Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Indiana

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Indiana 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting children, education, or health and human services can seek monetary program funding that may benefit small organizations. Grants from Costco Foundation help address community needs with evidence-based, measurable outcomes and strong collaboration. Eligible applicants must request program support only, not capital projects, equipment, or other ineligible expenses.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Indiana small nonprofits hosting community events, fundraisers, or special activities may be eligible for sponsorship support that promotes broad community impact. Indiana organizations serving underrepresented groups or advancing economic development, workforce readiness, affordable housing, small business services, or financial education can access funding through Old National Bank, with preference for events where bank team members can actively participate.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Northeast Indiana creating new arts programs that include and engage people with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities can apply for the Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant, with awards up to US $25,000 for programming or capital needs. Individuals may apply by partnering with an eligible nonprofit organization.

Legal services nonprofits, solo practitioners, and small law firms in Indiana pursuing impact litigation can apply for the Impact Fund’s recoverable grants, awarding US $10,000 - US $50,000 for out-of-pocket litigation costs. Cases advancing economic, environmental, racial, or social justice for communities facing systemic oppression may be especially competitive.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored charitable projects serving Clark and Floyd counties in Indiana can seek Community Assist Grants to support community-focused projects, programs, or activities. Grants from Community Foundation of Southern Indiana provide US $1,000 - US $5,000 in one-time, quarterly awards for work aligned with the 2021 Assessment of Needs and Priorities.

Indiana nonprofits, tribes, and higher education institutions supporting rural entrepreneurship can access funding through USDA’s Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program to capitalize microloan revolving funds and provide training and technical assistance. Eligible rural microlenders then offer fixed-rate microloans up to $50,000 for working capital, debt refinancing, equipment, and real estate improvements. Awards are up to US $500,000.

Indiana small nonprofit performing arts organizations in Dearborn County can access funding through Greater Cincinnati Foundation to support performances, new works, and youth performing arts education. Grants from the David C. Herriman Fund range from US $15,000 - US $350,000, with priority for projects that enhance performances by bringing in artists, directors, choreographers, or musicians.

Small Indiana nonprofits seeking program funding for community-focused initiatives can apply for Agile Grants supporting areas like basic needs, youth, disabilities, arts, environment, veterans, and more. Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne offers up to US $20,000 for innovative, program-related projects (not operations) benefiting residents of Allen County and Northeast Indiana.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

Indiana 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on education, poverty reduction, food security, or community vitality can access funding through The Pokagon Fund for projects serving Hartford, Dowagiac, or South Bend residents, with awards up to US $7,500. Small nonprofits may benefit from support for schools, early childhood, community services, parks, and local revitalization efforts.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Indiana can seek US $1,000 - US $20,000 for programs such as museums, arts, education, health facilities, environmental and community services. Focused on broad community benefit, the Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation invites U.S.-based organizations where modest grants can make a significant impact.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Marion County, Indiana can access funding from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust for programs helping people in need, protecting animals and nature, and enriching community life. Grants up to Up to US $250,000 support efforts like basic needs, self-sufficiency, foster care, education, literacy, and community vitality initiatives.

Indiana small 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children, adolescents, and young adults with disabilities or significant economic barriers can access funding through Greater Cincinnati Foundation’s Daniel and Susan Pfau Foundation for programs benefiting Dearborn County. Grants may support capital, operating, or limited endowment needs, including health, education, arts-based initiatives, recreation, and family support services.

Indiana 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children and adults with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities can apply for WindSwell Foundation’s traditional grants; awards vary for programs, operations, and capital needs. Organizations in specified northeast Indiana counties may be eligible, including small nonprofits advancing education, employment, housing, transportation, early diagnosis, or social enrichment for people with disabilities.

With a mission to support innovative community solutions, Dr Scholl Foundation provides Indiana small nonprofits working in education, social services, health care, civic and cultural, and environmental areas with project funding. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations can request US $5,000 - US $25,000 for one-year initiatives through its annual October–March grant cycle.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charities in Indiana working on affordable housing, workforce development, economic development, or financial empowerment can apply for Old National Bank Foundation grants of approximately US $15,000. Programs should serve underrepresented or low- to moderate-income communities within the bank’s Indiana footprint and demonstrate clear, measurable outcomes and long-term sustainability.

Indiana 501(c)(3) nonprofits improving local quality of life through economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, or disaster relief can seek project, operating, or capital support. O'Reilly Automotive Foundation provides funding to community-benefit organizations in areas where O'Reilly Auto Parts operates that serve underserved and underrepresented individuals and families.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in Indiana can seek funding to support technical assistance, training, and infrastructure for small rural businesses. Focused on rural development, USDA Rural Development invites applicants to propose projects such as business counseling, revolving loan funds, community and technology-based economic development, incubators, and long-term strategic planning, with awards ranging from US $10,000 - US $500,000.

Nonprofit organizations in Indiana with strong, collaborative community partnerships can apply for Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award to recognize exemplary leadership and impact. This U.S.-wide competition honors partnerships that measurably improve lives, can be replicated in other communities, and offer innovative approaches to significant social issues.

Small human and social services nonprofits working to help disadvantaged people become self-reliant can receive US $5,000 - US $250,000 for programs such as poverty alleviation, disability services, and disaster relief. Gupta Family Foundation currently funds 501(c)(3) and qualifying foreign organizations with revenues between $300,000 and $3,000,000, including those serving Indiana communities.