Lilly Endowment Inc. is launching a new, competitive initiative to encourage community building and celebrate creativity. Through this initiative, the Endowment will provide grants totaling up to $25 million, designed to enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis, bolster Indianapolis’ image as a desirable place to live, work and visit, foster a creative energized and forward-thinking community.
The Endowment is seeking ideas of all sizes and is making available grants ranging from $7,500 to $10 million. Indiana-based public charities or governmental departments or agencies are eligible to apply. These include arts institutions, museums, zoos, schools, religious congregations, community centers, community foundations, and colleges and universities, among others. The majority of an applicant’s program or project must be implemented within Marion County. Additionally, if an organization’s focus lies outside of arts and cultural programs, the Endowment asks that the proposal include a partnership with an arts or cultural organization.
The first stage of the application process is a request for a concept paper, due to the Endowment by Friday, March 30, 2018, at noon eastern standard time. The second stage of the application process will vary based on the size of the project. Announcement of grant awards greater than $50,000 is anticipated to take place on or before December 31, 2018. Announcements for grants with budgets $50,000 or less may be made earlier in the year.
The Endowment is looking for creative ideas that can help bring people together and broaden their perspectives; make arts and culture a larger part of the lives of individuals and families; increase access to arts and culture offerings among diverse audiences; enhance Indianapolis’ national and international reputation; and foster dialogue, community spirit and tourism.
Through Arts and Cultural Innovation, the Endowment is encouraging ideas that uplift the unique and important role that arts and cultural organizations and projects play in building strong communities.
