Nonprofits

Strengthening Southwest Indiana

We distribute charitable dollars through competitive grants, donor-advised funds, and field-of-interest funds. These grants support nonprofit organizations working across our region and reflect the priorities of our donors and community.

Funding Priorities

We fund nonprofit work that aligns with the community priorities below. These priorities help guide grant decisions and ensure funding supports the most pressing needs in Southwest Indiana.

Foundations for Economic Mobility

Expanding access to education, skills, and opportunity.

Vibrant & Resilient Communities

Strengthening local places, civic life, and community capacity.

Community Health & Well-Being

Improving physical, mental, and social health outcomes.

Regional Collaboration & Alignment

Supporting systems, partnerships, and solutions that work across county lines.

Get Started

How to Apply

Grant applications are simple to manage through our online application system. Review our How to Apply information before getting started. It will guide you through the application process. When you’re ready to review the grant program details, search our grant opportunities by community.

Opportunities by Location​

Search Grant Opportunities by Community

We support nonprofit organizations working to strengthen Southwest Indiana. We fund these opportunities through donor-created charitable funds and community endowments that generate annual grants.

Powered by Local Generosity

How Grant Funding Is Made Possible

Every grant awarded through the Community Foundation of Southwest Indiana is made possible by donors who care deeply about our communities.

Through charitable funds and endowments, individuals, families, businesses, and organizations create lasting resources that support nonprofit work year after year. Their generosity helps address local needs, strengthen organizations, and invest in the future of Southwest Indiana.

Build Long-Term Sustainability

In addition to grant opportunities, we help nonprofit organizations establish agency endowment funds.

An agency endowment creates a permanent charitable resource for your organization. Gifts are invested for long-term growth, and a portion of earnings may be distributed annually to support your mission while preserving the fund for future generations.

Benefits include:

  • Long-term financial sustainability
  • Professional investment management
  • Additional giving opportunities for supporters
  • Permanent support for your organization’s mission
  • Partnership with a trusted community institution


Whether you’re building reserves, planning for the future, or creating a legacy for your organization, an agency endowment can help strengthen your mission for generations to come.

Share the News

Nonprofit Publicity Toolkit

Sharing stories about local philanthropy helps build awareness, inspire generosity, and demonstrate the impact of charitable investments throughout our communities. This toolkit provides guidance for recognizing your grant award and communicating its impact.

As a funded partner, you play an important role in communicating the impact of this investment. Public acknowledgment of Foundation support helps strengthen community awareness and demonstrates responsible grant stewardship. Recognition follow-through is an important component of the Foundation’s partnership with grantees and will be considered during future grant reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grants

Find answers to common questions about grant eligibility, application requirements, funding priorities, and award timelines. If you need additional assistance, our team is here to help guide you through the grantmaking process and connect you with the resources you need.

  • How can my organization apply for grant funding?

    Applications are available through our website. Deadlines and guidelines vary by fund or program.

  • What types of support does the Foundation offer to nonprofits?

    Grants, planned giving guidance, capacity-building support, and endowment development are all available.

  • How long does the grant review process take?

    Review timelines vary by program but generally range from a few weeks to several months.

  • Are there restrictions on how grant funds can be used?

    Yes. Funds must be used in accordance with the grant agreement and fund purpose.

  • How can nonprofits build long-term sustainability through endowments?

    We help organizations establish endowed funds that generate ongoing income to support their mission indefinitely.

  • Can the Foundation help with planned or complex gifts?

    Yes. We partner with nonprofits and advisors to structure gifts that maximize impact and meet complex needs.

  • What reporting or accountability requirements exist for grantees?

    Grantees submit brief reports showing how funds were used and the outcomes achieved, ensuring transparency and effectiveness.

  • How can my organization build a relationship with the Foundation?

    Connect with our staff, attend informational sessions, and participate in community initiatives to engage with the Foundation.

  • How can I manage my organization's account?

    1. Visit the Nonprofit Portal to return to your user account. You will manage your account to:
    2. Start your application to apply for available grants
    3. Return to complete and submit your application
    4. Complete the Grant Report if chosen as a recipient

Our Staff

Meet The Team Supporting Your Organization

Our Programs Team is here to support nonprofits.

Chief Program Officer

Melinda Waldroup

Program Assistant

Michele Gates

Community Impact Director

Laura Hazelman

Daviess, Knox, & Pike

Community Impact Director

Amy Smith

Gibson & Posey

Community Impact Director

Emily Alvey

Perry & Spencer

Community Impact Director

Alysia Rhinefort

Vanderburgh & Warrick