Indiana Infrastructure Grants

The Community Foundation of Huntington County is offering Accessibility Grants to promote inclusivity within communities. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance the quality of life in Huntington County by addressing critical needs, in this case, by removing barriers for individuals with disabilities. The grants aim to create a more welcoming environment for all by fostering solutions to accessibility challenges in buildings and infrastructure, thereby supporting a choice-driven life for individuals with disabilities. The target beneficiaries of these grants include individuals, families, and businesses within Huntington County, Indiana. The program particularly focuses on people with disabilities who are currently facing physical barriers preventing full access to community use and benefits. The impact goals are centered on making communities more inclusive, ensuring that accessibility needs are considered from both individual and community perspectives, and empowering individuals with disabilities to define their own preferences, opinions, priorities, and accommodations. The grant program has two main funding tracks: the Pathfinder Services Community Accessibility Fund and the AWS Foundation Community Accessible Communities Fund. Key priorities and focuses for both tracks include encouraging potential rather than identifying limitations, preferring social settings that include family and friends, exceeding ADA standards through Universal Design principles, and enhancing education and employment potential to contribute to greater independence. Collaboration is also highly encouraged, recognizing that collective effort increases opportunities. Expected outcomes include the physical removal of accessibility barriers, increased participation of individuals with disabilities in community life, and a more inclusive and welcoming environment across Huntington County. Measurable results would likely involve tracking the number of accessibility solutions implemented, the types of infrastructure improved, and anecdotal evidence of increased access and independence for individuals with disabilities. The foundation's strategic priorities are clearly geared towards fostering community well-being and equitable access, and their theory of change posits that by funding direct solutions to accessibility barriers, they can directly improve the lives of individuals with disabilities and create a more inclusive society.

The Indiana Office of Community & Rural Affairs (OCRA) is seeking applications for its Building Socially Connected Communities Program, a grant initiative designed to address concerning public health statistics in Indiana through a community and economic development lens. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance community resilience and foster economic growth across the state. By investing in initiatives that build social connections, strengthen community bonds, and enhance the overall quality of life for Hoosiers, OCRA aims to strategically counter social isolation and loneliness, which diminish social capital and impact individual and community well-being. The program targets all counties in Indiana and aims to benefit individuals experiencing social isolation and loneliness, local businesses affected by decreased community engagement, and communities striving for greater economic vibrancy and social cohesion. The impact goals are to improve individual health outcomes, enhance community well-being and social capital, foster community engagement, support local businesses, and contribute to the overall economic health of Indiana’s communities. The program's priorities and focus areas include Community Infrastructure Enhancement (e.g., community centers, meeting spaces), Social Clubs & Interest Groups tailored to older adults, Community Well-Being Programs (e.g., mental health awareness, loneliness stigma reduction, accessible resources), Local Business Support (e.g., creating inviting spaces for social interactions), Transportation Accessibility in rural areas, and Intergenerational Initiatives. These focus areas reflect the foundation's strategic priority to create strong, connected communities. Expected outcomes and measurable results include increased social connections, stronger community bonds, enhanced quality of life, greater community engagement, improved economic vibrancy through local business support, and increased access to community events and essential services. The foundation's theory of change posits that by strategically investing in these areas, communities will experience a positive shift in social fabric, economic health, and overall well-being, contributing to Indiana’s statewide development goals. Funding information includes a total of $200,000 available. Applicants can apply for either Quick Action projects (maximum $5,000, minimum $1,000, 1:1 match with 30% in-kind) or Large Impact projects (maximum $50,000, minimum $5,001, 1:1 cash match). Eligible applicants are local government, non-profit organizations, and community groups. Ineligible activities range from plants and Wi-Fi to one-time use products, permanent public restrooms, taxes, food/drink, gaming, illegal/political/unsanctioned activities, demolition, salaries, administration fees, and pre-award expenses.

The Indiana Office of Energy Development seeks proposals for Empowering Energy Partnerships in Indiana Communities to address energy needs at a community or regional scale. The program supports comprehensive solutions aligned with the state’s pillars of reliability, resiliency, stability, affordability, and environmental sustainability, and encourages partnerships with measurable public benefits. Eligible project topics include energy efficiency such as building upgrades and energy management technologies, alternative fueling and charging infrastructure that is publicly accessible, energy security and reliability including backup generation, microgrids, and cybersecurity, and clean energy resources such as solar, storage, geothermal, wind, and biomass. Vehicle purchases and certain high speed charging are not allowable under program rules. Projects should also demonstrate connections to state priorities such as economic development, workforce development, education, and public safety. Eligible entities include local units of government, nonprofit organizations, for profit entities, and institutions of higher education that are Indiana based and registered federally and with the state. Approximately 2,500,000 dollars is available, with anticipated awards averaging 300,000 to 500,000 dollars for project periods of up to three years. One proposal per eligible entity is allowed; applicants may coordinate regional submissions but cannot make tiered subawards. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the state’s process. Additional information is available from the Indiana Office of Energy Development.

The Men's Fund of Vanderburgh County, managed by the Vanderburgh Community Foundation, aims to improve the quality of life in Vanderburgh County, Indiana, by collectively funding significant grants for charitable initiatives. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to address current community needs and create positive social change through the efforts of male philanthropists. The fund is open to nonprofit organizations deemed tax-exempt under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, as well as governmental agencies serving Vanderburgh County. Non-501(c)(3) public charities may also be considered if their proposal is charitable, supports a community need, and meets the stated criteria, requiring a fiscal sponsor in such cases. The target beneficiaries of the grants are underserved residents of Vanderburgh County, with impact goals centered on improving their quality of life. The fund prioritizes both program activities and capital projects across various areas, including Community Development, Education, Health/Mental Health, Human Services, and Other Civic Endeavors (Arts & Culture, Environment, Recreation, and Youth Development). Endowment creation is also an area considered for both program and project funding. The strategic priorities emphasize supporting organizations that demonstrate long-range planning, financial stability, sustainability, and sound plans to address ongoing or emerging issues. Key considerations for funding include a commitment to long-range planning, financial stability, and sustainability. Organizations should have sound plans to address ongoing or emerging issues identified by research, specific and realistic plans for program or project evaluation, and a desire to promote collaboration to prevent duplication of services. The fund also values project methodologies utilizing preventative strategies for addressing issues and solving problems, along with evidence of organizational planning and management. This reflects a theory of change that emphasizes well-managed, collaborative, and preventative approaches to community challenges. The expected outcomes include significant improvements in the quality of life for Vanderburgh County residents through funded initiatives. Measurable results are tied to the specific evaluation plans outlined in successful proposals. The 2024 Impact Grant Award will be for $30,000, and funded programs and projects must commence within six months of the award and be completed within two years from the grant receipt date. Past recipients of the Impact Grant must observe a two-year waiting period before reapplying, ensuring broader access to funding for various community organizations.

This award recognizes individuals, businesses, and advocacy groups in Monroe County for their significant contributions to improving race relations, justice, and human rights.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on preventing child abuse and neglect in specific counties of Indiana and Michigan.

The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) is offering the 2024-2025 Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA) American Rescue Plan (ARP) Supplemental Funding Grant. This grant aims to prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVID-19, with a specific focus on increasing access to COVID-19 testing, vaccines, and mobile health units to mitigate the virus's spread and enhance support for domestic violence survivors and their dependents. The program aligns with the mission of supporting community-based projects that effectively aid victims of family violence, domestic violence, and dating violence. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are domestic violence shelters, domestic violence programs, culturally specific organizations, tribes, rural communities, racial and ethnic specific communities, and limited English proficient (LEP) individuals, as well as domestic violence survivors and their dependents. The impact goals are to eliminate barriers to COVID-19 testing and supplies, provide resources for onsite testing, ensure access to rapid testing, maintain and increase testing efforts, expand access to testing for underserved populations, and broaden COVID-19 mitigation activities. The grant prioritizes several key areas, including COVID-19 testing (viral and antibody tests, planning, training, reporting, and supply procurement), COVID-19 mitigation (reducing transmission, case investigation, contact tracing, screening, education, and referrals), and COVID-19 vaccine access (administration, outreach, education, appointment assistance, and transportation). Additionally, the grant supports mobile health units for testing, vaccine administration, and preventative health services, along with workforce expansions, capacity building, and personnel support to ensure the continuity of domestic violence services. Expected outcomes include increased access to COVID-19 testing and vaccines, reduced spread of the virus, and enhanced support systems for domestic violence survivors. Measurable results will likely involve the number of individuals tested, vaccinated, and reached through mobile health units, as well as improvements in survivor services. The ICJI's strategic priority is to give special emphasis to community-based projects carried out by nonprofit private organizations that operate shelters or provide counseling, advocacy, and self-help services to victims of family violence. The theory of change suggests that by providing these supplemental funds, ICJI can strengthen the public health response to COVID-19 while simultaneously supporting and sustaining the advocacy workforce dedicated to preventing and responding to the needs of domestic violence survivors during the ongoing public health emergency.

The Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI) is offering a second round of Digital Towns Grant funding to implement strategies that improve digital equity and inclusion across the Indiana Uplands. The program aligns with ROI's mission to advance a more digitally inclusive region by integrating digital information and communication into all aspects of communities. This grant is designed to support projects and programs that ensure Uplands citizens can fully participate in a digital society, going beyond just broadband expansion to include access to affordable internet, reliable devices, and sufficient digital skills and literacy. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are Uplands communities and organizations within the 11-county Indiana Uplands region, including incorporated cities and towns, county commissions and councils, libraries, nonprofits, public education institutions, faith-based organizations, Main Street organizations, chambers of commerce, economic development organizations with an affiliated 501(c)3, and organizations/programs that help businesses/entrepreneurs. The impact goal is to increase the digital capabilities of the region, ensuring everyone has the resources and skills to prosper in the digital age. The program focuses on three main themes: Digital Citizens, Digital Public Services, and Digital Business. Digital Citizens aims to help households connect to the internet, access devices, and grow competence in using digital technologies for internet services, e-commerce, educational opportunities, digital public services, and healthcare. Digital Public Services supports collaborations between local government, nonprofits, and healthcare to provide access to online information, services, and telehealth. Digital Business partners with businesses and entrepreneurs to maximize opportunities in the digital economy. Expected outcomes include financially supported projects that align with the Indiana Uplands Digital Inclusion Plan, leading to a more digitally inclusive region. Measurable results will be seen in increased access to affordable internet, reliable devices, and improved digital skills and literacy among citizens, as well as enhanced e-commerce opportunities for local businesses and improved access to digital public and healthcare services. ROI's strategic priority is to advance regional digital capabilities through funding for professional services, training, digital products, equipment/hardware, and other services that promote digital inclusion and prosperity. Applicants can receive between $5,000 and $50,000, with regional scope projects eligible for up to $75,000.

This funding opportunity supports local nonprofit organizations in Hendricks County that provide services to women and children in need.

This grant provides funding to non-profit organizations, neighborhood associations, and local businesses in Bloomington to support projects that improve pedestrian and bicycle mobility and promote active transportation in the community.

This grant provides funding to cities and townships served by CenterPoint Energy for purchasing safety equipment and implementing safety-related projects to enhance community safety.

This initiative provides financial assistance to local nonprofits, schools, community organizations, and businesses in South Bend for solar panel installations and energy efficiency upgrades to reduce energy costs and promote sustainability.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations and schools in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods for improving local football fields, ensuring safe and accessible play spaces for community youth.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Randolph County that develop innovative programs to improve the lives of women and children, focusing on areas such as crisis prevention, education, financial literacy, and health initiatives.

This fund provides financial assistance to help youth in Bartholomew County and nearby areas participate in sports and fitness programs, removing economic barriers to access.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies that address community needs in areas such as education, health, and the arts.

This grant provides funding to organizations that implement impactful projects benefiting residents of Adams County, with a focus on collaboration, diversity, and measurable community outcomes.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that offer services to homeless individuals, primarily in St. Joseph County, Indiana, and Ann Arbor, Michigan.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit and public-serving organizations that enhance cultural, educational, environmental, health, and human services for residents of South Bend and St. Joseph County, Indiana.

This program provides financial assistance to Indiana schools and educational entities to improve safety measures and emergency preparedness through various initiatives, including personnel, training, and infrastructure enhancements.