Eligibility

Nonprofits and public entities serving greater Cleveland and northeast Ohio may apply. Education grants support K-12 learning, workforce development, college access, and STEM programming for residents of Cuyahoga County and surrounding areas. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or public entities.

Program Goals

The Cleveland Foundation is one of the oldest community foundations in the world, investing in northeast Ohio communities since 1914. Community grantmaking supports education, economic opportunity, and arts programs that improve life in greater Cleveland. Education grants fund innovative K-12 programs, STEM initiatives, workforce development, and college access efforts that build stronger futures for Cleveland students.

Application and Distribution

Standard community grant applications are submitted online through the Cleveland Foundation's grant portal on a rolling basis. Large grant requests may require a pre-application letter of inquiry. The Foundation conducts due diligence and may reach out to discuss your proposal before making a decision.

Cycle Notes

The Cleveland Foundation accepts standard grant applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. Visit clevelandfoundation.org for the current application portal. Larger or strategic grants may have specific cycles — contact the Foundation's program staff for current priorities.

Grant Award Amount

Community grants vary widely. Education grants to individual organizations typically range from $10,000 to $200,000. Strategic investments for high-impact organizations can be larger. Contact the Foundation to discuss appropriate ask size for your program.

Allowable Purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for Cleveland Foundation grants in Ohio?

Nonprofits and public entities serving greater Cleveland and northeast Ohio are eligible. Education grants focus on K-12 learning, STEM, workforce development, and college access in Cuyahoga County and surrounding areas.

How much funding is available through Cleveland Foundation?

Education grants typically range from $10,000 to $200,000. Strategic investments can be larger. Contact the Foundation to discuss appropriate request size.

Can Cleveland Foundation funds be used for STEM and coding tools?

Yes. Cleveland Foundation funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.

How do Ohio schools apply for Cleveland Foundation grants?

Apply online at clevelandfoundation.org on a rolling basis. Large requests may require a pre-application letter of inquiry. Contact Foundation program staff to discuss your proposal.

How can Forward Education help with Cleveland Foundation funding?

Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for Ohio schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes the Cleveland Foundation funds. Contact us before submitting your application.