Our Mission and Vision
Columbia Gas is committed to supporting organizations that make a difference in the communities we serve. The NiSource Charitable Foundation provides funding to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations and local philanthropic initiatives that help create strong and sustainable communities across our service areas in Maryland where we live and work. Through contributions and employee volunteerism, we strive to improve quality of life for our families, friends and neighbors.
Columbia Gas of Maryland Service Territory
We provide natural gas service to residential, commercial and industrial customers in three counties throughout Maryland’s service territories (insert hyperlink of zip codes and communities). We’re one of the six energy delivery companies of NiSource, who together provide essential natural gas and electric service to nearly 4 million customers.
Pillars for Giving
Our efforts focus on these primary areas:
Basic Needs & Safety
Assisting emergent human needs for food, shelter, heating, and general safety.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)
Supporting mission-driven organizations and causes with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Environmental Stewardship
Advocating for the responsible use, protection, and restoration of natural resources through reliable conservation efforts and sustainable practices.
STEM Education & Economic Development
Encouraging education and training in science, technology, engineering, and math to bolster workforce development and community vitality.
Columbia Gas of Maryland Community Grant Funding Process
We accept one application per our fiscal year (January-December). Please allow 90 days in order for your request to be processed. We anticipate a high number of applications and encourage you to apply early. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will close when funding is no longer available.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, organizations must:
- provide documentation of tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
- be located within our service territory and operating areas
- align with one or more of our four pillars of giving
- provide a completed grant application
* Please note that a Foundation Committee reviews all grant applications and encourages 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations to submit an application to support specific programs and initiatives unless otherwise noted. Funding will be directed to the address listed on the provided W-9 if awarded and approved.
What we fund
- We provide contributions and volunteer time to 501(c)(3) organizations located within our service territory.
- We give preference to organizations that align with our giving areas and/or have high employee engagement.
- Eligible organizations must service the community without discrimination based on:
- race
- color
- religion
- natural origin or ancestry
- veteran status
- disability
- gender age
- marital status
- sexual orientation
- gender identity
- genetic information
- any other protected group status as defined by law - Notwithstanding, organizations that offer gender-based programs or have programs and services designed to benefit a specific population will not be considered discriminatory for this reason alone.
What we do not fund
- Non-academic school activities, including bands, proms, choirs, or graduations
- Individuals for any purpose
- Athletes, teams or sporting events
- Fashion shows, animal shows, pageants or talent competitions
- Individuals seeking scholarship, field trip, or travel assistance
- Religious or sectarian organizations unless engaged in a significant project benefiting the entire community
- Organizations that discriminate against any person or group for any reason
- Publications, displays, advertising, audio, or video productions
- Organizations that are not 501(c)(3) charities
- Organizations outside of our service territory
- Political candidates, committees, or organizations
- Professional or amateur team sponsorship (including sports) or fundraising competitions (including athletic fundraising events)
- Social clubs, including sororities or fraternities
- State tax credit programs
Submit an application
Please submit your organization's completed W-9 form and non-discrimination policy with your application.
Employees Giving Back
Every year, Columbia Gas and NiSource employees roll up their sleeves to volunteer out in the community. These events include community beautification projects, stocking food pantries, planting native species for pollinators and wildlife, donating blood, collecting nonperishable food and toys for local charities, and serving our veterans and first responders.
