Columbia Gas opens 2026 grant applications

Columbia Gas of Ohio, with support from the NiSource Charitable Foundation, is accepting applications for the 2026 Environmental Action Grant, a recently expanded annual funding program that supports local environmental restoration and education projects and programs.

“As a utility company, we know firsthand how important it is to prioritize initiatives that help create and sustain a healthy environment,” Columbia Gas of Ohio President and COO Bob Heidorn said. “With the support of our foundation, the Environmental Action Grant program allows us to strengthen our communities by investing in projects that promote environmental stewardship and protect our natural resources.”

NiSource is the parent company of the Columbia Gas and Northern Indiana Public Service Company LLC brands, serving customers in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. The Environmental Action Grant program started at NIPSCO in Indiana, where approximately $700,000 has been awarded to support more than 170 projects over the past decade. In 2026 the program expanded to NiSource operating companies in its other service states.

“We’ve seen this program support small, local projects that grew into meaningful, long‑term community partnerships,” said Reggie Fields, executive director of the NiSource Charitable Foundation. “By expanding this program across every community we serve, we’re creating space for new ideas and relationships that strengthen environmental stewardship with benefits lasting well beyond that initial grant.”

Eligible organizations must be a 501(c)(3) or other nonprofit as determined by the Internal Revenue Service and propose an environmentally focused project. Grant funding is not intended for capital projects or related purchases.

Grants will be awarded in the amount of $500-$5,000 each to selected organizations. Applications will be accepted through Friday, April 3, with recipients announced the week of Monday, April 20 in recognition of Earth Day.

To apply or learn more, visit www.columbiagasohio.com/our-company/about-us/columbia-cares/environmental-action-grant. Applicants should find “Are you applying for an Environmental Action Grant?” in the dropdown menu in the introductory section of the application and select Yes.

All applications must include a project description and goals, budget, target audience, timeline and evaluation method. The applicants will be evaluated according to strategic alignment, resource availability, visibility and recognition, project or program impact, and organization priorities.