Learn about what we fund before applying for a grant

Before you apply, see if your request meets our funding guidelines.
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Nationwide Foundation grants fall into three categories:
  • General operating support
  • Project and/or program support
  • Capital support (these grants are limited and considered on a case-by-case basis)

We make our funding decisions based on a four-tier giving structure we call our Community Impact Model.

Tier 1: Emergency and basic needs

Aligned to our business, we're there to help in an emergency. We partner with organizations that provide life's necessities.

Tier 2: Crisis stabilization

Before a crisis happens or after one hits, we hold the safety net. We partner with organizations that provide resources to prevent crises or help pick up the pieces after one occurs.

Tier 3: Personal and family empowerment

We help at-risk youth and families in poverty situations who need tools and resources to advance their lives. We partner with organizations that assist individuals in becoming productive members of society.

Tier 4: Community enrichment*

We understand the well-being of a community affects all who live in it. We partner with organizations that contribute to the overall quality of life in a community.

*Tier 4 organizations, such as agriculture, arts and culture, civic and community, higher education/scholarships, and health research organizations, are by invitation only.
The Nationwide Foundation accepts applications from nonprofits in the following communities. Emphasis is placed on Tier 1 and Tier 2 organizations in these communities:
  • Columbus (Metro), OH
  • Des Moines, IA
  • Gainesville, FL
  • Raleigh (Metro), NC
  • San Antonio, TX
  • Scottsdale/Phoenix (Metro), AZ
  • Wausau, WI

If you have questions, please email us.
  • Organizations that are not tax exempt under paragraph 501(C)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code
  • Organizations that, in their constitution discriminate against a person or group on the basis of race, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, disability, genetic information, religion, national origin, ancestry, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by law
  • Veterans, labor, religious or fraternal groups (except when these groups provide needed services to the community at large)
  • Groups or organizations that will re-grant the foundation’s gifts to other organizations or individuals (except United Way)
  • Public or private primary or secondary schools
  • Athletic events or teams, bands and choirs
  • Individuals for any purpose
  • Lobbying activities
  • Fund-raising events such as walk-a-thons, telethons, and sponsorships
  • Debt-reduction or retirement campaigns
  • Endowment campaigns
  • Requests to support travel 

We generally do not fund national organizations, unless the applicant is a local branch or chapter providing direct services.
I didn’t pass the eligibility quiz. Why not?

The quiz questions are designed to make sure that a request fits the Nationwide Foundation's funding guidelines. If you received a message that your proposal doesn’t meet the funding guidelines, the foundation regrets that we won’t be able to provide support. If you have questions about our funding guidelines, please email us.

If September 1 falls on a weekend or holiday, does the deadline change?

No, the deadline is September 1 at 11:59 p.m. ET, regardless of when it falls.

I forgot my password. What do I do?

Go to the grant application page and click “Forgot your password?" to reset your password.

I’m having technical issues. Where can I get help?

Check under “Need Support?” at the bottom of each page of the grant application to see if your question or issue is addressed. If you still need assistance, submit a “Support Request” at the bottom of the support Q&A.