Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

The Human Networks and Data Science (HNDS) program, supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), focuses on enhancing our understanding of human behavior through data and network science. It features two tracks: HNDS-I, aimed at developing data resources for social sciences, and HNDS-R, which leverages large datasets to advance theoretical frameworks in core social, behavioral, and economic disciplines. Proposals are encouraged to provide innovative insights that can lead to significant societal benefits.

The Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation (EFRI) program by the NSF aims to support transformative research in wave-based computing, fostering significant advancements in foundational engineering knowledge. With funding opportunities including EAGER awards and four-year grants up to $2 million, EFRI-WBC encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative approaches to address strategic technology priorities. Proposals should articulate their potential long-term impacts on national science and technology missions, promoting a new era in computing methodologies.

The FY2026/2027 Community Compass Technical Assistance and Capacity Building Program provides competitive grants to organizations capable of delivering technical assistance (TA) to communities served by HUD. With up to $86 million available, recipients are expected to develop educational tools, collaborate with HUD, and show a strong record of performance. This initiative aims to enhance community systems, support high-priority projects, and ensure effective training delivery, fostering impactful outcomes across the nation.

The Union County Foundation’s main purpose is to grow and distribute the donated charitable assets and thus improve and enrich the quality of life in Union County. The Foundation is proud and thankful for being able to periodically award Community Grants and Scholarships.

Large Grants

This application will allow local non-profits a chance to request for a larger scale grant- $10,000 or more!

It is the general policy of the Foundation to operate without discrimination as to age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or national origin in overall administration and in consideration of grant requests from agencies and organizations.

The ASMS Postdoctoral Career Development Awards provide five $5,000 grants annually to support the professional growth of postdoctoral fellows in mass spectrometry. Eligible applicants must be ASMS members and postdoctoral fellows within three years of their Ph.D. These awards can cover costs for conferences, workshops, travel to labs, or purchasing essential professional items, fostering career advancement in this specialized field.

The Dr. Louis and Anne B. Schneider Foundation Grant focuses on supporting impactful projects in the Fort Wayne/Allen County area. This grant aims to fund initiatives that provide direct services, address community needs, and benefit underserved populations. Eligible organizations must demonstrate sustainability, collaboration, and measurable outcomes, with at least one year of operational history. The foundation prioritizes projects that complement existing non-profit efforts and have diversified income streams, ensuring effective financial accountability.

The Michigan City Community Enrichment Corporation provides grants exclusively for 501(c)(3) organizations that support public purposes within the Michigan City Area School District. Established to administer funds from Blue Chip Casino, the Corporation aims to enhance community services through nonprofit partnerships. Eligible organizations may submit up to two applications for the 2026-27 grant cycle, ensuring a priority is assigned to each application. This initiative is designed to foster community development and enrichment.

The Roothbert Fund Scholarship, established by Albert and Toni Roothbert, provides financial assistance to individuals pursuing education in the U.S., emphasizing candidates motivated by spiritual values. Since its inception in 1958, the fund has supported over 1,350 fellows, fostering a community with annual retreats and online connections. Open to all regardless of background, the scholarship prioritizes graduate students and those with a year of college completed, ensuring a lasting impact on the lives of young idealists.

The Florence M. and Paul M. Staehle Foundation Grant supports impactful projects in the Fort Wayne/Allen County area. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and at least three years of operation. The grant prioritizes year-round programming, direct services, and collaborations that address community needs. Projects should demonstrate measurable outcomes and sustainability, while avoiding support for general operating costs, pilot programs, and for-profit initiatives. For detailed guidelines, contacting the program officer is recommended.

The Clay County Urgent Grants, offered by the Wabash Valley Community Foundation, provide funding up to $5000 for organizations facing unexpected operational challenges. These grants are designed for organizations with a proven track record as financial stewards, focusing on impactful projects that foster community improvement. Applications are reviewed on an as-needed basis, allowing for swift support in urgent situations. This initiative reflects a commitment to creating lasting positive change within the community.

The Awesome Foundation offers Local Chapter Grants of $1000 to individuals and groups for innovative projects that enhance community engagement. Each chapter operates independently, focusing on unique interpretations of 'awesome' across various fields such as arts and technology. Grants are awarded monthly, emphasizing no-strings-attached support. This initiative encourages creativity and experimentation, aiming to inspire and delight communities worldwide. For more details, applicants can explore individual chapter preferences and restrictions through the foundation's website.

The FRS Scholarships, provided by the Foundation for Rural Service, support high school seniors from rural areas in their pursuit of higher education. Sponsored by NTCA members, these one-time scholarships aim to enhance educational opportunities and encourage graduates to return to their communities. With a mission to improve rural life through educational initiatives, this program plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of leaders in rural America.

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino is committed to community support through philanthropy, providing jobs and financial assistance. Their Heart of Canal Street program has donated over $13.6 million since 1994, helping local children. They recycle used playing cards for nonprofit organizations and donate auction items for fundraising events within a 125-mile radius. However, they do not support K-12 schools or for-profit entities, ensuring their contributions are directed to those in need.

The Muessel-Ellison Memorial Trust Foundation, established in 1959 by Netta Muessel Ellison, aims to support charitable purposes benefiting South Bend and St. Joseph County, Indiana. The foundation focuses on areas such as arts, education, health, and human services. Organizations seeking funding must be 501(c)(3) exempt and operate within the specified geographic region. Through its efforts, the foundation honors the legacy of the Muessel and Ellison families, promoting community well-being and civic engagement.

The HCCF Annual Grant Cycle offers financial support to nonprofits in Hancock County, aimed at enhancing their programming and capital needs. This initiative focuses on increasing the capacity of organizations to deliver beneficial services to the community. Eligible expenses include program supplies, staff salaries for direct service roles, and capital improvements. The fund encourages innovative proposals that demonstrate community impact, while excluding operating costs and general marketing expenses.

The Thomas J. Henry Sponsorship Requests program emphasizes community support and global outreach. With a commitment to enhancing lives, Mr. Henry has been a pivotal figure in South Texas, ensuring that his legal success translates into meaningful contributions. The program invites various organizations to apply for sponsorship, aligning with Mr. Henry’s vision of fostering closer connections through philanthropic efforts. This initiative aims to empower communities and promote collaborative growth on both local and international levels.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Everett Kneece Scholarship, offered by the Foundation for Rural Service, provides a $7,000 award annually to a graduating high school senior who shows commitment to returning to a rural community. To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens sponsored by an NTCA member and express interest in rural community service. This scholarship honors Everett Kneece's legacy of philanthropy and dedication to enhancing rural life through education.

The Poinsatte-Altman Foundation Grant supports impactful projects in the Fort Wayne/Allen County area, emphasizing year-round programming and direct services to individuals. Eligible organizations must demonstrate proven community needs, measurable outcomes, and sustainable plans. The foundation prioritizes collaboration and accountability, while typically excluding general operating costs, pilot programs, and for-profit entities. A minimum of three years of operation and documented measurable impact are required for applicants to qualify.

The Sarah Tyree Good Neighbor Scholarship, provided by the Foundation for Rural Service, honors the legacy of Sarah Tyree, a champion for rural broadband. This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who exemplify humanitarianism and community spirit. Eligible students must be U.S. citizens with a commitment to returning to rural areas post-graduation. The award supports educational endeavors, ensuring that future leaders have the resources they need to thrive.

The Papé Family Foundation seeks to positively impact communities where its members reside, emphasizing family unity, service, and stewardship. It funds small capital projects, building improvements, equipment needs, and operational requests for new programs (under two years old) but does not cover salaries. Eligible organizations must be within 50 miles of trustee-residing cities, including locations in Arkansas, California, Idaho, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.

The Flora Dale Krouse Foundation Grant supports impactful projects in the Fort Wayne/Allen County area. It prioritizes organizations with a minimum of three years of operation that address community needs, provide measurable outcomes, and demonstrate financial accountability. The foundation seeks initiatives that complement existing services and benefit underserved populations, while avoiding support for general operating costs or for-profit entities. This grant is an opportunity for established nonprofits to enhance their community contributions.

The Shout It Out Scholarship by Unigo invites students to express their thoughts and win $1,500 for college. Open to U.S. residents aged 14 and older, this unique opportunity encourages participants to share their messages, whether profound or simple. The scholarship aims to empower students, making their voices heard while providing financial support for their education. With a vibrant community of over 3.8 million members, Unigo is dedicated to helping students navigate their college journey.

Wynn Resorts offers a structured donation and in-kind request process for non-profit organizations. Applications must be submitted at least 12 weeks ahead of the event, with specific documentation required for organizations in Nevada and Massachusetts. While requests from outside these areas may be considered, priority is given to local community events. Notably, certain types of requests, including those for advertising and religious purposes, are ineligible. This ensures that contributions align with the company's community initiatives.

The Herbert and Isabel Bitz Memorial Scholarship, established by Mr. Don Bitz, offers a $5,000 award annually to a graduating high school senior dedicated to rural America. Sponsored by a member of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, applicants must be U.S. citizens with intentions of returning to a rural community after graduation. This scholarship aims to support students who aspire to contribute to the quality of life in rural areas.

The Beacon Credit Union Foundation offers grants of at least $2,500 to support local charitable organizations that are tax-exempt under 501(c)(3). Focused on enhancing community welfare, eligible organizations must operate locally for a minimum of five years and demonstrate good financial standing. The foundation prioritizes non-discrimination and community-driven initiatives. Reapplications are allowed after a year for grant recipients, while organizations not receiving funding can apply in the next cycle.

The AAUW International Fellowships support women pursuing graduate or postdoctoral studies in the U.S. who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Since 1917, these fellowships have provided financial assistance, with awards of $20,000 for Master’s, $25,000 for Doctoral, and $50,000 for Postdoctoral studies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to women's advancement. The program emphasizes full-time study and requires proficiency in English, ensuring a diverse and dedicated cohort of scholars.