The Indianapolis Urban League (IUL), in partnership with the National Urban League (NUL) and the African American Coalition of Indianapolis (AACI), has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) under the Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative (IAAQLI). This initiative is backed by a $100 million grant from Lilly Endowment to NUL and is aimed at improving the quality of life for African Americans in Indianapolis and Marion County. The RFP specifically addresses the Housing and Homeownership priority area, seeking proposals that advance Black homeownership, housing equity, and neighborhood stability. The total funding available under this RFP is $3,013,359, with individual project awards up to $750,000 for a two-year grant period.
The initiative targets the ongoing housing challenges affecting Black residents, such as excessive housing cost burdens, aging housing stock, and the systemic inequities impeding homeownership. By funding projects focused on home repair, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable housing in historically African American neighborhoods, IAAQLI aims to mitigate these challenges and foster wealth building and stability. Proposed projects must align with IAAQLI’s strategy to preserve and stabilize homeownership through critical repairs, particularly in areas facing redevelopment or gentrification pressures. Applications must demonstrate organizational capacity and experience in executing home repair programs and should highlight collaborative partnerships, particularly those involving Black developers, builders, and suppliers.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with experience in housing repair and neighborhood revitalization. Preference is given to African American-led organizations based in Indianapolis and those who have a demonstrated track record in preserving affordable housing. Collaborations are encouraged, with roles clearly defined through letters of support. Eligible uses of funds include subsidizing repair and rehabilitation costs, energy efficiency upgrades, and support for properties that are or will be deeded to individual families or community groups. Funding is not available to for-profit entities.
Applications are to be submitted through the Smarter Select platform at https://app.smarterselect.com/programs/103798-Iaaqli. Required documents include proof of nonprofit status (IRS Determination Letter), IRS Form 990, a Certificate of Insurance naming NUL as an additional insured, and a completed budget using the IAAQLI Budget Template. Additional application components include detailed project descriptions, team structure, plans for long-term sustainability, and evaluation metrics. Optional documents include architectural drawings and proof of non-IAAQLI financial support.
The RFP was released on July 7, 2025. Written questions were due by July 14, 2025, with answers posted on July 21, 2025. Applications were due by August 11, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Awards are anticipated by October 10, 2025. Grant recipients must provide progress reports every six months and a final report upon project completion. All inquiries must be submitted in writing via email to info@iaaqli.org, and only officially posted responses are valid.
Prioritize partnerships with Black professionals; include evaluation strategy and sustainability.
