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

Rolling

Amount varies; direct investments are considered on a limited basis.

Supports nonprofits operating or launching social enterprises that generate revenue to advance a social mission in Franklin County, Ohio.

--- ## Description This opportunity from the Columbus Foundation is designed to empower nonprofit organizations that operate or are launching social enterprises—ventures where revenue generation directly supports a primary social objective. The Foundation encourages organizations to explore related programs such as GiveBackHack, SEA Change, and Innovation Catalyst for coaching and capacity-building, but also provides direct funding for eligible social enterprise initiatives. The intent is to support innovative, sustainable business models that drive positive community impact in Franklin County, Ohio. --- ## Due Dates - Applications are accepted on a **rolling basis**; there is no set deadline. --- ## Funding Amount - Funding amounts are **not standardized** and are determined on a case-by-case basis. - The Foundation invests directly in nonprofit social enterprises on a limited basis. - Award size and duration are not specified; applicants should expect variability based on project scope and readiness. --- ## Eligibility - Open to **existing nonprofit organizations** currently operating a social enterprise. - New nonprofits and existing nonprofits launching a new social enterprise may also be considered, depending on their readiness to launch. - All applicants must demonstrate a **substantial benefit to Franklin County, Ohio**. - Applicants are encouraged to first explore programs like GiveBackHack, SEA Change, and Innovation Catalyst for coaching and support. --- ## Application Process - Review the grant opportunity details on the [Columbus Foundation Social Enterprises page](https://columbusfoundation.org/nonprofit-center/grant-opportunities/columbus-foundation-grants/capacity-building/social-enterprises). - Prepare documentation demonstrating your organization's nonprofit status, the social enterprise's alignment with your mission, and the anticipated benefit to Franklin County. - Submit your application through the Foundation's grant application portal. If you have not previously applied, you may need to set up an account through the Foundation's [Nonprofit Portal](https://columbusfoundation.org/nonprofit-center/nonprofit-portal-resource-center). - For questions or to discuss your readiness, contact the grantmaking staff (see Contact Information below). --- ## Additional Information - The Foundation encourages applicants to utilize available coaching and capacity-building resources before applying for direct funding. - Only organizations able to demonstrate significant community impact in Franklin County will be considered. - Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so you may apply at any time. --- ## External Links - [Social Enterprises Grant Information](https://columbusfoundation.org/nonprofit-center/grant-opportunities/columbus-foundation-grants/capacity-building/social-enterprises) - [Nonprofit Portal Resource Center](https://columbusfoundation.org/nonprofit-center/nonprofit-portal-resource-center) - [Deadlines & Open Houses](https://columbusfoundation.org/nonprofit-center/deadlines-open-houses) - [GiveBackHack](https://givebackhack.com/) - [SEA Change](https://seachng.org/) - [Innovation Catalyst](https://www.causeimpact.com/icat) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | |----------------|--------------------------|------------------------------------|---------------| | Emily Savors | Senior Director, Grantmaking | [esavors@columbusfoundation.org](mailto:esavors@columbusfoundation.org) | 614/251-4000 | | General Inquiries | — | [contactus@columbusfoundation.org](mailto:contactus@columbusfoundation.org) | 614/251-4000 |

Social Enterprises - The Columbus Foundation

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