Indiana Local Grants

The Greater Franklin Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the small business capacity-building grant program. Donor Name: Franklin Chamber of Commerce State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/02/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Small businesses are essential to the economic and social growth of a community. In Franklin, small business owners are friends and neighbors who are the foundation of the city. They are delighted to assist in strengthening these businesses that are so important to the fabric of the community. Funding Information  This project of the Franklin Chamber Foundation will award 12 $2,500 grants to local small businesses. Eligibility Criteria  Small businesses of 10 or fewer full-time employees are encouraged to submit applications for the grants which may be used for initiatives such as expanding a physical space, online presence or marketing initiatives. Examples of capacity building are: user-friendly online shopping platforms, enhanced point-of-sale systems, updated websites, increased physical spaces and innovative marketing strategies. For more information, visit Franklin Chamber of Commerce.

The Women’s Fund accepts applications for grants to support charitable projects or activities in Spencer County. Donor Name: Spencer County Community Foundation State: Indiana County: Spencer County (IN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/19/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Women’s Fund invites charitable organizations to apply for the grant by completing the grant application describing how their organization would use the award. Program Areas Considered For Funding Program Areas Considered For Funding Arts and Culture Community Development Education Health Human Services Other Civic Endeavors (Environment, Recreation, and Youth Development) Funding Information  Awards up to $5,000. Eligibility Criteria The Community Foundation welcomes funding requests from nonprofit organizations that are deemed tax-exempt under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code and from governmental agencies serving the county. Funding requests from nonprofit organizations not classified as a 501(c)(3) public charity may be considered provided the project is charitable and supports a community need. In some cases, organizations without the 501(c)(3) designation may be required to obtain a fiscal sponsor. Program Areas NOT Considered for Funding Religious organizations for religious purposes Political parties or campaigns Endowment creation or debt reduction Operating costs not directly related to the program/project Capital campaigns Annual appeals or membership contributions Travel requests for groups or individuals such as bands, sports teams, or classes For more information, visit Spencer County Community Foundation.

The City of Goshen’s Community Relations Commission (CRC) invites neighborhood groups to apply for the Neighborhood Block Party Grant. Donor Name: City of Goshen State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/04/2024 Size of the Grant: Less than $1000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: This grant aims to promote neighborhood community-building activities, help build positive relations among the community, and enhance problem-solving skills among residents throughout the community. Possible uses for Neighborhood Block Party Grants include, but are not limited to:  Supplies for a neighborhood block party  Print and promotional materials for neighborhood block party  Activities for a neighborhood block party Funding Information The maximum annual grant total per neighborhood is $200. Eligible Projects In developing your project, please remember that the purpose of the Neighborhood Block Party Grant is to promote neighborhood community-building activities that demonstrate neighborhood benefit. One of the goals of the CRC is to develop and maintain programs that build positive relations among the community.  Funds should be used to support one-time events such as block parties, special celebrations, etc. Provide the proposed event’s date, location, and proof of the property owner’s permission to use their property for this purpose. Eligibility Criteria Applications are accepted from neighborhood-based organizations located within Goshen city limits. A neighborhood-based organization is a group with a majority of its members residing or doing business in a commonly recognized neighborhood whose purpose is, at least in part, to improve the quality of life in that area. Groups may be formed for the sole purpose of completing a grant-funded project and need not be formally recognized as neighborhood associations. For more information, visit City of Goshen.

The City of South Bend is seeking applications for its IGNITE Grant Program to improve South Bend Neighborhoods through innovative projects that spark community engagement and development and are led by neighborhood residents. Donor Name: City of South Bend State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/12/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The goal of the Neighborhood IGNITE Grant program is to improve South Bend neighborhoods through innovative projects that spark community engagement and development and are led by neighborhood residents themselves. The City of South Bend is offering grants of up to $15,000 to support projects that fall into the following general categories: Beautification wildflower gardens, tree planting Public Art murals, sculptures, street painting, signal box wraps Food Security/Access community garden Public Safety sidewalk connections, lighting, informal signage Health & Wellness walking paths, outdoor exercise equipment, compost, bike racks, bike repair station Public Space Enhancement picnic areas, seating, shared spaces, large capacity grills, park benches Neighborhood Signage neighborhood identification signs, information Capacity Building and Training Neighbor Works training, strategic plans, technical assistance Other This program is open to other creative project ideas generated by neighborhoods! Eligibility Criteria The program is administered by the City of South Bend’s Engagement and Economic Empowerment (E3) team. The grant program is exclusively for neighborhood associations and the residents within the neighborhood. A neighborhood association must identify neighborhood boundaries and develop a committee of at least 5 neighborhood residents. Ineligible Expenses Expenses incurred prior to application date Tree removal or pruning or general maintenance (including watering), unless part of a larger beautification project Events, activities, programs, and services usually included in the organization’s regular budget; unless the new funding is for significant improvements Operating expenses, including salaries and stipends Expenses that can be covered through the City of South Bend’s Neighborhood Toolkit. For more information, visit City of South Bend.

This funding opportunity provides neighborhood associations in South Bend with financial support for innovative, resident-led projects that improve community engagement and enhance local quality of life.

The Unity Foundation of La Porte County is accepting applications for its Community “Power for Good” Grants to qualified nonprofit organizations, governmental bodies, and educators serving La Porte County. Donor Name: Unity Foundation of La Porte County State: Indiana County: LaPorte County (IN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/19/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Types of projects are funded  As Unity Foundation embraces the future of serving La Porte County, the Grant Making Committee encourages submission of innovative projects. Many good repetitive projects have been supported over the years, but the preference is to seek out new concepts that will further enhance the quality of life and strengthen their county. Further considerations include:  • Issues not adequately being serviced by existing community resources  • One-time projects or needs  • Projects that provide leverage for generating other funds and community resources Projects that facilitate cooperation and collaboration between organizations and the communities within La Porte County Funding Information  Requests should be at least $500 and no more than $5,000.  Eligibility Criteria Generally, only charitable organizations with verifiable 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, and operating or offering programs in La Porte County, Indiana, will be considered. Start-up or ad hoc organizations may not yet have obtained 501(c)(3) status. If that is the case, they suggest you find an organization to “host” the project or program and have them request funds with you. You may verify your exempt organization status by visiting IRS Exempt Organizations Select Check. Churches may request funds for non-religious purposes only, such as community programs/projects. Governmental bodies, such as townships and fire districts, as well as educational institutions including teachers, are also eligible; however, please note the additional restrictions for those organizations under General Grant Making Policies. For more information, visit UFLPC.

The Women’s Fund of Porter County offers an opportunity for women in Porter County to collectively share the joy of giving and address the most important needs of women and children in community—together. Donor Name: Porter County Community Foundation State: Indiana County: Porter County (IN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/28/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Women’s Fund of Porter County funds programs that demonstrate positive outcomes in improving the lives of women and children. Eligibility Criteria The Women’s Fund of Porter County welcomes nonprofit organizations serving Porter County to submit a grant request. Recipient organizations must be organized for tax exempt purposes as set forth in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Project Areas NOT Considered for Funding Projects or programs that do not address issues facing women and/or children; Scholarship programs including daycare and program participation fees; Annual appeals or membership contributions; Event sponsorships; Programs that are sectarian or religious in nature; Political organizations or candidates; Contributions to endowment campaigns; Campaigns to reduce previously incurred debt; Individuals; Programs already completed and/or equipment already contracted for; and Travel for bands, sports teams and similar groups. For more information, visit PCCF.

The City of Fishers is excited to announce the 2024 Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant. Donor Name: City of Fishers State: Indiana City: Fishers Type of Grant: Grant | Matching Grants Deadline: 07/31/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The purpose of this grant is to provide funding for creative and innovative ideas that make the community a more beautiful place to live, and that will impact the lives of the community at large in a smart, vibrant, and entrepreneurial manner. Grant highlights: The Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant is a matching grant Applicants must provide at least 20% of the total project cost The Grant is awarded quarterly in 2024 Grants are competitive and will not be awarded for recurring or maintenance items Funding Information Maximum amount to be awarded is $25,000. Uses of funds  Funding must be used towards costs of a project which involves design, construction, or installation. Ideas and example photos are provided here to kick start creativity! Priority is given to projects that will have the greatest visibility and positive effect on Fishers as a community. Projects located inside the public right-of-way are subject to additional review and approval. Below are ideas for preferred projects: Converting high maintenance common area lawns to no-mow native plantings Installation of shoreline plantings, water aeration, or rain gardens near Detention/Retention Ponds (White River Alliance Resource) Monarch Butterfly Waystation and/or Wildlife Habitat Corridors Neighborhood Community Gardens Environmental & Agricultural Common Area Trail Repairs & Improvements Park Improvement such as Picnic Shelters, Benches, Planters, Mini-Libraries, or Accessible Playground Equipment Connected two or more Neighborhood Walking Trails Installation of Solar Lights or other renewable energy projects Improved Pedestrian Connectivity or Tactical Urbanism. Eligible Applicants  Neighborhoods groups and HOAs within Fishers City Limits. For more information, visit City of Fishers.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2024 Blackford County Community Foundation Grant. Donor Name: Blackford County Community Foundation State: Indiana County: Blackford County (IN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/01/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The mission of the foundation is to enhance the quality of life for Blackford County residents. Fields of Interest The Community Foundation will focus primarily on these fields of interest; however, it expects to remain flexible in its grant-making activities. Community Development Arts and cultural development Community parks Community beautifications, improvement and enhancement projects Community Services Planning & Coordination Health services coordination Human services coordination Education Community education on relevant issues Post-secondary, secondary, elementary, preschool and special education Health Community health services Mental health services Human Services Elderly services Children and youth services Family services Youth advancement  Consideration Requirements Grants are not awarded to profit-making enterprises. Grants are not awarded to support political activities. Grants are not awarded to support operating budgets of organizations, except for limited experimental or demonstration periods. Exceptions to this policy may be made when there are compelling reasons. Governmental units applying for any budgeted items need to show why additional funding is needed. Grants are not awarded for sectarian or religious purposes or to sectarian or religious organizations operated primarily for the benefit of their own members. Capital grants to building campaigns will only be made when there is evidence that such support is vital to the success of a program meeting priority needs of the community. Payments of such grants are made only after a significant percentage of the total campaign requirements have been raised. Grants are not awarded for endowment purposes. Special project grants may be made to individuals All grants are awarded in accordance with current regulations issued pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code, as amended. (No Transportation costs allowed.) For more information, visit BCCF.

The City of Bloomington invites nonprofit organizations to apply for funding to support their efforts to bridge the digital divide and increase digital resources for residents. Donor Name: City of Bloomington State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 06/14/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: More than 10 Years Details: Bloomington’s Digital Equity Grants program, now in its fourth year, began as part of the Recover Forward initiative to help Bloomington recover from the pandemic and economic collapse, and advance racial, economic, and climate justice. Beginning in 2022, the award funds have become a regular part of the Information & Technology Services Department’s annual general fund budget. Since 2020, the City’s Digital Equity Grant Program has awarded more than $190,000 to local nonprofits.  The Digital Equity Grants program will accept proposals from nonprofits for projects that build capacity in the community to address digital equity challenges by:  Facilitating access to broadband service, especially affordable options. Increasing access to computing devices to effectively use the internet. Cultivating the knowledge, familiarity and digital skills needed to secure the benefits of the internet and computers. Improving skills needed to use the internet safely, securely and confidently to engage in digital life. Mitigating community digital equity gaps identified in the City’s digital equity survey. Aligning with initiatives recommended in the city’s Digital Equity Strategic Plan. Funding Information The Digital Equity Grants program will award $50,000 in funds to Bloomington-based nonprofits. Eligibility Criteria  Any Bloomington-based non-profit organization (or governmental organization) is eligible to apply. The organization must provide proof of 501(c)(3) status in their application materials. For more information, visit City of Bloomington.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government agencies that implement projects benefiting the residents of Jefferson County, Indiana, with a focus on innovative, collaborative, and preventative initiatives.

The Community Foundation of White County is now accepting applications for Mental Wellness Grants program. Donor Name: Community Foundation of White County State: Indiana County: White County (IN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Foundation is particularly interested in innovative approaches to solving community problems, maximizing unexpected opportunities, and supporting projects that evidence collaboration among agencies. Within the scope of mental wellness, they are particularly interested in projects that: expand access to mental health services reduce the stigma around mental health build protective factors, particularly in youth provide evidence-based programs that impact mental wellness education or training for parents and youth workers They look for opportunities that will reach as many people as possible and will improve the ability of the organization to serve the community over the long term. Eligible programs/projects must serve the White County community. Funding Information A total of $50,000 will be available for the 2024 Mental Wellness Grants.  Eligibility Criteria The Foundation supports organizations that are classified as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Ineligibility Policies governing the Foundation generally preclude funding for: Individuals Endowments Existing deficits, debt reduction, and multi-year, long-term funding for projects Religious activities or programs that are serving or appear to serve predominantly one denomination and not the community at large (however, daycare/childcare programs, for example, if open to the public, would be eligible) Political organizations or candidates Programs or capital projects already completed. For more information, visit CFWC.

The Community Foundation of White County is excited to announce the 2024 Community Cares Grant. Donor Name: Community Foundation of White County State: Indiana County: White County (IN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/02/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Foundation is particularly interested in innovative approaches to solving community problems, maximizing unexpected opportunities, and supporting projects that evidence collaboration among agencies. Examples include: Start-up costs for a new or expanded project (should indicate a plan for future support and sustainability) One-time projects that address a critical need Capital improvement projects that are beyond an applicant’s means Projects for which support from CFWC will enable applicants to obtain matching funding from other sources. They look for opportunities that will reach as many people as possible and will improve the ability of the organization to serve the community over the long term. Eligible programs/projects must serve the White County community. Funding Information A total of $45,000 has been allocated for Round Two 2024 Community Grants to eligible nonprofits serving White County.  Eligible Criteria To be eligible, your organization must have non-profit, 501c3 status. This includes units of governments, school corporations, and religious organizations. Ineligibility Policies governing the foundation generally preclude funding for: Individuals Endowments Ongoing operating budgets, existing deficits, debt reduction Religious activities or programs that are serving or appear to serve predominantly one denomination and not the community at large (however, daycare/childcare programs, for example, if open to the public, would be eligible) Political organizations or candidates Programs or capital projects already complete. For more information, visit CFWC.

The City of Evansville has announced the Forward Together Grant Fund to support eligible nonprofit organizations in the Evansville community. Donor Name: City of Evansville State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/05/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The fund, which is derived from interest on funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, will be used to provide support for eligible nonprofits who lead meaningful work to help strengthen neighborhoods and provide pathways out of poverty for city residents. Organizations may apply for up to $35,000 apiece to fund programs that fall into one of the following categories: Affordable Housing Mental Health/Addiction Food Assistance Job Training Youth Development Internet Access Childcare Access Resource Navigation Assistance Homeless Services Neighborhood Revitalization (i.e. Home Repairs, weatherization, etc.) Eligibility Criteria In order to be eligible for a grant from the Forward Together Fund, organizations must: Be a City of Evansville based organization or provide direct services to underprivileged or disadvantaged City of Evansville residents. Be a registered 501(c)(3) organization with a Board of Directors and have been continuously registered as such for at least 3 years prior. Eligible uses of funds include payroll and benefit costs, utilities, rent, insurance, and other operating. For more information, visit City of Evansville.

The Community Foundation of White County in Indiana is offering the Glen B. and Lorraine D. Garrott Grants of $1,000 to $10,000, specifically for non-profit preschool, daycare, and before-and-after-school programs in the Brookston community, focusing on arts, library, parks, and community programs, with applications due by October 1, 2024.

The United Way of Grant County (UWGC) is excited to announce its 2024-2025 funding cycle. Donor Name: United Way of Grant County (UWGC) State: Indiana County: Grant County (IN) Details: UWGC welcomes all 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations located in Grant County to apply if their activities align with the core mission of uplifting the community’s health, education, and financial stability. How does the united way funding process work? The funding process they follow is designed to be transparent and inclusive, with three key stages: Submission of Letter of Interest (LOI): This is the first step and your opportunity to tell us about your organization and its transformative program(s). A well-crafted LOI will include the following critical information: Your organization’s name and contact details. A comprehensive description of your organization’s mission. Details about the program for which you are seeking funding. Approximate amount of funding you wish to request. An explanation of how your program aligns with your organization’s mission. An explanation of how your program aligns with the mission of the United Way of Grant County. Application and Committee Review: If your LOI is accepted, the next stage involves submitting a full application and collaborating with our Community Investment Committee. Comprised of dedicated volunteers from across Grant County, this committee is tasked with scrutinizing each application through a thorough, rigorous review process. This includes site visits (when feasible), in-depth evaluations of your organization’s impact, and an assessment of its ability to deliver on its mission. Allocation of Funding: The final stage of the funding process happens in the Spring. Organizations that have successfully navigated the previous stages and have been approved by the Community Investment Committee will begin to receive their funding. This funding will provide crucial support for the organization’s program as outlined in the LOI and subsequent review stages. For more information, visit UWGC.

The Women Giving Together Fund of Community Foundation of White County in Indiana offers grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to non-profit organizations serving women and children in White County, prioritizing projects that serve the needs of local women and families, demonstrate innovation, and have diverse funding sources, with a focus on early childhood education, arts and culture, education, social/human services, and youth programs.

The Public Art for Neighborhoods program, administered by the Indy Arts Council, offers grants ranging from $1000 to $10,000 for individual artists or neighborhood-based organizations in Indianapolis to fund arts and cultural activities, public art projects, or arts collaborations with community initiatives, with the aim of enhancing local neighborhoods.

The Posey County Community Foundation is accepting applications for its 2024 Community Good Grants Program. Donor Name: Posey County Community Foundation State: Indiana County: Posey County (IN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/02/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Program Areas Considered For Funding Arts and Culture Community Development Education Health Human Services Other Civic Endeavors (Environment, Recreation, and Youth Development). Eligibility Criteria  The Community Foundation welcomes funding requests from nonprofit organizations that are deemed tax-exempt under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code and from governmental agencies serving the county. Funding requests from nonprofit organizations not classified as a 501(c)(3) public charity may be considered provided the project is charitable and supports a community need. In some cases, organizations without the 501(c)(3) designation may be required to obtain a fiscal sponsor. Program Areas NOT Considered For Funding Religious organizations for religious purposes Political parties or campaigns Endowment creation or debt reduct to the program/project Capital campaigns Annual appeals or membership contributions Travel requests for groups or individuals such as bands, sports teams, or classes. For more information, visit PCCF.

The 2024 Bloomington Arts Commission Operations Grant supports 501(c)3 organizations with arts-centered missions and Bloomington-based impact. Donor Name: Bloomington Arts Commission (BAC) State: Indiana City: Bloomington Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/21/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Funds can be spent on any aspect of the organization’s costs, from overhead to staff salaries to programmatic expenses, and beyond. Funding Information  $500.00 to $5,000.00. Eligibility Criteria Nonprofit arts organizations based in Bloomington with 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS. Arts as the primary mission. Organizations may apply to receive up to 5% of their most recently completed fiscal year’s total operating budget, but no more than $5000. Most organizations will not receive the maximum amount of funding. Majority of activity takes place in Bloomington, Indiana. 501c3s whose annual operating budget is no more than $500,000 are eligible to apply. Evaluation Criteria Organizational Capacity Does your organization demonstrate a clear mission and the planning to achieve it?  Is your organization fiscally sound? Do you have staff or volunteers committed to doing the work to achieve your mission? Community Impact Does your organization address a community need? Does it engage in larger community dialogues? Do you reach out to or connect with the various communities that exist in Bloomington? Equity and Inclusion Does your organization take actionable steps to increase Equity and Inclusion? For more information, visit BAC.