SHELBY, OH – The Shelby Foundation is now accepting applications for its first grant cycle of 2025, with a deadline of March 21. This opportunity is open to local nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions that serve Shelby residents.
“As a foundation, this is how we give back,” said Carrie Kemerer, executive director of The Shelby Foundation. “We’re often asked to sponsor or support various initiatives, and our grant cycles are the best way for organizations to receive funding to make a meaningful impact in our community.”
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, government entity, or educational institution.
- Serve Shelby residents, with consideration given to how many are impacted.
The Foundation seeks to support initiatives that:
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- Enhance Community Services: Programs that improve the well-being of Shelby residents.
- Promote Education: Educational projects that offer valuable learning opportunities.
- Foster Community Development: Efforts that contribute to the overall growth and improvement of the Shelby area.
The application is straightforward and accessible, with more details available on the Foundation’s website.
What Does the Grant Support?
This grant cycle is open to a variety of community projects. However, funding does not cover operating expenses such as salaries or overhead. Instead, grants are intended to bolster and expand programs, launch new initiatives, or provide needed resources and supplies.
“We want organizations to be sustainable,” Kemerer emphasized. “Our grants are designed to supplement and enhance — not fund day-to-day operations.”
A Competitive Process with Real Impact
In 2024, the Foundation awarded nearly $54,000 in grants in the spring cycle and $77,000 in the fall, contributing to a total of $322,000 in grant funding, including scholarships and donor-directed awards.
While the process is competitive, Kemerer encourages applicants to apply and reapply if needed.
“If an organization isn’t selected, we don’t want their hearts to be hardened,” she said. “Keep trying. We’re here to help.”
For additional support, The Shelby Foundation recently introduced a professional coaching program to help nonprofits grow and strengthen their strategies.
Grant applications will undergo a thorough review by the Foundation’s Distribution Committee in early April. Funding recommendations will be presented at the Board of Directors meeting on April 16, 2025. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions shortly thereafter.
Apply Today
1. Download Application: Access the grant application form on the Foundation’s website.
theshelbyfoundation.org/grants
2. Complete Form: Fill out the application thoroughly, ensuring all required information is provided.
3. Submission: Submit the completed application by the March 21 deadline. Detailed submission instructions are available on the Foundation’s grants page.
Interested organizations should visit theshelbyfoundation.org for more application details and eligibility requirements. For additional questions, contact the Foundation office.
Deadline: March 21, 2025
Website: theshelbyfoundation.org/grants
Contact: 419-342-3686