Indiana Climate & Democracy Catalyst Fund Now Accepting Applications

The Indianapolis Foundation—in collaboration with McKinney Family Foundation, Herbert Simon Family Foundation, and McKnight Foundation—has launched the Indiana Climate and Democracy Catalyst Fund to accelerate environmental equity, decarbonization, and an inclusive democracy throughout Indiana.

This innovative fund is designed to amplify impact by aligning investments from multiple philanthropic partners, with a shared goal of supporting grassroots leadership, place-based solutions, and systems-level climate and democracy initiatives across the state.

Grant guidelines are available here

About the Fund

Indiana emits the most carbon emissions per capita in the Midwest, making a transition to renewable energy essential to meeting carbon reduction goals. At the same time, Indiana consistently ranks among the lowest states for voter turnout—highlighting the need for increased civic participation in shaping a just and equitable clean energy transition.

The Catalyst Fund will:

• Support grassroots, frontline, and rural communities in climate justice and inclusive democracy work.
• Leverage collaborative philanthropy to maximize impact beyond what any single funder could achieve alone.
• Build capacity for advocacy, organizing, and community engagement on environmental and democracy issues.

Funding Priorities

The fund prioritizes:

• Grassroots, emerging, and place-based organizations.
• Projects centered in Indiana and led by Indiana communities.
• Work with measurable community outcomes, including:
  • Climate: Renewable energy advocacy, environmental equity solutions, data collection, citizen science projects, and coalition-building.
  • Inclusive Democracy: Voter engagement, voting rights protection, organizer training, and expanded civic participation.

Grant Information

• Award Range: $5,000–$100,000 (requests above $100,000 considered by inquiry).
• Application Process: Rolling applications, with funding decisions monthly.
• Eligibility: Indiana-centered organizations with strong community voice and outcomes.
• Support Available: The Indianapolis Foundation encourages applicants to speak with a Governing Committee member before applying.

More details, including eligibility criteria and application instructions, are available in the grant guidelines.

Upcoming Info Session

Learn how your organization can access funding through the Indiana Climate & Democracy Catalyst Fund. This webinar will outline funding priorities, eligible projects, and how funders and community organizations can partner to support climate justice, renewable energy advocacy, and inclusive democracy work across Indiana.

Date & Time: August 11, 2025 | 12:00 PM ET

Register

Fund Partners

The Indiana Climate and Democracy Catalyst Fund is supported by:

• McKinney Family Foundation
• Indianapolis Foundation
• Herbert Simon Family Foundation
• McKnight Foundation