Learn about what we fund before applying for a grant

Before you apply, see if your request meets our funding guidelines.
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Nationwide Foundation grants fall into three categories:
  • General operating support
  • Project and/or program support
  • Capital support (these grants are limited and considered on a case-by-case basis)

We make our funding decisions based on a Community Impact Model that prioritizes grant requests supporting Food Security, Crisis Stability, Children's Wellbeing and Social & Economic Empowerment. Arts and Culture organizations and Higher Education organizations are by invitation only.
The Nationwide Foundation accepts applications from nonprofits in the following communities:
  • Columbus (Metro), OH
  • Des Moines, IA
  • Gainesville, FL
  • Raleigh, NC
  • San Antonio, TX
  • Scottsdale/Phoenix (Metro), AZ
  • Wausau, WI

If you have questions, please email us.
  • Organizations that are not tax exempt under paragraph 501(C)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code
  • Organizations that, in their constitution discriminate against a person or group on the basis of race, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, disability, genetic information, religion, national origin, ancestry, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by law
  • Veterans, labor, religious or fraternal groups (except when these groups provide needed services to the community at large)
  • Groups or organizations that will re-grant the foundation’s gifts to other organizations or individuals (except United Way)
  • Public or private primary or secondary schools
  • Athletic events or teams, bands and choirs
  • Individuals for any purpose
  • Lobbying activities
  • Fund-raising events such as walk-a-thons, telethons, and sponsorships
  • Debt-reduction or retirement campaigns
  • Endowment campaigns
  • Requests to support travel 

We generally do not fund national organizations, unless the applicant is a local branch or chapter providing direct services.
I didn’t pass the eligibility quiz. Why not?

The quiz questions are designed to make sure that a request fits the Nationwide Foundation's funding guidelines. If you received a message that your proposal doesn’t meet the funding guidelines, the foundation regrets that we won’t be able to provide support. If you have questions about our funding guidelines, please email us.

If September 1 falls on a weekend or holiday, does the deadline change?

No, the deadline is September 1 at 11:59 p.m. ET, regardless of when it falls.

I forgot my password. What do I do?

Go to the grant application page and click on the question mark in the top left corner of the page to reset your password.

I’m having technical issues. Where can I get help?

Navigate to the question mark at the top left of your screen and click on "Contact Support."