The Akron Community Foundation (ACF) has released an RFP for a proactive grant program, offering up to $1 million over two years for projects addressing housing, mental health, and public safety in Summit County. Open to 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a strong local presence, this opportunity supports collaborative initiatives that promote diversity, leverage community resources, and provide sustainable impact. Applications should reflect community needs identified during ACF’s recent Appreciative Inquiry Summit, emphasizing systemic solutions to pressing issues.

Since 2019, ACF has awarded $700,000 in proactive grants to prevent crises and support equity, including projects with the Downtown Akron Partnership and Akron Urban League. Founded in 1955, ACF manages a $305 million endowment and has granted nearly $250 million to nonprofits to date.