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Greater Cincinnati Foundation
Strategic Priorities

Education

Unlock the next generation’s potential

Kids reading

Opening the door to a bright future

At GCF, we are committed to transforming educational outcomes by investing in innovative, evidence-based solutions that inspire our students and meet the challenges they face head-on.

GCF is investing in bold strategies that give every child the chance to succeed. Our focus is on two pivotal milestones in a student’s journey: early literacy and future pathways.

Reading proficiency by third grade is one of the strongest predictors of long-term academic, social, and professional success. To help children reach this milestone, GCF supports efforts to improve kindergarten readiness, expand access to books and learning resources, strengthen teachers’ expertise in reading instruction, and provide tutoring and literacy support programs.

Little girl reading

Young people in middle and high school deserve opportunities to discover their passions and prepare for life after graduation. Access to career exploration, mentoring, and work-based learning ensures that every student can build a post-secondary plan with confidence. GCF invests in career interest assessments, summer internships, work-study opportunities, and training in skilled trades, helping students gain the skills and experiences they need to succeed in college, careers, or service.

Teenagers hanging out
  • March 6, 2026

We are excited to offer Learning Innovation Grants, a funding cycle designed to drive meaningful impact on student outcomes by supporting educators directly.

Teacher explaining solar panels functioning to elementary class
  • December 12, 2025

From high school dreams to a career in healthcare, Audri’s journey will inspire you. After graduating from a Cincinnati-area high school, Audri turned to Cincinnati Works for guidance.

  • September 5, 2025

The need for talented educators is critical, and TEACh (Transformative Educators Advocating Change) Cincinnati is meeting that need by building a pipeline of homegrown teacher talent.

Miami students from TEACh
  • February 10, 2025

GE Aerospace opens applications for GCAASF scholarships, offering up to $10K for 2025 Cincinnati-area grads pursuing college.

  • October 21, 2024

GCF partners with quality early education program providers to create brighter futures.

  • September 5, 2024

GCF CEO Matthew Randazzo reflects on year one & calls for a “moonshot” to tackle regional challenges and opportunities.

  • July 30, 2024

Brick Gardens, a GCF grantee, brings healthy food to communities.

  • July 16, 2024

GCF partners with Learning Grove to support education and family services blending grants and impact investments to help children thrive.

  • June 24, 2024

In 2023, GCF granted $24M to expand access to quality education, funding educator supports and programs that help children build a strong foundation.

  • May 29, 2024

GCF gathered 165+ leaders from 122 nonprofits to share insights on housing, education, arts, and more, shaping strategies for a stronger, vibrant region.

Generosity opens doors

We welcome the opportunity to partner with generous donors, funders, and businesses to raise and allocate resources that truly improve educational outcomes across Greater Cincinnati.

Connect with Mike Boberg, director, donor services, at 513-768-6119 or [email protected] to discuss your charitable giving.

Through targeted grantmaking and partnerships, GCF aims to create a future where every one has a safe, affordable place to call home in vibrant neighborhoods.

Open call

Request for proposals (RFPs) are open grant cycles with a targeted purpose. GCF runs several RFP cycles that fall under four focus areas: community and cultural vibrancy, education, housing and place-based, and capacity building.

Explore education RFPs

Invite only

GCF provides strategic investments in the areas of education and housing in alignment with our 10-year strategic plan. These investments support transformational, multi-year initiatives designed to create lasting impact in our community.

Open call

GCF partners closely with private foundations to help them carry out their vision and create impact in our region.

Explore private foundation funding

Open to students

Scholarships open doors to opportunity. GCF partners with a number of generous people to offer scholarships to pursue higher education.

Explore scholarships

Questions

Please connect with Cindy Sanders, Ph.D. Director Education, Community Impact, at 513-768-6145 or [email protected].

Greater Cincinnati Foundation

Contact Us

513.241.2880

720 E. Pete Rose Way, Suite 120
Cincinnati, OH 45202

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