Thomas J. Emery Memorial Grant

The Thomas J. Emery Memorial Grant, established by prominent Cincinnati philanthropists, aims to enhance the lives of individuals in the Greater Cincinnati area through grants that support social, cultural, educational, civic, and physical betterment. Founded in 1925, the grant prioritizes nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) status, focusing on collaborative projects and impactful initiatives, while not providing ongoing operational support. This initiative honors the legacy of Thomas and Mary Emery in fostering community development.

Prominent philanthropists of Cincinnati, Thomas J. Emery and Mary M. Emery generously supported local cultural and educational institutions. Mary M. Emery founded The Emery Memorial as a not-for-profit corporation on April 20, 1925.
Thomas was an industrialist and real estate developer who made significant contributions both literally and figuratively to the development of Cincinnati. Mary Emery, whose generosity earned her the title “Cincinnati’s Lady Bountiful,” provided the inspiration and capital to build the model Village of Mariemont.
The Last Will and Testament of Mrs. Emery states that “[T]he general purpose of this Memorial shall be to secure a citizenry which shall be more sane, sound and effective because of more satisfactory initial conditions of environment and education.” The Memorial will be used for the “physical, social, civic and educational betterment” of individuals.
Policies & Restrictions
The Memorial makes grants which enhance the lives of Greater Cincinnati citizens by improving their social, cultural, educational, civic and physical conditions.

Eligibility

Applicants must have an IRS determination as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.In most cases, organizations must be located in the Greater Cincinnati area (Hamilton, Butler, Clermont and Warren counties in Ohio; Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties in Kentucky; and Dearborn County in Indiana.)The Memorial generally supports capital and program needs. A limited number of grants are made for operating support, endowments, and selected federated campaigns.In most cases, an organization must wait 24 months after final payment of a grant or decline of a request before it is eligible to reapply.

Ineligibility

The Memorial will not provide continuing operational support to a grantee.Ordinarily, grants are not awarded to individuals, taxing authorities, political subdivisions, for conferences, or as loans.