Community Impact Grants

The Kiwanis Foundation of Indianapolis, an extension of the Kiwanis Club of Indianapolis, is part of a global organization committed to improving the lives of children and communities. Since 2015, the Foundation has awarded more than 100 grants totaling $324,500 to 60 community organizations. These grants have been used to support impactful programming that enhances the quality of life for children and adolescents in Indianapolis. Each year, the Foundation opens its External Community Grant cycle to local nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status that serve youth within the Indianapolis area. The program funds the creation or expansion of projects or initiatives that deliver direct benefits to children and adolescents. Applicants may request up to $5,000 in funding per grant cycle. The number of awards distributed each year is determined by the availability of funds. Applications are reviewed based on several key criteria, including the community need being addressed, the number of youth served, the long-term impact of the proposed project, and the overall uniqueness of the program. For the 2026 grant cycle, the application window runs from August 26 to October 3, 2025, closing at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the final day. Applications must be submitted electronically and must be complete to be considered. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation with eligibility or proposal questions by October 1, 2025. The final grant decision will be made by the Foundation Board in December, with award notifications issued by the end of the calendar year. Funds will be disbursed by the end of the first quarter of 2026. The Foundation places restrictions on funding use. Grants cannot be used to support individuals, operating or indirect expenses, fundraising or capital campaigns, debt repayment, or already-incurred costs. Projects must be non-religious in purpose, although religious organizations may apply for secular initiatives. Programs that exclude participation based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, or income are also ineligible. Additionally, multi-year projects will not be funded. Organizations may only submit one application per calendar year and may receive funding for a single program no more than three consecutive years. A final impact report must be submitted by January 31 of the year following the grant period—in this case, January 31, 2027. Grantees are encouraged to attend a Kiwanis Club of Indianapolis meeting during the year to share how the funding benefited their program. Questions regarding the grant process or eligibility can be directed to the Foundation via email at office@indykiwanis.org. This grant opportunity is tailored to support local efforts that deliver measurable, meaningful change for youth in Indianapolis.

Application must be specific and complete; committee evaluates community need, youth served, long-term impact, and uniqueness