The Cleveland Foundation makes most of its grants to tax-exempt agencies classified as 501(c)(3) organizations (public charities as defined by the Internal Revenue Service) in Cuyahoga, Lake, and Geauga counties. Some grants are also made to government agencies and churches. 

The steps to apply for a grant are outlined here. 

Grants from donor advised funds are made to nonprofit organizations based on the donor’s areas of interest. Therefore, applications are not necessary. Your profile can be reviewed by staff working with donor funds, which is why it is a good idea to keep your profile updated regularly.   

The Foundation has additional grant opportunities with separate application processes. Families, corporations, individuals, and other foundations have established funds at the Cleveland Foundation. These funds have their own grantmaking strategies, application and approval processes. Learn more.

The Cleveland Foundation does not provide assistance with writing proposals. You can contact Candid, which frequently conducts workshops on proposal writing, among other services. Visit its website to find a location near you. 

Neighborhood Connections can be a source for funding. The organization supports resident-led projects and community network building in Cleveland and East Cleveland. Established in 2003 by the Cleveland Foundation, Neighborhood Connections is one of the largest community building programs in the country and is recognized as a national model in its practices.

A second resource for both individuals and organizations is Candid. It does not provide funding, but it is well equipped to provide online resources to help grantseekers identify appropriate funders and develop targeted proposals. Visit its website to find a location near you.

You can log in to Grants Gateway to review the submission status of your application on the My Applications tab or contact the grants management team. 

There is no limit on the number of times an organization can apply for funding. Organizations should use discretion and submit requests only for top-priority projects and programs. 

While program officers have specific areas of interest and experience, they are all available to help you through the application process. Meet the members of the grantmaking team. 

Yes, each application is considered on its own merits.

No. It is not necessary to meet with a staff member before applying. Your submitted application will serve as an introduction and summary of your project. If you have questions, our Grantmaking staff is available.  

There is a wide range in the dollar amounts of grants awarded. Organizations should request the amount actually needed to successfully complete the proposed project.