$29M in Final Grants to Support Black Indy Residents
$29 Million Available to Support Programs That Strengthen Quality of Life for Black Residents in Indianapolis
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The Indianapolis Urban League (IUL) and the African American Coalition of Indianapolis (AACI) will launch the fourth and final round of funding for the Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative (IAAQLI) during a live public announcement on Facebook and YouTube on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 2:30 PM EST.
This final round marks a major milestone in a transformative, place-based investment strategy made possible through a $100 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to the National Urban League, with a mission to improve the quality of life for African American/Black residents in Indianapolis.
“This final round of funding gives us a chance to build on the powerful work that’s already underway in our city,”
said Tony Mason, President of the Indianapolis Urban League and IAAQLI Co-Director.
“We invite nonprofit leaders to take part in this last opportunity to help shape a stronger, more equitable Indianapolis.”
Since its launch in 2022, IAAQLI has awarded more than $60 million in grants to over 150 organizations citywide.
These grants have supported work in key areas including education, employment, health and wellness, housing and homeownership, arts and culture, leadership and civic engagement, and Black business development and sustainability.
“With this fourth round, we bring the vision of IAAQLI full circle,” said Willis Bright, Chairman of the African American Coalition of Indianapolis and IAAQLI Co-Director.
“These investments can have generational impact—and we urge both grassroots and established organizations to engage, apply, and lead.”
Round 4 will make $29 million in new funding available to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations whose work aligns with IAAQLI’s priority pillars.
Grants will be awarded through both open and invitational application processes, with selected projects receiving a two-year implementation period.
The application window opens July 7, 2025, and will remain open through August 11, 2025. Interested applicants can visit www.iaaqli.org/funding-opportunities to review application requirements, watch tutorial videos, and prepare necessary materials.
IAAQLI and its leadership extend their deepest gratitude to community members, partners, funders, and supporters for their shared commitment to advancing equity, expanding opportunity, and driving long-term change in Indianapolis.
Later this year, IAAQLI will debut a documentary film highlighting the initiative’s impact, featuring stories from grantees and community partners.
For media inquiries, interview requests with IAAQLI leadership, or to request a preview of the documentary, please contact the IAAQLI media team.
