grants

Granting Futures for Greater Impact

The United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland grants are transformational to Northeast Ohio.

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empowering communities

Strategic Impact Through Focus

Through diligent processes of seeking out competent partners, we provide grants that make the most meaningful change happen in the community; from helping people meet basic needs, to educational commitments, workforce development, and social justice. We do it all with strategy and pride for the people Cleveland.

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basic needs: $5,000-$10,000 Grant Awards
Funding for programs/projects that provide assistance to those who have some emergency need(s) growing out of a crisis situation.

Programming should be focused on restoring the person/family to an acceptable level of functioning by assisting with food, shelter, clothing, personal items, health needs, or transportation. Funding is not limited those items listed; they are provided as a guide.
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We recognize the importance of a stable foundation for individuals and families. Our grants in this area focus on ensuring access to essential resources such as food, shelter, and healthcare.

By supporting organizations that provide these critical services, we're not just meeting immediate needs – we're contributing to the long-term stability and health of our communities, paving the way for growth and self-sufficiency.

Two Black children at a racket ball court
education: $5,000-$10,000 grant awards
Funding for programs/projects should emphasize early childhood development programs, middle and high school programs and college preparation/academic mentor programs.

Programs should reflect a strong commitment to education and access for low income and under-served populations. Educational programs should enrich participants’ lives by including activities that lead to a change in knowledge, skill or level of appreciation rather than one-time events such as attending a show or visiting a cultural institution.

Arts Education programming should provide participants with the expertise that furthers their training and enhances their education and self-development.

Education is the cornerstone of personal and community development. UBF’s educational grants aim to illuminate paths of knowledge and opportunity for underserved communities. By investing in literacy programs, scholarship funds, and educational initiatives, we empower individuals with the tools to rewrite their futures.

A teacher helping a young student
workforce development: $5,000-$10,000 grant awards
Funding for programs/projects that assist individuals to return or enter the workforce.

Special emphasis is given to programs that serve those who have little or no connection to the job market, including those who have been previously incarcerated. Job readiness training, record expungement, transportation, and skill-specific training/placement, including soft skill development, are among the services that will be considered for support.

In today’s ever-evolving job market, workforce development is key to ensuring economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. UBF’s grants in this area support programs and initiatives that provide job training, career development, and entrepreneurship opportunities. By aligning with organizations that offer these vital services, we help individuals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to secure meaningful employment and create sustainable livelihoods.

Two young Black women walking the halls of a school
social justice: $5,000-$10,000 grant awards
Funding for organizations and programs dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers and advocating for policy reforms that promote equality, dignity, and justice for all.

Social Justice programs should impact disparities in employment, environment/climate, healthcare, food, housing, and re-entry/incarceration created by systemic racism as these issues affect Black and poor communities disproportionately. Proposal should provide solutions.

UBF is committed to not only addressing the symptoms of social injustice but also to challenging its root causes. By fostering a culture of understanding, respect, and action, we aim to create an inclusive society where every individual can thrive without the constraints of bias and oppression.

new grant opportunity

Community Thrive Grant

The United Black Fund recognizes the negative impact of mental health and gun violence issues and is committed to identifying and partnering with organizations that are making a positive impact. If there are organizations in Cuyahoga County that provide programs, resources, and support to gun violence prevention or improve mental health by reducing the incidence of these issues, we encourage them to apply for our Community Thrive grant.

UBF presenting a check for $25,000
Mental Health Support

We are particularly interested in projects that impact mental health and wellness and other causes that lead to this disease. Some recommended areas are depression (youth and adults), suicide prevention (youth and adults), school violence/school absenteeism, anger management, and social media addiction.

UBF presenting a check for $25,000
Gun Violence Prevention

We seek innovative approaches to prevent gun violence, such as education and awareness and community-based interventions that address the root causes. Proposals addressing School/University/Religious Institution/Retail shooting prevention, support for families affected by gun violence, gun culture, gun safety, and/or gun laws.

Application Criteria
In order to be eligible for the grant, the organization should fulfill the following criteria:
1. Programming to support Mental Health or Gun Violence Prevention/Intervention work.
2. The organization must have been established for at least three years and should have a proven track record.
3. The organization should provide data to support its impact.
4. The organization must serve Cuyahoga County.
5. The organization should provide a minimum of one letter of support.
6. The organization must demonstrate that funding will be utilized for 80% programming and 20% operations and/or marketing.
7. The organization must be a 501©3 or have a fiscal agent.
8. A strategic plan summary outlining the use of funds should be provided (1-page outline/summary).
9. The grant does not support one-time events, sponsorships, or fundraising campaigns.
10. Programming should have a minimum execution period of one year.
If you have any further questions or require more information, please contact Celeste Terry, Grants Manager.

Transform Today,
Impact Tomorrow, Journey with UBF

Embrace your role in shaping the legacy of shared prosperity in Northeast Ohio.

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