Funding Priorities
The mission of the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation is to improve the health and quality of life in the community through education, research and service consistent with our osteopathic heritage. As a private foundation based in Columbus, Ohio, the Foundation advances this mission through strategic partnerships and philanthropic investments that strengthen osteopathic medicine and community health. Through investments in osteopathic medical education and research in Ohio and nationally, as well as community health initiatives in central and southeastern Ohio, the Foundation brings together ideas, expertise and resources to accelerate innovative solutions to pressing health issues.
Mission Aligned
Funding is organized around the three commitments in the Foundation’s mission: education, research, and service.
Education
Education expands opportunities and strengthens the health and well-being of individuals and communities. With osteopathic medical education central to its mission, the Foundation prioritizes education for its power to prepare future osteopathic physicians, open pathways to meaningful careers, and help communities thrive.
Research
Research advances understanding, informs patient care, and creates possibilities for better health. The Foundation prioritizes research to advance scientific discovery, address important health challenges, and translate new knowledge into improvements in health and quality of life.
Service
Service reflects the Foundation’s osteopathic heritage and enduring commitment to community health. With roots in osteopathic clinical care in central and southeastern Ohio, investments address significant needs, strengthen local systems, and create enduring impact.
How We Work
With resources, relationships, and a perspective shaped by work across osteopathic medicine and Ohio communities, the Foundation approaches funding partnerships as engagement rather than one-time grants. The Foundation listens, learns, and adapts alongside partners, supporting their vision and expertise to advance osteopathic medicine and improve community health. These long-term relationships are central to the Foundation’s stewardship and shared commitment to sustained impact.
Funding Process
The Foundation engages with partners whose work aligns with its priorities. These relationships are grounded in shared goals and respect for the expertise of the organizations doing the work.
Unsolicited proposals are not accepted and initiating discussions and/or requests to explore potential partnerships are by invitation only.