, and activate community potential. The program specifically welcomes applications from nonprofits (including 501(c) organizations), schools, and public organizations such as public school districts, higher education institutions, and government subdivisions. Additionally, groups without direct nonprofit or public status are eligible if they are working under the fiscal sponsorship of an eligible nonprofit or public entity, ensuring a broad reach for impactful initiatives. The primary focus of these grants is on supporting initiatives that contribute to the five Pillars of Prosperity. This includes projects that enhance cultural vibrancy, stimulate local economic growth, improve educational access and quality, promote sustainable environmental practices, and strengthen health and human services. Emphasis is placed on projects that demonstrate a clear potential to create meaningful opportunities and address identified needs within Highland County, aligning with the foundation's overarching goals for regional development and community empowerment. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in terms of quantifiable targets, the expected outcomes are centered around advancing opportunities, meeting pressing needs, and unleashing potential across the five pillar areas. Successful projects are anticipated to contribute to a stronger, more vibrant Highland County by fostering innovation, supporting community-led solutions, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The funding information indicates that requests should generally be between $500 and $5,000, with larger requests considered based on their potential for significant impact, suggesting that projects with demonstrable potential for broad positive change will be prioritized.

Ohio's Premier Manufacturing Pitch Competition, sponsored by MAGNET, is a grant program designed to foster manufacturing innovation and support startups in Ohio. The program aligns with a mission to advance the manufacturing sector by providing crucial resources, including financial awards and expert consulting services, to promising entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and market-ready products, thereby strengthening Ohio's industrial landscape. The primary beneficiaries of this program are Ohio-based entrepreneurs who possess a physical product, an innovative idea, or a manufacturing innovation. The competition specifically targets startups that are poised for growth and can benefit from strategic support to reach their next milestone. The impact goals include stimulating economic development within Ohio, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing the state's reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing. The program prioritizes a multi-faceted approach to support, focusing on engineering design assistance, operational services, lean operations, and sales and marketing. A notable focus is the Innovation Award, sponsored by Huntington, which provides up to $10,000 specifically for diverse founders, underscoring a commitment to inclusive growth and equitable access to opportunities within the manufacturing sector. Additionally, the competition offers exposure to The Advanced Manufacturing Fund and visibility to a judging panel of local service providers and investors, providing invaluable networking and funding opportunities. Expected outcomes include the successful development and commercialization of new manufacturing innovations, leading to increased revenue for participating startups and a stronger, more diversified manufacturing base in Ohio. Measurable results include the total amount of prizes awarded, which exceeds $75,000, and the provision of MAGNET’s manufacturing consulting services tailored to the specific needs of the companies. The program also aims to foster a collaborative ecosystem where entrepreneurs receive guidance from MAGNET's team of manufacturing experts, contributing to a robust pipeline of talent and innovation.

The Springfield Foundation's Competitive Grant Program aims to support the entire Clark County community through six focus areas: Arts & Culture, Civic Affairs, Education, Environment, Conservation & Animal Welfare, Health, and Human Services. This grant program is aligned with the foundation's mission to foster a community with strong cultural vitality, engaged citizens, improved environmental awareness, quality education, better health outcomes, and a strong safety net for human needs. The foundation emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing various facets of community well-being and growth. The program targets a wide range of beneficiaries, including individuals of all ages experiencing art and culture, Clark County citizens for civic engagement, residents for environmental appreciation, children for early education and college readiness, individuals at risk of unintended pregnancies and STIs, those with mental health issues or chronic diseases, and families/individuals needing human services. The impact goals are to increase diversity and attendance at arts and culture events, improve civic knowledge and participation, increase environmental awareness and pet welfare, boost kindergarten readiness and college/career preparedness, improve reproductive and mental health, better manage chronic diseases, and achieve financial stability and positive outcomes for all people, especially youth and seniors. The foundation prioritizes increasing opportunities for artists and audiences, educating and engaging active citizens, fostering environmental appreciation and reducing homeless pets, increasing enrollment in early childhood programs and post-secondary preparation, impacting community health by addressing unintended pregnancies and STIs, improving mental health and chronic disease management, and assisting families and individuals with emergency needs, family breakdown prevention, economic self-sufficiency, and independent living. A key strategic priority is also promoting positive outcomes for all people, with specific attention to youth and seniors. The expected outcomes and measurable results include increased diversity and attendance at arts and culture events, improved civic knowledge and participation, increased citizen participation in environmental activities, a decrease in homeless pets, more children enrolling in early childhood programs, increased parental involvement in education, more students in post-secondary preparation, improved mental health outcomes, decreased incidence of unintended pregnancies and STIs, better management of chronic diseases, and increased financial independence and overall quality of life for individuals and families. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by investing in these diverse focus areas, they can create a more vibrant, engaged, educated, healthy, and supportive community for all residents of Clark County.

The purpose of the John W. and Edna McManus Shepard Fund of The Columbus Foundation is to provide cultural and/or economic programs that benefit the residents of Cambridge and/or Guernsey County.

The Harry and Lois McCullough Fund, administered by the Richland County Foundation, supports educational programming that advances writing, literature appreciation, music, and Ohio history. Requests may originate from K 12 classrooms or organizations providing aligned programming. Projects should be creative, innovative, and effective, with measurable goals and clear educational value. The annual grant budget generally ranges from 250 to 1,500 dollars. Applicants must identify the appropriate approver for the request and ensure the proposal aligns with mission areas and student learning outcomes. Eligible applicants include K 12 educators and organizations offering programming consistent with the funds focus areas. The fund does not support storage containers and rugs, substitute teacher costs, seating and furniture, or physical technology items such as cameras or tablets. Applications are due May 1, 2024. Grant duration is not stated. Additional information is available from the Richland County Foundation.

Coshocton Foundation Unrestricted Grant Application Deadline: May 31, 2024 Meeting Date: Early June 2024 Eligibility Criteria: Community organizations with a current 501(c)(3) non-profit designation are eligible to apply. Schools, churches, and government agencies are also eligible. Application Process: Application Criteria and Form: [Click Here](link to application) Contact Number: (740) 622-0010 Submission Details: Completed applications should be sent to: Coshocton Foundation P.O. Box 55 Coshocton, OH 43812 Alternatively, applications may be brought to: Coshocton Foundation Office 220 S. Fourth St. If delivering in person, please use the mail slot in the front door or call the office to make other arrangements. Seven copies of the grant request are required. Deadline for Submission: All applications must be received in the office by 4 p.m. on Friday, May 31, 2024.

This grant provides up to $100,000 to nonprofit organizations for innovative projects that address critical community needs in areas such as culture, education, environment, family, and health & wellness within the Tri-State region.

This funding provides up to $2,000 for specific projects that benefit women, children, and families in Licking County, focusing on tangible outcomes rather than broader programs.

The Granville Community Foundation in Ohio is offering grants to non-profit organizations and public agencies for projects that enrich the lives of Granville residents, with a focus on arts, culture, education, and social services, and prioritizes initiatives that enhance quality of life, cultural opportunities, historical preservation, social support, public spaces, and youth experiences.

This grant provides funding for local organizations in Pickaway County to develop or improve parks and trails, supporting community outdoor space enhancements.

This grant provides funding to municipalities in Cuyahoga County for projects that educate residents on waste reduction, recycling, and composting to promote sustainable waste management practices.