[Akron Community Foundation](https://www.akroncf.org)

July 1, 2026: Full application submission deadline for Civic Affairs Grants (applications accepted June 1 - July 1; annual cycle)

Typical grant size averages $12,000; total annual funding in 2025 was $647,500 across 56 organizations.

Supports Summit County projects advancing economic growth, urban development, safety, environmental protection, and civic engagement.

--- ## Description Akron Community Foundation's Civic Affairs Grants program funds nonprofit initiatives that foster economic growth, job creation, urban development, crime prevention, neighborhood safety, environmental protection, and civic engagement throughout Summit County, Ohio. Grants support a broad array of projects, including workforce development, entrepreneurship, land renewal, home repairs for elderly and low-income residents, public space improvements, and environmental education. The program aims to address both immediate needs and systemic challenges, promoting prosperity and quality of life for all residents. --- ## Due Dates - Applications are accepted annually from June 1 to July 1. - **Next full application deadline:** July 1, 2026 --- ## Funding Amount - **Award size:** Grants typically average $12,000 per recipient. - **Total annual funding:** $647,500 awarded to 56 organizations in 2025. - Grants are competitive and distributed to a wide range of nonprofits each cycle. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or use a qualified fiscal sponsor. - Projects must benefit residents of Summit County, Ohio. - Both first-time and returning applicants are welcome. - Grants support program/project requests, operating support, and other types of community initiatives. - Organizations addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion are encouraged to apply. --- ## Application Process - **Application window:** June 1 – July 1 (annually). - **Online application:** [Apply online here](https://goapply2.akoyago.com/akroncf/Identity/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2Fakroncf). - First-time applicants should complete the [Tell Us About Your Program](https://www.akroncf.org/grantmaking-initiatives/overview/tell-us-about-your-program/) form and contact program staff before applying. - Required materials include: - Proposal narrative and description - Budget documents (organizational and project-specific) - List of key staff and board members - Financial audit or statement of financial position - Fiscal sponsor documentation (if applicable) - Optional: Elevator speech video link - Grant distributions are typically made 6–8 weeks after the application deadline. - Selected first-time applicants may be invited to an in-person Office Interview (typically the fourth Wednesday of July). --- ## Additional Information - Projects should demonstrate measurable community impact, address local needs, and outline sustainability plans. - The foundation prioritizes inclusion, belonging, diversity, and equity in funded projects. - A history of funded projects is available for reference to understand the program’s scope and priorities. - Applicants may contact staff for guidance on eligibility and fit. --- ## External Links - [Program Overview & Application Info](https://www.akroncf.org/grantmaking-initiatives/civic-affairs) - [Recent Civic Affairs Grants](https://www.akroncf.org/grantmaking-initiatives/civic-affairs/grants/) - [Competitive Grants Overview](https://www.akroncf.org/grantmaking-initiatives/overview/competitive-grants/) - [Application Questions (PDF)](https://www.akroncf.org/wp-content/uploads/Community-Fund-Grant-Application-CA-2025.pdf) - [Apply Online](https://goapply2.akoyago.com/akroncf/Identity/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2Fakroncf) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role/Area | Phone | Email | |-------------------------------|------------------------------|-----------------|----------------------------------------| | Cristina González Alcalá, PhD | Community Investment Officer | 330-436-5626 | cgonzalezalcala@akroncf.org | | Mariana Silva | Community Investment Officer | 330-436-5612 | msilva@akroncf.org | | Brian Reitz | Community Investment Staff | 330-436-5628 | breitz@akroncf.org | | Kim Nott | Community Investment Staff | 330-436-5625 | knott@akroncf.org | | Main Line | General Inquiries | 330-376-8522 | [Contact Form](https://www.akroncf.org/contact/) | For additional questions or to discuss your project’s fit, contact any of the above staff members.

Civic Affairs Grants

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