Best Marion County Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

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.

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.

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 Old National Bank Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations for community impact initiatives across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Focused on four key areas—Affordable Housing, Workforce Development, Economic Development, and Financial Empowerment—the foundation prioritizes programs that support underrepresented communities. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation’s funding priorities to qualify for grants, which can be applied for every two years.

Our Mission

Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

STEM and CTE Grants for Your School

PLTW provides STEM and CTE-aligned curriculum grants for elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools to implement or expand PLTW Launch, PLTW Gateway, PLTW Computer Science, PLTW Engineering, and PLTW Biomedical Science STEM programs.

We work with companies and foundations across the U.S. to make these grants possible.

PLTW Launch

Caterpillar Foundation understands the importance of equipping individuals and communities with the skills, resources and services they need to thrive in our changing world. Investments in workforce readiness and STEM aim to create human infrastructure through an empowered, prepared and skilled workforce. 

Caterpillar Foundation has worked with PLTW to expand access to STEM education. Through this collaboration, Caterpillar Foundation is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.

PLTW Launch

Program Expansion

The Clowes Fund, based in Indianapolis, provides grants focusing on socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals through Immigrant Services and Workforce Development. The fund offers two types of grants: Introductory Grants for organizations with smaller budgets aimed at immigrant and workforce initiatives, and Continuation Grants for established programs. The application process includes an initial Letter of Inquiry, and funding is primarily directed towards addressing barriers faced by immigrants and supporting community economic participation.

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.

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 Emerging Leaders Fellowship, offered by The Mind Trust, is a transformative three-year program designed for educators in Indianapolis. It focuses on enhancing their leadership skills through personalized coaching, community engagement, and professional development. Participants receive a $30,000 stipend, engage in cohort-based experiences, and have opportunities to learn from leading educational experts. This fellowship is ideal for those in key educational roles who are committed to making a lasting impact in their communities.

Our Mission

Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

STEM and CTE Grants for Your School

PLTW provides STEM and CTE-aligned curriculum grants for elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools to implement or expand PLTW Launch, PLTW Gateway, PLTW Computer Science, PLTW Engineering, and PLTW Biomedical Science STEM programs.

We work with companies and foundations across the U.S. to make these grants possible.

PLTW Launch

Caterpillar Foundation understands the importance of equipping individuals and communities with the skills, resources and services they need to thrive in our changing world. Investments in workforce readiness and STEM aim to create human infrastructure through an empowered, prepared and skilled workforce. 

Caterpillar Foundation has worked with PLTW to expand access to STEM education. Through this collaboration, Caterpillar Foundation is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.

: PLTW Launch

: New Program

Our Mission

Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

STEM and CTE Grants for Your School

PLTW provides STEM and CTE-aligned curriculum grants for elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools to implement or expand PLTW Launch, PLTW Gateway, PLTW Computer Science, PLTW Engineering, and PLTW Biomedical Science STEM programs.

We work with companies and foundations across the U.S. to make these grants possible.

PLTW Gateway

Caterpillar Foundation understands the importance of equipping individuals and communities with the skills, resources and services they need to thrive in our changing world. Investments in workforce readiness and STEM aim to create human infrastructure through an empowered, prepared and skilled workforce. 

Caterpillar Foundation has worked with PLTW to expand access to STEM education. Through this collaboration, Caterpillar Foundation is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.

PLTW Gateway

Program Expansion

Our Mission

Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

STEM and CTE Grants for Your School

PLTW provides STEM and CTE-aligned curriculum grants for elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools to implement or expand PLTW Launch, PLTW Gateway, PLTW Computer Science, PLTW Engineering, and PLTW Biomedical Science STEM programs.

We work with companies and foundations across the U.S. to make these grants possible.

PLTW Gateway

Caterpillar Foundation understands the importance of equipping individuals and communities with the skills, resources and services they need to thrive in our changing world. Investments in workforce readiness and STEM aim to create human infrastructure through an empowered, prepared and skilled workforce. 

Caterpillar Foundation has worked with PLTW to expand access to STEM education. Through this collaboration, Caterpillar Foundation is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.

PLTW Gateway

New Program

The Arthur Jordan Foundation Grant supports organizations in Marion County, focusing on fine arts, higher education, and community service. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 and can be used for operating, program, capital, or special project support. Eligibility requires tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The foundation does not fund organizations that discriminate or those outside Marion County, including political entities and individuals.

The Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant supports high-quality programs that combat malnutrition and improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for underserved communities and families with young children. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units. The fund prioritizes long-term behavioral change towards healthy eating and nutrition, with grants typically not exceeding 25% of an organization's operating budget. International requests start at $25,000, fostering sustainable food security and education initiatives.

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 Hoover Family Foundation, established in 1992, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in Indianapolis and Portland, focusing on self-sufficiency and quality of life improvements. With limited resources, the foundation prioritizes funding programs that enhance educational opportunities and provide effective social services to low-income individuals. Applications must be complete as incomplete submissions will not be considered, and the foundation does not accept faxes, emails, or video materials.

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 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.

FORUM Credit Union Sponsorship is dedicated to enhancing community welfare through its cooperative financial services. The organization prioritizes member benefits, offering lower interest rates and higher savings. Committed to community support, FORUM also provides grants and scholarships via the FORUM Foundation. They invite partnership proposals, focusing on events that align with their mission. Sponsorship requests should include event details, audience demographics, and sponsorship levels. FORUM maintains a policy against political and religious sponsorships.

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.

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 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 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 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 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.

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