1. What are Human Services General Fund Operating Grants?
The grants are used to contract with non-profit agencies and community organizations that deliver human services programs/projects to City of Cincinnati residents and will use City grant funds for human services programs that are consistent with City of Cincinnati Human Services Policy and priorities, and other city policies.

2. Are there any funding limits?
The minimum amount an agency can request is $25,000. No single agency may have more than two program initiatives funded, and no agency may be awarded more than $250,000. When two or more agencies are collaborating on an application, the new collaborative will be considered a distinct applicant.

3. What are the grant requirements?
The grant program is open and competitive for applicants that meet grant program guidelines and criteria and participate in all required steps of the grant program application review (site visits, individual meetings, public hearings/group presentations). The applicant must be a 501 (c) 3 and have been in business for at least one (1) year.

4. Are there any programs that are ineligible for funding?
Yes, these are the programs that are ineligible:
1) Formal Education programs which are the responsibility of the Cincinnati Board of Education
2) Employment and Training Programs that are funded by the Hamilton County Department of Job and Family Services
3) Mental Retardation programs are the responsibility of the Mental Retardation and Development Disability Board. Comparable State departments also have responsibility of the federal and rehabilitation.
4) Recreation Programs
5) Programs funded with Council on Aging

5. Are there any unacceptable use of Grant funds?
Yes, you are not permitted to purchase equipment or furniture, refreshments/snacks, entertainment or gifts, vehicles purchases (insurance, licensing or repair), or non-local telephone costs.

6. When and how do I apply*?
The City accepts General Fund Operating Grants Applications every two years (2009,2011,2013, etc). An Application with Application Instructions, and the Human Services Policy may be obtained:
a. At the publicly-announced Grants Program Orientation meeting
b. On-line at www.cincinnati-oh.gov
c. Phone request (513) 352-6146. Ask for the Human Services Division.
*The funding cycle for 2009-2010 General Fund Operating Grant Funds is now closed.