Best Dearborn County Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

The Inspire Artist Grants, funded by ArtsWave and the City of Cincinnati, aim to support under-represented artists in the Greater Cincinnati Region. These grants provide resources for creating impactful artwork that reflects the lived experiences of Black and Brown communities. Emerging artists can apply for up to $5,000, while practicing artists can receive up to $10,000. Successful applicants will showcase their projects in July 2026 and engage in a supportive artist cohort.

The Siemer Milling Company Fund, established by the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation, supports youth leadership development in Effingham County, Illinois, Christian County, Kentucky, and Dearborn County, Indiana. The fund emphasizes the importance of cultivating leadership skills among youth to prepare them for future roles in their communities. Organizations eligible for grants must be public charities with 501(c)(3) status and must focus on programs that enhance leadership skills for youth aged 19 and under.

The David C. Herriman Fund, established by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, aims to support regional performing arts organizations in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. This fund prioritizes proposals that enhance performances and foster youth education in the arts. Grants range from $200,000 to $350,000 for larger projects and $15,000 to $50,000 for smaller initiatives, with a total budget not exceeding $400,000. Eligible applicants include local 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to the arts.

The WHAS Crusade for Children Grant supports non-profit agencies, schools, and hospitals in Kentucky and southern Indiana that assist children with special needs. Since 1954, over $217 million has been awarded to improve the lives of these children. The grants focus on direct services and specific programs or equipment, excluding administrative costs and personal items. Eligible organizations must have IRS standing and county financial support before applying.

INDOT Mission

Together, we plan, deliver, and maintain a safe, efficient, and innovative transportation system that:

• Enhances the daily lives of Hoosiers.
• Strengthens Indiana’s economy
• Embraces evolving transportation needs.

Enhanced Mobility of Seniors & Individuals with Disabilities

The Federal Section 5310 grant program is intended to enhance mobility for seniors and persons with disabilities by providing funds for programs to serve the special needs of transit-dependent populations beyond traditional public transportation services.

INDOT does not provide funding to areas over 200,000 population (Lake/Porter counties, South Bend, Fort Wayne, Evansville, Indianapolis, Clark/Floyd counties) should contact their local Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). A list of these MPOs can be found at http://www.indianampo.com/inmpo_regions.html

Eligible Activities

Specialized transportation projects planned, designed, and carried out to meet the special needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities when public transportation is insufficient, inappropriate, or unavailable.

The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund Grant, established by the L&L Nippert Charitable Foundation, aims to support organizations enhancing musical and cultural arts, education, environment, and health in the Tri-State Area. Eligible organizations must be verified 501(c)(3) charities and demonstrate their impact on local residents. The foundation continues the philanthropic legacy of Louis and Louise Nippert, focusing on community enrichment through the arts and education.

The South Central Chapter of the Indiana Native Plant Society offers small grants ranging from $50 to $250 for projects that promote biodiversity and community engagement through native plants. These grants are available to chapter members and non-profit organizations, encouraging creative initiatives like demonstration gardens or pollinator areas. Proposals are evaluated based on clarity, community benefit, feasibility, and educational value. This program aims to foster stewardship and connect Indiana youth with nature.

FC Cincinnati Foundation

FC Cincinnati is committed to leaving a legacy, creating something bigger than ourselves, and being the embodiment of a rising Cincinnati. Through our own programs and initiatives, and the support of key partners, we aim to improve the lives of children through the game of soccer and will continue to do our part to create an inclusive community.

FC Cincinnati Foundation’s mission is accomplished primarily through five key programs: Club Ambassadorship through In-School and Out-of-School Programming, Mini Pitch Soccer Builds, West End Pride and Learning Is Cool. These programs help promote and encourage strong academic performance, and serve as catalysts to reinforce character values and improved health for children in the Greater Cincinnati region. The Foundation also serves as FC Cincinnati’s philanthropic arm, making donations and investments to Cincinnati-area organizations that have similar goals and ambitions for the area’s youth.

Donation Request

Donations are a way for FC Cincinnati to give back to local non-profit's as they are hosting fundraisers and events. These donations include, but are not limited to FCC signed merchandise items, FCC apparel items, and on special occasion, tickets to matches. Donations allow FC Cincinnati to show up across the city and support causes that are important to our fans, allowing us to connect with fans in a way that is meaningful to them. These items allow non-profits to use the donation for fundraising efforts and supporting their organization to raise money for a specific cause.

ArtsWave's Young Professionals Grant Program supports innovative arts initiatives in the Cincinnati region. Since 1927, ArtsWave has empowered local organizations through funding, fostering creativity and cultural engagement. The grants, fueled by contributions from young professionals, aim to enhance community connections and stimulate the economy by backing projects that resonate with young audiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 designated and focus on arts and cultural activities within the Cincinnati-Middletown area.

The L&L Nippert Charitable Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance the lives of residents in the Tri-State Area through cultural arts, education, environment, or health initiatives. Established in 1981, the foundation is committed to continuing the philanthropic legacy of Louis and Louise Nippert. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and demonstrate a clear benefit to the community. This grant aims to foster opportunities that align with the foundation's mission.

The WHAS Crusade for Children Grant supports organizations, schools, and hospitals that assist children with special needs up to age 18 in Kentucky and southern Indiana. Grants are aimed at direct services, specific programs, and equipment that benefit these children. Applicants must be in good IRS standing, and grants cannot fund administrative costs or be awarded to individuals. Since 1954, the Crusade has distributed over $217 million to further this mission.

ArtsWave’s Circle Grants aim to promote and celebrate Black and African American arts experiences in the Cincinnati region. Established in 1927, ArtsWave raises funds to support diverse artistic expressions and drive social impact in the community. Eligible organizations must be non-profits with a majority of their expenditures dedicated to arts activities and be based in the Cincinnati-Middletown area. This initiative seeks to foster inclusivity and cultural heritage through innovative projects.

The Millstone Fund aims to foster a vibrant, equitable community in Greater Cincinnati by supporting nonprofit organizations focused on health, education, and arts. The fund prioritizes initiatives that promote innovation, capacity building, and collaborative efforts among organizations. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, with a commitment to inclusion and equity. Requests exceeding $50,000 require prior approval. The fund seeks to invest in organizations that demonstrate a clear plan for sustainability and impactful services.

The SpartanNash Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on Hunger, Heroes, and Hope. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within a 30-mile radius of SpartanNash facilities. The Foundation ensures that every dollar raised directly benefits partner organizations, with a commitment to community impact. Grants are not available for ineligible entities, including those outside the radius or not aligned with the Foundation's mission. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has positively influenced local communities.

The Spaulding Foundation

The Spaulding Foundation was established in 1998 by Ruth E. Spaulding, who was born in Northside and remained a lifelong resident of Greater Cincinnati. During her life, many people were touched by her benevolent and charitable giving. This private foundation is funded by her estate.

The Spaulding Foundation focuses its grant-making in the areas of mental health, physical and mental disabilities, substance abuse/chemical addiction, and domestic violence, rape and abuse. In addition, The Foundation has continued Mrs. Spaulding’s close relationship with The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.

The Foundation welcomes opportunities to partner with organizations sharing our common goals. 

Impact100 Cincinnati empowers women to enhance lives in Greater Cincinnati by funding transformative grants focused on culture, education, environment, family, and health. They aim to address community needs with measurable goals, ensuring grants are utilized effectively over 1-3 years. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities and align projects with the mission of Impact100. The initiative fosters collaboration while prohibiting funding for operating costs, travel, and faith-based advancements.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

Who We AreFor nearly a century, ArtsWave has been the primary way the Cincinnati region’s arts are funded.Each year, tens of thousands of individuals and companies give to ArtsWave. These gifts support more than 150 organizations, artists, and projects through funding, services, and advocacy.The arts attract national recognition and boost tourism. They help make our region a better place to live and work. They bring energy and pride to our neighborhoods. They inspire creativity in future leaders. Most importantly, they bring people together across cultural divides.Young Professionals Grant Program ArtsWave YP grants provide both seed funding to support the development of new programming, as well as existing programming with demonstrated impact in engaging young professionals. Grants are made possible by the donations of young professionals to the 2025 ArtsWave Community Campaign.This affinity group project grant is designed to provide seed funding to support the development of new programming or to enhance existing programs to engage this ever-expanding community in our region through connective and innovation engagement. 

The Thomas J. Emery Memorial Grant, established by prominent Cincinnati philanthropists, aims to enhance the lives of individuals in the Greater Cincinnati area through grants that support social, cultural, educational, civic, and physical betterment. Founded in 1925, the grant prioritizes nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) status, focusing on collaborative projects and impactful initiatives, while not providing ongoing operational support. This initiative honors the legacy of Thomas and Mary Emery in fostering community development.

The Donald C. and Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation, established in 2006, aims to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged students in the Greater Cincinnati area. With a focus on innovative programs and scholarships, the foundation supports initiatives in primary, secondary, and adult education. Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000 annually, promoting sustainability and collaboration with other donors. Eligible applicants must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations, prioritizing local community impact.

The Andrew Jergens Foundation Grant, administered by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, focuses on enhancing the health, education, cultural experiences, and social welfare of children in the Greater Cincinnati area. With a commitment to supporting programs for children through high school, the foundation seeks to foster vibrant communities by connecting with nonprofits dedicated to improving quality of life. The foundation emphasizes the importance of generous contributions to create lasting change in the region.

The Daniel and Susan Pfau Foundation, established in 1994, focuses on enhancing education, health, cultural experiences, and social welfare for youth with disabilities and economic challenges in the Greater Cincinnati area. It supports arts organizations and recreation initiatives, prioritizing programs that help young individuals realize their potential. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits and demonstrate benefits to specific counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. The Foundation encourages collaboration with other donors for project funding.

The Catalyzing Impact Grant Program by ArtsWave aims to enhance community connections and economic vitality in Greater Cincinnati through arts and cultural heritage projects. This program encourages diverse programming aligned with the goals outlined in the Blueprint for Collective Action. Eligible projects can be new or existing, focusing on expanding impact by reaching new audiences or deepening existing initiatives, ultimately fostering a more vibrant arts landscape in the region.

The ArtsWave Pride Grant Program aims to foster inclusive arts experiences that resonate with the LGBTQIA community. By funding arts and cultural heritage projects, it seeks to enhance Cincinnati's reputation as an inclusive city. This program supports both the development of new creative initiatives and the operational needs of existing ones, encouraging projects that extend beyond traditional Pride celebrations. Applicants are urged to craft projects that align with these goals throughout the year.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

About Us

Interact for Health works so that people in our region are healthy and thriving, regardless of who they are or where they live. We advance health justice by tackling the root causes of unfair systems, amplifying community power and partnering with trust.

Responsive Fund

The goal of the Responsive Fund RFP is to address immediate, emerging, or unanticipated needs within the community, recognizing that opportunities to build resilience require dedicated funding.

2) In-Kind Support for Sustainability Consultations and Capacity Building

Participants in this program will receive 1:1 consulting services tailored to an organization’s identified needs. Interact for Health will work with local consultants and community partners based on needs shared by grantee organizations.

Examples of needs include the following:

• Scenario planning  
• Legal support 
• Sustainability and development planning and implementation
• Diversified funding strategies and implementation
• Exploring collaboration, partnerships/alliances, shared services, and/or mergers
• Strategic planning and revisions 

Sustainability Consultations will include up to 30 hours of 1:1 support and will begin in late 2026.