F.I.S.T. Grant

The F.I.S.T. Grant is a funding opportunity offered through the Steuben County Community Foundation (SCCF) and is designed to support nonprofit organizations and schools that aim to positively impact the youth of Steuben County, Indiana. SCCF plays a leadership role in addressing community needs through its philanthropic activities, annually awarding over $1.6 million to community organizations. FIST stands for “Focused Impact on Steuben Teens” and is one of SCCF’s grant cycles aimed specifically at youth empowerment through projects that foster leadership, creativity, and civic engagement among local youth. The foundation values long-term solutions and seeks applicants that demonstrate strategic alignment with their mission to improve quality of life within Steuben County. This particular grant supports programs such as educational trips, special events, or creative community-based initiatives that empower local youth to engage with their communities. FIST specifically looks for programs that offer volunteering opportunities for its members, encouraging collaboration between local nonprofits and young people. However, the grant does not support general classroom supplies or projects that fail to align with its core mission of youth empowerment and community contribution. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and school employees operating within or serving Steuben County. This includes churches and service clubs. Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) are also eligible, provided they hold 501(c)(3) status. School employees are required to submit their application under the name of their school district, ensuring institutional accountability. Organizations must not have outstanding grant reports due to SCCF and must serve Steuben County directly. Applications from organizations headquartered outside the county are acceptable only if the majority of beneficiaries are Steuben County residents. To apply, organizations must provide a detailed description of the proposed program along with an itemized budget or cost estimate. Grants of up to $2,000 are available for programs that align with the mission of inspiring local youth to become future leaders. All applications are submitted through SCCF’s online grant portal. Projects that are collaborative in nature and that attempt to address root causes are given special consideration. The program’s emphasis is on alignment with the nonprofit’s mission, demonstrated support by the organization’s board, and evidence of long-term strategic impact. The 2025 grant cycle opened on August 15 and applications are due by October 31. The program does not include a pre-application or letter of intent requirement. Funding decisions are typically made 60–75 days after the application deadline, which places anticipated award notifications in early to mid-January of the following year. As a recurring grant offered annually, the next expected application cycle will likely begin around August 15, 2026. Applicants who are new to SCCF or have questions about the process can contact the foundation directly by phone at (260) 665-6656. The application requires clarity around program goals, measurable outcomes, and a clear plan for community impact. Although the maximum award amount is $2,000, strong applications demonstrate sustainability, collaboration, and alignment with SCCF’s broader goals of community development and youth leadership.

Projects should align with the mission of youth empowerment, be collaborative, and avoid ineligible categories such as fundraising or religious activities.