Education Grants
Education Grants support nonprofits serving Summit County learners, funding early learning, literacy, enrichment, and college and career preparation to advance education from childhood through adulthood.
Funder: Akron Community Foundation
Due Dates: November 15, 2026 (Applications open) | December 15, 2026 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $695,500 awarded to 37 nonprofits in 2026; funds must be requested and used within two years
Summary: Supports nonprofit education programs serving Summit County learners through early learning, literacy, enrichment, and college and career readiness.
Key Information: First-time applicants are asked to complete the Tell Us About Your Program form before applying.
Description
Akron Community Foundation’s Education grants invest in the future of Summit County students through its quarterly Community Fund grantmaking program. The foundation works with local schools, education leaders, nonprofit innovators, parents and community members to identify opportunities. Preference goes to programs aligned with Summit Education Initiative’s Cradle to Career Continuum, particularly kindergarten readiness, third grade reading, eighth grade math, and college and career readiness.
A portion of funding supports early learning for children from birth to age 5. First Things First, a community coalition formed in 2009, guides this priority through a holistic, collaborative approach to learning. Supported work also includes children’s book programs, adult literacy and GED instruction, vocational and continuing education, employment training for residents with developmental disabilities, and after-school and summer enrichment for underserved youth.
