Supporting The Future
What You Start, They Continue
One Gift, Endless Possibilities
Every act of giving sets something bigger in motion.
Through OFIC, a donor’s gift becomes a scholarship. That scholarship helps a student stay in school, complete an internship, and discover their purpose. That student graduates, begins a career, and reinvests in the next generation, as a mentor, community leader, or donor. Gifts can also support career programs, internships, diversity initiatives, and other campus-led projects that strengthen students and communities.
This is the foundation of The Independent Advantage: higher education creating critical thinkers and changemakers and graduates prepared to strengthen Ohio’s future.
OFIC’s mission is built on this model of shared investment, donors supporting students who go on to support others. It’s how education, community, and opportunity stay connected across generations.
Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders
Every contribution strengthens both students and the communities they serve
-
Meet Caroline
Caroline, a Wittenberg University student, says, “Words cannot express the difference this scholarship makes in my life. I remain committed to my education and look forward to the opportunity to pay this blessing forward.”
-
Meet Emma
Emma, a College of Wooster student, says, “This scholarship significantly lessens the burden of figuring out how to pay for my last two semesters. I can focus more on my schoolwork and enjoy my senior year of college.”
-
Meet Erikai
Erikai, a Capital University student, says “I want to express my deepest appreciation for your belief in my potential and for investing in my education. Your generosity has made a significant difference in my life and, I promise to make the most of this opportunity.”
-
Meet Jada
Jada, from Ohio Northern University, is studying in a male-dominated field and received the Charlotte R. Schmidlapp Fund scholarship. She reflects, “Beyond the financial assistance, your belief in my potential motivates me to push my boundaries and achieve excellence.”
Areas of Need
-
Rising Talent Scholarships
Support students preparing for in-demand careers that align with your industry’s needs. Ideal for organizations with a regional footprint in Ohio, this investment helps build a skilled workforce and strengthen the state’s economic future.
-
Community Scholarships
Support students from your local area or attending nearby colleges. Your investment uplifts your community, expands opportunity for local talent, and creates lasting regional impact through education.
-
Inspiration Scholarships
Support students who are underrepresented in the general student population, along with those who may be experiencing personal, financial, or academic challenges that make it harder for them to complete their college education successfully.
-
Pooled Funding
A group of donors can combine their support for scholarships. This collaborative approach allows you to maximize resources and make a greater difference, unified around a shared interest, region, or goal.
-
Other Funding
OFIC welcomes donors to share their vision for ways to make an impact for our students. Opportunities are available for designated giving or unrestricted funds to support our campuses.
-
Talent for Ohio
Support OFIC students as they prepare to enter the workforce. Projects include Regional Rising Talent programs, internships, and TalentedU, a career-readiness experience.
-
Inspiration Diversity Grants
Support campus-led programs to benefit students, faculty, staff, and community members that spark dialogue and connection around diversity, equity, inclusion, and access.
Shape the Future of Ohio, One Student at a Time
Outcomes of Your Gift
What you start today, they continue tomorrow. Your support transforms lives and strengthens our colleges and communities:
Students grow in confidence, reduce debt, and graduate ready to lead.
Donors form lasting connections with students and campuses, helping shape the next generation of professionals and community leaders.
OFIC’s network remains strong, supporting local economies and sustaining vital educational partnerships.
Each gift builds Ohio’s future, preparing teachers, entrepreneurs, scientists, and innovators.
Every dollar leaves a legacy, advancing the promise of independent higher education and keeping opportunity within reach.
Meet Dave
Former OFIC Student Scholar, Current Cleveland Business Owner
Our Strengths Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow
For 75 years, OFIC has helped students succeed at Ohio’s independent colleges and universities. Donors trust us because we are careful stewards of every dollar, ensuring funds are used exactly as intended.
· Higher education is a pillar of a strong society.
· OFIC’s member campuses have graduated thousands of students who strengthen Ohio’s communities.
· Independent higher education is a smart investment in Ohio’s talent pipeline.
· Every scholarship reduces reliance on student debt and gives students space to thrive.
Every contribution strengthens both students and the communities they will serve.