The Cleveland Foundation supports the needs, priorities and opportunities identified by communities and residents in Cuyahoga, Lake and Geauga counties, with a focus on both real-time and long-term impact to reverse the negative impact of historic disinvestment and inequity on Black and Brown Clevelanders.
A portion of our grantmaking is directed by foundation board and staff; the other portion is recommended by our donors. Below outlines details for board and staff-directed grantmaking.
Areas we generally do not fund:
- Individuals
- For-profit/commercial organizations
- Endowment campaigns, annual appeals or membership drives
- Religious organizations for religious purposes
- Travel for individuals or groups when travel is the proposal’s primary focus
- Community services such as police and fire protection, road repair or snow removal
- Capital projects for hospitals, nursing homes or institutions of higher education
See our frequently asked questions for more information.
Capital Requests
The Foundation accepts applications for capital projects based on our current policy. Please review our guidelines before applying through our general application.
Funding Levels
We do not have predetermined funding levels. Request the amount that meets the needs of your program and aligns best with your organization’s capacity and other anticipated or received support.
Generally, we make grants for one year. Your organization may apply for continued support for a previously funded purpose or project unless we specifically notify you otherwise. We cannot fund project expenses that have already been incurred. Please submit your request well in advance of your project’s start date.
Other Grant Opportunities
Families, corporations, individuals and even private foundations have established funds at the Cleveland Foundation. These funds have their own grantmaking strategies and application processes. Click here to learn more.
Donor Grantmaking
The Cleveland Foundation is thankful for the opportunity to partner with our generous donors to help them meet their philanthropic goals while also responding to community needs As a result, more than half of the dollars distributed by the foundation each year are directed by our donors