CFEC: Community Investment Grants (under $25,000)

The Community Foundation of Elkhart County offers Community Investment Grants under $25,000 with no application deadlines, providing weekly reviews. These grants support initiatives focused on early childhood development, career skills, vibrant downtowns, and parks. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and public charities serving Elkhart County residents, along with certain governmental and educational institutions. This funding aims to enhance quality of life and foster generosity within the community.

NOTE: Contact a program officer, as the first step to apply for a grant. Grant committees review requests over $25,000 twice a year. Applications are due mid-February and mid-August. Applications for requests under $25,000  are accepted year-round.. The page for requests over $25,000 can be found here.
Community Investment Grants are funded by the unrestricted resources entrusted to the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. These grants reflect our mission: to improve the quality of life in Elkhart County by inspiring generosity.
The Community Foundation focuses on three priority areas that guide both our grantmaking and our community leadership efforts. These areas are informed by population-level data and local needs.
We invite you to explore the guiding frameworks and data:
Career Pathways: Helping individuals and families achieve economic mobility through workforce readiness, credential attainment, and access to career pathways.Kids & Families: Fostering healthy child development and strong families through access to quality early childhood care, social-emotional support, and education.Placemaking: Supporting vibrant, welcoming spaces that reflect community identity and contribute to quality of life for all.

Eligibility

Grants are made to 501(c)(3) public charities serving Elkhart County. In some cases, schools, municipalities, chambers of commerce, and other qualifying entities may also apply.Religious organizations may apply, but grants may not be used for religious instruction or worship.

Ineligibility

What Projects Are Not Eligible?Activities outside Elkhart CountyFor-profit venturesDirect assistance to individuals, including scholarships for school or campsReligious instruction or facilities without broad community usePolitical campaigns or lobbyingDebt reduction or retroactive costsTravel for organizations (e.g. school groups, music groups, sports)Requests for food from food pantriesResearch projectsProjects lacking sustainability or planning (e.g., recurring deficits, no contingency funds)