Inspiring Hope Fund

Our Mission

To inspire, inform and motivate nonprofit agencies to action by offering meaningful grants and resources to Black-serving organizations that work in the following focus areas within the Greater Cincinnati region:

  • Early childhood reading and education for children under age 6
  • Education and development of the families of single mothers, ages 15 – 35
  • Education and housing for emancipated youth from foster care, ages 17 – 25

 

Our Invitation

Established in 2022, the Fund awarded its first set of grants in May 2023 to four deserving organizations.

Policies & Restrictions

The Inspiring Hope Fund of GCF makes grants to support organizations within the Greater Cincinnati region that are in-line with our mission, and that also meet the following criteria:

  • Applicants must have an IRS determination as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
  • In most cases, organizations must be located in the Greater Cincinnati area (Hamilton, Butler, Clermont and Warren counties in Ohio; Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties in Kentucky; and Dearborn County in Indiana).
  • The Fund usually prefers to participate along with other donors and funders in the support of a specific project.

If you believe that your organization meets these qualifications, review the Request for Proposal (RFP), and apply through our online system.

The Request for Proposal will be released in February.

Request for Proposal

RFP Released Proposal Deadline Final Selections

February 7, 2025

March 14, 2025

May/June
If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline will be the next business day.

Grant Evaluation

The Inspiring Hope Fund requires a follow-up evaluation report to be completed in our online grant system at the end of the grant period. Applicants will receive an e-mail reminder two weeks prior to the evaluation due date.

Contribute Today

Credit Card Donation

To contribute toward the Inspiring Hope Fund, visit our online giving page.

Monthly options are available

Donate from a GCF Donor Advised Fund

Please log in through Giving Connection

Mail

Mail checks to:
Greater Cincinnati Foundation
720 E. Pete Rose Way, Suite 120
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

Wire or Stock Transfer

For instructions, visit Add to Your Fund page