Best Grants for Museums in Indiana

The Historic Preservation Fund Grant Program in Indiana supports archaeological projects through matching grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. Administered by the DNR Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology, this program focuses on enhancing cultural resource management and includes funding for archaeological surveys and National Register nominations. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities, and not-for-profit organizations, with a preference for Certified Local Governments. Approximately $500,000 to $600,000 is available annually.

The KeyBank Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing communities through education, workforce development, and affordable housing. Founded in 1969, the Foundation prioritizes diversity, financial capability, and sustainability. Their grants aim to empower individuals for success by improving access to resources, fostering economic inclusion, and creating safe environments. By partnering with community organizations, KeyBank Foundation seeks to make a measurable impact and ensure lasting positive change for families and small businesses.

Indiana Clinical & Translational Sciences Institute

The Indiana Clinical & Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI) has been at the forefront of translational research since 2008. From the lab bench to clinical trials and beyond, we help researchers move their scientific findings through the development pipeline.

Cancer Center Early Career Investigator Award 

The IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Cancer Center Junior Faculty Special Interest Group (JFSIG) are inviting proposals for pilot/feasibility research projects in any area of basic, translational, or clinical cancer research (diagnostics, therapeutics), and population science research (prevention, survivorship, quality of life, epidemiology) that would serve to advance the applicants’ career goals.

The AW Environmental Grant Program, backed by American Water Works Company, Inc., aims to support community-driven projects focused on water conservation and the protection of vital water resources. Since 2012, the foundation has invested over $15 million in innovative initiatives that enhance access to clean water and promote responsible water usage in underserved communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and educational institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Indiana provides essential funding for the improvement and maintenance of drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and stormwater drainage in rural areas. This program aims to assist eligible households and businesses who cannot access commercial credit. Funds can be utilized for acquisition, construction, and legal fees, among other related activities, ensuring reliable and safe water services in underserved communities.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Indiana offers funding for essential community facilities in rural areas, benefiting local residents and non-profit organizations. Eligible areas include rural communities with populations up to 20,000, where funds can support projects like healthcare, public safety, education, and local food systems. Grant assistance percentages vary based on population and median income, providing greater support for those in need, ensuring sustainable community development and essential services.

Community Foundation Serving Howard, Carroll & Clinton Counties: Lilly Endowment Scholarship

The primary purposes of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program are

• to help raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana; 
• to increase awareness of the beneficial roles Indiana community foundations can play in their communities; and 
• to encourage and support the efforts of current and past Lilly Endowment Community Scholars to engage with each other and with Indiana business, governmental, educational, nonprofit and civic leaders to improve the quality of life in Indiana generally and in local communities throughout the state.

The program will provide scholarships for otherwise unreimbursed full tuition, required fees, and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years of undergraduate study on a full-time basis, leading to a baccalaureate degree at any Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Requirements

To pursue four years of undergraduate study on a full-time basis leading to a baccalaureate degree at an Indiana college. Keep the Community Foundation apprised of their academic status during college and post-graduation status (education and/or employment) for at least 10 years after graduation.

The Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation provides grants to support charitable organizations dedicated to promoting and preserving the Arts and Humanities, particularly in Central Indiana. Grants can range from $1,000 to $1,000,000 for specific projects such as renovations or unique program offerings. Eligible applicants must be recognized as public charities under IRC Section 501(c)(3), while individual applications and endowments are not accepted. This foundation continues the legacy of Mr. Clowes by supporting similar initiatives.

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program aims to enhance educational attainment in Indiana by supporting talented students. This initiative provides full-tuition, fees, and book stipends for four years at accredited Indiana colleges. Eligibility requires a high school diploma from an accredited Indiana school, a minimum GPA of 3.5, and standardized test scores. With 147 scholarships awarded annually, this program fosters community engagement and encourages recipients to pursue careers in Indiana, thus improving local quality of life.

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 Indiana 21st Century Community Learning Centers Out-of-School Time Program is designed to provide safe environments for youth during non-school hours. This federally-funded initiative supports public schools and community organizations in creating learning centers that enhance academic performance and offer diverse enrichment activities. Particularly focused on youth from low-performing schools, the program aims to boost educational outcomes and foster social and emotional growth, while also serving the families of participating youth.

The Teacher Creativity Grants, funded by the Wells County Foundation, aim to support innovative teaching projects that align with Indiana State Standards. These grants empower educators to enhance curriculum through creative initiatives that promote critical thinking and 21st-century skills. Endorsement from school leadership is essential for proposal submission, and public school corporations may apply once annually for funding. This initiative encourages a progressive educational environment, fostering a culture of creativity and excellence among students.

The Joyce Foundation's Environment Grants focus on addressing critical environmental challenges in the Great Lakes region, such as climate change and water safety. The foundation prioritizes equitable, carbon-free energy solutions and clean water access for all communities. Grants are awarded to organizations committed to environmental justice and innovation in climate policy, particularly in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin, ensuring that the voices of affected communities guide project development.

The Froderman Foundation Grant, established in 1961 by Mr. and Mrs. G. Harvey Froderman, supports qualified applicants focusing on religious, educational, medical, and charitable initiatives. The foundation promotes equity by considering applications without regard to race, creed, or color. Applicants must provide proof of 501(C)3 status and detailed plans for fund utilization, as general operating budgets are not typically funded. This grant aims to enhance impactful community projects.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

NCRC Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) - Housing Counseling Services

The Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) empowers NCRC network members to level up established service lines.

The Housing Counseling Services series within FEF supports HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in driving homeownership, such as through pre-purchase counseling. In addition, the program builds agency knowledge on heirs’ property challenges to better equip first-time and low-income homebuying households with the know-how to retain intergenerational wealth.

In doing so, FEF-HCS aims to help underserved families begin their homeownership journey, with an additional goal of ensuring foresight into the long-term future of their home purchase.

The FEF-HCS series is funded in partnership with Key Bank and HSBC, and targets communities within the Key Bank and HSBC branch footprints.

Through these partnerships, $2.5 million in Key Bank geographies and $1.5 million in HSBC geographies has been allocated for the subgrants for direct-to-client housing counseling services that will be awarded in three rounds in the FEF-HCS track.

Funding Support

Awardee agencies will receive subgrants to support their housing counseling services to clients.

Knowledge Building

Awardee agencies will attend a training session on heirs’ property challenges and best practices, hosted by NCRC National Training Academy. Bolstering counselor knowledge on this topic will ensure that your agency is not only serving clients in their personal wealth-building journey now, but also helping them preserve that wealth in generations to come.

The Associated General Contractors of Indiana (AGCI) Scholarship, established by AGC/I, aims to support construction students in Indiana by covering educational expenses. Eligible applicants must be Indiana residents, enrolled in construction-related programs, and have completed at least 60 credit hours. The scholarship encourages students to pursue careers in the construction industry within Indiana, emphasizing leadership and professional experience. Awards can be used for tuition, fees, and other educational costs.

The Carol & Hugh Warnecke Teacher Scholarship, provided by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, supports Indiana residents pursuing a degree in secondary education. This scholarship aims to assist individuals with academic promise and financial need, particularly those making a career change into teaching. Eligible expenses include tuition, fees, and, in some cases, room and board. Applications are encouraged from those attending any accredited Indiana college or university.

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 ALDI Community Gift Card Program provides financial support ranging from $100 to $1,000 to eligible nonprofits and schools that focus on after-school and out-of-school youth programs, as well as food banks. This initiative aims to empower organizations dedicated to child development and combating food insecurity. By applying, you can gain access to essential resources to further your mission and make a positive impact in your community.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The SIA Foundation Grant supports qualifying organizations in Indiana by providing financial assistance for specific capital projects in the Arts, Education, and Health sectors. Grants range from $1,000 to $15,000 and must be used for non-operating expenses like facilities and equipment. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt entities, educational institutions, and governmental organizations. The foundation does not fund operating costs, endowments, or organizations that do not meet specific criteria, ensuring support is directed toward impactful community improvements.

Indiana DWD – Who We Are

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) strengthens Indiana by understanding workforce needs, aligning resources, and providing access to services that empower Hoosiers to thrive in an ever-changing economy. By helping to ensure economic security and better employment outcomes for all Indiana residents, the state government agency prides itself on acting with integrity, accountability, and respectfulness while continuously striving to support employers, as well as guide and upskill job seekers.

Education & Advanced Manufacturing/Logistics Apprenticeship Grant Opportunity (Round 1)

The purpose of this RFA is to solicit applications from qualified non-profit organizations to facilitate the expansion of Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) and Certified Pre-Apprenticeship in both number of available programs and individual participants in the occupations of Education as well as Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics. The outcome of this expansion will focus on the number of programs created, number of participants assisted, as well as the development of communities of practice through award recipients. 

Funds not distributed in the first round will be available in subsequent rounds of grant opportunities.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

The Indiana Climate and Democracy Catalyst Fund aims to empower frontline organizations in Indiana by enhancing their capacity to address climate and democracy challenges. Supported by local, state, and national funders, the initiative focuses on community-driven outcomes and storytelling to inspire further funding. This strategic collaboration seeks to uplift BIPOC-led, LGBTQ+ serving, and rural organizations, fostering an inclusive environment for all Indiana residents to thrive while advocating for environmental justice.

The Barney Family Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, offers a $40,000 award ($5,000 per semester) to a graduating high school senior from Lake, Porter, Jasper, or Newton County. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and attend an Indiana State-sponsored college or technical school, with family income between $80,000 and $150,000. The scholarship is renewable for up to eight semesters, encouraging academic success.

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 300 funds and approximately $80 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.

Legacy Foundation: Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship

Each Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship provides for full tuition, required fees and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years of undergraduate study on a full-time basis leading to a baccalaureate degree at any eligible Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars may also participate in the Lilly Scholars Network (LSN), which connects scholars with resources and opportunities to be active leaders on their campuses and in their communities. Both the scholarship program and LSN are supported by grants from Lilly Endowment to Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI).

2026 Award Details

• Six (6) students from Lake County, Indiana will receive the scholarship.
• Covers four (4) years of full tuition to ANY accredited 4-year private or public college in Indiana.
• The students will also receive a $900 per year stipend for books.

Cancer Center Community-Academic Collaborative Program Award

IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Office of Community Outreach and Engagement is inviting collaborative proposals for implementing evidence-based cancer related programs within the community. Proposals should address the cancer burden in Indiana. The program should include an evaluation component and priority will be given to projects targeting one of the major cancer burdens in Indiana, including lung, breast, colon, pancreas, prostate and cervical. We are particularly interested in initiatives that promote healthier behaviors linking to reducing cancer incidence and morbidity. Of particular interest are community-led programs that expand our reach and deepen our understanding of populations across Indiana. The project must be co-led by an Cancer Center faculty member and a community advocate or partner.

The duration of this funding is one year, and the budget should not exceed $15,000.