Download Funding Notice

Notice of Funding: Community Investment Fund Grant Cycle Now Open!

The Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority is now accepting applications for the 2025 Community Investment Fund (CIF) Grant Cycle, with $270,000 in no-match grant funds available to support community, workforce, and maritime-focused initiatives across Cuyahoga County.

This grant program helps nonprofit organizations access capital for projects that align with the Port’s mission—promoting job creation, economic development, and equitable access to maritime industry opportunities.

🔑 Key Information

  • Total Funds Available: $270,000

  • Grant Size: $25,000 minimum / $100,000 maximum per organization

  • Eligible Applicants: Nonprofit organizations located in Cuyahoga County involved in:

    • Maritime development or navigation safety

    • Workforce development & job training

    • Environmental sustainability

    • International trade

    • Community improvement and equity

  • Ineligible Uses Include:

    • Lobbying or political activities

    • Entertainment or personal expenses

    • Completed or non-aligned projects

    • Legal disputes or unpaid taxes

🗓 Important Dates

  • Application Opens: May 1, 2025

  • Deadline to Apply: June 15, 2025

  • Award Notifications: July 10, 2025

✅ Application Highlights

Applicants must:

  • Clearly outline project scope and impact

  • Demonstrate alignment with the Port’s mission and CIF goals

  • Submit financials, staff/board list, and 3 professional references

  • Show measurable outcomes (KPIs and reporting required)

📄 How to Apply

Click here to apply
For detailed guidelines and submission requirements, download the full Notice of Funding Opportunity by clicking the button at the top of the page.

📧 Questions? Contact: CommunityInvestment@portofcleveland.com

DISCLAIMER:
The Port Authority reserves the right to modify or cancel this funding opportunity at any time without prior notice. All decisions regarding grant awards are final and not subject to appeal. The foregoing Notice of Funding Opportunity does not constitute an offer or promise to do business with the Port Authority or any guarantee to do business or execute any binding agreement by and between the Port Authority and prospective applicants, applicants or the general public. All decisions, reviews and/or awards may be subject to the Port Authority’s Board of Directors’ approval and/or other applicable local and state law(s).