NiSource – Community Grants Program (2026)
Corporate Giving Supporting Safety, Environment, and Community Vitality
Organization: NiSource Charitable Foundation
Support Type: Charitable grants
Geographic Focus: NiSource service territories (IN, OH, PA, VA, KY, MD)
About the Funder
The NiSource Charitable Foundation supports nonprofit organizations located within NiSource’s utility service areas. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that strengthen communities, protect natural resources, and promote equal opportunity.
Funding decisions are guided by strategic alignment, community impact, employee engagement, visibility, and available resources. The Foundation’s fiscal year runs January–December.
Pillars of Giving
The Foundation focuses on five core areas:
Safety & Basic Needs
Programs addressing emergent human needs such as food, shelter, heating assistance, and general safety.
Community Connections
Initiatives that uplift communities through equal opportunity efforts and inclusive engagement.
Environmental Stewardship
Projects that protect, restore, and conserve natural resources through sustainable practices and responsible environmental management.
STEAM Education & Economic Development
Education and workforce development initiatives in science, technology, engineering, art, and math that strengthen community vitality and economic opportunity.
What the Foundation Funds
The Foundation provides contributions and volunteer engagement support to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that:
- Are located within NiSource service territory
- Align with one or more of the Foundation’s giving pillars
- Demonstrate meaningful community impact
- Operate without discrimination
Preference may be given to organizations that offer meaningful employee engagement opportunities.
What the Foundation Does Not Fund
The Foundation does not support:
- Individuals (including scholarships, travel, or field trips)
- Athletic teams, sporting events, or fundraising competitions
- Non-academic school activities (bands, proms, graduations)
- Religious or sectarian organizations unless serving the entire community
- Political candidates or committees
- Social clubs, fraternities, or sororities
- Publications, advertising, audio, or video productions
- Organizations outside NiSource’s service territory
- State tax credit programs
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold current 501(c)(3) nonprofit status
- Serve communities within NiSource’s service areas
- Provide 501(c)(3) documentation, W-9, EIN, contact name, and mailing address
- Ensure application information matches IRS records
Discrepancies in nonprofit status or organizational details may delay review.
Application Process
- Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your organization serves within a NiSource company service area. - Review State Guidelines
Each state may have specific charitable funding priorities. - Contact Your State Representative
Reach out via the Contact Us form to discuss alignment before applying. - Submit Online Application
Applications are accepted through the Foundation’s online portal. Faxed, mailed, or emailed requests will not be considered. - Review & Selection
Public Affairs or Community Engagement Managers may request additional information. Funding decisions are made based on alignment, impact, and available budget.
Eligible States
Funding is available in the following NiSource service territories:
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Virginia
- Kentucky
- Maryland
Organizations requesting funding in multiple states must contact each state representative separately.
Funding Amounts
The Foundation does not publish standard grant ranges. Award sizes vary depending on project scope, state priorities, and available corporate budgets.
Timeline
📅 Application Timeline: Rolling (varies by state)
📅 Fiscal Year: January–December
📅 Review Process: Ongoing throughout the year
Applicants are encouraged to connect with their state contact early in the calendar year.
Apply / Learn More
➡️ https://www.nisource.com/community/nisource-charitable-foundation
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This program is best suited for nonprofits that:
- Operate within NiSource utility service territories
- Address basic needs, environmental stewardship, or STEAM education
- Offer community-based programs with measurable outcomes
- Provide opportunities for employee volunteer engagement
The NiSource Charitable Foundation is a strong fit for organizations delivering essential services and long-term community improvement within eligible states.
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
Review Type: Rolling (state-based)
Geographic Restriction: IN, OH, PA, VA, KY, MD service areas
Best Suited For: Community-based nonprofits aligned with safety, environment, and STEAM priorities