Best History Grants in Indiana

The Auto Club Group Foundation focuses on creating a positive impact through grants that enhance traffic safety, driver education, and financial literacy across 14 U.S. states and two territories. With a mission rooted in community service, the foundation supports nonprofit organizations and government entities that align with its goals. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, addressing crucial areas such as traffic safety initiatives, financial literacy for K-12 students, and equitable access to driver education programs.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

About Us

Indiana Humanities sparks curiosity, connects people, and explores the human experience through programs, grants, and storytelling.

Indiana Humanities is a statewide nonprofit that infuses the humanities into our daily lives. We do this by providing grants, convening discussions, uplifting humanities scholars, spotlighting humanities organizations and activities, and creating our own programs that help Hoosiers think, read and talk.

Mission

Indiana Humanities sparks curiosity, connects people, and explores the human experience through programs, grants, and storytelling.

Vision

An Indiana where community grows from conversation, knowledge expands understanding, and stories celebrate our shared humanity.

Mini-Grants

Indiana Humanities Mini-Grants provide tax-exempt organizations with funds to present humanities programs for their communities.

Goals and Timeline

Indiana Humanities Mini-Grants support programs in the areas of history, literature, archaeology, ethics, philosophy, world cultures, and other subjects. The programs can come in a variety of formats—workshops, presentations, reading/discussion programs, exhibitions, podcasts, film documentaries, and more—as long as they’re open to the public and utilize the humanities as a tool for engagement.

The Lilly Endowment Community Development Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis and across Indiana, supporting initiatives that foster strong neighborhoods, arts, and human services. With a focus on charitable entities, the Endowment prioritizes projects that address societal challenges, especially for communities of color. Organizations interested in funding must submit a preliminary letter detailing their project and funding needs, adhering to guidelines that emphasize local community impact.

The Ball Brothers Foundation offers general grants to organizations in Indiana, particularly focusing on Muncie and Delaware County. The foundation emphasizes support for arts, education, environment, health, human services, and public benefit initiatives, aiming to enhance community engagement and well-being. By fostering creativity, educational excellence, and environmental stewardship, the foundation seeks to strengthen the region's cultural and social fabric, while also addressing pressing community needs and encouraging collaborative efforts among local organizations.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) invites proposals for the Bats for the Future Fund RFP to combat white-nose syndrome (WNS) affecting bat populations in North America. This initiative seeks to advance treatments, implement management strategies, and support research that enhances bat survival and recovery. A match of 50% of the grant amount is preferred, aimed at fostering innovative conservation efforts and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the future of affected bat species.

The IH: INcommon Grant, offered by Indiana Humanities, supports tax-exempt organizations in developing public programs that explore critical issues related to race and ethnicity. With a focus on history and contemporary debates around topics such as immigration and institutional racism, the grant encourages diverse projects throughout Indiana. However, due to recent funding cuts from the National Endowment for the Humanities, many grants will be paused in 2025, with exceptions for specific programs like the Historic Preservation Education Grant.

The Paul Ogle Foundation Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations in Southern Indiana that demonstrate a strong community impact. By focusing on areas such as economic development, human needs, regionalism, and preservation, the Foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life for residents. Organizations must fit specific eligibility criteria and show evidence of sound financial practices. This grant fosters collaborations to address community needs effectively and sustainably, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to strategic philanthropy.

The Quality of Place: Pathways to Progress Grants, offered by the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana, aim to enhance access to safe and high-quality public spaces for individuals facing economic and mobility challenges. By partnering with local nonprofits, the foundation seeks to improve safety, accessibility, and environmental quality of amenities, ultimately fostering a more inclusive community. Since its inception in 1991, the foundation has awarded over $5 million annually to support initiatives that benefit the Southern Indiana region.

The Ian and Mimi Rolland Foundation, established in 1994, enhances the Fort Wayne community through grants focusing on social services, arts, and education. With over $6 million in assets, the foundation prioritizes local organizations and projects that benefit the public. Approximately 70% of grants support human and social services aimed at promoting equity. The foundation also considers requests in the arts and environmental sectors, reflecting a commitment to community enrichment.

The Reeves Foundation supports research aimed at understanding and treating macular degeneration, a condition that has personally affected the founder's family. Established in 1997, the foundation allocates 50% of its grants to research and the other half to local charities in Columbus, Indiana. Nonprofit organizations exempt under IRS code 501(c)(3) are eligible to apply, but funds cannot be used for administrative costs. The foundation prioritizes equipment purchases and partnerships with other funding sources.

About Us

Indiana State Parks traces its history back to 1916. Colonel Richard Lieber, an Indianapolis businessman and German immigrant, recommended that a state park system be created as part of Indiana’s celebration of its centennial. Lieber became a national leader in the state parks movement and assisted other states in forming their own systems as well. He became the first Director of the Indiana Department of Conservation, serving for more than a decade.

Indiana Trails Program

The Indiana Trails Program (ITP) is a grant program to support the development of trails throughout the state. The program uses state funds to help connect Hoosiers to outdoor recreation opportunities and natural environments without needing to rely on the use of a vehicle.

How much grant funding is available to applicants?

• The Indiana Trails Program will provide a maximum of 80% reimbursement for eligible projects, up to the maximum grant award amount. The applicant must have at least 20% of the total project cost available at the point of application.
• The grant request minimum is $100,000, and the maximum is $400,000.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Pokagon Fund, established through a 2000 agreement, supports communities near Band Trust Lands by providing strategic grants aimed at reducing poverty, enhancing education, and promoting community vitality. With over $23 million awarded, the Fund focuses on initiatives that foster local development, including substantial educational support and assistance for food-insecure families. By investing in these communities, the Fund aims to create a thriving environment for residents of Hartford, Dowagiac, and South Bend.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The NRA Foundation: Indiana Grants supports projects and organizations focused on firearms education and safety. Grants are available for both 501(c)(3) and non-501(c)(3) entities, provided they serve a charitable purpose. The foundation emphasizes promoting safe firearms use and hunting, educating the public about firearms history, and conducting research to enhance safety techniques. Eligible entities must be recognized as nonprofits by their state or the IRS, while certain organizations, like labor groups and private enterprises, are ineligible.

About Us

The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is an agency of state government, and its funding comes from the Indiana General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

A core component to the Indiana Arts Commission’s commitment to investing in the state’s vibrant and rich arts and culture sector are grants, which support people and communities through arts organizations and arts projects.

America250 Grant Program

About the Program

In anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Indiana Arts Commission accepted applications for arts projects, in any discipline, that celebrate American history and connect participants to that history.

The America250 Grant Program is a one-time program made possible through funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Indiana General Assembly.

Applicants could request up to $5,000. No matching funds are required.

Applicants recommended for funding will receive the full amount requested and are eligible to be paid in full at the beginning of the grant period provided they are in good standing and supply required information in a timely manner.

The Elevance Health Foundation's Behavioral Health Grant aims to address significant challenges in mental health and substance use disorders. With a commitment of up to $90 million over three years, the Foundation seeks partnerships with nonprofits to enhance treatment access, promote prevention strategies, and alleviate loneliness among affected individuals. This initiative emphasizes innovative solutions and measurable outcomes, targeting both national and local programs, particularly in states with pressing health disparities.

The CHS Foundation's Cooperative Education Grant aims to support educational projects that enhance understanding of the agricultural cooperative business model. With a focus on middle school to college-age students, the program encourages innovative approaches, measurable outcomes, and engagement strategies. It prioritizes initiatives with a national or state-level reach within the CHS trade area, fostering success and growth in cooperative education. Funding will be allocated to programs that align with these goals, ensuring a robust educational framework for future leaders in agriculture.

About Us

The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is an agency of state government, and its funding comes from the Indiana General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

A core component to the Indiana Arts Commission’s commitment to investing in the state’s vibrant and rich arts and culture sector are grants, which support people and communities through arts organizations and arts projects.

Every County Funded

About

The Every County Funded community-based arts program is designed to increase access to arts funding for all Hoosiers by providing invitation-only grant funding that directly serves counties where there is little to no state arts funding.

Every County Funded is designed to:

• Identify allies, partners and stakeholders in counties interested in bringing the arts to life in their community
• Provide communities with funding and technical support for creative initiatives
• Provide a simple process from which all can easily succeed and grow
• Connect communities through an informal cohort model

FY2026 Grant Program

The Indiana Arts Commission is accepting grant applications from Blackford, Lawrence, Parke, Newton, Rush, Washington, and White counties.

These projects should be based locally and include an opportunity that is open to the public. Previous projects that have been supported include activities such as:

• Example: Ongoing arts/performing arts classes or workshops that are open to the public for any age. Workshops employ local artists to support community and economic development.
• Example: A local 4-H club may wish to bring in a ceramic artist to provide a series of weekly classes for youth, resulting in a community exhibition that is open to the public and entries into the county fair.

• Example: Creating a mural that documents the history of your town and inviting local students to be involved in the painting process under the guidance of the mural artist.
• Example: Hosting a concert series that is free and open to the public, featuring a variety of musical acts. This series is in combination with existing events, such as festivals or annual town celebrations.

• Example: Providing arts-based classes at your library to support mental health and wellbeing of teenagers.
• Example: Increasing access to arts programs for people with disabilities by purchasing adaptive art supplies (e.g. paint brush grips, wheelchair accessible chalk tools, magnifying glasses) and hosting an inclusive event.

These project examples are not exhaustive or the only type of project allowed in Every County Funded. Applicants are encouraged to think creatively about how to provide arts experiences in their communities.

The Carl Marshall and Mildred Almen Reeves Foundation, established in 1997, supports local organized charities in Columbus, Indiana. Grants are aimed at nonprofit organizations focused on education, history, and the arts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, with an emphasis on projects rather than operational costs. The foundation seeks to enhance community engagement by requiring matching funds from other sources. This commitment honors the philanthropic legacy of Mrs. Mildred Reeves, who deeply valued local community support.

Central Indiana Community Foundation

Powered by generosity, passion, and innovative collaboration, Hamilton County Community Foundation brings together the strengths of our community to solve our most pressing challenges.

Hamilton County Community Foundation Strategic Grants

The Funding Opportunity

Strategic Grants provide larger, targeted investments in initiatives designed to create meaningful, long-term impact in Hamilton County. This funding pathway supports organizations pursuing significant opportunities—such as scaling proven programs, strengthening organizational capacity, or advancing transformational projects—in alignment with HCCF’s priority areas.

Strategic Grants may also support organizations navigating significant funding disruptions, where a targeted investment can help stabilize operations, preserve critical services, or position the organization for long-term sustainability.

What is Funded

Strategic Grants support high-impact opportunities that are significant in scope and positioned for long-term community benefit. Funding may include:

• Organizational capacity-building and expansion
• Transformational or large-scale community initiatives
• Capital campaigns (matching funds required)
• Time-sensitive opportunities to stabilize operations following the loss of significant funding

The Process

Strategic Grants are offered through an invitation-only process. HCCF proactively engages organizations whose work aligns with this funding pathway and demonstrates strong potential to create lasting community impact.

In prioritizing invitations, HCCF often considers organizations with a history of partnership or prior funding, while also remaining responsive to emerging opportunities and community needs.

Organizations that have not received an invitation but believe their work aligns with the goals of Strategic Grants may submit a brief request for special consideration. Due to the limited and highly targeted nature of this funding opportunity, submission of this form does not guarantee an invitation to apply.

The Elevance Health Foundation's Food as Medicine Grant aims to enhance access to nutritious foods and improve health outcomes for individuals facing diet-related conditions. This initiative invites qualified nonprofits to submit proposals focused on scalable solutions that address food insecurity and promote health equity. The foundation prioritizes programs that demonstrate measurable outcomes and support whole-person health, particularly for populations at high social risk. Grants will be awarded for a term of 1-3 years, with funding based on program needs.

The Florence V. Carroll Charitable Trust, established to benefit the public in St. Joseph County, Indiana, supports various charitable purposes. Founded in memory of Florence V. Carroll, who was actively involved in community service and the arts, the trust focuses on areas such as education, health, and public benefit. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of June 1 for annual reviews, ensuring continued support for local initiatives.