COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing invites nearly 3,800 nonprofit cemeteries across the state to apply for the FY 2027 Cemetery Grant Program. The program offers funding for non-routine exceptional maintenance projects and training for cemetery personnel in cemetery maintenance and operation.

The online application opens today, July 1, 2026, at cemeterygrants.com.ohio.gov and closes on July 31, 2026. The majority of cemetery operators may apply for grants of up to $5,000, which is an increase from the previous $2,500 limit. Operators who receive a grant and manage fewer than five Division-registered cemeteries are not eligible to apply the following year. If an operator applies, but does not receive a grant, they are invited to apply again the following year.

This grant supports non-routine, exceptional maintenance and cemetery staff training, as authorized by Ohio Revised Code § 4767.09. Routine upkeep, for-profit cemeteries and land acquisitions are ineligible. Grant funds cannot be used for work or purchases made before the superintendent formally approves the application and the Division receives a signed award agreement.

For the FY 2026 Cemetery Grand Fund, the Division awarded $104,000 to 45 cemeteries for projects such as tree removal, monument restoration, driveway repairs, and equipment upgrades.

"These grants preserve our cemeteries' rich heritage while safeguarding public safety," said REPL Superintendent Daphne Hawk. "We're pleased to offer this opportunity to support critical improvements and training to help ensure these venerable spaces continue to honor Ohio's past and serve future generations."

Nonprofit cemeteries that are properly registered with the Division may apply. Further eligibility and scoring details are available on the FY 2027 Grant Fund instruction package available via the online portal. Any questions can be directed to [email protected].

CLICK BELOW FOR DOWNLOADABLE SOTS

Emma Wilson, Cemetery Registration & Regulation Chief, Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing, Ohio Department of Commerce

###

About the Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing

The Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.