Best Financial Assistance Grants in Indiana

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

Trauma System Development Grant

Purpose

The Indiana Department of Health’s Division of Trauma and Injury Prevention has been provided funding to support quality improvement projects and the ongoing development of the statewide trauma system. To aid in the implementation of trauma system projects, the Indiana Department of Health will fund the following strategies. Applicants must implement projects that target at least one strategy but can address multiple strategies if appropriate.

• Strategy 1: Trauma System Development
• Strategy 2: Quality Improvement
• Strategy 3: Trauma and Non-Trauma Center Engagement
• Strategy 4: Injury Prevention Programming

This request for application (RFA) is designed for all interested entities wishing to submit proposals for trauma system development under the core strategies outlined above. Funding decisions for all proposals submitted under this program will be made following a review process by the Indiana Trauma Care Commission (TCC) and IDOH.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The Fund for the Arts' Sustaining Impact Grant supports first-time applicants by providing general operating support to arts organizations that align with community priorities in Greater Louisville. Eligible organizations must have received a Fund for the Arts grant in the last three years. This grant emphasizes community impact, equity, diversity, and sustainable operations, offering funding based on operating revenues, with a maximum of $500,000 for larger organizations.

The Sustaining Impact Grant from the Fund for the Arts provides essential operating support to arts organizations that enhance community vitality and engagement. Eligible returning applicants, having met prior reporting requirements, can apply via the online portal. The grant focuses on community impact, engagement, and sustainable operations, with funding levels based on annual revenues, ensuring that organizations can continue to thrive and contribute to the arts ecosystem.

The Indiana Youth Worker Well-Being Project Grants offer funding opportunities for youth-serving organizations in Indiana to enhance workplace wellness. Organizations can apply for grants to implement customized strategies aimed at improving staff well-being. The initiative encourages applicants to identify their needs and growth opportunities, ensuring they can create a positive work environment. Applications are due by October 3, 2025, for workplace wellness projects and by October 17 for other categories.

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

The Winona Welch Award for Botanical Biodiversity Research, funded by the Indiana Academy of Sciences, supports vital research in plant biodiversity, including algae and fungi. Each year, $2,500 is awarded to eligible applicants, who must be Academy members in good standing. This grant aims to foster innovative research and is not intended for administrative costs or individual stipends. Applications require institutional approval, ensuring accountability and proper use of funds.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The NCR-SARE Youth Educator Grant Program supports educators in the North Central Region to innovate ways of teaching sustainable agriculture. With funding up to $6,000, this program encourages educators to engage youth and promote sustainable practices. By sharing their experiences, grantees can create a ripple effect among peers, enhancing the reach and impact of sustainable agriculture education. This initiative aims to foster creativity and collaboration in teaching sustainable practices to the next generation.

The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) supports postdoctoral fellows and research trainees in the NHLBI Division of Intramural Research, facilitating their transition to independent research roles at extramural institutions. Key deadlines for applications include October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others, providing ample opportunity for qualified investigators to advance their careers.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The Alternative Education Grant supports innovative programs for public school students in grades 6-12 who struggle in traditional settings. This initiative promotes diverse educational options, including alternative classrooms and community partnerships, aiming to meet individual student needs. Eligible programs must maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, operate for at least three hours daily, and provide individualized service plans. The grant fosters a supportive environment, helping students achieve academic success while complying with state standards.

The NCR-SARE Professional Development Program Grant supports agricultural educators through competitive grants aimed at enhancing training in sustainable agriculture. This initiative promotes cross-agency collaboration, utilizing farmers as educators to address pressing issues within the farming community. Projects funded are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes, fostering knowledge and behavioral changes that lead to sustainable practices in agriculture and food systems. The program encourages diverse participation, ensuring a comprehensive approach to professional development.

The CSA Midwest Region: Otto Thieme Memorial Internship provides a unique opportunity for students to engage in a hands-on curatorial experience with costume collections at Midwestern museums, historical societies, or universities. Awarded a $2000 stipend for an eight-week internship, students will gain valuable mentorship and training in the field of costume. This program honors Otto Charles Thieme, an influential figure in costume scholarship, enhancing students' academic pursuits while fostering appreciation for historic costumes.

The Fence Authority Scholarship offers a $1,000 award to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fields that enhance community beautification, such as architecture, civil engineering, and environmental sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and involved in community service. This scholarship aims to empower students to contribute positively to society while furthering their education in impactful disciplines.

Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs

The State of Indiana is eligible to receive grant funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help address housing and community development needs. These grant funds include the: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS (HOPWA) and the National Housing Trust Fund (HTF). The dollars are primarily meant for investment in the State's less populated and rural areas (“non-entitlement” areas), which do not receive such funds directly from HUD.

The Indiana Office of Rural and Community Affairs (OCRA) receives and administers CDBG. The Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) receives and administers HOME, ESG, HOPWA, and HTF. As a condition for receiving HUD block grant funding, the State must complete a five-year strategic plan called a Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development (Consolidated Plan).

CDBG Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Program

Indiana’s state-administered Community Development Block Grant program fosters growth and resilience in rural cities and towns by investing in local initiatives that encourage communities to build, strengthen and thrive. The Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) seek applications from local units of government for programs funded through the State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Eligible local units of government are counties, cities, or incorporated towns not located within an entitlement community. Unincorporated areas must apply through the county in which they are located. OCRA established a maximum grant award for Owner Occupied Rehabilitation as outlined below to fund and create local owner-occupied rehabilitation programs.

• City or Town: $350,000
• County: $500,000
• Individual Grants to Homeowners: Must not exceed $25,000 per home 

The goal of the State CDBG program is to encourage communities with eligible populations to focus on longterm community development. Competitive projects must demonstrate the following: They meet a National Objective of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended; The project addresses the long-term planning and development efforts of the community; The funds granted will have a significant impact on the overall project; The community has demonstrated a strong commitment to the project and its sustainability 

What Is Kiwanis?

Kiwanis is a global service organization of volunteers committed to improving the lives of children—one community at a time.  Our members take action every day by:

• Sheltering the homeless and supporting families in crisis
• Feeding the hungry and organizing food drives
• Mentoring at-risk youth and empowering young leaders
• Raising funds for pediatric medical research and care
• And much more—all focused on helping children in our communities thrive

All Indiana Kiwanians make up the membership of the Kiwanis Indiana Foundation, Inc. (aka the Indiana District Foundation) The Foundation has 501(c)(3) status.

Grants

The Foundation makes grants to increase the capacity of Indiana District of Kiwanis clubs. It also supports Indiana District of Kiwanis supported projects to respond effectively to the needs of the citizens of the state. In general, the Foundation prefers funding for projects that further the Objects of Kiwanis.

A club may only receive a grant once every two years.

The Foundation’s goal is to provide effective assistance to as many Indiana Kiwanis Clubs as possible. Grant awards will be available from $250- $4,000 and require matching funds on a sliding scale, depending on the amount of therequest. Grants will be awarded on a first come, first served basis until the total funds available for the fiscal year are depleted. All clubs will be notified if/when that happens.

What We Fund

It is anticipated that projects receiving grants will involve one of the following categories:

• Youth
• Elderly
• Civic and Community Development
• Health and Human Services

The Zollner Foundation Grant aims to support educational and charitable organizations in Fort Wayne, IN and Golden Beach, FL. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities, with preference given to local initiatives. The foundation prioritizes funding for education, health, and human services, while typically excluding liberal arts, fine arts, and certain religious organizations. Overall, the foundation seeks to enhance community well-being through targeted philanthropic efforts.

The R. B. Annis Scholarship, offered by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, supports Arsenal Tech High School students pursuing a four-year degree in Indiana or at Grand Valley State University in Michigan. This scholarship honors R. B. Annis's commitment to educational opportunities for those in financial need. Applicants must demonstrate community involvement, academic improvement, and a GPA of 2.5 or higher, making it a vital resource for aspiring students in the community.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The Charles W. Kuhne Foundation Grant aims to enhance the well-being of the residents of Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana. Established in memory of Charles W. Kuhne, who was a lawyer and philanthropist, the foundation supports various program areas including education, health, and human services. Eligible organizations must be recognized as 501(c)(3) entities, with a preference for initiatives that address public welfare and promote charitable causes.

The Katharine M. Grosscup Scholarships in Horticulture, established by the Garden Club of Allegheny County in 1981, honors the legacy of passionate gardener Katharine MacConnell Grosscup. These scholarships, aimed at supporting students in horticulture and related fields, provide awards of up to $3,500 for education and research. Eligible candidates include U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in specific states with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This initiative promotes a love for gardening and conservation.

The Traffic Safety Improvement Program Grant offers funding to enhance traffic safety projects aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries. Eligible applicants include state agencies, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Key focus areas include preventing crashes from impaired driving, improving pedestrian safety, and enhancing law enforcement capabilities. This reimbursement grant specifically supports initiatives addressing excessive speeds, unsafe driving behaviors, and improving crash investigations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to traffic safety.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Bernice Carver Scholarship of Hope, established by the family of Don and Barbara Frey, honors the legacy of Bernice Carver, a dedicated educator. This scholarship supports Whitley County seniors from Columbia City, Churubusco, or Whitko High School who have a minimum 2.2 GPA and aspire to careers in nursing, teaching, or science. Emphasizing good citizenship and a quest for knowledge, the scholarship reflects Miss Carver's admirable character and commitment to education.

The Great American Cleanup Grants, offered by Keep America Beautiful, aim to enhance community beautification and environmental efforts across the U.S. This initiative encourages KAB affiliates to remove litter, plant greenery, and restore public spaces, contributing to the larger goal of cleaning up 25 billion pieces of litter by 2026. With cash grants available, this program fosters collaboration among communities, promoting sustainable practices and a cleaner, greener future for all.