Best Grants for Children in Ohio

Ohio youth-serving organizations focused on developmental disabilities can seek funding to build self-advocacy and leadership skills among young people with I/DD. Ohio children and youth programs can access funding through Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council to demonstrate new approaches to services and supports and educate policymakers and the public about effective supports for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Ohio institutions of higher education and eligible nonprofit colleges can receive funding to expand youth-focused gambling harm prevention and early intervention on campuses in Ohio. Focused on youth services, the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services invites one statewide partner to build campus capacity and coordinate a network reducing gambling-related harm among college students.

Ohio youth-serving organizations working on suicide prevention can access funding through Ohio Department of Health and Human Services to continue existing YS26 projects. Grants up to US $76,300 support year 4 activities, with optional supplemental funds for leading the state’s youth suicide prevention coalition and supporting local Suicide Fatality Review committees.

Ohio youth-serving community agencies and local health departments can receive funding to build adolescent resilience and trauma-informed supports in Ohio. Grants from the Ohio Department of Health support expanding a train-the-trainer model for trusted adults and creating Youth Engagement Groups that elevate youth voices in community health planning across at least one county, with awards up to US $100,000.

Ohio youth-serving Kiwanis clubs can receive US $500 mini grants for new service projects that promote safe and healthy kids, including bike, water, internet, and fire safety, nutrition, mental health, bullying prevention, and drug addiction programs. Ohio District Kiwanis Foundation provides this matching-fund support to help clubs launch impactful children’s initiatives.

Nonprofit and community organizations providing direct services to homeless youth and homeless pregnant youth in Ohio can seek funding to implement approaches that prevent and end youth homelessness. The Ohio Department of Health and Human Services offers awards of more than US $30,000 for youth-focused homelessness services, with technical assistance and data support provided through COHHIO.

501(c)(3) organizations in Ohio serving children or advancing environmental stewardship can apply for Sprague’s charitable contribution program, with awards ranging from US $250 - US $10,000. Funding supports impactful community programs, especially those where modest grants create significant results for youth services or environmental initiatives within Sprague’s operating areas.

Nonprofit organizations serving children and youth in Ohio and other eligible regions can receive donated toys to distribute to the kids they serve. The Toy Foundation’s Toy Chest program channels industry toy donations through regional logistics partners, allowing approved member organizations to pick up toys quarterly from the nearest facility for their programs.

Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children and youth can apply for Peoples Bank Foundation grants to support youth services and related community programs. Eligible organizations must be within the bank’s service footprint and request funds for non-payroll needs that benefit low- to moderate-income individuals and families.

Ohio youth-serving nonprofits can seek project support for education, youth programs, and related community services that benefit children and families. Republic Bank Foundation supports initiatives such as education and youth programs, family and community welfare, recreation, and civic projects within its service area, which includes Ohio-based 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(19) organizations.

Children’s hospitals, general hospitals with pediatric departments, and nonprofits in Ohio serving children battling illness can receive US $25,000 - US $65,000 annually to build or expand gaming programs for pediatric patients. Joy in Childhood Foundation funds equipment, staffing, connectivity, and virtual programming, with a focus on engaging teens through bedside and remote play experiences.

Children’s and general hospitals with pediatric departments in Ohio can apply for grants to host prom-like experiences for teen patients ages 13–19 who cannot attend their own prom due to illness. Joy in Childhood Foundation provides US $20,000 - US $50,000 to support event space, food, entertainment, formal wear, and related prom costs.

School districts, LEAs, and community-based organizations in Ohio can use this grant for high-quality after-school, summer, and expanded learning time programs serving children from economically disadvantaged families in low-performing schools. The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce supports youth services, academic enrichment, and family engagement initiatives that benefit children and youth across the state.

Grants from Jack in the Box Foundation help Ohio youth services and children’s nonprofits that feed, educate, and empower young people. 501(c)(3) organizations serving communities within 50 miles of a Jack in the Box restaurant can apply for US $5,000 - US $10,000 to support local youth-focused programs, with letters from franchisees or employees strengthening applications.

Nonprofit agencies, organizations, and Kiwanis family clubs in Ohio can seek funding for youth and family projects that keep kids safe and healthy. With a mission to support impactful community service, Ohio District Kiwanis Foundation provides grants up to US $3,000, prioritizing innovative, outreach-focused programs involving Kiwanis volunteers and matching support.

Nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community organizations in Ohio that engage AmeriCorps members in youth and community service programs can apply for funding to run intensive service projects. ServeOhio administers AmeriCorps in Ohio, supporting evidence-based initiatives in areas like youth services, education, health, and economic opportunity that benefit children and families.

Nonprofit organizations improving children’s physical activity, nutrition education, and access to healthy food in Ohio and other eligible states can apply for approximately US $25,000 to support year-round programs or select capital needs. Grants from Advocare Foundation prioritize long-term solutions that help children and families in high-risk communities lead happy, healthy, and safe lives.

Ohio 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental entities serving youth and families can access funding through the Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation for programs in arts and culture, education, health, housing, environment, and human services. Priority goes to organizations in Akron and Summit County working to enrich local children’s lives and communities.

Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) or 170(c)(1) status serving Ohio communities can seek Huntington National Bank’s support for youth services and other community programs that improve self-sufficiency and quality of life. Focus areas include community services, affordable and supportive housing, economic and community development, and racial and social equity initiatives benefiting low- and moderate-income children and families.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The NAILBA Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support small, well-managed U.S. charities that assist those in need, particularly children. Grants are available to organizations with backing from a NAILBA member and that meet specific criteria, such as nonsectarian operation and appropriate fiscal accountability. Since its inception in 2002, the foundation has invested in community transformation by funding initiatives that directly engage in beneficial services, thereby enhancing the welfare of underprivileged groups.

The Alvah H. and Wyline P. Chapman Foundation offers grants to support charitable, educational, and community-focused initiatives, primarily in Florida and Georgia. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that address children's welfare, education, multicultural understanding, substance abuse prevention, and homelessness. Grants typically do not exceed $15,000, and proposals must be endorsed by a Foundation Director. Interested parties should submit a Letter of Inquiry for consideration.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

The I9 Sports Association provides scholarship grants to support youth sports participation for children under 18 in the U.S. Grants of up to $150 help offset registration fees for various recreational activities. With a focus on inclusivity and access, the association aims to foster athletic development and participation among young athletes. Applications are accepted year-round, with grants awarded in February, May, August, and November, ensuring ongoing support for youth sports engagement.

The JTMF Foundation Grant focuses on improving the lives of individuals in need, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. By partnering with organizations addressing immediate needs and long-term challenges, the foundation supports children, older adults, veterans, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Guided by Catholic values, JTMF aims to empower communities while seeking innovative solutions to societal issues. Organizations that align with these focus areas are encouraged to connect, fostering a collaborative effort towards meaningful impact.

The CAPTRUST National Partnership Grant aims to support local and national charities that serve children's needs. Each year, a Charity of Choice is selected, typically receiving a grant of over $100,000, while additional national grants are awarded to organizations aligned with the CCF mission. This initiative represents 40% of the CAPTRUST Community Foundation's annual giving budget, underscoring its commitment to impactful charitable partnerships.

The Do it Best Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on community needs, particularly in health and wellness, youth enrichment, the arts, and community development. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $20,000, with no strict limits based on quarterly applications. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and be located near specific areas. This initiative aims to enhance community resources and foster connections among residents.