The Columbus Foundation offers Capital Improvement Grants to support nonprofit organizations that are working to enhance their physical facilities or equipment to better meet their missions. The Columbus Foundation, based in Columbus, Ohio, aims to strengthen and improve the community by assisting donors, nonprofits, and community stakeholders in achieving effective philanthropy. These grants specifically focus on funding capital campaigns that involve purchasing new or larger buildings, investing in new equipment, or making substantial updates to existing facilities.

The purpose of the Capital Improvement Grants is to assist nonprofits in Franklin County, Ohio, with projects that build long-term organizational capacity. The grants typically range between $10,000 and $100,000 and are intended to support projects that help nonprofits advance their service delivery through improved infrastructure. The Foundation is particularly interested in projects that demonstrate both significant progress toward their fundraising goals and a solid plan for securing the remaining funds needed to complete the project. Applicants must also demonstrate a plan for funding the ongoing operating expenses of the facility or equipment after the capital project is completed.

Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations with a primary impact in Franklin County, Ohio. To apply, organizations must log in under the “Grantseekers” portal on the Columbus Foundation website using their existing username and password. Applications are made available one month prior to the deadline, and applicants are encouraged to review additional resources such as the Nonprofit Toolkit and Educational Programs available through the Foundation.

The deadline for applications is the first Friday in June. Applications must be submitted through the online portal. Applicants are also encouraged to attend relevant Open Houses or review educational resources provided by the Foundation to strengthen their application. The grant program is not described as recurring, but the annual deadline suggests it may be offered regularly.

The Columbus Foundation’s primary contact for this grant program is Emily Savors, the Senior Director of Grantmaking. She is available to provide guidance and answer applicant questions. The Foundation’s mailing address is 1234 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205-1453, and general inquiries can be directed to 614-251-4000 or contactus@columbusfoundation.org. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.