Important Update on the Equity Advancement Fund

At this time, we are temporarily pausing new applications and grant awards through the Equity Advancement Fund as we partner with community stakeholders to shape its next phase. We remain deeply committed to supporting all diverse communities and populations—and we are taking this pause to ensure the Fund’s future is even stronger and more inclusive.

Here’s what you need to know:
- Pause in grantmaking: We will not be reviewing new applications or issuing new grants during this interim period.
- Fund is evolving—not ending: This is not a shutdown. The Fund will return in a refreshed form—with updated processes and an enhanced focus—so we can support equity work even more effectively.
- Stay connected: If you’d like to be notified when the updated Fund opens for grants, please sign up for updates below. We will share full details—including eligibility, timeline, and how to apply—as soon as they are confirmed.

We look forward to launching the next iteration of the Equity Advancement Fund and continuing to invest together in an equitable future for all.

Equity Advancement Fund Logo. A partnership between Heart of Indiana United Way and the Community Foundations in the Heart of Indiana region.

WHAT IS THE EQUITY ADVANCEMENT FUND?

A partnership with Community Foundations in the Heart of Indiana region on a new mini-grants program designed to help strengthen and advance equity in the counties served by Heart of Indiana United Way (Delaware, Henry, Fayette, Randolph, Madison and South Madison Counties).  

  • Support efforts that are led by or serve underserved, underrepresented, or under-resourced persons in our communities. (Examples include those who encounter barriers based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, economic, culture, language, immigration status, low literacy, age, special needs, and/or geographic location).
  • Grants requests of $500 to $2,000 will be considered.
  • These entry-level grants are designed to help small, grassroots organizations that have not applied for funding in the past to easily enter the granting process and build relationships for future funding and capacity-building opportunities.
  • Opportunities for grassroots organizations/programs without 501c3 status will be incorporated into grant eligibility. 
  • Eligibility will require potential applicants to be based in 1 of the 5 counties served by Heart of Indiana United Way. Grants must benefit persons outlined above in some area of human services.