The Foundation Relations team creates connections and supports the building of mutually beneficial partnerships between private foundations and Ohio State’s research community. Our team serves as a central liaison to philanthropic foundations, working cooperatively with researchers and internal colleagues from across Ohio State’s research enterprise to create a seamless engagement experience for funders exploring investments in research and educational initiatives.

Mission Statement

In accordance with The Ohio State University’s Strategic Plan, Time and Change, the Office of Foundation Relations is committed to facilitating and strengthening relationships with private philanthropic foundations and Ohio State’s research enterprise to enhance the reach and impact of research and educational initiatives to the benefit of local, national and global communities. We are committed to collaboration and multidisciplinary endeavors and to integrity, transparency, inclusion, diversity of people and ideas, and excellence in our service of internal and external partners and constituents.

What we do

The Office of Foundation Relations is a central resource unit within Ohio State Advancement that works closely with unit and centrally based colleagues supporting grant seeking from across the university’s research enterprise. Our team supports all academic units, regional campuses and the medical center. Foundation Relations officers focus on cultivating and managing relationships with private foundations and aligning innovative research and strategic initiatives to fund investment priorities. Our team is versed in grantsmanship and specializes in:

  • Prospect identification
  • Relationship building (cultivation)
  • Proposal development (solicitation)
  • Stewardship
Foundation Relations Staff

Our staff are knowledgeable and experienced grants professionals.

Schedule a Consultation

Fill out our contact form to help us understand your research. A staff member from our office will then be in touch to discuss next steps.