The Equitable Civic Engagement Fund (ECEF), administered by Cleveland VOTES, offers grants to nonprofit and fiscally sponsored organizations working to educate, connect, and empower voting-age residents in the Greater Cleveland area. ECEF prioritizes racial equity and participatory practices to create a more inclusive democracy by supporting organizations integrating equitable civic engagement into their missions.

Established to address the lack of early-stage funding for civic engagement, particularly among social and human service organizations, the ECEF began as a micro-grant initiative offering small awards. Over the past decade, it has grown into one of Cleveland VOTES’ longest-standing programs, thanks to consistent investment from funders like The George Gund Foundation and the Cleveland Foundation. The program values both its financial contributions and its robust community of practice, where grantees collaborate, learn, and grow together.

The current grant cycle opened on April 14, 2025, with applications due by May 9, 2025, at 7 PM ET. Selected grantees will begin the program on June 26, 2025, and are required to submit interim reports by September 15, 2025, and final reports by November 21, 2025. Grantees receive more than just funding; they also gain access to mentorship, resources, and a connected network of partners working across Northeast Ohio.

Organizations must be either a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit or have fiscal sponsorship, must be based in Ohio or have an operational office in Ohio, and must demonstrate alignment with the Equitable Civic Engagement framework. Additional eligibility requirements include a demonstrated commitment to racial equity and inclusion, participation in related trainings, and having key organizational contacts identified.

Grantees are expected to actively participate in Community of Practice sessions, be responsive and collaborative throughout the grant cycle, and provide updates and feedback to Cleveland VOTES. For questions about the grant or application process, inquiries can be directed to grants@clevotes.com.