Best Fort Wayne Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

The Indiana CTSI (IUSM) Core Equipment Grant invites proposals from designated IU School of Medicine Cores for equipment purchases that enhance research capabilities. Funding between $5,000 and $100,000 is available, with consideration for higher amounts if matching funds are identified. Eligible applicants must demonstrate the potential for new technologies and broad user engagement, with preference given to projects leveraging additional funding sources.

The F26AS00083 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants are part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for Fiscal Year 2026. These grants, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support state-level management plans to combat aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes region. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and their designees, with funding awarded through a competitive selection process.

Faculty investigators at Indiana University, Purdue, Notre Dame, and IBRI developing new diabetes or metabolic disease research techniques can apply for Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute’s pilot funding, awarding up to US $50,000 for one year. Fort Wayne, Indiana–based researchers whose work could be used in a CDMD Core facility may be eligible.

Fort Wayne, Indiana medical faculty researching diabetes, obesity, or metabolic diseases can access funding through Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute’s Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Pilot & Feasibility program. Category 3 awards up to US $50,000 for one-year, high-risk projects that depart from an investigator’s usual work and build toward major extramural grants.

The Center for Diabetes & Metabolic Diseases Pilot & Feasibility Grant aims to support innovative diabetes research by established investigators with no prior work in the field. The program offers funding of up to $50,000 for one year, encouraging applications from faculty at various Indiana institutions. This initiative seeks to promote interdisciplinary collaborations and aims to advance research that leads to major extramural grant submissions, fostering new insights into diabetes and metabolic diseases.

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.

The Center for Diabetes & Metabolic Diseases offers a Pilot & Feasibility Grant aimed at fostering new diabetes-related researchers and supporting innovative, high-risk projects. This grant, up to $50,000 for one year, is directed to new investigators without prior NIH support. It promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among Indiana University campuses and encourages applications that may lead to significant extramural funding. Eligible applicants must be independent investigators with necessary resources for proposed research.

The Foellinger Foundation Nonprofit Staff Leadership Award honors exemplary leadership among nonprofit staff members from organizations funded by the foundation in the past five years. One recipient will receive a $3,000 grant for professional development opportunities, including training and certifications. The award emphasizes adaptive leadership, organizational culture, community engagement, and professional growth, aiming to recognize individuals who drive impactful change within their organizations and communities.

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 McMillen Foundation, established in 1947, is a private charitable foundation that supports 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Fort Wayne and Allen County. With a focus on capital expenditures, it aims to benefit as many individuals as possible over the longest period. Notably, the foundation does not fund private foundations, churches, or individuals, and typically does not support educational institutions. It is renowned for its commitment to community development and long-term impact.

The Foellinger Foundation Nonprofit Executive Leadership Award honors exceptional nonprofit executives demonstrating outstanding leadership and impact in Allen County. Awarded to one recipient, the organization will receive a $5,000 grant for professional development activities, including leadership training and coaching. The selection criteria emphasize adaptive leadership, organizational culture, community engagement, and leadership development, ensuring that the award recognizes leaders who exemplify integrity, innovation, and resilience.

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.

Nonprofit organizations hosting community events or fundraisers in Fort Wayne, Indiana can apply for Old National Bank sponsorships to support activities that improve quality of life. Programs serving underrepresented groups or low-to-moderate income residents, especially in economic development, workforce development, affordable housing, small business services, or financial education, may be prioritized.

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.

Nonprofits and other organizations in Allen County working on local journalism, economic opportunity, or arts and culture projects can seek up to US $200,000 through the Knight Cities Challenge. Grants from Knight Foundation help Fort Wayne, Indiana community-focused groups pilot creative ideas that strengthen information, opportunity, and connection in their city.

The Lutheran School Support Grant is designed to empower Lutheran schools in northeast Indiana to enhance their endowments for long-term sustainability. Grants, starting at $1,500, aim to support various ministry needs, including leadership development and community care. The Lutheran Foundation prioritizes applications that foster collaboration among congregations and address challenges in a post-Christian culture, ensuring that resources effectively promote Gospel sharing and mental wellness.

The Lutheran School Grant, funded by the Lutheran Foundation, aims to support Lutheran schools in providing essential counseling services and mental health resources for students and their families. With over $193 million awarded since 1995, the foundation focuses on promoting mental wellness and advancing excellence in Lutheran education. Grants start at a minimum of $1,500 and are available to 18 eligible Lutheran schools associated with member congregations, ensuring a positive impact on community well-being.

The Lutheran Congregation Grant, offered by the Lutheran Foundation, supports member congregations in northeast Indiana to promote mental wellness and reduce stigma surrounding mental illness. With a minimum funding request of $1,500, the foundation prioritizes applications focused on leadership development, strategic planning, and community care. Grants aim to equip churches to provide hope and healing, addressing pressing needs within a post-Christian culture and fostering collaboration among congregations.

Nonprofit organizations in Fort Wayne, Indiana whose board members have shown strong governance, leadership, financial sustainability, and program impact can receive operating support through this award. Foellinger Foundation provides Fort Wayne nonprofits with a US $30,000 operating grant when a current or recently retired board member is selected for the Nonprofit Board Member Leadership Award.

The 3 Rivers Credit Union Foundation Grant aims to improve community well-being by funding initiatives in financial literacy, education, and health. Grants are available up to $7,500, supporting organizations that are tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) and serve specific counties. The foundation encourages measurable outcomes and local impact, ensuring that at least 80% of funds remain within the community. Reapplication is permitted after one year for recipients. This grant represents a commitment to fostering sustainable growth and development.

Nonprofit organizations seeking physical and cybersecurity upgrades to their facilities in Indiana, including Fort Wayne, can apply for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program – State (NSGP-S). Focused on security and facility hardening, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security supports 501(c)(3)s outside designated high-risk urban areas, with awards up to US $4,700,000.

Fort Wayne, Indiana 501(c)(3) nonprofits and some governmental entities can seek one-year operating or program support for community services that benefit Allen County residents. Through its Community Interests Grant, Foellinger Foundation funds mission-driven, well-governed, results-oriented organizations at least three years old that address broader community issues and quality-of-life needs.

The Mighty Money Mini Grant from the AWS Foundation aims to empower individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities in Northeast Indiana. By providing quick funding to 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative supports innovative ideas that enhance community inclusion, education, and accessibility. The grant focuses on initiatives such as social enrichment, education, transportation, early diagnosis, and housing, ensuring that these individuals can live independently and thrive within their communities.

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.

Youth Empowered Philanthropy (YEP) is a transformative program offered by the Community Foundation that teaches students in grades 10-12 about charitable giving. By empowering youth to make impactful decisions with real funding, YEP fosters a vibrant community in Allen County. Participants learn about nonprofit organizations, grantmaking, and develop essential skills like public speaking and critical thinking. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, and applications are reviewed by YEP members, ensuring youth engagement in philanthropy.

Fort Wayne, Indiana 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities running community health programs can access funding through Parkview Health System to support program and event costs. Eligible projects must serve Parkview’s local service area and address priorities like access to care, healthy lifestyles, prenatal care, or mental health, with measurable outcomes and collaboration.

The CFGFW Rising Together Grants aim to enhance community well-being by providing operational funding aligned with the Community Foundation's strategic plan. These grants are designed to support initiatives that advocate for underserved populations, foster pride, and cultivate relationships that promote belonging. With five grant windows linked to specific pillars of the 'Let's Rise!' Vision Plan, the program emphasizes collaboration across various sectors, including arts, transportation, and health support, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community development.