Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project (OGEPP) Proposal for FY 2027 for Law Schools or Legal Advocacy Organizations
Can you apply?
This grant is for law schools and legal advocacy organizations in Ohio. Applicants must demonstrate capacity to assist people seeking pardons with completing applications and preparing for clemency hearings. Organizations should serve qualified applicants throughout the state. The grant supports expedited pardon services for people who have rehabilitated and contributed positively to their communities after completing their sentences.
This grant is for law schools and legal advocacy organizations in Ohio. Applicants must demonstrate capacity to assist people seeking pardons with completing applications and preparing for clemency hearings. Organizations should serve qualified applicants throughout the state. The grant supports expedited pardon services for people who have rehabilitated and contributed positively to their communities after completing their sentences.
Program description
The Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project (OGEPP) is aimed at enhancing and expediting the proposed process by which people apply for a formal pardon from the Governor under Ohio’s laws. The project seeks to reduce challenges surrounding a clemency application in Ohio for people meeting certain criteria with exceptional stories who can show that they have been rehabilitated and have contributed positively to their communities after completing their sentences. Grant money is available to make expedited pardons more accessible to qualified applicants throughout the state by creating collaborative partnerships with law schools and legal advocacy organizations to assist qualified applicants with completing the application process and preparing for a clemency hearing. The total amount of grant funds to be awarded is up to $750,000 to be divided among multiple recipients; but not to exceed $175,000 per selected recipient. The grant period will end June 30, 2027.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
Details
This grant is for law schools and legal advocacy organizations in Ohio. Applicants must demonstrate capacity to assist people seeking pardons with completing applications and preparing for clemency hearings. Organizations should serve qualified applicants throughout the state. The grant supports expedited pardon services for people who have rehabilitated and contributed positively to their communities after completing their sentences.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Application form
- Organizational background and history
- Project narrative and workplan
- Budget and budget narrative
- Organizational capacity documentation
- Letters of support or partnership agreements
Program contact
- 👤 Joe Schwarm
- 📧 joe.schwarm@drc.ohio.gov
- 📞 (614) 554-3916
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Law schools and legal advocacy organizations in Ohio are eligible. Your organization must have capacity to assist pardon applicants.
What is the award amount?
Individual awards range up to $175,000. Total funding available is $750,000 split among multiple recipients.
What activities does this grant support?
Creating partnerships to assist people with completing pardon applications and preparing for clemency hearings.
What is the deadline?
The application deadline is June 15, 2026. The grant period ends June 30, 2027.
Is cost-sharing required?
No cost-sharing is required for this grant.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Focus on your organization's existing capacity to serve pardon applicants statewide. Highlight past experience with clemency or criminal justice matters.
- Build partnerships with complementary organizations to strengthen your application. Show how you'll collaborate across regions.
- Clearly describe how grant funds will reduce barriers to pardon applications. Connect your activities to outcomes for clients.
- Document your organization's track record with similar populations. Use concrete examples of past successes.
- Demonstrate cultural competency and trustworthiness with people in the criminal justice system. Address how you'll reach underserved areas.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Failing to demonstrate existing capacity or partnerships to serve applicants statewide. Submitting vague plans without concrete timelines or measurable goals for assisting pardon seekers. Underestimating the operational costs needed to sustain quality legal services throughout the grant period.
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