Community-Based Event Grant (Hamilton County, OH)

Community-Based Event Grant (Hamilton County, OH) is sponsored by Hamilton County, OH. Promotes economic development in first-ring suburban communities through the support of smaller, community-based events in Hamilton County. Funding is on a reimbursement basis and requires invoices and proof of payment.

Community-Based Event Grant - Hamilton County, OH Community-Based Event Grant 2026 Community-Based Event Grant Hamilton County included funding in the 2026 general fund budget to promote economic development in first ring suburban communities through the support of smaller, community-based events in Hamilton County. Grants are capped at $25,000 and eligible applicants are cities, villages, and/or townships.

If a nonprofit organization is responsible for managing the event, the organization must work in partnership with their local administration, as the administration must submit the grant application. Launch on Wednesday, January 21th, 2026 Close on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 at 11:59 pm. Late submissions will not be accepted - no exceptions.

Community-Based Event Grant Application --> Event Eligibility Requirements The event must occur in 2026. The event must be a special event scheduled for one or multiple days over a defined period of time. Routine events occurring throughout Hamilton County are not eligible for funding.

(i.e., a recurring monthly event is not eligible, but a special summer event series would be eligible. Please reach out if you have specific questions concerning this). The event must be open to the public.

The event may be free or charge admission. The event must be held at an accessible location within Hamilton County. The event must be able to obtain all required permits and approvals.

The event must create an economic impact for a location, local vendors, and/or local businesses that can be supported with documentation or credible testimony. If approved, grant funding is made on a reimbursement basis and requires invoices and proof of payment to be sent by the applicant before any reimbursements will be made. A completion report is required to be submitted before the end of the grant term.

Cities, villages, and townships outside of the City of Cincinnati but within Hamilton County. If a nonprofit organization is responsible for managing the event, the organization must work in partnership with their local administration, as the administration must submit the grant application.

Funds can only be used for the following purposes Equipment: Please note that all equipment items will be closely reviewed to ensure that they fulfill the purpose of the specific event.

Entertainment and performers Security and general liability insurance All expenses must pertain to Hamilton County (i.e. rental equipment must be utilized in Hamilton County, entertainment must perform/be displayed in Hamilton County) The following expenses are ineligible for grant funding (list may not be inclusive): Selection of applications to recommend for funding will be primarily based on the following criteria: Economic impact the event will create for the individual community and the greater Hamilton County area, through factors including but not limited to: promoting local businesses event publicity and marketing NOTE : All figures and projections should be supported with credible and detailed documentation.

Demonstration of financial need, explaining how County funding will secure and/or increase the desired economic impact of the event. Proximity of event to local businesses or business district. Collaboration with local businesses and/or business district.

If you have any questions regarding the 2026 application cycle, please contact Alice Bledsoe at Alice. Bledsoe@hamiltoncountyohio. gov or 513-946-4312 .