Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Indiana

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

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.

5430 - Unlocking Value and Opportunities from Carbon Flows in Water Utilities

Grant Information

• Identify carbon flows across drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, and advanced treatment systems. Carbon flows may include source water, stormwater, process emissions, process inputs, residuals, and biogas.
• Identify the most relevant carbon recovery, capture, conversion, storage, and avoidance opportunities.
• Evaluate value creation pathways, including products, avoided costs, and environmental attributes, and mechanisms and partnerships needed to put them into practice.
• Assess how opportunities vary across system types and local contexts by focusing on more common scenarios for utilities.
• Provide practical, research-based insights to support identification, prioritization, evaluation, and advancement of carbon management opportunities under site-specific conditions and constraints.
• Evaluate implications for greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, environmental attribute claims, and other potential benefits across pathways.

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.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

Indiana Department of Health

The Indiana State Department of Health became the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) in July 2021 after the Governor signed legislation updating the agency's statute. That same year the Department was also awarded accreditation by the Public Health Accreditation Board, joining the ranks of 36 other states and territories.

Mission: To promote, protect, and improve the health and safety of all Hoosiers.

Cancer Center Vera Bradley Foundation Center for Breast Cancer Research Catherine Peachey Fund

The IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, and the Catherine Peachey Fund request applications with a focus on breast cancer research. Support for this award is provided by generous gifts to the Nakshatri Breast Cancer Breakthroughs Fund, in honor of Dr. Hari Nakshatri’s long-time dedication to excellence in breast cancer research. Applications spanning the breast cancer research landscape will be considered, including discovery science, translational studies, clinical trials, behavioral interventions, and epidemiology.

The principal investigator must be an IUSCCC member. Cancer Center members may apply regardless of primary research focus, however, the focus of the application MUST be on breast cancer research. Investigators who would like to apply innovative tools or concepts in their area of expertise to breast cancer are eligible to apply.

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.

The Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) accepts applications for CMP funds on the following schedule: March 1 - April 30, July 1 - August 31, and November 1 - December 31, every year. 

About CMP Funds

A CMP is a monetary penalty the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) may impose against nursing homes for either the number of days or for each instance a nursing home is not in substantial compliance with one or more Medicare and Medicaid participation requirements for long-term care facilities. A portion of CMPs collected from nursing homes are returned to the states in which CMPs are imposed. State CMP funds may be reinvested to support activities that benefit nursing home residents and that protect or improve their quality of care or quality of life.

Funding Uses

The following examples of allowable uses of CMP funds are not all-inclusive. Please see the Allowable and Non-Allowable Uses of CMP Funds download for more information. CMP funds may be used for:

• Assistance to support and protect residents of a facility that closes or is decertified
• Time-limited expenses incurred in the process of relocating residents to home and community-based settings or another facility when a facility is closed or downsized pursuant to an agreement with the state Medicaid agency
• Projects that support resident and family councils and other consumer involvement in assuring quality care in facilities
• Facility improvement initiatives, such as joint training of facility staff and surveyors, or technical assistance for facilities implementing quality assurance and performance improvement programs
• Training to improve quality of care
• Activities to improve quality of life, foster social interaction, and movement and minimize loneliness
• In-person visitation aids

The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

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.

Indiana Traumatic Spinal Cord & Brain Injury Research Grant

The overall objective of the Indiana Traumatic Spinal Cord & Brain Injury Research program is to foster and encourage research for the prevention, treatment and cure of spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries, including acute management, medical complications, rehabilitative techniques, and neuronal recovery. Collaborations are encouraged between Indiana-based researchers as well as with researchers located outside the state of Indiana. Salary support for collaborators outside of Indiana will be limited, however.

Priority will be given to:

• Researchers who are submitting revised applications from the 2021 RFA
• Junior investigators (within 5 years of their last training period at the time of submission)
• Researchers embarking on a new research direction
• Returning investigators whose prior awards have resulted in demonstrable movement along the translational spectrum (e.g. from in vitro to in vivo) and/or led to extramural research support
• Early commercialization research that is reasonably expected to lead to future funding (SBIR/STTR, private investment)

The Asian Cultural Council's New York Fellowship offers a transformative six-month program for artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia. Participants engage deeply with New York City's vibrant cultural landscape, attending performances, exhibitions, and workshops while building networks with local communities. This unique opportunity fosters peer-learning and individual artistic development, encouraging fellows to incorporate their experiences into their practices and contribute to their home cultures. The fellowship emphasizes exploration, exchange, and support, culminating in a rich cultural immersion.

Power Plant Grants, funded by The Andy Warhol Foundation and managed by Big Car Collaborative, aim to invigorate the Indianapolis arts scene. These grants support visual artists taking creative risks and exploring uncharted territories in their work. Each year, five selected artists or teams receive $12,000 to fund innovative projects that engage the community and push artistic boundaries, thereby fostering collaboration and experimentation in the local art landscape.

The CTPVSS/STP Student Award, established by the Society of Toxicology, aims to support students pursuing careers in Toxicologic Pathology. Awardees receive $500 from CTPVSS, complimentary STP Annual Meeting registration, a year of free student membership, and $1,500 from STP for lodging and travel to the Annual Symposium in June. Eligible applicants must be first authors of SOT-accepted abstracts that integrate pathology with various scientific approaches, enhancing understanding of toxicologic responses.

Indiana Criminal Justice Institute

The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) is the state planning agency for criminal justice, juvenile justice, traffic safety and victim services. The institute develops long-range strategies for the effective administration of Indiana's criminal and juvenile justice systems and administers state and federal funds to carry out these strategies.

Through the use of evidence-based decision-making, ICJI works to improve the efficiency of the criminal justice system, from calls for service through post-conviction. The agency accomplishes this by bringing together key leaders from the criminal justice system at the state, local, and national levels to identify critical issues facing Indiana. The agency evaluates policies, programs, and legislation designed to address these issues. ICJI is designated as the State Administering Agency for distribution of federal funds, and as the State Statistical Analysis Center for research.

Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment Grant Program

The Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment (DVPT) Grant program was created by the Indiana General Assembly (IC 5-2-6.7) in 1992 to support Indiana’s domestic violence centers. Funds may be used in the following ways: (1) to establish and maintain domestic violence prevention and treatment centers, (2) to develop and establish training programs for professional, paraprofessional or volunteer personnel who are engaged in areas related to the problems of domestic violence, and (3) to develop and implement the means for prevention and treatment of domestic violence.

DVPT is a reimbursement-based grant. 

The Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations grant program, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Tribes and Alaska Native Villages to engage in emerging markets that enhance forest health and resilience. With funding of $200,000 to $500,000 per grant, this initiative supports projects focusing on sustainability, innovation, and traditional knowledge. Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop forest products, certifications, and practices that contribute positively to biodiversity and ecosystem management.

The Corrine and Henry Bower Memorial Foundation Grant offers approximately $35,000 annually to support wellness, education, and visual arts programs in Pennsylvania and surrounding states. The foundation prioritizes year-round programming, measurable outcomes, and collaboration with other organizations. However, it does not fund general operating costs, new programs, or for-profit entities. Eligible applicants must have a proven track record of service and demonstrate financial accountability.

The Essential Foundation Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in communities served by Aqua and Peoples, supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to environmental initiatives, education, and emergency services. With a strong commitment to corporate philanthropy and employee volunteerism, the foundation focuses on funding projects that promote community growth while ensuring compliance with nondiscrimination laws. This initiative reflects Essential Utilities' dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of over 5 million people across nine states.

The Carol Ann Tieman Scholarship Fund, established by Fred Tieman in 2001, honors the legacy of Carol A. Tieman, a dedicated educator and community supporter. This scholarship provides $1,500 to a Central Noble High School senior planning to pursue a four-year degree in teaching at an Indiana university, with preference for those focusing on elementary education. The Community Foundation of Noble County, a 501(c)(3) public charity, administers various scholarships to empower local students in achieving their educational aspirations.

The Steve Sallee Scholarship, established by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Steve Sallee, a dedicated figure in automotive education. This scholarship supports Indiana residents pursuing careers in Automotive Technology or Engineering, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.5. The Foundation, known for its philanthropic efforts, aims to empower students and strengthen the community by connecting them with vital resources for their education.

The North Central Branch John Henry Comstock Award recognizes one graduate student from each of the Entomological Society of America's six branches. This award promotes graduate-level entomology and encourages attendance at the ESA Annual Meeting. Benefits include an all-expense-paid trip to the national meeting, a $500 cash prize, and a certificate presented during the meeting. Eligibility includes current enrollment in a graduate entomology program or recent graduation.

INDOT Mission

Together, we plan, deliver, and maintain a safe, efficient, and innovative transportation system that:

• Enhances the daily lives of Hoosiers.
• Strengthens Indiana’s economy
• Embraces evolving transportation needs.

Rural Transit Programs

Purpose

The Federal Section 5311 Program was created to provide public transportation in non-urbanized areas (population of 50,000 or less). The purpose of the program is to provide transportation to people living in rural areas. The Federal Section 5311 Program supports rural public transportation through operating, capital, and intercity transit funding.

Intercity Projects

Section 5311(f) also funds capital, operating, planning and marketing projects for intercity transportation projects. An intercity project is defined as public transit service with limited stops over fixed routes connecting two or more urban areas. Projects may also include the transportation of residents of non-urbanized areas to and from urbanized areas.

Intercity capital projects funded under Section 5311(f) are also funded at the eighty percent level.

The George and Frances Ball Foundation offers Quarterly Competitive Grants to support organizations with 501(c)(3) designations. These grants focus on capacity building in East Central Indiana, enhancing education, civic engagement, nature preservation, and the arts. Applications are accepted four times a year, with deadlines on January 21, April 9, July 8, and November 5. Successful applicants can expect a decision within 6–8 weeks of the submission deadline, fostering community improvement and support.

The Giving Branch Foundation, fully funded by Flat Branch Mortgage, Inc. employees, aims to support local communities through donations. By distributing funds to individuals facing hardships such as unexpected medical bills or disaster recovery, the foundation strives to uplift those in need. Grants are available for various eligible hardships, ensuring financial assistance reaches those who require immediate support. The mission is to give back to communities that have long supported the foundation's efforts.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

Greene County Foundation

Founded as a public charity in 1997, the Greene County Foundation is a vital and sustainable organization that serves the Greene County community. A volunteer Board of Directors, whose makeup reflects the diversity of the communities it serves, governs the Foundation. The Foundation annually awards over a quarter million dollars in grants through fund payouts, competitive grants, and student scholarships and has made an impact in every school, town, city, and informal community in Greene County.

Hollee Lent Nursing Scholarship

The Hollee Lent Nursing Scholarship is intended for graduating high school seniors from any Greene County high school who intend to enroll in a nursing program at Vincennes University, Ivy Tech, Indiana State University, or Lincoln Trail College. Greene County residents out of high school are also eligible, with preference given to divorced/single, working mothers. The scholarship is renewable for a second year if the student presents written documentation of acceptance into a nursing program and has maintained a “C” average. 50% of the annual scholarship award amount will be awarded the first year of the scholarship; 150% of the amount will be awarded the second year upon the recipient’s acceptance into a qualifying nursing program. Hollee Lee Lent was a registered nurse at Bloomington Hospital when she passed away on August 19, 2005, at the age of 30. The Hollee Lent Nursing Scholarship was established by members of her family who wished to remember her and her caring spirit.

The MRC/SOT Early Career Toxicologist Award, presented by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes an outstanding Midwest toxicologist with up to 10 years of experience. This prestigious award honors candidates actively contributing to the field or recently retired, showcasing their unique research achievements and teaching proficiency. Winners receive an engraved plaque and an honorarium, celebrating their commitment to advancing toxicology and enhancing human, animal, and environmental health.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to increase diversity in assistant coaching roles by providing financial support to member institutions. Over two years, selected schools receive $15,000 to cover salaries, requiring a matching contribution. This initiative encourages ethnic minority and gender representation, allowing up to 11 institutions to benefit annually, thus enhancing inclusivity in collegiate sports.