Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

The Partners in Arts Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Smith County who have engaged in performing or visual arts and plan to pursue a related major in college. This scholarship highlights the importance of arts education and aims to empower students to achieve their academic goals. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the arts and meet specific criteria, ensuring that funding is awarded to deserving candidates.

The Downing-Nix Trust Grant provides funding for organizations engaged in research on muscular dystrophy, maintaining treatment wards in Atlanta hospitals, offering veterinary medicine scholarships, and supporting shelters for small animals. Organizations must qualify as 501(c)(3) charities. Applications are accepted year-round, but submissions by April 15 are required for annual meeting reviews. Priority may be given to hospitals and veterinary schools within Atlanta, GA.

Building the Future Workforce Challenge

Awarding $5 million and the opportunity to test bold, tech‑forward solutions that strengthen the advanced manufacturing and industry technician workforce—today and for the future.

About the Challenge

Caterpillar knows preparing the workforce for the future is urgent. Communities, employers, and industry need new ways to close advancing skill gaps. The Building the Future Workforce Challenge invites fresh perspectives from all sectors to rethink training. Up to five teams will be awarded $1 million each for sustainable, tech‑forward solutions that strengthen today’s—and tomorrow’s—advanced manufacturing and industry technician talent pipelines.

What types of solutions are you looking for?

The Building the Future Workforce Challenge aims to identify, test, and scale innovative, sustainable solutions that will address today’s and tomorrow’s advanced manufacturing and industry technician skill gaps. A core requirement of any solution is that it remains relevant amid evolving technology—ensuring that breakthrough innovation and human potential rise together.

Strong proposals for Building the Future Workforce Challenge will meet four criteria outlined in the scoring rubric, and proposed solutions must focus on one or more of the following solution categories for Building the Future Workforce Challenge:

The Mexican Scholarship, established by the former Consulate of Mexico in Indianapolis, aims to support students of Mexican descent in pursuing higher education. Funded by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, this scholarship is open to Indiana residents enrolled in accredited colleges or vocational schools. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and preference is given to those of Mexican heritage. Award funds can be utilized for tuition, fees, and essential educational expenses.

The Avant Garde Award supports innovative research on HIV and substance use disorders, encouraging creative scientists to explore high-risk, high-reward approaches. While applications are not currently being accepted, this initiative by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) aims to stimulate collaborations and impactful research. Early-stage investigators are particularly encouraged to consider this opportunity as they develop their proposals for future funding. The program uses the DP1 activity code, fostering transformative advancements in biomedical and behavioral science.

The Community Charter Network Scholarship, provided by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, assists students from Fall Creek Academy or University Heights Preparatory Academy in covering post-secondary educational expenses. This scholarship aims to support those who demonstrate financial need and excel academically. Eligible applicants include former students of these institutions or residents within the IPS district. Awards vary based on available funds and may cover tuition, fees, and other educational costs.

The Imagine Learning Foundation's Signature Grant Program aims to enhance the well-being of learners by supporting social and emotional learning (SEL) initiatives. By bridging classroom and community efforts, it fosters healthier environments for youth, families, and educators. The program prioritizes funding for organizations addressing critical issues like chronic absenteeism and housing insecurity. In 2024, the foundation will allocate over $400,000 to impactful projects, furthering its mission to cultivate supportive learning experiences both in and out of the classroom.

The HEAL initiative aims to translate addiction research into practice to combat the opioid crisis and overdose events. It focuses on identifying barriers to reducing substance use and developing scalable, evidence-based interventions. Emphasizing recovery, prevention, and the integration of mental health, the initiative encourages collaboration among experts in various fields. Although applications are not currently solicited, potential applicants are urged to prepare for future opportunities to apply innovative solutions to enhance addiction treatment and prevention efforts.

The TURTLE Program aims to empower Tribal Entities by fostering a skilled workforce in biomedical research. It supports undergraduate and graduate students in health research, ensuring they complete their degrees and transition into impactful careers. With phased awards, the program emphasizes effective training and mentoring, inviting eligible organizations to apply. Applications will undergo NIH's peer-review process, ensuring only the most meritorious proposals are funded, ultimately enhancing Tribal health research capabilities.

Truist Foundation

The Truist Foundation is committed to Truist Financial Corporation's (NYSE: TFC) purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. Established in 2020, the foundation makes strategic investments in nonprofit organizations to help ensure the communities it serves have more opportunities for a better quality of life. The Truist Foundation's grants and activities focus on building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses.

Inspire Awards

This year’s Inspire Awards seeks nonprofits supporting the career navigation and workforce development needs of workers across the United States. The challenge seeks applications that help individuals gain the skills, guidance, and support needed to access quality jobs, advance in their careers, and build long-term stability in an evolving world of work.

2026 Truist Foundation Inspire Awards Challenge Question

How are nonprofits providing innovative direct services, training programs, and career navigation supports for adult workers in the age of AI?

Challenge Dimensions

Nonprofit organizations have long been critical advocates and service providers for workers in the United States. Nonprofits provide workers necessary upskilling opportunities, AI literacy training, career navigation support, and wraparound services in conjunction with career pathways programming. All necessary for the modern workforce. Meeting the moment, Truist Foundation and MIT Solve want to hear the ways in which nonprofits headquartered in the Truist operating footprint are providing innovative career pathway programming in the age of AI. Although solutions don’t need to focus on generative AI specifically, teams should demonstrate how their career pathways programming align with the following dimensions:

• Training and Upskilling Programs – Providing holistic, accessible programming that equips workers with essential skills, industry-validated credentials, and technical literacy for the modern workplace.
• AI Readiness and Literacy – Offering high-quality training that helps workers understand generative AI and agentic technologies as augmented intelligence tools, helping to build practical skills like effective prompting, domain expertise application, and ethical use.
• Additional Wraparound Services and Basic Needs Support – Supporting unemployed and underemployed workers on their journey to economic mobility through comprehensive, integrated resources including childcare, transportation support, mentorship, mental health services, benefits navigation, and more.
• Career Navigation in the AI Economy – Enabling workers to navigate career choices with clarity and confidence by providing accessible information about how AI is reshaping job roles and industries, facilitating informed decisions about high-quality career trajectories that align with individual circumstances, and connecting workers to industry-validated credentials or trainings.

Here are the grants for this challenge

• First place: $250,000
• Second place: $150,000
• Runners-up: $25,000
• Audience favorite: $75,000

About

Mission

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

Vision

Every Hoosier reaches optimal health regardless of where they live, learn, work, or play.

Chronic Disease Screenings and Treatment Services

County: LaGrange

The LaGrange County Health Department will be issuing funds for chronic disease screenings and treatment services. The screenings should be for individuals residing in LaGrange County who are lawful citizens of the United States, with treatment services offered to those meeting screening thresholds. (Core Public Health Services: Chronic Disease Prevention; Access & Linkage to Care)

The Principal Student Support Services Grant, offered by the School-Based Healthcare Solutions Network, aims to enhance mental health support for students in grades 6-12 at under-resourced public schools. With funding available for hiring mental health professionals and performance-based awards, this initiative addresses critical challenges like chronic absenteeism and behavioral issues. By providing targeted interventions, the grant seeks to improve academic performance and overall well-being among students facing mental health crises.

The Carl Marshall and Mildred Almen Reeves Foundation, established in 1997, supports local organized charities in Columbus, Indiana. Grants are aimed at nonprofit organizations focused on education, history, and the arts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, with an emphasis on projects rather than operational costs. The foundation seeks to enhance community engagement by requiring matching funds from other sources. This commitment honors the philanthropic legacy of Mrs. Mildred Reeves, who deeply valued local community support.

The NAMM Foundation Global Grantmaking Program provides music research grants aimed at enhancing music education and career mobility. With a focus on eliminating barriers for underrepresented communities, grants range from $5,000 to $25,000. The foundation supports high-impact organizations that demonstrate measurable outcomes and align with its mission of fostering music makers. Eligible applicants include those with a strong research track record and innovative project proposals that do not duplicate existing studies.

The Diversity Mentorship Grant Program aims to enhance ethnic diversity in dermatology by providing mentorship to underrepresented medical students. Participants receive 160 hours of hands-on experience with a dermatologist, fostering a deeper understanding of the field. A stipend of $1,500 is available for travel and living expenses. Applications are open until November 1 for the upcoming year, encouraging students from diverse backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, and Native American groups, to apply.

The Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, established by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, offers $30,000 for one year to support postdoctoral research in occupational therapy. This fellowship aims to enhance diversity in the field by funding individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, as identified by the NSF. Eligible candidates must hold an OT degree or relevant doctorate, have a mentor, and conduct research at a U.S. academic institution.

Brave Beginnings Grants, under the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation, focus on enhancing neonatal care by providing vital equipment to hospitals. Since 2006, the program has awarded approximately $1 million annually to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) across the U.S. Following a suspension due to COVID-19, the 2026 grant cycle is now open, with applications due by February 13, 2026. This initiative aims to ensure the availability of lifesaving equipment for newborns in critical need.

The Best Buy Teen Tech Center is offering a Mini Tech Skills Workshop Grant to support local and national non-profits in providing STEAM skills workshops for youth aged 13-19. These workshops, which include topics such as coding, filmmaking, and robotics, aim to enhance technical skills and career exploration. Funding can reach up to $24,999, with a focus on hands-on, facilitator-led experiences, and additional programming opportunities may be considered.

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) offers financial support through undergraduate scholarships for up to 100 eligible college students each year. Applicants must be members of PC(USA) pursuing their first associates or bachelor's degree at an accredited institution in the U.S. during the 2025-2026 academic year. This initiative aims to assist students in overcoming financial barriers to education while fostering a commitment to service within their communities.

The Gospel Fest Music Arts Scholarship, established by Vicki Hill of WTLZ-FM, aims to support Saginaw County students pursuing degrees in Musical Arts. This initiative is part of a larger effort by the Saginaw Community Foundation to enhance local education through scholarships and grants. The annual Gospel Fest, attracting up to 2,000 attendees, serves as a vibrant community event promoting peace and cultural unity through music, showcasing both local and national talent.

The Southern NM Down Syndrome Families Scholarship Fund Endowment aims to provide financial support for individuals with Down syndrome pursuing post-secondary education or life skills training at accredited institutions. Managed by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, this scholarship embodies the mission of improving quality of life and fostering educational opportunities for diverse communities. It encourages applicants from various backgrounds, including those with disabilities, to achieve their academic and personal goals.

About Samba RecoverySamba Recovery is dedicated to empowering individuals recovering from alcoholism and drug addiction by restoring confidence and fostering resilience. Through a foundation of compassion, support, and holistic care, we guide individuals toward renewed health and wellness, meaningful relationships, and the discovery of their inner strengths—assisting them to achieve their fullest potential.Hope for Addiction ScholarshipSamba Recovery’s Hope for Addiction Scholarship is an annual $1,000 award dedicated to encouraging more young people to join the fight against addiction by pursuing degrees that directly support individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

We welcome applications from all eligible students, with special encouragement for those who are in recovery themselves or who have been impacted by addiction within their families.Application requirements:

• Proof of college enrollment or acceptance
• Pursuing a degree with the goal of working with individuals and/or families impacted by addiction
• Completed application form
• An original 500 to 1000 word essay on how you are planning to use your degree to help individuals and families struggling with addiction, and why helping those affected by substance use disorder is important to you

The Donald C. and Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation, established in 2006, aims to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged students in the Greater Cincinnati area. With a focus on innovative programs and scholarships, the foundation supports initiatives in primary, secondary, and adult education. Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000 annually, promoting sustainability and collaboration with other donors. Eligible applicants must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations, prioritizing local community impact.

The NEA Federal Rescue Implementation Network Grant provides up to $100,000 per year for two years to state affiliates for hiring a coordinator to implement the American Rescue Plan in support of public education. This funding is specifically for backfilling a position that must remain filled for at least ninety days, ensuring effective oversight of federal recovery initiatives within the affiliate.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults Scholarship

For more than 100 years the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults has strived to improve the lives of blind and Deafblind children and adults. Best known for annually producing and gifting Braille Calendars, sponsoring the free Braille books for blind children program, and administering the Braille Readers are Leaders contest, the American Action Fund leads in promoting Braille literacy. The American Action Fund is proud to award this scholarship to a deserving and talented blind person. 

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Eosinophilic esophagitis

Help with healthcare costs for eosinophilic esophagitis

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a disorder of the esophagus and is increasingly recognized as a major cause of swallowing difficulties in children and adults. It is a chronic disease of the immune system and can be triggered by a food allergy, acid reflux, or an airborne allergy. An allergic trigger causes the immune system to overact which causes many white blood cells, or eosinophils, to collect in the esophagus. This causes the esophagus to become inflamed and not contract properly. The esophagus can also narrow and develop rings or abscesses. This condition can become worse over time.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Help with healthcare costs for Multiple sclerosis (MS)

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the central nervous system in which the insulating covers of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged. MS is a chronic disease that affects the nervous system.