The Youngstown Foundation offers a diverse range of grant programs designed to support innovative, inclusive, and responsive initiatives that address the needs of the local community in Mahoning and Trumbull counties. Each year, approximately 500 grants ranging from $1,000 to $300,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organizations. The Foundation offers several specific sub-grant programs, each tailored to different organizational needs:

Program Grants: These grants are aimed at supporting specific projects with clear objectives, defined activities, and set timelines. The funding, which ranges from $1,000 to $300,000, is restricted to the program described in the application and is intended to achieve particular outcomes. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations serving residents of Mahoning County and/or Trumbull County.

Operational Grants: Designed to provide general operating support, these grants allow organizations to cover overall expenses, including operating costs and overhead. Like the Program Grants, they range from $1,000 to $300,000. This type of funding is flexible, enabling organizations to allocate funds where they are most needed. To be eligible, organizations must consistently serve residents of Mahoning County and/or Trumbull County.

Capital Investment Grants: These grants fund projects related to improving physical spaces, such as renovations, expansions, or new constructions. They are available for amounts ranging from $1,000 to $300,000. Eligible projects must be located within Mahoning County and/or Trumbull County, and the grants are aimed at enhancing the physical infrastructure of nonprofit organizations.

Crisis Assistance Program Grants: This program provides emergency funding of up to $5,000 to nonprofit organizations in the Youngstown area that are facing unexpected financial challenges. The goal is to ensure the continuity of essential services during crises. Only one request per agency per year is allowed, and applications are processed quickly, with funds disbursed within four business days.

Support Fund Grants: Through the Williamson Fund, this program offers matching grants for donations received by small to mid-sized local charities. The matching grant can be valued up to $5,000. In addition to the matching funds, the Foundation may provide in-kind support, such as primetime television advertising, to increase the visibility of these organizations.

The application process for these grants is multi-stage and requires creating an organizational profile and submitting a full application through The Youngstown Foundation’s online grant portal. This portal facilitates transparency, reduces paperwork, and streamlines the submission of letters of inquiry, applications, and required documents. The Foundation has specific application due dates on January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15, with decisions made in March, June, September, and December. Required attachments include a budget form, organizational chart, audited financial statements, and a current board list. The Foundation may also conduct site visits as part of the evaluation process. Final reports are required and must be submitted through the online portal. Additionally, the Foundation offers fiscal sponsorship opportunities for organizations that are not yet tax-exempt.