The Blackford County Community Foundation administers a local grantmaking program intended to support a wide range of community initiatives within Blackford County, Indiana. As a private foundation confirmed in compliance with National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, its mission centers on improving quality of life through strategic support of projects and services aligned with identified community needs. Grants are structured around two primary cycles each year, with additional specialized opportunities such as the Women of Worth grant focusing on targeted populations.
The Foundation’s grantmaking encompasses several fields of interest, including community development, services coordination, education, health, and human services. Within these domains, eligible initiatives may include community beautification, mental health services, coordination of human services, educational programming across all levels including special education, and targeted services for children, youth, families, and the elderly. Special consideration is given to projects that demonstrate collaboration, broad community benefit, and potential for continued support beyond the grant period.
Grants from the Foundation are not available to for-profit entities, political organizations, or for use in religious activities serving primarily internal congregants. Further exclusions apply to operating budgets (except under defined circumstances), endowment building, and transportation costs. While governmental units may apply, justification for supplemental funding beyond standard budget allocations is required. Capital campaign support is reserved for projects that clearly demonstrate vital community impact and have already achieved a significant portion of their fundraising goals.
Application to the grant program follows a structured process. Interested applicants are first instructed to contact Elizabeth, the Executive Director, via email or phone to ensure project alignment with Foundation priorities. Only after this conversation is an application link provided, along with other required documentation. Applications are reviewed in two annual cycles: Cycle I opens December 5, 2024 and closes February 6, 2025, with decisions made by March 20, 2025; Cycle II opens June 5, 2025 and closes August 7, 2025, with decisions issued by September 18, 2025.
The Women of Worth grant, a separate opportunity, supports projects that specifically benefit women and children within Blackford County. This program opens for applications on August 11, 2025 and closes September 25, 2025. Approval timelines for this opportunity are not yet published.
The evaluation process considers project significance, timing, community reach, partnerships, financial support from other sources, and sustainability. The Foundation emphasizes strategic alignment and measurable community outcomes. For more information or to initiate the application process, applicants are directed to contact Elizabeth at elizabeth@blackfordcounty.org or call 765-348-3411. The Foundation is located at 121 North High Street, Hartford City, Indiana 47348.
