MHJF Open Grants

MHJF Open Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Martha Holden Jennings Foundation
Amount: US $4,000 - US $55,000
Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Summary

The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation's MHJF Open Grants support innovative projects that enhance student learning and teaching in Ohio's PK-12 schools. Eligible applicants include public school districts, non-religious private schools, and 501(c)(3) organizations. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $55,000, with a focus on deep learning and excellent teaching. Note that proposals from new applicants will not be accepted during the August and October 2025 cycles, as the foundation prepares for a new strategic vision in 2026.

Overview

NOTE: Please note that the Foundation will not be accepting proposals from new applicants during the August and October 2025 grant cycles. This pause is in preparation for the launch of our new strategic vision, which will take effect on January 1, 2026. During this interim period, only proposals from current grantees will be considered. To Foster the development of young people to the maximum extent possible in Ohio’s PK-12 schools.To provide a greater means for accomplishment on the part of Ohio’s teachers by encouraging creativity in teaching and bringing greater recognition to the teaching profession. Jennings Grants Program Overview ALL of our grants are awarded to projects that align with one of our two themes, DEEP LEARNING or EXCELLENT TEACHING, as outlined below. Characteristics for a DEEP LEARNING project: The project DIRECTLY involves work with public school students Students acquire new content or skills learned through multiple steps with multiple levels of analysis or processing and apply in ways that change thinking or behaviors There are clear and developmentally appropriate learning targets for students The experience involves various cycles of wondering, thinking, acting, assessing, considering varied perspectives, and iterating The result/output is clear about how students will demonstrate whether learning targets have been met and consider the next steps The work thoughtfully contributes to students experiencing these conditions Characteristics for an EXCELLENT TEACHING project: The project DIRECTLY involves work with public school teachers The plan for professional engagement and learning includes guided implementation, coaching, or professional collaboration, as well as a structure for formative or summative reflection. Using thoughtful and deliberate improvement cycles The activities of the project promote the growth and development of their skills in:Creating an environment and designing experiences to support the whole child and mastery of learning Creating and communicating effective learning targets Checking for understanding during daily lessons Using data with students Using models, critique, and descriptive feedback Designing student-centered learning experiences, engaged assessment practices, ownership, thinking, decision-making, and agency Ensuring meaningful celebrations and demonstrations of learning Open Grant Details The Open Grant program is designed to make a positive lasting impact on student learning and teaching across Ohio. Any public school district, non-religious private school or non-profit organization working in conjunction with public schools, in any county of Ohio, can apply. The typical size of an Open Grant is $15,000, but they can range from $2,000-$55,000. While providing a picture for the larger scope of the work is helpful, the Foundation only approves funds for one year. An organization may re-submit a proposal for continued funding based on the Final Evaluation Report responses.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Who Can Apply?Public school districts in OhioNon-religious private schools in Ohio working in conjunction with public schools501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations that assist PK-12 public schools in OhioSince the Foundation supports projects, compensation should be clearly related to the services provided through the project work for students and/or teachers as opposed to salaries and general operating costs.Open Grant requests must be for one year only.

Ineligibility

The Foundation will generally not fund capital improvements, indirect costs, fringe benefits, overhead, travel expenses, endowment campaigns, school bus transportation, field trips/admission fees, facility fees, storage units, incentives, curriculum writing, time for participating in staff development, school supplies, refreshments, awards or t-shirts. The Foundation does not consider projects, where the chief purpose is to obtain technology, equipment, books, materials, etc.