Apply for grant funding

Application process

• The organization must be a public charity under the IRS Code Section 501(c)3.
• Your program / project should be aligned with the Foundation’s funding priorities and demonstrate measurable goals and outcomes.
• Your organization demonstrates a commitment to furthering diversity, equity and inclusion.
• Your organization’s program / project is located within AES Ohio’s 24-county service area (see map below).
• If you received funding in the last grant cycle (2025), a final report and thank you video must be submitted in the grant management system, GOapply, before a discussion about future funding.
• Carefully review the Foundation funding priorities before starting your application.
• One grant application can be submitted every 12 months.
• The deadline for the 2026 cycle is October 1, 2026. The funding will be awarded in December 2026.
• A final report and thank you video are required at the completion of your project in 2027.

If you are previously funded organization, once you have submitted your final report and thank you video, please set up a meeting with Vivian O’Connell to discuss a new grant request. If you are a new organization that has not received funding from the Foundation, carefully review the funding priorities, requirements and exclusions prior scheduling a meeting with Vivian O’Connell.

The AES Ohio Foundation does not pass on the costs of its community investments to customers.

Funding priorities

The AES Ohio Foundation is dedicated to addressing basic needs within our community including food, housing, clothing, and improved health outcomes. We recognize that supporting education, employment readiness and investing in performing arts, visual and broadcast media significantly fosters a more vibrant community. We are leaders in creating a more diverse, equitable and inclusive community through investments that eliminate barriers for individuals who are striving to improve their own lives and support their families.

The Foundation board’s decisions will be guided by the following funding priorities:

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Eligibility limitations

Requests are not considered for:

• Political campaigns or activities
• School organizations including bands, athletic teams, clubs
• Individuals
• Sponsorships
• Organizations that discriminate on the basis of race, culture, gender, age or religion
• Religious organization programs administered for religious purposes
• Mass funding appeals
   

AES Ohio service area

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