2027 General Operating Grants

About this program

Foundations of East Chicago offers one-time 2027 General Operating Grants of up to $10,000 to qualified East Chicago organizations experiencing a budget shortfall. Funds may support designated non-salary operating expenses, including utilities, insurance, office expenses, and professional services, and must be spent between March 1 and October 30, 2027; this is the final year of the program. Eligible applicants must be East Chicago-based 501(c)(3) organizations in good standing with the IRS and the Foundation, with no more than one submission per organization; municipalities, governmental taxing bodies, and home-based organizations are ineligible. Applications open November 30, 2026, and are due by 3:00 p.m. CST on December 15, 2026, with 2025 and 2026 operating budgets and proof of 501(c)(3) status required.