Best Grants for 501(c)(3) in Indiana

The Robert and Joan Dircks Foundation Grant Program supports non-profit organizations in New Jersey that provide opportunities for disadvantaged individuals. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, the foundation focuses on innovative programs that solve critical issues rather than operational needs. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The foundation does not fund political activities, cultural projects, or operating budgets, ensuring resources directly benefit those in need.

The National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative aims to enhance trauma-focused treatment and services for children and adolescents affected by traumatic events. By increasing access to these vital services, the initiative seeks to support families in overcoming the challenges posed by trauma. Eligible applicants include public and private nonprofit entities, ensuring a broad reach for effective intervention and support within communities.

Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation

The Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation goes beyond food aid to create lasting change. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships and volunteer action, Stop Hunger tackles the root causes of food insecurity.

In 2025, Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation and the Hunger Center awarded grants to 131 programs representing 118 communities in 37 states plus the District of Columbia. Collectively, these programs provided an estimated 22,000 backpacks full of shelf-stable food items for students to take home for the weekend or holidays when school meals are not served.

Since 2006, the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation has been a driving force behind weekend and holiday hunger relief for students across the U.S. Through support of food backpack programs, the Foundation partners with local food banks and schools to discreetly provide K-12 students with backpacks filled with nutritious, shelf-stable meals. These backpacks are distributed in safe, familiar settings – typically on the last school day before a weekend or school break – ensuring that all children who rely on free or reduced-price school meals don’t go hungry when school is out.

K-12 Backpack Grant

The K-12 Backpack Grant is an initiative launched by the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation and administered in partnership with the Congressional Hunger Center to support community backpack programs. Grants of $1,000 will be issued to community organizations with established backpack feeding programs that provide students with shelf-stable, nutritious meals when school is out of session.

Biogen General Grants

Funding to support a project or program that does not fit any of the other defined grant categories.

The David Kelby Johnson Memorial Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on sight preservation, children's services, and environmental conservation, primarily in Utah. Established in memory of David Kelby Johnson, who tragically lost his life at a young age, the foundation aims to honor his legacy by supporting impactful charitable initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $100,000, with a commitment to improving communities both locally and globally.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 400 funds and approximately $124 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Building the Future Vocational Scholarship Application

The Building the Future Vocational Scholarship supports scholarships for Lake County residents to attend a public or private institution to earn a certificate or vocational/trade school degree with the intent to gain local employment.

• Agriculture
• Automotive/Mechanical
• Computer/Technology
• Construction
• Cosmetology/Esthetician/Barbering
• Culinary Arts
• Healthcare (Medical, Dental & Emergency Services)
• IT & Business Services
• Manufacturing/Industrial
• Paralegal/Court Reporter
• Real Estate
• Transportation/Aviation

Legacy Foundation PAYS awards directly to SCHOOLS, NOT students. Payments will be:

• Paid to the school to cover OUTSTANDING tuition costs after all other aid is used (Work One, Pell grant, etc.) AND/OR
• Paid towards costs for required books and/or equipment for the program.

The Cameron Award supports field research on native rodents across the Americas, encouraging studies in ecology, behavior, physiology, and conservation. It is available to students in MS or PhD programs and postdoctoral researchers in the U.S. Applicants must be ASM members. Funds cover supplies, equipment, and travel, but not salaries or meeting travel. The award aims to enhance understanding of rodent ecology and their impact on ecosystems.

The Kaiser Permanente Center for Gun Violence Research and Education Grant Program aims to transform the landscape of gun violence research and education by funding initiatives that address community firearm violence and suicide. This program focuses on partnering with affected communities, integrating healthcare approaches, and providing substantial funding to enhance research capacity and intervention effectiveness. With funding available in two categories, the initiative seeks to promote evidence-based solutions that foster community healing and well-being.

The Mayer and Morris Kaplan Foundation Environment Grant aims to support initiatives that combat climate change, prioritizing efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption and enhance climate education for young adults. The foundation emphasizes innovative solutions and partnerships to address both immediate and long-term environmental challenges. Areas of focus include climate and clean energy policy, as well as providing scientifically accurate climate change education. By leveraging data and research, the foundation seeks to empower organizations dedicated to creating impactful change.

The NIHCM Foundation is seeking innovative research proposals that address critical issues in U.S. health care, particularly focusing on drug pricing, provider consolidation, health care delivery, chronic disease management, and the role of artificial intelligence. Projects should aim to improve affordability and quality of care. We welcome submissions from a variety of researchers and organizations, with a preference for studies that can be completed within one year.

The Purple Martin Conservation Association offers the PMCA Research and Conservation Grant to support research on Purple Martins. This grant aims to promote conservation efforts and may cover expenses such as travel and supplies, though it does not fund salaries or overhead. Eligible applicants include students and professionals engaged in Purple Martin research, with a focus on projects that enhance the species' habitat and well-being.

The Elliott Coues Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors exceptional contributions to ornithological research without geographic or disciplinary restrictions. This prestigious award includes a medal and an honorarium and is named after Elliott Coues, a pioneering ornithologist. The award emphasizes the importance of diverse nominations and aims to recognize individuals who have made significant impacts in the field of ornithology, thus fostering a vibrant ornithological community.

Wilson Ornithological Society

The earliest stages of the Wilson Ornithological Society’s development began with the formation of the “Young Ornithologists’ Association,” initiated in 1886 under the leadership of L. O. Pindar and J. B. Richards. They began as a corresponding group of naturalists interested in birds, with notes published in The Oölogist.

Soon after, the Society acquired a constitution and established itself in December 1888 as the Wilson Ornithological Chapter of the Agassiz Association. The fledgling group was named in honor of Alexander Wilson, considered the Father of American Ornithology. Its original purpose was “the study of birds, their nests, and eggs.”

Over the subsequent decades, the group—eventually becoming known as the Wilson Ornithological Club—published its proceedings and articles under a series of diverse titles, culminating in The Wilson Bulletin after 1894 and, most recently, The Wilson Journal of Ornithology. The Club adopted its Constitution and Bylaws in 1930 and became the Wilson Ornithological Society in 1955.

Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award

The Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award recognizes outstanding contributions by Wilson Ornithological Society (WOS) members working in applied, non-research careers that advance the conservation of birds and their habitats. This award also celebrates professionals whose work fosters a stronger and more inclusive conservation community, through management, education, communication, advocacy, or community engagement.

Purpose

This award highlights the diverse pathways through which people contribute to lasting ornithology and avian conservation beyond academic research. It honors those whose efforts build bridges between science, management, and the public; inspire action for birds; provide mentorship or leadership to build capacity; and promote equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the bird conservation community.

Examples of Qualifying Contributions

• Developing and implementing habitat management or conservation plans.
• Creating tools, educational materials, or outreach programs that promote bird conservation.
• Leading advocacy, communications, or storytelling that inspires conservation action.
• Building partnerships or community engagement initiatives that strengthen conservation impact.
• Advancing conservation policy or planning at local, regional, or national scales.

Award and Presentation

The recipient will be recognized at the 2026 Wilson Ornithological Society Annual Meeting, where they will be invited to share their work with attendees. The award includes:

• A monetary honorarium
• An original piece of artwork from an early-career artist
• Coverage of meeting registration, travel, lodging, and per diem expenses

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Initiative

The Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Initiative, supported by the McKesson Foundation and administered by the NAFC, aims to improve medication access, adherence, and patient understanding among uninsured and medically underserved populations. Individuals without health insurance often face significant barriers to obtaining prescription medications and receiving the counseling necessary to manage chronic conditions effectively. Through this initiative, NAFC will provide $30,000 grants to member free and charitable clinics and pharmacies to establish or expand Medication Therapy Management programs aligned with recommendations from the American Pharmacists Association. Funding will support activities such as staff certification in MTM, development of standardized protocols, and patient education to help individuals better understand their medications, manage side effects, and support overall treatment plans. By strengthening pharmacist-led care and improving communication between providers and patients, this initiative seeks to enhance medication adherence, improve chronic disease management, and advance better health outcomes for vulnerable patient populations.

Patagonia’s Corporate Grant supports grassroots organizations focused on bold, direct-action campaigns that address the root causes of environmental issues. The program emphasizes equity, inclusivity, and long-term change, targeting communities affected by environmental exploitation. Grants are awarded to innovative groups within the US and Canada, fostering civic engagement and measurable objectives. Patagonia prioritizes funding for initiatives that confront systemic bias and promote environmental justice, ensuring that diverse voices are represented in the environmental movement.

The SAF National Awards Program includes the Sir William Schlich Memorial Award, which honors exceptional contributions to forestry, particularly in policy and international activities. Presented biennially at the SAF National Convention, it features a $500 honorarium, complimentary registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This award commemorates Sir William Schlich's significant role in advancing forestry education and practices in the 19th century, promoting sustainable management of forest resources.

The Catalyze Challenge Grant, managed by Catalyze, is an opportunity for organizations to receive funding for innovative solutions that enhance career-connected learning for youth aged 11-22. With over $4 million available in Round 5, finalists can secure up to $300,000 to implement their ideas. The grant seeks proposals that empower underserved learners through hands-on experiences and meaningful employer partnerships, ultimately impacting over 65,000 young people across the U.S.

The Healthy American Forests Initiative, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to enhance forest health and resilience through targeted funding. This initiative anticipates awarding 10-15 grants ranging from $250,000 to $2 million, supporting projects up to 2 years in duration. A 20% non-federal match is required, and interested applicants are encouraged to collaborate with NFWF and Native Americans in Philanthropy for potential match funding.

J. C. & L. A. Duke Employees' Assistance Fund

Grants from the Duke Fund are designed to:

• Help recipients achieve self-sufficiency and/or return to the workplace.
• Provide transitional assistance.
• Improve the quality of life for the employee and their family.

Selection Criteria

The applicant must have experienced a combination of the following factors:

• Financial hardship as a result of a catastrophic illness or accident.
• Lack or depletion of benefits available through the 3M Benefit Plan, personal benefit plans and/or other resources.
• In addition, the applicant must be able to demonstrate that a grant will substantially assist them in overcoming all or a portion of the adversity. Awards will be made without regard to race, creed, color, gender, individual marital status, religion or national origin.

The Science Policy Fellowship, offered by the American Chemical Society, provides a unique opportunity for trained scientists to engage in public policy. This program enhances understanding of the policy-making process, allowing Fellows to work alongside experienced Government Affairs staff. The Fellowship focuses on key areas such as federal research funding, education in STEM, and environmental policies. Candidates with a strong background in chemical sciences or engineering are encouraged to apply, regardless of holding a doctorate.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5411 - Practical Playbook for Adaptive Utility Capital Improvement Planning Under Deep Uncertainty

Grant Information

• Assess current utility practices for incorporating adaptive or flexible decision making into capital improvement planning (CIP) at the portfolio or programmatic level.
• Identify where deep uncertainty most affects CIP decision points, including investment areas prone to lock-in or points of no return.
• Document the institutional processes, frameworks, and governance structures that have enabled utilities to embed adaptive and flexible investment strategies.
• Quantify how adaptive capital strategies compare to traditional CIP approaches in terms of lifecycle costs, rate stability, financial risk exposure, and avoided or deferred capital investments across a range of plausible future conditions.
• Establish practical criteria to help utilities determine which types of capital investments are well suited for adaptive approaches.
• Develop a practitioner-focused playbook that equips utilities to apply adaptive CIP in practice, including case studies, decision trees, trigger points, vulnerability assessment tools, financial and risk insights, and governance guidance.
• Produce tiered recommendations that allow utilities to adopt adaptive CIP practices incrementally.

The Dale Jr. Foundation is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through targeted support in five key areas: Empowerment, Education, Wellness, Hunger, and Hope. By providing safe homes, educational resources, and healthy food, the foundation helps children overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. Their commitment extends to various charities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. The foundation emphasizes community support and holistic care, making a significant impact in the lives of many young people.

The Loretta Morris Memorial Grants support individuals with cystic fibrosis in California who wish to engage in physical activities such as swimming, horseback riding, dance, or golf. Established in memory of Loretta Morris, this fund aims to help recipients enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle. Applications are welcomed from both children and adults, promoting inclusivity and well-being within the CF community. Note that certain items, like memberships or accessories, are not eligible for funding.

The Earth Rising Foundation Grants provide financial support ranging from $200 to $20,000 for grassroots climate initiatives. The foundation emphasizes empowering Indigenous communities, advocating for sustainable agricultural practices, and addressing social justice issues linked to climate change. By fostering youth involvement and supporting innovative projects, the foundation aims to create a vision for a sustainable future that respects both people and the planet. Applications must be submitted through a US-based nonprofit organization.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation invites innovative proposals that align with their 2021-2030 Strategic Plan, aiming to invest over $1.2 billion to enhance opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their funding focuses on conservation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investments. The General Application offers flexibility without deadlines, allowing for a variety of support types, including project-specific and general operating funding, aimed at enriching community vitality and environmental stewardship.

The W. D. Hagenstein Communicator Award honors an SAF member for their outstanding communication efforts in forestry. Recognizing innovative initiatives that enhance public understanding of forestry and natural resources, this award is presented at the SAF National Convention. It includes a $500 honorarium and up to $500 for travel expenses. Nominees must be SAF members and should not have received the Technology Transfer Award in the past five years. This award emphasizes the importance of effective communication in advancing forestry.

The Lasher-Bottorff Award, established by the American Association of Avian Pathologists, recognizes outstanding contributions to poultry health. It honors Dr. Hiram N. Lasher and Dr. C. A. Bottorff, pivotal figures in avian medicine. The award, valued at $1,000, is presented annually to a veterinarian who has made significant advancements in avian diagnostics or technical services over the past decade, promoting the health and productivity of poultry in North America.