Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs

The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs works with Indiana communities to build relevant and economically thriving places where people want to live, work and grow.

Mission: The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs works with local, state and national partners to provide resources and technical assistance to aid communities in shaping and achieving their vision for community and economic development.

CDBG Planning Grant - Feasibility Study Plan

The Planning Grant Program leverages Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to encourage communities to plan for long-term, holistic improvement. The Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) seeks applications from local units of government for programs funded through the State 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. Eligible planning activities consist of all costs associated with data gathering, study, analysis, and preparation of plans and the identification of actions to implement such plans.

Feasibility studies evaluate existing conditions, identify needs and a future vision for public facilities (e.g., fire stations, libraries, community centers), and assess viability, costs, benefits, and risks to guide implementation. 

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

The GPCAH Community Pilot Grant supports innovative research and outreach aimed at enhancing the health and safety of agricultural workers in the Midwest. Funded by NIOSH, this program encourages projects focusing on critical issues like mental health, injury prevention, and chemical safety. With grants up to $30,000, it invites collaboration from various organizations, particularly those within the nine-state region. Special emphasis is placed on proposals addressing the needs of underrepresented groups in agriculture.

Daviess County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Daviess County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

• Make a difference where it matters
• Invest in the future of the community you love
• Create greater good together

David K. Lynch Memorial Scholarship

Annual scholarship established by Cathleen M. (Lynch) Kendall in memory of her husband, David K. Lynch.

Award Amount

• $730

Franco Family Institute for Liberal Arts and the Public Good

Founded by the College of Arts & Letters in 1984 as the Institute for Scholarship in the Liberal Arts and renamed in 2025, the Franco Family Institute for Liberal Arts and the Public Good helps advance research in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. To accomplish this goal, the institute provides faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate students in the College with three main types of support.

• Internal funding
• Proposal development
• Conference support

Research Innovation Collaboratives

Purpose

The Franco Institute invites proposals for Research Innovation Collaboratives to begin work during the 2026-2027 academic year.

These collaboratives encourage research and creative practice outside of departmental and institutional confines so that participants can radically reimagine the way their work can inform, influence, and inspire innovative scholarship. Each collaborative will consist of a group of scholars pursuing a core question (or small set of closely related questions). Collaboratives will foster research, art, teaching, and outreach, deepening connections across disciplines, and bringing the insights of the liberal arts to public life.

Research Innovation Collaboratives will take four forms:

• Humanities Collaboratives, devoted to “big questions” in the humanities approached from transdisciplinary perspectives
• Arts Collaboratives, co-sponsored by the ND Arts Initiative and devoted to collaborative research and creative practice in the arts
• Global Catholic Research Collaboratives, co-sponsored by the ND Global Catholic Research Initiative and devoted to interdisciplinary, collaborative research on global Catholicism
• Sustainability Collaboratives, co-sponsored by the ND Just Transformations to Sustainability Initiative and devoted to interdisciplinary, collaborative research at the nexus of sustainability and the humanities.

Applicants will have the opportunity to select all of the above categories for which they would like to be considered.

All projects must follow all relevant college and university policies and procedures.

The Delta Dental Foundation offers Community Mini-Grants of up to $10,000 for organizations in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana that promote oral health initiatives. This program supports local nonprofits engaged in activities that enhance access to care, advocacy, education, and workforce development. Grants are evaluated based on their alignment with strategic aims and the potential impact on community health. Certain exclusions apply, including projects for building construction or political activities.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, administered by Independent Colleges of Indiana and the Community Foundation of Noble County, is available to Indiana residents graduating high school by 2026. Recipients must pursue a full-time bachelor's degree at an accredited Indiana institution and meet local foundation criteria. This scholarship reflects the commitment of generous donors to support Noble County students in achieving their educational aspirations, with notifications sent in December.

The Historic Preservation Fund Grant Program in Indiana supports projects aimed at preserving architectural and historical sites. Administered by the DNR Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology, it offers matching grants ranging from $5,000 to $75,000 for eligible applicants. Projects must focus on sites listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This program not only funds rehabilitation but also promotes public education initiatives related to preservation efforts, significantly contributing to cultural resource management.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

Whitley County Korean War Veterans Memorial Scholarship

The Whitley County Korean War Veterans Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of Whitley County individuals who served their country in the Korean War. The scholarship is also a means for memorializing their contributions to the freedoms taken for granted each day. 

The Whitley County Korean War Veterans Memorial Scholarship is presented to a student who has demonstrated understanding of the contributions made by these men and women in service to our country. The recipient has to be a Whitley County senior with a GPA of 2.5 or higher, in the top 75% of their class.

The Gordon J. Barnett Memorial Foundation, established in 1955, supports educational initiatives in Florida, Indiana, New York, and Oklahoma. It prioritizes funding for tax-exempt organizations, including primary schools, universities, and trade schools. The foundation does not fund political campaigns or individuals. Grants are aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and preventing cruelty to children and animals, reflecting the foundation's commitment to charitable and educational purposes.

The Sue Johnson Nursing Scholarship, established by Sue Johnson, former Director of Nursing Clinical Excellence & Research at Parkview Health, supports eligible Parkview co-workers pursuing a Bachelor's degree in nursing. The scholarship reflects Parkview Health Foundation's commitment to enhancing healthcare in the region by fostering educational opportunities for its staff. Since 1878, the foundation has played a crucial role in delivering quality healthcare and improving patient experiences in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio.

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The PLTW Computer Science Program Expansion Grant in Indiana offers $10,000 to support the implementation and expansion of PLTW Computer Science programs for the 2026-2027 academic year. Eligible Indiana schools can utilize the funds for new courses, additional class periods, and teacher training. This initiative aims to enhance STEM education and address the growing demand for computer science skills, ensuring students are well-prepared for future opportunities in technology.

The PLTW Computer Science- New Program grant offers Indiana schools $20,000 to implement new Project Lead The Way (PLTW) computer science programs for the 2026-2027 academic year. Schools must provide at least one course in the first year and an additional course in the following year. Eligible applicants include public, private, and charter schools. The grant supports essential program costs but excludes funding for salaries, infrastructure, and training cancellation fees, ensuring focused investment in STEM education.

About Us

The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is an agency of state government, and its funding comes from the Indiana General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

A core component to the Indiana Arts Commission’s commitment to investing in the state’s vibrant and rich arts and culture sector are grants, which support people and communities through arts organizations and arts projects.

America250 Grant Program

About the Program

In anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Indiana Arts Commission accepted applications for arts projects, in any discipline, that celebrate American history and connect participants to that history.

The America250 Grant Program is a one-time program made possible through funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Indiana General Assembly.

Applicants could request up to $5,000. No matching funds are required.

Applicants recommended for funding will receive the full amount requested and are eligible to be paid in full at the beginning of the grant period provided they are in good standing and supply required information in a timely manner.

Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs

The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs works with Indiana communities to build relevant and economically thriving places where people want to live, work and grow.

Mission: The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs works with local, state and national partners to provide resources and technical assistance to aid communities in shaping and achieving their vision for community and economic development.

CDBG Planning Grant - Broadband Readiness

The Planning Grant Program leverages Community Development Block Grant funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to encourage communities to plan for long-term, holistic improvement. To be competitive, projects must demonstrate:

• They meet a goal of the Federal Act (Section 105 (a) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974)
• The particular planning project addresses established long-term community priorities;
• 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; and
• The project is ready to proceed upon grant award and will be completed within 12 months.

The grant assesses broadband infrastructure needs and develops a roadmap to expand high-speed internet access at the municipal or regional level. Broadband Readiness Plans may be created for the community level or regional level.

• Plans for a single community may request up to $50,000.
• Plans for regional applicants may request up to $70,000.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

CDBG Construction Grants 

Funding for all Community Development Block Grant programs is provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by the Office of Community and Rural Affairs. The State of Indiana distributes CDBG funds to rural communities to support a range of projects, including infrastructure enhancement, downtown revitalization, improvements to public facilities, and economic development initiatives.

The state CDBG program offers competitive grants to units of local government to support rural areas.

Blight Clearance Program (BCP)

The Blight Clearance Program (BCP) offers grants assistance for the acquisition, demolition, clearance or remediation of blighted structures.

• The maximum grant award is $500,000, this amount is not guaranteed, each application will be assessed based on the project scope to determine whether a reduced funding level is deemed appropriate.
• Grant funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program is calculated at $5,000 per project beneficiary.
• To be eligible for consideration, applicants must provide a local match of 10% of the total project cost.

Properties acquired with CDBG funds must maintain their designated use for a period of five years following the grant closeout date. OCRA will monitor all BCP-funded projects throughout this compliance period. If a community plans to change the use of a funded property within the five-year window, it must adhere to the change in use process outlined in 24 CFR 570.489. A written request must be submitted to OCRA prior to any changes. The proposed new use must remain an eligible activity under CDBG regulations. If the property is repurposed for ineligible use, the community may be required to repay all or part of the grant funds.

The Needmor Fund for Social Justice aims to promote social justice by supporting community organizing efforts in the Midwest. With a focus on low- and moderate-income communities, BIPOC groups, and other marginalized populations, the fund provides grants for up to three years to organizations committed to long-term empowerment and advocacy. The initiative seeks to foster inclusive participation in democracy, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping policies affecting their lives.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

The General Days of Service Mini-Grant, offered by Serve Indiana, supports organizations in launching Day of Service projects aimed at addressing community needs. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, applicants must demonstrate collaboration and community engagement. Funds can cover project-related expenses, but cannot be used for staffing or food. Applications are accepted year-round, provided they are submitted at least 60 days prior to the service date.