Grants
The Defiance Area Foundation is a public charitable organization created by citizens of our community to enrich the quality of life for individuals and families in Defiance County. Grants support a variety of programs in the fields of education, social services, physical and mental health, community affairs, animal welfare and the arts.
Submission Deadlines:
March 31 (Approved by Trustees in April)
September 30 (Approved by Trustees in October)
Grants are awarded twice during the year. Proposals need to be received by midnight on the application deadline in order to be considered for that cycle. If the deadline falls on a weekend or federal holiday the proposals need to be received by midnight the Friday before the deadline.
Grants seekers (schools, churches, 501©3 and government agencies) are encouraged to ask for not more than 25% of their total project if their total project exceeds $10,000. If project total is below $10,000, the grant seeker should use their discretion, with the understanding that the DAF usually does not support the entire funding of the project or program. Additionally, the DAF typically does not make more than a $25,000 grant for any one organization in one fiscal year.
The Defiance Area Foundation uses the GoApply software. To determine if you are eligible for a grant, please review the grant guidelines. To apply for a grant, click the Apply Now button above to register and submit your grant application. Please provide all the requested information on the grant application.
If you have questions prior to submitting your application, please call (419 ) 782-3130.
Where do Grant Dollars Come From?
The grants we award are made possible through the generosity of our donors. A significant portion of our grant funding comes from our Defiance Area Foundation Community Fund, which is supported by individuals and organizations who want to meet the changing needs of our area. In addition, we’re able to distribute grants through more than 15 unrestricted family funds that have been established under our Foundation’s umbrella.
These flexible funds allow us to respond to a wide range of community needs, both now and in the future.
Are you ready to make a lasting impact?
Grants Awarded During Fiscal Year 2024-2025
The Defiance Area Foundation awards grants from a variety of funds that reflect the charitable interests of its donors and the diverse needs of Defiance County. Since inception, over 10.9 million dollars has been distributed to local charitable organizations making life better in our area. Over the past year alone, we awarded 262 grants to 123 organizations plus 86 scholarships.
$1,481,165
123
$1,081,377
19
Grants Dollars Awarded During Fiscal '24-'25
Granted through Donor Advised Funds
Organizations Received Their First Grant
Who can apply for grants from the Defiance Area Foundation?
The Defiance Area Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations, schools, churches, and community programs serving Defiance County. Funding supports projects and programs that strengthen the quality of life in our community through education, health and human services, arts, recreation, and other charitable initiatives.
When is the grant application deadline?
The Defiance Area Foundation offers two competitive grant cycles each year. Spring grant applications are due March 31, and fall grant applications are due September 30. Organizations are encouraged to review eligibility guidelines and apply online before the deadline.
What types of projects does the Defiance Area Foundation fund?
Grant funding supports a wide variety of community projects and nonprofit programs throughout Defiance County. Requests may include educational programs, capital improvements, equipment purchases, workforce development initiatives, youth opportunities, community services, arts and culture projects, and health and wellness programs.
How do I apply for a grant from the Defiance Area Foundation?
Organizations can apply for grants through the Defiance Area Foundation’s online grant portal. Applicants should prepare information about their organization, project goals, budget, and community impact before submitting their application. Grant guidelines and application materials are available on the Foundation’s grants webpage.
How do I submit my grant request?
Grant requests must be submitted through the Foundation’s Go Apply portal. This portal can be found on our website by clicking Apply Now. Applicants must register first and then submit their information. Repeat applicants, can log in with their previous information to submit a new grant request.