Best Vanderburgh County Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

Established diabetes investigators at Indiana University, Purdue, Notre Dame, and Indiana Biomedical Research Institute can apply for Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute grants up to US $50,000 for innovative, high-risk diabetes and metabolic disease research. Faculty based in Vanderburgh County, Indiana, whose projects meet these criteria may be eligible.

Faculty investigators developing diabetes, obesity, or metabolic disease research technologies in Vanderburgh County, Indiana and other eligible Indiana institutions can apply for Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute’s pilot and feasibility support. Grants provide up to US $50,000 for one year to advance innovative, high-risk projects and generate data for major future extramural funding.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, state or municipal entities, and public schools in Vanderburgh County, Indiana can seek support for STEM education, workforce readiness, and related community programs. Toyota provides funding for initiatives with long-term, sustainable impact, especially those serving under-resourced communities in its primary and surrounding Indiana counties.

CTSI-designated cores within the IU School of Medicine seeking $5,000 - $100,000 for research equipment can apply for this program in Vanderburgh County, Indiana and other eligible counties. Funding from Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute supports equipment or software that enhances translational biomedical research capacity and services for CTSI investigators.

The Stark Neurosciences Pre-Clinical Neuroimaging Pilot Grant offers up to $10,000 in seed support for innovative, high-risk animal imaging projects utilizing the Bruker BioSpec 9.4T PET-MRI scanner. Open to new investigators at Indiana University and partner institutions, the grant aims to foster groundbreaking research in the neurosciences. Collaborations are encouraged, and the program emphasizes the importance of developing submissions for major extramural funding opportunities. Eligibility excludes faculty in visiting ranks and postdoctoral fellows.

The Stark Neurosciences Pre-Clinical Neuroimaging Pilot Grant supports innovative, high-risk animal imaging projects with funding up to $10,000. Aimed at established neuroimaging investigators, it encourages research that diverges from ongoing interests. Eligible applicants include faculty from Indiana University and partner institutions, while collaborations are welcomed. The initiative promotes the submission of major extramural grants and prioritizes image acquisition and processing costs, ensuring effective use of resources in advancing neuroscience research.

The Large Collaborative Grant RFA, sponsored by the Executive Associate Dean for Research at Indiana University School of Medicine, aims to support large, interdisciplinary grants. Open to full-time faculty, it encourages collaboration and innovative research. Up to $75,000 is available per application, with a requirement for matching funds. This initiative seeks to enhance research capabilities and advance the goals of IUSM through collaborative efforts.

Indiana Alcohol Research Center Pilot Project Program

The NIAAA-supported Indiana Alcohol Research Center (IARC) is soliciting proposals for pilot projects from investigators who want to develop research on alcohol use disorders. Applications pertinent to basic mechanisms of alcohol misuse, neurophysiological and behavioral phenotypes of drinking, and genetic underpinnings of alcohol preference are welcome. The purpose of an IARC pilot grant is to allow an investigator to obtain preliminary data leading to extramural funding. Previous experience in research on alcohol use and/or alcohol use disorder is not required.

Pilot projects are limited to $50,000 (direct costs) per year for two years.

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.

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.

The IUSCCC Early Career Investigator Award offers funding for pilot research projects in cancer research and population science. Sponsored by the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, this award is open to Associate level members and IUSCCC trainees aiming to advance their careers. The funding duration is one year, with a maximum budget of $50,000, encouraging innovative proposals that meet eligibility criteria. Applicants must not have prior funding from similar mechanisms or national competitive grants.

The Fifth Third Foundation in Evansville, IN, focuses on funding programs that foster community development, health services, education, and the arts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving designated regions, such as Evansville and Chicago. The foundation prioritizes organizations with a history of recent funding. Notably, grants cannot support individuals or certain event sponsorships. This strategic approach aims to create meaningful impacts in communities by aligning resources with local needs.

Vanderburgh County engineering students seeking scholarship support for college juniors, seniors, or graduate study can apply for the Michael & Anna Kurty Scholarship, which helps fund degrees and careers in engineering. Administered by Hamilton County Community Foundation, eligible applicants attend specified Indiana universities, study approved engineering fields, and demonstrate financial need with a 2.5+ GPA.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, fiscally sponsored groups, and public schools offering STEM education programs for economically disadvantaged K–12 students in Vanderburgh County, Indiana may be eligible for this funding. Focused on STEM education, Boston Scientific Foundation supports evidence-based, measurable programs serving participants near 185% of the poverty level within 60 miles of Spencer, Indiana.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

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.

Nonprofit organizations hosting community events or fundraisers in Vanderburgh County, Indiana can receive sponsorship funding for activities that improve local quality of life. Old National Bank supports events such as galas, tournaments, and special events, prioritizing programs serving underrepresented groups and low-to-moderate income communities through economic development, workforce development, affordable housing, small business services, and financial education.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Clarence and Dorothy Gerard Scholarship for Nursing, established by John Gerard, honors his parents and provides financial support for high school graduates from Posey, Vanderburgh, or Warrick counties pursuing nursing degrees at accredited institutions in Southwestern Indiana. The scholarship, amounting to $11,030, aims to continue Dorothy's legacy of care, ensuring future generations have the opportunity to enter the nursing profession. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 to qualify.

Nonprofit agencies, schools, and hospitals serving children with special needs up to age 18 in Vanderburgh County, Indiana and the wider Kentucky–southern Indiana region can seek program or equipment support for direct services. With a mission to improve life for children with special needs, WHAS Crusade for Children requires new applicants to begin with a brief letter of inquiry.

Nonprofit agencies, schools, and hospitals serving children with special needs can apply for program and equipment funding from WHAS Crusade for Children; eligible applicants include those in Vanderburgh County, Indiana. With a mission to improve life for special needs children, this grant supports direct services, not general operations or administrative costs.

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 Project Associates Engineering Scholarship, sponsored by Project Associates, Inc., provides $2,790 annually to deserving engineering students at the University of Evansville and the University of Southern Indiana. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors and current college students from specified counties, who are pursuing a four-year engineering degree. Previous recipients may re-apply. This scholarship aims to support local talent in engineering, fostering their educational and professional growth.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and public agencies improving health for economically disadvantaged residents in Vanderburgh County, Indiana can access funding for disease prevention, awareness, diagnosis, and care. The Boston Scientific Foundation supports programs addressing cancer, diabetes, respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, mental wellness, gastrointestinal, and urologic conditions near its employee communities in the U.S.

The Jay Lampton Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation Alliance, supports graduating seniors from various Indiana high schools pursuing post-secondary education in auto mechanics. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum 2.0 GPA. Selection criteria include academic performance, a letter of recommendation, and a required essay. This scholarship honors Jay Lampton's legacy through education, empowering students to advance their careers in technology.

Nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions expanding educational opportunities and access to learning resources in the Mid-South, including Vanderburgh County, Indiana, can apply for education-focused grants from the PGA Tour’s Positively Memphis Community Fund, with awards from US $1,000 - US $25,000. Funding supports community-strengthening education initiatives, not administrative or operating costs.