Funding Sources

Ohio to Erie Trail Fund (OTETF) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. We rely on the generous donations from people in a variety of capacities.  The OTETF works with local partners to achieve local, state and federal funding for land acquisition, trail construction and related trail projects.  Numerous organizations and individuals have joined together to establish the ever growing collection of trails which form the Ohio to Erie Trail.

The sources of funds for operation of the Ohio to Erie Trail organization as well as for land acquisition, design, and construction include:

-Individuals & Families

-Donations via registrations for our Annual September Ride
-Foundations & Other Non-Profit Organizations

-Counties, Municipalities, Villages & Townships

-Park Districts

-Private businesses

State Funds: the Ohio General Assembly; the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (Nature Works grants); the Ohio Department of Transportation (Transportation Enhancement 21 funds); Recreational Trail Program (RTP); Clean Ohio Trails; the Land & Water Conservation Fund; and sometimes special capital budget earmarks

Federal: direct Congressional grants for the Canal Heritage Area and Transportation Enhancement funds administered by the Ohio Department of Transportation; the Railroad Revitalization Act; and the National Park Service that manages the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and towpath. 

We welcome your support of the Ohio to Erie Trail fund, we still have over 10% of the route on streets and roads and we continue to advocate to build trails in these locations.

Please Donate Nowto continue the work of the Ohio to Erie Trail Fund on this beloved Ohio recreational treasure.

We are grateful for the support we receive from our sponsors and the donors of EarthShare of Ohio.