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GRANT PROCESS

Areas of Focus

The Starlight Foundation grant making is primarily focused on serving the Southern Indiana community including Clark County, Floyd County, Harrison County, Washington County, Orange County, and Scott County. We take pride in giving back to our community that does so much for others. We invest in:

Education

Grant applications falling under the education focus area should be designed to significantly contribute to the educational process or enhance access to education for both children and/or adults residing in Southern Indiana. Successful proposals may address critical educational gaps, promote lifelong learning, and improve educational outcomes.

Housing

The Housing focus area welcomes proposals that address critical aspects of housing within Southern Indiana. We are interested in initiatives that contribute to the improvement, accessibility, and affordability of housing options for community members. Projects may encompass housing development, rehabilitation, or innovative solutions to address housing challenges. Our goal is to support efforts that create sustainable and inclusive housing opportunities, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

Human Services

The Human Services focus area is dedicated to proposals that address critical human needs, providing essential services and support to individuals and families in Southern Indiana. We invite initiatives that focus on improving access to basic necessities, such as food, shelter, healthcare, and social services. Projects may include the development of support networks, outreach programs, or interventions that enhance the overall well-being of vulnerable populations. Through this focus area, we aim to foster a compassionate and resilient community by supporting projects that address fundamental human needs and promote social equity.

​Health and Medical

Projects submitted under the health and medical focus area should concentrate on improving the mental and/or physical well-being of individuals living in the designated counties of focus in Southern Indiana. We encourage proposals that address pressing health issues, promote healthy lifestyles, and contribute to the overall health resilience of our community.

Arts and Culture

We invite proposals that actively contribute to the cultivation, development, and enhancement of the cultural and artistic climate within Southern Indiana. Projects in this category should seek to inspire creativity, celebrate diversity, and foster a vibrant cultural community.

Community Development

The Community Development focus area seeks proposals that actively contribute to the development and enhancement of communities in Southern Indiana. We encourage initiatives that focus on the social, economic, and environmental aspects of community well-being. Projects may include but are not limited to infrastructure development, neighborhood revitalization, and programs that foster a sense of community pride and cohesion. Through this focus area, we aim to support projects that empower communities to thrive and create lasting positive change.

Environmental Preservation
and Recreation

This focus area encompasses initiatives that aim to restore, preserve, revitalize, or enhance the facilities, surroundings, and recreational opportunities within Southern Indiana. Projects may include those related to housing, urban planning, and the creation of community spaces that contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

Guidelines

At The Starlight Foundation, transparency, accountability, and fairness are integral values that underpin our commitment to fostering positive change within our community. Our guidelines and requirements are carefully crafted to ensure a thorough and equitable grant application and evaluation process for all applicants. By adhering to these guidelines, we strive to create a supportive framework that not only benefits our grantees but also maximizes the positive impact of our collective efforts. Our guidelines include:

Positive Impact

and Sustainability

Proposals must clearly outline how the project will have a positive impact on the community. Impact is measured not only during the project's implementation but also in its sustained effects. Additionally, there should be a demonstrated commitment to project sustainability beyond the grant period, fostering long-term community benefits.

Serving the Area of Focus

Grant proposals must clearly demonstrate a commitment to serving the residents of Clark County, Floyd County, Harrison County, Washington County, and Orange County in Indiana. Additionally, at least 75% of the funds awarded must be expended within the designated area of focus. This criterion ensures that the impact of the grant is directly felt within the local community.

Expenditure Period of 3 Years

Grant recipients are expected to expend the awarded funds within 3 years of the award date. This timeframe ensures timely and effective implementation of projects, contributing to the overall efficiency and impact of the initiatives.

Post-Grant Reporting
and Impact Presentation

We are committed to ongoing collaboration and learning. We require grant recipients to visit The Starlight Foundation one year after receiving funding to present the outcomes and impact of their projects. This not only allows us to celebrate successes together but also facilitates knowledge-sharing and continuous improvement.

Detailed Proof
of Grant Utilization

To maintain transparency and accountability, grant recipients are expected to provide a detailed proof of the use of the grant, supported by financial statements. This documentation is crucial for demonstrating the effective utilization of resources and is a prerequisite for eligibility in future grant cycles.

The Starlight Foundation does NOT provide grants for:

  • Individuals

  • For-Profit Businesses

  • Political Campaigns or Lobbying Activities

  • Projects Outside of Clark County, Floyd County, Harrison County, Washington County, and Orange County in Indiana

  • Projects Not Aligning with Our Focus Areas

  • Organizations Without 501(c)(3) Status

  • Entities with Outstanding Debt or Legal Issues

APPLY TODAY

Thank you for your interest in The Starlight Foundation. We appreciate your time and effort in applying. Please note that we will carefully review all applications and provide a response within 60 days of submission. We look forward to thoroughly evaluating each application to make informed decisions aligned with our foundation's mission.

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