Best Hamilton County Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

Adirondack League Club Scholarship

Established by Adirondack League Club to award scholarships to students in the Central Adirondack region of the Adirondack Park.

Candidates are identified by a committee.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

About Us

Hamilton County is an extraordinary place filled with dedicated people, exceptional resources, and vibrant, diverse, and growing communities. But even with all of our strengths, many of our neighbors still struggle. Over 21,000 people in Hamilton County don’t have enough reliable access to food. Around 10,000 households spend half or more of their income just on housing. And only 29% of local children have access to quality childcare. These are just a few of the challenges we face, but they are challenges we can tackle together. By working in partnership, we can improve the lives of all who call this community home.

Mission

To mobilize people, ideas and investment to make this a community where every individual has an equitable opportunity to reach their full potential—no matter their place, race or identity.

Hamilton County Community Foundation Flexible Grant

Flexible Grants support nonprofit organizations serving Hamilton County with funding for specific, time-bound, or targeted needs.

This may include organizations navigating funding gaps, transitions, or emerging community needs in:

• HCCF’s priority areas – housing, childcare, social services, workforce and education
• Other areas – Arts, culture, parks, recreation, and civic engagement efforts

These grants are intended to help organizations respond to opportunities or challenges that require timely, focused support.

Grant Details

• Funding Amount: Up to $30,000
• Use of Funds: Program, project, or other targeted support aligned with the request.
• Review Process: Applications are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis. Funding is limited, and requests are considered as they are received.
• Decision Timeline: Applicants can typically expect a response within 3-4 weeks of submission.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Hamilton County Community Foundation offers competitive grants to nonprofit organizations aiming to strengthen community welfare. Priorities include childcare, housing, social services, and workforce education. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with an EIN and can only lead one proposal at a time. Ineligible entities include individuals and organizations with discriminatory practices or those involved in political lobbying. All interested parties are encouraged to consult with community leadership before applying.

The Mibor Realtor Foundation Grant, offered by the Mibor Foundation Inc, aims to combat homelessness in central Indiana by funding 501(c)(3) non-profits. Since its inception, the Foundation has allocated over $3 million to support organizations that provide permanent housing solutions. Eligible entities can request funding up to $20,000, with typical awards ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The Foundation prioritizes proven housing-based solutions linked with comprehensive support services.

The Steve Sullivan Professional Development Funding Grant, offered by the REALTOR® Foundation, aims to enhance the capabilities of 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in central Indiana. With a commitment to combating homelessness, the grant provides resources for training in essential areas such as grant writing, leadership, and strategic planning. By focusing on professional development, the Foundation seeks to empower organizations to better serve vulnerable populations and create sustainable solutions for housing instability.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Crosser Family Foundation, a component of the Hamilton County Community Foundation, provides grants to enhance the lives of youth and families in Hamilton County. This invitation-only grant opportunity focuses on community engagement, health and wellness, housing, and youth development. The foundation seeks to partner with innovative nonprofit organizations that align with its mission of compassionate philanthropy and diversity. Funding requests are exclusively accepted through prior invitation.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

About the Indiana Department of Homeland Security

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) leads Indiana's emergency planning and operations, first responder training and fire and building safety. The State Fire Marshal and State Building Commissioner oversee fire and building safety efforts, including the enforcement of building codes and a fire investigations unit. The agency certifies and trains thousands of first responders and hosts state-level exercises each year. IDHS also supports county emergency management agencies and runs the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which leads response and coordination efforts for large-scale incidents.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program

Executive Summary

The NSGP improves and increases the physical/cybersecurity and facility/target hardening of nonprofit organizations’ facilities at risk of a terrorist of other extremist attack, ultimately safeguarding the lives and property of the American people.

There are two funding sources appropriated for nonprofit organizations: 1) NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA), and 2) NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA)

NSGP-UA funds nonprofit organizations located within FY 2025 designated high-risk urban areas. Under NSGP-UA, each urban area will receive an allocation for nonprofit organizations within FY 2025 designated high-risk urban areas.

NSGP-UA: Nonprofit organization must be located within Marion and Hamilton counties.

The Women in Health Collaborative Fund, launched by the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana, empowers women in healthcare to make impactful grant decisions. Focused on improving health outcomes for women and girls, the initiative invites 501(c)(3) nonprofits with majority female boards to seek funding, prioritizing reproductive health and the mental health of Black girls. Grants of up to $50,000 will be awarded based on community-driven voting, fostering innovative and collaborative approaches to pressing health issues.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

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.

Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis is a charitable women's giving circle focused on awarding impactful grants to nonprofits in various sectors such as arts, education, environment, family, and health. The initiative aims to foster community engagement by funding innovative solutions to social challenges. This organization values integrity, collaboration, and inclusivity, ensuring all community members have access to essential services. By supporting diverse projects, Impact 100 strengthens the fabric of the Indianapolis community and enhances the quality of life for its residents.

The Church, Church, Hittle & Antrim Scholarship, provided by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, aims to support aspiring law students from underrepresented backgrounds. This scholarship offers financial assistance along with a 75-hour paid summer internship, helping students gain practical experience in the legal field. Applicants must demonstrate their commitment to pursuing a legal career through a personal statement, addressing how their unique experiences can enrich the profession. The initiative emphasizes inclusivity and access in law education.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Wallach Scholarship Fund, managed by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to high school students and those with equivalent credentials from Marion, Hamilton, Hancock, and Henry counties. This fund aims to support individuals facing financial need or barriers to education, enabling them to pursue post-secondary credentials. Awards cover educational expenses such as tuition and fees, with a preference for applicants maintaining a 3.0 GPA. The initiative fosters educational opportunity for all.

The Dr. U.R. Plante Medical Scholarship, established by the Adirondack Foundation, honors the legacy of Dr. U.R. Plante, a dedicated physician in rural New York. This scholarship aims to support students from the Adirondack region pursuing medical education, with amounts up to $10,000. Eligible applicants must be accepted into an accredited medical school and demonstrate a commitment to serving their community post-graduation. This initiative not only fosters education but also encourages the return of healthcare professionals to underserved areas.

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 Thomas P. and Sondra D. Sheehan Charitable Foundation provides essential medical assistance to financially challenged families, focusing on children in need. The foundation prioritizes Hamilton County residents and offers support for durable medical equipment, therapy services, and short-term treatments. Applications for funding must meet specific medical guidelines and are reviewed annually. Families connected to nonprofit organizations or medical facilities have a better chance of receiving assistance, ensuring children can access necessary healthcare and improve their quality of life.

Summary of County Services

Services county MUST provide:

• Establish and maintain local health departments, jails and courthouses.
• Provide emergency medical services through an advisory council.
• Authorize the issuance of bonds to fund road and bridge projects.

Non-profit Grant

Program Description

Hamilton County provides discretionary grants for nonprofit organizations that meet certain criteria. Awards are provided based on application score and funding available. The Grant Program is intended to provide funding for services provided by organizations that without providing those services the County Hospital and/or other governmental entity may need to consider the development of such programming.

Any funds awarded must be supported by other funding sources or documented in-kind services and may only be distributed to organizations headquartered in Hamilton County. Preference for funding will go to those organizations that provide services in furtherance of County goals and without the providing of these services the County Hospital and/or other governmental entity may need to consider the development of such programming.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.