Summit County Empowerment Fund

Established in 2025 by Summit County with a $5 million investment, the Summit County Empowerment Fund supports initiatives that address critical health and safety challenges facing historically underserved communities throughout Summit County.

The fund complements the work of the Summit Health and Safety Innovation Fund, with a specific focus on reducing disparities in addiction prevention, treatment and recovery, expanding access to culturally responsive services, and improving health outcomes for minority and disadvantaged residents.

Through strategic grantmaking, the fund will support innovative, evidence-based programs that address the unique needs of underserved populations, while also strengthening the capacity of nonprofit organizations serving these communities. Funding priorities include removing barriers to care, supporting prevention and recovery programs, developing organizational leadership and infrastructure, and fostering partnerships that create lasting, sustainable impact.

A seven-member advisory committee has been appointed by Summit County to recommend grants.

The Fund's inaugural grant application opens Nov. 1, 2026 and will close on Dec. 1, 2026. Grants will be announced in March 2027.