Port of Cleveland invests in community programs

The Port of Cleveland is distributing $260,000 in Community Investment Fund (CIF) grants to seven local non-profit organizations. The funding announced July 10^th supports initiatives that advance education, maritime access, and historic preservation throughout the community.

The port’s board of directors approved the grants following an application process that attracted 17 proposals. Each selected project contributes to the port’s mission of driving economic vitality while strengthening the communities it serves.

Established in 2018, the CIF allocates 10% of annual port development finance revenues to non-profit-led initiatives. With this year’s allocations, the fund's total investments in Cuyahoga County now exceed $500,000.

This year’s grants will directly support the following organizations and their community programs:

• Teaching Cleveland: Refine the Fresh Water Institute Year 1 experience and onboard a new cohort of high school students to help them better understand the water cycle.
• Great Lakes Science Center: Support maritime-focused programming and operational activities for the Centennial Celebration of the Steamship William G. Mather.
• Cleveland Restoration Society: Recapitalize the Historic Properties Fund for strategic investments in Cleveland’s historic homes.
• Cleveland Rowing Foundation: Expand rowing and river access to underserved communities through a community engagement coach.
• Baldwin Wallace University: Design and build a demonstration wave tank for marine technology education and outreach.
• Economic & Community Development Institute: Provide training and resources for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
• Elements of Internal Movement: Connect local youth with meaningful work experiences by funding community outreach coordinators and educators.

By funding these programs, the Port of Cleveland is advancing objectives consistent with Green Marine’s Community Relations performance indicator, which encourages ports to strengthen ties with their local communities through meaningful engagement and support.