Cleveland VOTES – a non-partisan organization that works to increase voter participation – is now accepting grant proposals for its annual Equitable Civic Engagement Fund (ECEF).
Founded a decade ago, by Cleveland VOTES’ co-founders Erika Anthony and Crystal Bryant-Agyemang, the Equitable Civic Engagement Fund aims to provide microgrants to any Ohio-based nonprofit organizations that is committed to building a stronger civic engagement ecosystem and culture through educating, empowering and connecting Greater Cleveland residents.
The two co-founders created the ECEF during the early stages of Cleveland VOTES as they encountered individuals and organizations who were enthusiastic about civic engagement work but lacked the funding and staff to expand. Anthony and Bryant-Agyemang also noticed there were hardly any funding sources that focused exclusively on nonpartisan civic engagement.
“The Equitable Civic Engagement Fund is one of our longest standing programs. This program has enabled us to not only make direct investments in some of this region’s most remarkable leaders/organizations, but also develop long lasting relationships,” says Anthony.
During the early stages of the ECEF, grants ranged between $250 to $500. But contributions from individual donors and foundations – including the George Gund Foundation – in recent years have allowed Cleveland VOTES to increase the average grant amount. During the 2024 ECEF cycle, Cleveland VOTES provided grants to nearly 30 organizations that ranged between $2,000 to $10,000. Some projects funded by Cleveland VOTES include a youth forum with local elected officials, a community health worker voter engagement program and translating voter materials for voters who do not have English as their first language.
In addition to funding, accepted applicants will receive mentoring from Cleveland VOTES and networking opportunities with other Ohio-based organizations. Throughout the grant cycle, grantees are expected to attend scheduled Cleveland VOTES’ Community of Practice sessions, where grantees will collaborate on projects with other organizations.
“While the financial contribution is a driving force behind this program, we equally value our Community of Practice, which is a generative space where we grow and learn together,” Anthony continued.
Cleveland VOTES will host three information sessions for applicants interested in learning more about the fund. To apply or learn more about the ECEF, go to clevotes.com/ecef. All grant proposals must be submitted by May 9 at 7 p.m.
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