Foundations of East Chicago: General Operating Grants

Foundations of East Chicago offers General Operating Grants to support local nonprofits and agencies improving community quality of life. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 entities based in East Chicago, with funding for operational expenses from January 1 to August 31, 2026. The grant covers daily costs such as utilities, office supplies, and maintenance, ensuring community-focused initiatives are supported while adhering to strict eligibility criteria.

Our Mission is to support local schools, churches, municipal agencies and nonprofit organizations that work to improve the quality of life in East Chicago.
To advance this mission, the Foundations of East Chicago will provide financial support through educational assistance in the form of scholarships; the awarding of grants that are strategic to achieve our objectives and by our service and leadership within the community.
General Grant Information
The Foundations of East Chicago defines an operating budget as funding an organization needs for daily operating expenses during a calendar or fiscal year. That includes allocations for office equipment, supplies, utilities, rent/mortgage payments and all other expenses associated with the daily operation of an organization.
If awarded, the following must be met:

• All funds must be spent between January 1, 2026 – August 31, 2026.
• All expenditures must be supported by financial documentation.
• All receipts submitted must be dated prior to or on August 31, 2026.Maximum of one submission per 501(c)3.

Eligibility

A recognized 501(c)3 agency in good standing with the IRS (Internal Revenue Service).
Must be an East Chicago-based organization who owns or rents commercial property in East Chicago.
In good standing with the Foundations of East Chicago.
Maximum of one submission per 501 (c) 3.
Municipalities or governmental taxing bodies are not eligible to apply.
Organizations that operate out of a “Home Office,” are not eligible to apply.
Applications not meeting all the above-listed criteria are automatically disqualified.
CONSIDERED EXPENDITURES
Service providers (i.e., CPA, IT, Web design and maintenance)Contractors – must be licensed and bonded (Proof must be provided with application as an attachment)Lease, mortgage, and rent (ONLY FOR EAST CHICAGO BASED NONPROFITSGeneral maintenance & minor Property Repairs (i.e., light bulbs, air filter, and furnace maintenance) Basic Office Supplies (i.e., pens, pencils, paper, ink, stapler/staples, scissors, note pads, and paper clips)    Utilities, telephone, internet, and water billsOffice Equipment Purchases/Lease (i.e., computers (can only be requested a minimum of every three years) fax machines, copiers, furniture, and calculators)
You must use the same wording that is used under “Considered Expenditures” throughout your application.

Ineligibility

Municipalities or governmental taxing bodies are not eligible to apply.Organizations that operate out of a “Home Office,” are not eligible for funding.FEC Will Not Fund The Following:Workshops