$883 K CICF scholarships awarded in 2024

We're working to turn Central Indiana into a place where everyone thrives.

How do we do it? We link funding and ideas with the people and organizations who turn them into lasting impact.

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What We Do
$22.8 M granted by CICF fundholders in 2024
July 7, 2025
From Hard Hats to Hope: How the BY Plus construction training program breaks down barriers to a better life
Allen Humphrey stands at the podium, staring out at a crowd of fresh-faced graduates. They’re dressed in gowns, but instead of caps, their heads are crowned with hard hats. A year and a half earlier, Humphrey couldn’t have imagined himself on stage, sharing his story. Back then, he was juggling two fast-food jobs, just scraping by, and relearning to walk after being shot in 2023.

Fundholders

Support the causes you’re passionate about, and discover the meaning that comes with purpose-driven giving.

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Explore Fund Options
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Contact Your Philanthropic Advisor

Nonprofits

Nonprofits power our communities. We’re here to empower your work.

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Charitable Organization Funds
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Resource Library

Students & Guardians

Generous community members have established scholarships to help make education more accessible for students.

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Explore Scholarships
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Subscribe for Updates

Central Indiana is evolving into a nationally recognized hub of philanthropy and collaboration.

Yes, this place. Right here. Who knew?

Well… we did. Watch this video to learn more about how our vision for Central Indiana is coming to fruition.

Our
Impact

Read stories about how the work of CICF and those we collaborate with is making a difference in Central Indiana.

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Read more impact stories
January 5, 2026
Central Indiana Community Foundation 2026 Board of Directors Announced
Central Indiana Community Foundation CICF is pleased to announce the appointment of new board members and transitions in board leadership. All changes are effective immediately.  
Four Lessons CICF Learned About Democratizing Philanthropy
Jennifer Bartenbach, CEO of Central Indiana Community Foundation, recently presented at the Democratizing Philanthropy Research Workshop, hosted by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Her remarks explored what it means to democratize philanthropy from a community foundation perspective, highlighting the role of residents, data, and long-term partnerships in shaping more equitable outcomes. This work is central to CICF’s work and to the work of community foundations more broadly: serving as connectors, elevating community voice, and turning research into practical strategies that strengthen local systems.
November 19, 2025
Current Publishing: "Strategic vision: CICF maps out plan to empower community"
This article, published by Current Publishing, details how CICF is expanding its mission across all nine Central Indiana counties with a new strategic plan focused on strengthening non-profits, improving regional collaboration, and guiding philanthropic giving to better support local communities.
November 19, 2024
Herbert Simon Family Foundation Announces Indianapolis Creative Risk Fund Recipients
Herbert Simon Family Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the Indianapolis Creative Risk Fund, an initiative designed to propel Indianapolis’ arts ecosystem into new territory by supporting artists who are experimenting, innovating, and embracing creative risk. 
November 19, 2024
Applications Now Open for Indiana’s Most Comprehensive Scholarship Offering 
Applications are now open for Indiana’s most comprehensive scholarship portfolio, offering access to 50+ awards across four-year, two-year, and technical programs. Students can apply for multiple scholarships through a single multilingual application—available in English, Spanish, and Burmese—at cicf.org/scholarships.  
November 3, 2025
New Report Finds Food Insecurity Widespread Across Central Indiana Counties
Indy Hunger Network (IHN), in partnership with Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF), Indiana University Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, and the City of Indianapolis Office of Public Health and Safety (OPHS), today released the 2025 Survey of Food Assistance Need in Central Indiana. For the first time, the survey broadened its scope beyond Marion County to include all nine Central Indiana counties, providing the most comprehensive snapshot yet of how households are accessing and experiencing the region’s food system.
October 2, 2025
CICF Expands Nonprofit Support with New Director of Nonprofit Services & Sustainability
Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) has named Diana Coyle as its new Director of Nonprofit Services & Sustainability, a role designed to strengthen and elevate the nonprofit ecosystem in Central Indiana. As Director of Nonprofit Services & Sustainability, Coyle will lead efforts to help nonprofits build financial stability, operate more effectively, collaborate more efficiently, and navigate long-term challenges.
November 19, 2024
The Parks Alliance Strengthens Future Impact through New Alignment with Central Indiana Community Foundation
Today, The Parks Alliance of Indianapolis announced an exciting new chapter in its decades-long partnership with Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF), transitioning from a supporting organization to a special interest fund of CICF. 
September 5, 2025
Preparing for an Unusual End-of-Year Giving Season
The nonprofit sector is heading into one of the most unpredictable year-end giving seasons in recent memory. With the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” set to change charitable tax benefits on January 1, donors may be motivated to give more before the deadline. From major donor strategies to incentives for everyday givers, this article breaks down what you need to know and how to plan for whatever comes next.
September 5, 2025
Navigating New Laws: Opportunities for Donors in 2025
It’s more important than ever to stay informed about how changes in the tax law may affect your charitable giving. The recently-passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) creates challenges as well as opportunities for structuring your philanthropy. We encourage you to reach out to your attorney, CPA, and financial advisor to evaluate how the changes in the law impact your own situation.