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

November 2026 (final report) | February 2027 (full application)

Up to $1,500 per grant for operations; $300 mini-grant for garden needs; 1-year project period.

Supports the creation and expansion of community gardens and greenspaces to improve food access, education, and neighborhood vitality in Central Ohio.

--- ## Description This program provides financial and material support to organizations working to transform underused land into community gardens and greenspaces in Central Ohio. The goal is to increase access to healthy, affordable, and local food, while promoting education, health and wellness, environmental stewardship, community building, and neighborhood beautification—especially in under-resourced neighborhoods. Funding is available for both new and existing gardens, including school gardens, pollinator gardens, and similar projects that benefit the broader community. --- ## Due Dates - November 2026: Final report submission deadline for current grantees (anticipated/projected) - February 2027: Full application submission deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Up to $1,500 per grant to support day-to-day operations of community gardens (excluding ongoing personnel costs) - $300 mini-grant available for garden operation needs (e.g., product, soil, tools) - Project period: 1 year from grant award There will not be a donated product event in spring 2026. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or have a fiscal sponsor with 501(c)(3) status. - Projects must be located within the City of Columbus (for City funding) or Franklin County (for Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation funding). - Eligible projects include new or existing community gardens, school gardens, pollinator gardens, and neighborhood beautification efforts. - The project must be completed within one calendar year from the date of application. - The proposal must include a Parcel ID to confirm location eligibility. - Applications must include a signed landowner acknowledgment document. --- ## Application Process - Review eligibility and guidelines on the [program page](https://columbusfoundation.org/nonprofit-center/grant-opportunities/columbus-foundation-grants/operating-and-program-support/community-garden-grants). - Prepare required documentation, including: - Fiscal sponsor information (if applicable) - Parcel ID (find via [Franklin County Auditor](http://www.franklincountyauditor.com/)) - Landowner acknowledgment form, signed by the property owner or Land Bank representative - Submit a complete application via the Columbus Foundation’s grant portal when the cycle opens (anticipated February 2027). - If awarded, complete the project within the grant period and submit a final report by November 2026 (for current grantees; future cycles will have similar timing). --- ## Additional Information - Funding cannot be used for personnel costs, utility bills, or items not aligned with the grant’s purpose. - Cooking demonstration/class expenses may be eligible if directly tied to garden-based healthy eating education. - Projects must benefit a group and not individuals for personal use. - Final reports are required for future funding eligibility. --- ## 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](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](mailto:scoffman@columbusfoundation.org) | 614-251-4000 | | General Inquiries | [contactus@columbusfoundation.org](mailto:contactus@columbusfoundation.org) | 614-251-4000 |

Community Garden Grants

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