Best Johnson County Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

About the Indiana Department of Homeland Security

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) leads Indiana's emergency planning and operations, first responder training and fire and building safety. The State Fire Marshal and State Building Commissioner oversee fire and building safety efforts, including the enforcement of building codes and a fire investigations unit. The agency certifies and trains thousands of first responders and hosts state-level exercises each year. IDHS also supports county emergency management agencies and runs the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which leads response and coordination efforts for large-scale incidents.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program

Executive Summary

The NSGP improves and increases the physical/cybersecurity and facility/target hardening of nonprofit organizations’ facilities at risk of a terrorist of other extremist attack, ultimately safeguarding the lives and property of the American people.

There are two funding sources appropriated for nonprofit organizations: 1) NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA), and 2) NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP-S funds nonprofit organizations located outside of a FY 2025 Designated highrisk urban area. Under NSGP-S, each state will receive an allocation for nonprofit organizations in the state located outside of FY 2025 Designated high-risk urban areas.

NSGP-S: Nonprofit organization must be located outside of Marion and Hamilton counties.

The Samerian Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life through financial support for education, economic development, health, youth sports, and humanitarian projects. It primarily focuses on disadvantaged youth and community development in Central Indiana, welcoming applications from 501(c)(3) organizations. The Foundation does not fund general operating expenses or for-profit ventures, ensuring that assistance is directed towards impactful initiatives that align with their mission.

ATI Physical Therapy is dedicated to enhancing community health and wellness through its sponsorship and donation initiatives. With a mission to exceed customer expectations, ATI actively engages in philanthropic efforts that improve lives and promote quality care beyond clinic walls. They encourage requests for support while emphasizing a review process that ensures timely responses. Partnering with local organizations, ATI aims to elevate awareness of health and wellness, impacting thousands of lives each year.

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.

The Piedmont Natural Gas Company Grant Program, part of the Duke Energy Foundation, supports community vitality through grants of $20,000 or less. Focus areas include vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and promoting opportunity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and serve communities without discrimination. The foundation prioritizes measurable community impact and does not fund certain entities, including for-profits and religious organizations. Applications are accepted year-round on a rolling basis.

The CICF Glick Fund, established by Gene and Marilyn Glick in 1998, provides grants to nonprofit organizations in Central Indiana. With over $85 million awarded through more than 1,000 grants, this fund focuses on building community and creating opportunities for individuals to thrive. Glick Philanthropies prioritizes affordable housing, education, and cultural enrichment, working closely with local organizations to ensure equitable access to resources and support for the community.

The Cox Enterprises Project Learning Garden Grant Program offers schools the opportunity to create outdoor learning laboratories through established gardens. This initiative promotes inquiry-based STEAM education and provides essential resources such as raised garden beds, a mobile cooking cart, and professional development for teachers. By integrating real-world experiences with curriculum goals, students engage actively in their learning. Cox employees may also volunteer to install and maintain gardens, fostering community involvement and healthy eating habits among students.

Citizens Energy Group Philanthropic Partnerships aims to support organizations that provide significant value to the community while aligning with environmental, business, and community sustainability goals. The funding prioritizes projects that address critical areas such as basic human needs, education, inclusion, environmental conservation, economic development, and cultural institutions. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving the Greater Indianapolis area, committed to non-discrimination, and have a history of impactful community contributions.

The Nicholas H. Noyes Jr. Memorial Foundation supports charitable organizations and educational institutions serving the greater Indianapolis area, focusing on arts, education, health, and community services. Grants are available for program support and scholarships, but not for endowments or multi-year requests. Organizations must be IRS-designated tax-exempt and may apply once per year. Note that unsolicited applications from outside the specified regions are currently not accepted.

The SpartanNash Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on Hunger, Heroes, and Hope. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within a 30-mile radius of SpartanNash facilities. The Foundation ensures that every dollar raised directly benefits partner organizations, with a commitment to community impact. Grants are not available for ineligible entities, including those outside the radius or not aligned with the Foundation's mission. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has positively influenced local communities.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Central Indiana Senior Fund Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for low-to-moderate-income seniors in Central Indiana. Established in 2005, the fund has contributed over $12.3 million to support various senior-focused programs. With an emphasis on basic needs, health and wellness, and life-affirming opportunities, the fund strives to address the unique challenges faced by underserved seniors, ensuring they have access to essential resources and services.

Impact 100 Greater Indianapolis is a charitable women's giving circle focused on awarding impactful grants to nonprofits in various sectors such as arts, education, environment, family, and health. The initiative aims to foster community engagement by funding innovative solutions to social challenges. This organization values integrity, collaboration, and inclusivity, ensuring all community members have access to essential services. By supporting diverse projects, Impact 100 strengthens the fabric of the Indianapolis community and enhances the quality of life for its residents.

The Horizon Bank Community Grant Program aims to enhance local communities by funding initiatives in education, arts, and economic development. With grants starting at $5,000, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing housing needs for low- to moderate-income families. Applications are accepted annually, with a strong emphasis on corporate citizenship and community involvement. However, grants are not available for political activities or organizations that discriminate. This commitment reflects Horizon Bank's dedication to fostering community growth and responsibility.

Indiana Management of Agriculture Enhancements (IMAGE) Cost-Share Program

The Indiana Management of Agriculture Enhancements (IMAGE) Cost-Share Program is a conservation funding initiative administered by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) to help producers implement practical conservation improvements on their operations.

IMAGE provides financial assistance and technical support for projects that improve livestock management, strengthen farm infrastructure, improve soil health, and protect Indiana's natural resources.

Through partnerships with Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and other conservation partners, IMAGE helps

producers overcome financial barriers to implementing conservation practices that benefit both agricultural operations and natural resources.

The IMAGE program is made possible through Clean Water Indiana Funding.

Approved participants may receive reimbursement for up to seventy-five percent (75%) of eligible project costs.

Funding is awarded through a competitive ranking process and is subject to available program funds.

This is a cost-share reimbursement program. The applicant must pay project costs upfront.

Reimbursement will occur after:

• ISDA verifies practice installation.
• Applicant submits paid receipts and required documentation.
• ISDA confirms project meets NRCS and locally approved standards.

The KeyBank Foundation offers Community Sponsorships to support local organizations in their fundraising efforts. These sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000 and can fund events or provide general operating support. Applications are accepted from January to October, with a decision made within 90 days. Eligible nonprofits must serve areas where KeyBank operates and adhere to strict ineligibility criteria, including no support for individuals or organizations that discriminate based on various identities.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The PLTW Computer Science - Program Expansion grant, funded by the Caterpillar Foundation, aims to enhance STEM education in underserved communities. This initiative focuses on expanding existing PLTW Computer Science programs by adding courses, class periods, and training teachers for the 2025-2026 academic year. The grant prioritizes schools with a significant high-need student population, promoting workforce readiness and equipping students with essential skills for a changing world.

INDOT Mission

Together, we plan, deliver, and maintain a safe, efficient, and innovative transportation system that:

• Enhances the daily lives of Hoosiers.
• Strengthens Indiana’s economy
• Embraces evolving transportation needs.

Enhanced Mobility of Seniors & Individuals with Disabilities

The Federal Section 5310 grant program is intended to enhance mobility for seniors and persons with disabilities by providing funds for programs to serve the special needs of transit-dependent populations beyond traditional public transportation services.

INDOT does not provide funding to areas over 200,000 population (Lake/Porter counties, South Bend, Fort Wayne, Evansville, Indianapolis, Clark/Floyd counties) should contact their local Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). A list of these MPOs can be found at http://www.indianampo.com/inmpo_regions.html

Eligible Activities

Specialized transportation projects planned, designed, and carried out to meet the special needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities when public transportation is insufficient, inappropriate, or unavailable.

The Mibor Realtor Foundation Grant, offered by the Mibor Foundation Inc, aims to combat homelessness in central Indiana by funding 501(c)(3) non-profits. Since its inception, the Foundation has allocated over $3 million to support organizations that provide permanent housing solutions. Eligible entities can request funding up to $20,000, with typical awards ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The Foundation prioritizes proven housing-based solutions linked with comprehensive support services.

The Steve Sullivan Professional Development Funding Grant, offered by the REALTOR® Foundation, aims to enhance the capabilities of 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in central Indiana. With a commitment to combating homelessness, the grant provides resources for training in essential areas such as grant writing, leadership, and strategic planning. By focusing on professional development, the Foundation seeks to empower organizations to better serve vulnerable populations and create sustainable solutions for housing instability.

The FORUM Credit Union Foundation offers educator grants to enhance educational opportunities in Marion, Hamilton, Johnson, Boone, Hendricks, and Hancock counties. Each educator can receive up to $3,000 for classroom projects, supplies, and supplemental learning experiences, with a total of $30,000 allocated annually. Eligible applicants include K-12 teachers and administrators who are FORUM members in good standing. Preference is given to equitable distribution of grants across service areas.

Academy Sports + Outdoors, a leading sporting goods retailer, supports community initiatives by providing donations to registered 501(c)(3) organizations. Their focus is on promoting safety and responsibility in sports and outdoor activities. Proposals must foster community engagement and must not be affiliated with religious or political groups. Events should take place in areas with Academy stores, ensuring a positive local impact while encouraging active lifestyles and connection among community members.

The PLTW Computer Science program, supported by the Caterpillar Foundation, aims to enhance STEM education in underserved communities. Grants of $20,000 will be awarded to public and charter schools to implement PLTW Computer Science courses over two academic years. This initiative focuses on building workforce readiness and ensuring students gain essential skills in a rapidly evolving job market, thereby creating opportunities for future success.

The HFBC: AEI Youth Sports Fund, in partnership with the Heritage Fund of Bartholomew County, aims to provide financial support for local youth to engage in athletic and fitness programs. Targeting youth aged 18 and under from Bartholomew and surrounding counties, this fund addresses financial barriers to participation in sports. Grants range from $50 to $5,000, enabling access to lessons, clinics, travel, and necessary equipment, fostering inclusive opportunities for all youth in the community.

The Central Chapter of the Indiana Native Plant Society is offering small grants up to $300 for projects that promote the conservation and study of Indiana's native plants. Applicants must be affiliated with not-for-profit organizations, such as community gardens or schools, and the initiative aims to enhance diversity and inclusion in Central Indiana. This effort reflects a commitment to ecological stewardship and connecting youth with nature through native plant education.

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.