Best Indianapolis Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

The Pitney Bowes Foundation Grant, established in 2005, focuses on enhancing education within communities where Pitney Bowes operates. Annually, the foundation allocates around $1.8 million to support literacy, STEM, and job training initiatives, emphasizing early childhood education and mentoring programs. Grants are designed to foster measurable outcomes that address educational disparities, particularly for underserved populations, ensuring a brighter future for the workforce.

About Us

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.

Our Mission & Vision

Our mission is to bring together Indiana’s brightest minds to solve the state’s most pressing health challenges. We envision Indiana as one of the nation’s healthiest states.

RFA- Research Project Development Teams: Project Refinement ( first external submissions)

Research Project Development Teams (PDTs) are groups of experienced senior faculty located on each of the Indiana CTSI campuses who will connect you with resources, collaboration opportunities, and small (typically up to $15,000) awards for preliminary or additional data. Each PDT is designed around a common research theme.

There are biostatisticians and regulatory experts on each team, and other experts are added, as needed, to the team to when your application is discussed. You will have access to the expertise and knowledge you need all in one place.

The PDT application process is contingent on the stage of the project. You have selected the application process for pilot funding from the PDTs for a first time external submission. If you are seeking pilot funding prior to an external resubmission please use Research Project Development Teams (PDTs): Project Revision

Central Indiana Community Foundation

Powered by generosity, passion, and innovative collaboration, Hamilton County Community Foundation brings together the strengths of our community to solve our most pressing challenges.

Hamilton County Community Foundation Strategic Grants

The Funding Opportunity

Strategic Grants provide larger, targeted investments in initiatives designed to create meaningful, long-term impact in Hamilton County. This funding pathway supports organizations pursuing significant opportunities—such as scaling proven programs, strengthening organizational capacity, or advancing transformational projects—in alignment with HCCF’s priority areas.

Strategic Grants may also support organizations navigating significant funding disruptions, where a targeted investment can help stabilize operations, preserve critical services, or position the organization for long-term sustainability.

What is Funded

Strategic Grants support high-impact opportunities that are significant in scope and positioned for long-term community benefit. Funding may include:

• Organizational capacity-building and expansion
• Transformational or large-scale community initiatives
• Capital campaigns (matching funds required)
• Time-sensitive opportunities to stabilize operations following the loss of significant funding

The Process

Strategic Grants are offered through an invitation-only process. HCCF proactively engages organizations whose work aligns with this funding pathway and demonstrates strong potential to create lasting community impact.

In prioritizing invitations, HCCF often considers organizations with a history of partnership or prior funding, while also remaining responsive to emerging opportunities and community needs.

Organizations that have not received an invitation but believe their work aligns with the goals of Strategic Grants may submit a brief request for special consideration. Due to the limited and highly targeted nature of this funding opportunity, submission of this form does not guarantee an invitation to apply.

The HOME Investment Partnership Program, administered by the City of Indianapolis' Department of Metropolitan Development, provides federal funding to support the development of affordable housing for low-income individuals. It focuses on building, rehabilitating, and purchasing housing, as well as tenant-based rental assistance. Funding is awarded to partner organizations competitively, ensuring that resources effectively address local housing needs. For funding inquiries, individuals must contact designated partner organizations directly.

The Thomas P. and Sondra D. Sheehan Charitable Foundation provides essential medical assistance to financially challenged families, focusing on children in need. The foundation prioritizes Hamilton County residents and offers support for durable medical equipment, therapy services, and short-term treatments. Applications for funding must meet specific medical guidelines and are reviewed annually. Families connected to nonprofit organizations or medical facilities have a better chance of receiving assistance, ensuring children can access necessary healthcare and improve their quality of life.

The Zondor Family Scholarship, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from Crown Point with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who are accepted at Butler University or DePauw University. This non-renewable scholarship aims to enrich the quality of life in South Lake County by providing financial assistance for community needs. Award recipients are invited to a special Scholarship Awards Night on May 7, 2026.

The CICF-Indianapolis Foundation Competitive Grants empower local nonprofits to foster community growth and address critical issues like housing, health, and economic mobility. By offering funding up to $75,000, this initiative encourages innovative solutions and collaboration among organizations dedicated to equity and lasting impact in Marion County. Eligible nonprofits can apply for one grant per year, ensuring a focused approach to uplift community welfare and drive social change effectively.

The Hamilton County Community Foundation offers competitive grants to nonprofit organizations aiming to strengthen community welfare. Priorities include childcare, housing, social services, and workforce education. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with an EIN and can only lead one proposal at a time. Ineligible entities include individuals and organizations with discriminatory practices or those involved in political lobbying. All interested parties are encouraged to consult with community leadership before applying.

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

George & June Miller Memorial Scholarship

Criteria evaluated:

Academic achievement, community involvement, extracurricular activities, and financial need

Required materials:

• FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

• $4,000 | 1 scholarship, renewable at $2,000 for 2 years

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Strawberry Festival Grants, offered by Christ Church Cathedral, provide funding up to $3,000 for 501(c)(3) organizations. These grants aim to support projects that benefit women, children, and underserved communities, with a strong emphasis on local initiatives. Recipients are required to provide volunteers for festival events. This annual fundraiser not only supports community projects but also enhances the spirit of collaboration and service within the diocese.

The Henry A. and Ruby Ernstes Family Scholarship, managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from Decatur County who plan to attend Marian University, with a preference for nursing majors. This scholarship encourages students to pursue their educational goals while easing financial burdens. It exemplifies the foundation's mission to inspire community generosity and foster impactful charitable giving.

Dr. Leslie M. Baker Memorial Scholarship

The Dr. Leslie M. Baker Memorial Scholarship Fund was established by Dr. Steven Gerke and the family of the late Dr. Baker to help students seeking a doctorate in medicine. Dr. Gerke received financial support for his education from Dr. Baker and was surprised when he later learned that Dr. Baker helped a number of other students in the same way. Dr. Gerke and the family of the late Dr. Baker were so moved by Dr. Baker’s philanthropy that they established the memorial scholarship in his honor.

Scholarship Amount:

• One Scholarship up to $1,000

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The Steel Dynamics Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community quality of life and local economies by supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Priorities include higher education, economic development, and human services, particularly in communities where Steel Dynamics operates. Grants are awarded based on community impact, employee involvement, and organizational integrity. Applicants must demonstrate a strong ethical track record and effective community engagement to qualify for funding opportunities.

The Erie Insurance Giving Network Grant supports organizations focused on community building, safety, and environmental responsibility. Grants under $10,000 can be submitted at any time, while larger requests follow specific deadlines. Priority is given to organizations with community representation in their governing bodies. Eligible entities include nonprofit organizations, accredited educational institutions, and municipalities. The initiative emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, aligning with ERIE's corporate values.

The Indianapolis Foundation Library Fund provides enhancement grants for high school media centers in Marion County, aiming to improve literacy and access to resources. Grants range from $4,500 to $14,500 based on enrollment and demographic factors. Eligible libraries include those within local high schools and universities. The funding supports the acquisition of updated print and electronic materials, technology improvements, and resources fostering collaboration and leisure reading among students.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Sparklight/Cable One Charitable Giving Fund supports local nonprofits and organizations focused on education, food insecurity, and community development. They prioritize impactful partnerships that strengthen communities. The fund welcomes various funding requests, including special projects and capital campaigns, while adhering to specific eligibility requirements such as tax-exempt status. However, they do not fund basic operating expenses, loans, or religious organizations for general support, ensuring that their contributions foster meaningful community growth.

The Minde Browning Professional Development Fund Grant, established by The Indianapolis Foundation, supports professional development activities for library staff in Marion County. Grants of up to $1,500 are available for attending conferences, workshops, and courses that enhance skills and benefit library patrons. Applicants must demonstrate how their development will positively impact their community. Applications are accepted year-round, with a 60-day advance notice required.

Clinical Laboratory Science Investigator Award

Clinical laboratory science is a critical component of the research capabilities required for effective drug and diagnostic development. As pathologists enable the next wave of medical innovation, it is important that the future generation understand the challenges and opportunities of applying principles of laboratory medicine practice within the industry.

The Clinical Laboratory Science Investigator Award—sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company—seeks to provide a four-week onsite training opportunity at Lilly’s Clinical Diagnostics Laboratory in Indianapolis for pathology residents to participate in research projects focused on improving the discovery, quality, and delivery of novel biomarker assays for use in clinical studies.

Award features the opportunity for recipients to:

• gain exposure to the clinical trial ecosystem
• achieve a greater understanding of and exposure to advanced analytical techniques
• heighten their understanding of the impact pathologists can make on medical innovation
• engage in a project based on individual interests (eg, clinical chemistry, anatomic pathology, or molecular diagnostics)
• interact with a diverse group of Lilly professionals within the Clinical Diagnostics Laboratory
• obtain a broader perspective on available career pathways

Funding up to $5,000 is available to support travel and living expenses during the four-week training period. Awardees and/or their institutions should expect to cover any travel costs that exceed the amount awarded.

FOCUS

Four-week onsite training for pathology residents to participate in research projects improving the discovery, quality, and delivery of novel biomarker assays for use in clinical studies

The Indianapolis Foundation Library Fund supports literacy and information access projects for Marion County residents through competitive grants, media center enhancements, and professional development funds. Eligible libraries include the Indianapolis Public Library and local universities' libraries. The fund aims to foster innovative programming, such as bilingual story times and digitalization of archival collections, with the goal of enriching community engagement and educational resources.

The Lilly Endowment Community Development Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis and across Indiana, supporting initiatives that foster strong neighborhoods, arts, and human services. With a focus on charitable entities, the Endowment prioritizes projects that address societal challenges, especially for communities of color. Organizations interested in funding must submit a preliminary letter detailing their project and funding needs, adhering to guidelines that emphasize local community impact.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

The Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust focuses on supporting nonprofits in Arizona and Indiana through invitation-only grants. The Trust funds initiatives that help people in need, protect animals and nature, and enrich community life, emphasizing self-sufficiency, crisis intervention, and education. Grants are available for programs that enhance civic vibrancy, promote environmental awareness, and provide essential services to vulnerable populations. Organizations must align with the Trust's priorities and geographic areas to be eligible for funding.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

The CenterPoint Energy Foundation aims to enhance community vitality through grants supporting affordable housing, environmental education, and workforce development. Focusing on low- to moderate-income populations, the Foundation prioritizes innovative programs that foster community connections and educational opportunities. By investing in both community vitality and education, they strive to create vibrant neighborhoods and empower individuals with the skills needed for success in today's workforce. Their commitment extends across Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Texas.