FirstEnergy Foundation
The FirstEnergy Foundation's contributions to local nonprofit organizations help strengthen the social and economic fabric of our communities. The Foundation’s giving priorities parallel FirstEnergy’s business interests and range from supporting key safety initiatives and promoting workforce and economic development to improving social and cultural aspects of our region.
Backed by our vision to invest in transformative organizations that enhance the vitality, sustainability and diversity of the communities we serve, we support non-profit, tax-exempt organizations within the FirstEnergy operating companies' service areas, including Ohio Edison, The Illuminating Company and Toledo Edison in Ohio; Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power and West Penn Power in Pennsylvania; Jersey Central Power & Light in New Jersey; Mon Power and Potomac Edison in West Virginia and Maryland; and where we conduct business.
The FirstEnergy Foundation priorities:
- Improving the quality of life in our communities and supporting key safety initiatives
- Empowering our communities’ workforce development and educational initiatives
- Promoting local and regional economic development
- Supporting employee leadership and volunteer interests that align with our business interests
Limitations
The FirstEnergy Foundation does not direct grants to individuals, or to political or legislative activities and generally does not consider funding for:
- Organizations that receive sizable public tax funding
- Government and public administration institutions
- Fraternal, religious, labor, athletic or social organizations - unless the contribution is earmarked for an eligible program open to all beneficiaries, including those not affiliated with the host organization
- International, foreign affairs and national security organizations
- Research
- Equipment or capital purchases
- Loans or second-party giving, such as endowments, debt retirement or foundations
- Public or private secondary schools (Pre-K - 12)
- Organizations that are a public charity defined as a 509(a)(3)
- Salaries, stipends or scholarships
- Transportation costs
- Animal protection, welfare, veterinary services
- Correctional facilities, addictive disorder agencies
How to Apply
The FirstEnergy Foundation provides support to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits, including health and human services agencies, educational organizations, cultural and arts programs and institutions, and civic groups in areas served by FirstEnergy’s electric operating companies and in areas where the company conducts business.
The FirstEnergy Foundation does not accept unsolicited grant applications. Please reach out to the Community Involvement Department with your grant inquiries.
501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that are public charities and public schools, colleges, and universities may apply for a FirstEnergy Foundation program grant up to $25,000 via this platform. Program grant requests that exceed $25,000, require a separate proposal, as well as meeting with the Foundation President.
To apply for support, please visit FirstEnergy Foundation Grant Application (benevity.org). As part of the online application, you will be required to upload the following documents:
- List of Board of Trustees
- Itemized program budget for current year or proposed budget
Upon completion of your online application, you will receive an automated email confirmation as well as periodic status updates. If technical assistance is needed while completing the application, please reach out to grantsupport@benevity.com.
Note: FirstEnergy Corporate Sponsorships may be applied for by completing a Corporate Sponsorship and Charitable Contributions Application here.
Thank you for your interest in the FirstEnergy Foundation.