Best Public Policy Grants in Indiana

The Alphawood Foundation, a private grant-making organization based in Chicago, focuses on supporting initiatives that promote equity, justice, and human rights. They award grants to non-profits in areas such as arts education, LGBTQ+ health and rights, and community empowerment, particularly for marginalized groups. Their funding emphasizes unrestricted operational support, prioritizing organizations aligned with their mission and that primarily serve the Chicago metropolitan area and Northwest Indiana.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

Lilly Endowment Inc. focuses on enriching the religious lives of Christians in the U.S. by supporting diverse congregations and theological education. It aims to foster community development, youth education, and public understanding of religion. The Endowment prioritizes initiatives that improve life quality in Indiana while considering national projects that align with its mission. Notably, it emphasizes nurturing the faith of young people and ensuring all congregations have capable leaders to meet contemporary challenges.

The Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation Grant Program focuses on enhancing the vitality of Indianapolis through targeted grantmaking in education, health, and economic development. The program prioritizes support for tax-exempt organizations that align with its goals, addressing critical issues such as public health, academic outcomes, and workforce development. By fostering collaboration and sharing data-driven insights, the Foundation aims to create a more vibrant, equitable city where all residents can thrive.

The Chicago Region Land Conservation Grants, funded by the Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, support diverse organizations in innovative conservation efforts across the Chicago area. This initiative prioritizes climate resilience, inclusive practices, and ecological benefits, aiming to enhance land conservation strategies and policies. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and government units focused on natural and working lands. The program fosters collaborations that amplify conservation outcomes while addressing the unique challenges of urban environments.

Our Vision for Land Conservation

Protected, restored, and sustainably managed lands and natural resources are essential for both nature and humans to thrive.

Land conservation protects biodiversity, addresses climate change, and supports diverse communities and economies. From natural areas to working lands, our approach to land conservation emphasizes climate resilience, inclusivity, and effective advocacy. We offer a wide array of support, including multiyear general operating grants, project grants, and technical assistance.

Chicago Region Land Conservation Grants

We offer general operating and project grants to organizations that further natural and working land protection and stewardship in the greater Chicago region, with emphasis on integrating climate resiliency, advocacy, and inclusive conservation strategies. ​

Grant Award Ranges

The amount and duration of grant awards are influenced by the organization’s/project’s level of impact on strategic land conservation efforts in the region, organizational/project size and budget, and the organization’s demonstrated leadership in advancing the core objectives of the Foundation’s land conservation strategy.


How We Work

Relationships are at the core of our grantmaking process. Each grant starts with a conversation with a program officer so we can get to know you and your work. We strongly encourage you to contact us in advance of our proposal deadlines so that we can explore potential fit.

Primary Goals of the Foundation’s Chicago Region Land Conservation Strategy

• Strategic Natural and Working Land Conservation: We aim to support organizations and projects advancing natural and working land protection and stewardship in strategically significant areas across the Chicagoland region that provide both ecological and quality-of-life benefits. Examples include wetland restoration in flood-prone communities, habitat connectivity improvements, and conservation easements on priority natural areas and agricultural land.

• Conservation that Integrates Climate Resilience: We support an increased emphasis on incorporating climate resilience considerations in all land conservation programs and projects. Examples include using resiliency prioritization in land acquisition and stewardship planning, protecting and restoring strategic parcels to increase habitat corridors, and working in vulnerable communities to mitigate climate and flooding impacts using land conservation and natural-focused green infrastructure strategies that deliver meaningful biodiversity and community benefits.

• Advocacy and Engagement Efforts: We believe that effective advocacy, public engagement, and communications strategies are critical to creating and enhancing land conservation programs and policies. Examples include efforts to develop new public conservation funding programs at the state and local level, in addition to engagement on proposed land use activities or conservation policies that could impact land protection efforts at scale in the region.

• Inclusive Conservation that Benefits All People: We want to increase the relevance and reach of land conservation work by supporting inclusive efforts that provide both biodiversity and human quality of life benefits for the diverse communities across the region. Examples include direct support of or meaningful engagement with community-based organizations to ensure that land conservation and resiliency efforts serve the needs of historically disinvested communities.

The Barker Welfare Foundation offers grants to qualified charitable organizations focused on enhancing the quality of life, particularly for youth and families, in New York City and Michigan City, Indiana. Organizations must be recognized as public charities and meet specific eligibility criteria, including providing audited financial statements. Proposals from start-ups or outside designated areas are discouraged. The Foundation aims to reflect the philanthropic legacy of its founder, Catherine B. Hickox.

The Gun Violence Prevention & Justice Reform Grant by The Joyce Foundation aims to create safer communities in the Great Lakes region. It focuses on reducing gun violence, addressing racial disparities in the justice system, and promoting violence intervention strategies. The foundation invites innovative proposals that support these goals, emphasizing research, policy advocacy, and community engagement to effectively address the challenges of gun violence and promote racial equity.

The Joyce Foundation's Democracy Grants aim to enhance participation and representation in the electoral process across the Great Lakes region. With a focus on combating voter suppression, gerrymandering, and disinformation, the Foundation supports policy changes that protect voting rights and ensure fair representation. Through public engagement and litigation, it seeks to empower communities of color and young voters, fostering a more equitable democracy for all residents.

The Joyce Foundation's Education & Economic Mobility Grants aim to close income and race disparities in college and career success. The foundation prioritizes equitable access to high-quality education, supporting policies for effective educators, high school graduation, and affordable college credentials. Focused on racial equity and economic mobility, it addresses the needs of historically underserved young people in the Great Lakes region and invests in research, policy development, and advocacy to help them recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

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 Community Health Investments Grant Program by Owensboro Health supports eligible nonprofits and public entities addressing health issues in Kentucky and Indiana. Grants up to $50,000 are available for programs promoting health equity and addressing social determinants of health. Applicants must demonstrate a 100% tobacco-free policy and show clear connections between their projects and community health needs. This initiative fosters partnerships to improve health outcomes and is open for annual applications.

The Quality of Place: Pathways to Progress Grants, offered by the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana, aim to enhance access to safe and high-quality public spaces for individuals facing economic and mobility challenges. By partnering with local nonprofits, the foundation seeks to improve safety, accessibility, and environmental quality of amenities, ultimately fostering a more inclusive community. Since its inception in 1991, the foundation has awarded over $5 million annually to support initiatives that benefit the Southern Indiana region.

The Seed Grant for Research on Lottery Gambling, announced by the International Center for Responsible Gaming and the Hoosier Lottery, promotes studies focusing on responsible gambling and gambling disorders related to lottery activities. Researchers are encouraged to explore various projects, including pilot studies, preliminary research, and follow-up testing. Emphasizing the connection to Indiana, the initiative seeks to develop insights that inform responsible gambling practices and policies.

The Dow Promise Grant empowers communities by addressing the unique barriers faced by Black youth and adults in the U.S. This program provides grants up to $10,000 for initiatives that promote social, economic, and environmental advancements. Since its inception in 2000, the Dow Promise Program has been committed to fostering equitable opportunities and positive social change, ultimately contributing to long-term community success and a brighter future for all.

The Youth Fund for Social Change Grant, provided by the Crossroads Fund, aims to empower youth in the Chicago area to address social justice issues. This initiative supports organizations and projects focused on advocacy and activism, enabling young people to challenge systemic inequalities. Grants prioritize collaborative efforts and innovative approaches, fostering grassroots leadership among youth. Eligible applicants include youth-led organizations and coalitions with a budget under $1 million, promoting impactful community-driven change.

Samerian Foundation

Founded in 2003, the Samerian Foundation is dedicated to perpetuating the vision of Cindy and Paul Skjodt, the founders. They seek to enhance the quality of life by providing funds through a grant making process for education, economic development, health, youth sports, community organizations meeting the needs of the underserved, and humanitarian projects.

Though the Samerian Foundation primarily serves Central Indiana, it has taken part in some international endeavors and have reached outside the state on special projects.

The Samerian Foundation is the philanthropic vehicle of the Skjodt’s generosity. To date, they have granted 2,105 requests of nearly $93.4 million.

The Samerian Foundation is lovingly named after Cindy and Paul’s children, Samantha, Erik, and Ian, who serve on the board.

Cindy Simon-Skjodt Scholarship

This scholarship was established by the Simon-Skjodt family to encourage students pursuing degrees with a focus on global studies, international law, or related disciplines at Indiana University.

The Community Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvement Grant, offered by the Indiana Department of Health, aims to enhance public health through improved infrastructure for cycling and walking. With funding available for communities of varying sizes, this initiative encourages the development of comprehensive master plans. Key deliverables include evaluations of current networks, actionable recommendations, and public engagement, all designed to promote active living and curb chronic disease rates in Indiana. Projects should start in winter 2024 and be completed by September 2025.

The Crossroads Fund: Seed Fund Grant supports organizations and groups in the Chicago Metropolitan area that promote social change. It focuses on collaborative, risk-taking, and strategic efforts that yield concrete community benefits. With a maximum grant of $15,000, it is open to 501(c)(3) organizations and those with fiscal sponsorship or bank accounts, prioritizing those with annual expenses under $500,000. This fund fosters diverse forms of activism, ensuring financial support for established and emerging community-based groups.

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 O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

About the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs

The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) is a state agency dedicated to serving. Its mission is to Support, Serve, and Advocate for the Indiana Veterans Community. IDVA aims to make Indiana the choice for veterans to Live, Work, and Thrive. 

Grants for Veterans’ Services (GVS)

The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking applications for the Grants for Veterans’ Services program. This solicitation is open to non-profit organizations registered with the Indiana Secretary of State.

The grant amounts will be between $10,000 and $75,000, depending on each applicant’s need for funds, the availability of funding, and the volume of eligible applicants.

All applications, procedures, and documentation should follow the Indiana Code, Indiana Administrative Code, and Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs’ policies.

Grants for Veterans’ Services may be utilized to provide the following services to caregivers and family members:

• Programs focused on eliminating homelessness, preventing near-term homelessness, and providing safe and secure living conditions.
• Assisting veterans in moving from public housing assistance programs to:
• home ownership, or
• stable, long-term rental status.
• Assisting veterans or an eligible person in finding and using available federal and state resources.
• Providing therapeutic services.
• Providing job training and job search assistance.
• Preventing veteran suicide or the suicide of an eligible person.

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.

About the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs

The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) is a state agency dedicated to serving. Its mission is to Support, Serve, and Advocate for the Indiana Veterans Community. IDVA aims to make Indiana the choice for veterans to Live, Work, and Thrive. 

IDVA Community Challenge Implementation Grant

The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) is seeking applications for the Grants for Veterans’ Services (GVS) Governor’s Challenge Implementation Grant. This application is open to non-profit community coalitions or community coalitions with an established fiduciary agent that is a non-profit organization registered with the Indiana Secretary of State.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs support a public health approach for preventing suicide among service members, veterans, and their families through its Governor’s and Mayor’s Challenges. These efforts encourage state participation and help develop the capacity to implement interagency military/civilian action plans grounded in evidence-based suicide prevention practices.

IDVA is participating in the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, their Families, and Caregivers (SMVF-CG). The Indiana Governor’s Challenge (IGC) is implementing a state-wide suicide prevention program for SMVF-CG based on best practices while using a public health approach.

The IGC program will focus on community integration, with programming support from Indiana non-profit agencies. This GVS Governor’s Challenge Implementation Grant and funds will focus on providing programming, support, and services to the Indiana SMVF-CG community that support the three priority groups of the IGC.

The IGC consists of three priority groups:

• Identifying SMVF and Screening for Suicide Risk
• Promoting Connectedness and Improving Care Transitions
• Increasing Lethal Means Storage, Safety, Planning, and Training

All applications, procedures, and documentation should follow the Indiana Code, Indiana Administrative Code, and IDVA policies.

About the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs

The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) is a state agency dedicated to serving. Its mission is to Support, Serve, and Advocate for the Indiana Veterans Community. IDVA aims to make Indiana the choice for veterans to Live, Work, and Thrive. 

IDVA Community Challenge Planning Grant

The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) is seeking applications for the Grants for Veterans’ Services (GVS) Governor’s Challenge Planning Grant. This application is open to non-profit community coalitions or community coalitions with an established fiduciary agent that is a non-profit organization registered with the Indiana Secretary of State.

The maximum amount able to be requested is $25,000.00.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs support a public health approach for preventing suicide among service members, veterans, and their families through its Governor’s and Mayor’s Challenges. These efforts encourage state participation and help develop the capacity to implement interagency military/civilian action plans grounded in evidence-based suicide prevention practices.

IDVA is participating in the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, their Families, and Caregivers (SMVF-CG). The Indiana Governor’s Challenge (IGC) is implementing a state-wide suicide prevention program for SMVF-CG based on best practices while using a public health approach.

Applications for planning grants indicate that community coalitions may need financial assistance to help formulate a detailed and measurable plan of action to address veteran suicide in their community.

Planning grant funds can be used to:

• Develop a strategic plan, including goals, measurable outcomes, monitoring guidelines, and timelines.
• Request funding for a strategic planning consultant who ensures the ideas and goals of the coalition are reflected in the strategic plan.

All applications, procedures, and documentation should follow the Indiana Code, Indiana Administrative Code, and Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs policies. Please see Indiana Code 10-17-13.5 and 914 IAC 1 Grants for Veterans’ Services.