[Hamilton Community Foundation](https://www.hamiltonfoundation.org)

April 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)

Up to $50,000 per award; multiyear funding may be considered.

Supports youth-focused programs in Butler County, Ohio, that foster character and social-emotional growth through values-driven initiatives.

Grants are for new, existing, or expanded programs aligned with values of honesty, integrity, gratitude, humility, empathy, and respect.

--- ## Description The HIGHER Fund, established by the Neil Cohen family in partnership with the Hamilton Community Foundation, provides grants to support youth-focused programs that encourage character development and social-emotional growth. Guided by a local committee, the fund prioritizes initiatives—whether new, existing, or expanded—that promote personal growth and embody the core values of honesty, integrity, gratitude, humility, empathy, and respect. The fund aims to inspire individual transformation and strengthen community well-being in Butler County, Ohio, honoring a legacy of giving and impact for future generations. --- ## Due Dates - April 2027 (anticipated/projected full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Awards are up to $50,000 per grant. - Multiyear funding may be considered for select projects. - Successful applicants must provide clear, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) metrics and, for multiyear projects, submit annual progress reports. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or public entities (such as cities, public schools, or state agencies) operating in Butler County, Ohio. - Other organizations may apply using a fiscal sponsor and must complete a fiscal sponsor form. - Grants support programs that serve youth and are aligned with the HIGHER values. - Only one application per fund per year is permitted; organizations must wait one year before reapplying to the same fund, regardless of award outcome. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted online via the [Hamilton Community Foundation grant portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=hcf). - Applicants must create an online account and provide organizational information, including EIN/Tax ID. - Required documents include the IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter, organization budget, and project budget. - Applications must be submitted by 5 PM (EST) on the due date; late submissions are not accepted. - Collaborators can be added to applications for review or assistance. - A sample project budget template is available for applicants. - Applicants are encouraged to review the [How to Apply guide](https://www.hamiltonfoundation.org/nonprofits/how-to-apply/) and [Grant FAQs](https://www.hamiltonfoundation.org/nonprofits/how-to-apply/grant-faqs/) before starting. --- ## Additional Information - Proposals should clearly demonstrate how the program fosters individual transformation and strengthens community well-being. - Reporting requirements include outlining SMART success metrics and submitting annual reports for multiyear projects. - Notification of grant decisions is typically within 1–2 months of the deadline. - Funds must be requested and used within two years of award date. --- ## External Links - [HIGHER Fund Grant Program Page](https://www.hamiltonfoundation.org/nonprofits/grant-opportunities/higher-fund) - [Online Grant Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=hcf) - [How to Apply Guide](https://www.hamiltonfoundation.org/nonprofits/how-to-apply/) - [Grant Application FAQs](https://www.hamiltonfoundation.org/nonprofits/how-to-apply/grant-faqs/) - [Sample Budget Template (PDF)](https://www.hamiltonfoundation.org/media/user/allsite/HCF%20Budget%20exampleWritable.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Role | Email/Phone | |------------------------------------|--------------------------------------| | Hamilton Community Foundation | [info@hamiltonfoundation.org](mailto:info@hamiltonfoundation.org) | | Jill Roy, HIGHER Fund Coordinator | 513-863-1717 | | General Contact Page | [Contact Form](https://www.hamiltonfoundation.org/contact) | ---

HIGHER Fund Grants

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