[Columbus Foundation](https://columbusfoundation.org)

February 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)

Up to $1,500 per project (operations); $300 mini-grant for garden needs; project duration: 1 year.

Supports organizations in Central Ohio to create, continue, or expand community gardens and greenspaces, enhancing food access, wellness, and community connection.

Forecasted deadline; confirm details on the program page before applying.

--- ## Description This grant program provides financial and material resources to organizations seeking to transform underused land into thriving community gardens and greenspaces in Central Ohio. The funding supports both new and existing gardens—such as community, school, pollinator, and beautification gardens—aiming to increase access to healthy, affordable, and local food, particularly in under-resourced neighborhoods. The grant also promotes health, wellness, environmental stewardship, and community building through shared green spaces. --- ## Due Dates - February 2027 (anticipated/projected full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Up to $1,500 per project to support day-to-day operations of community gardens (ongoing personnel costs are not allowable). - $300 mini-grant available for garden operation needs (e.g., product, soil, tools). - Funding is for projects that can be completed within one calendar year from the date of application. - Note: No donated product event is planned for spring 2026. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or have a fiscal sponsor with 501(c)(3) status. - The garden or greenspace must be located within the city limits of Columbus (for City of Columbus funding) or Franklin County (for Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation funding). - Both new and existing gardens are eligible, including those run by neighborhood groups, churches, or block watches (with fiscal sponsorship). - Projects must benefit a group and not be for personal use. - Parcel ID and landowner acknowledgment are required as part of the application. - The ability to complete the project within one year of funding is required. --- ## Application Process - Prepare documentation, including: - Parcel ID for the garden site (findable via the [Franklin County Auditor](http://www.franklincountyauditor.com/)). - Landowner acknowledgment form signed by the property owner or appropriate Land Bank representative if applicable. - Project/garden name, fiscal sponsor details (if applicable), and a project budget. - Applications must clearly describe: - The intended impact on the community. - The capacity of the responsible party to carry out the project. - A sustainability plan for the garden. - Submit the application through The Columbus Foundation’s online portal (see program page for link). - Award notifications are typically sent via email in early March following the deadline. - Funds are distributed shortly after award announcements; grantees are responsible for timely completion of grant agreements. - Final reports are required for continued grant eligibility. --- ## Additional Information - Funding cannot be used for personnel costs, utility bills, or items not aligned with grant priorities. - Requests for materials for educational activities (e.g., cooking demonstrations) are allowed if tied to healthy eating education. - The fiscal sponsor is responsible for receiving and disbursing funds to the garden group. - Prior experience with the fiscal sponsor is recommended for smooth administration. --- ## External Links - [Community Garden Grants Program Page](https://columbusfoundation.org/nonprofit-center/grant-opportunities/columbus-foundation-grants/operating-and-program-support/community-garden-grants) - [Columbus Foundation Grant Deadlines & Open Houses](https://columbusfoundation.org/nonprofit-center/deadlines-open-houses) - [Franklin County Auditor Parcel Search](http://www.franklincountyauditor.com/) - [Columbus Foundation Contact Page](https://columbusfoundation.org/contact) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | |---------------------|---------------------------------------|--------------| | Stefanie Coffman | scoffman@columbusfoundation.org | 614-251-4000 | | General Inquiries | contactus@columbusfoundation.org | 614-251-4000 | ---

Community Garden Grants

Sign in to see full grant listing