Grant Programs

It is our belief that community is more than geographic locale; we believe that it is an idea that exists in the minds of people sharing common goals and concerns. Based on that belief, our Grantmaking Programs seek to develop a shared vision of building a sense of community.

“Distributing charitable funds” is a vital part of our mission. Through the Community Foundation Alliance and our Community Foundation Members, grants totaling nearly $1.6 million were awarded last year to more than 500 organizations throughout Southwestern Indiana in the broad areas of Arts and Culture, Community Development, Education, the Environment, Health, Human Services, Recreation, and Youth Development.

Many of the funds established by our donors name specific nonprofit organizations, such as their favorite charity or their church, to receive distributions from the fund. Grants are awarded from these funds accordingly. Some donors, however, choose to give grantmaking discretion to the Foundation by establishing what are called unrestricted funds. These funds allow our board to award yearly grants based on where the needs are greatest in the community.

The majority of the Community Foundation Alliance’s discretionary grantmaking dollars are awarded through our members. Our members are uniquely positioned to evaluate local needs and provide grant funding to meet the specific needs of their counties and regions. Such grants may assist charitable programs, address community issues, support community agencies, launch community initiatives, and support leadership development. Each Member maintains its own annual grant cycles. Proposals are requested, received, and evaluated by local Boards prior to recommendation to the Alliance Board.

Please visit our Alliance Members page to be redirected to complete details about funding opportunities available through the Community Foundation serving your county.

Funding Opportunities Available Through
the Community Foundation Alliance

Please visit our Education and Literacy Fund page and City of Evansville Endowment Fund page to be redirected to information about grantmaking opportunities available through these Alliance funds.