Old National Bank Foundation – Community Grants (Summer 2026 Cycle)
Funding for Affordable Housing, Workforce Development, Economic Opportunity, and Financial Empowerment
Organization: Old National Bank Foundation
Support Type: Charitable grants (program or general operating support)
Geographic Focus: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Wisconsin
About the Funder
The Old National Bank Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities across the Midwest and Upper Midwest where Old National Bank operates. The foundation invests in programs that improve economic opportunity, expand housing access, and promote financial well-being for individuals and families.
Each year the foundation awards more than $3 million in grants through open application cycles to nonprofits addressing community needs and helping build vibrant, sustainable communities.
What This Program Supports
Old National Bank Foundation prioritizes programs aligned with four strategic funding areas.
Affordable Housing
Programs that expand access to safe and affordable housing.
Examples include:
- Homeownership education and assistance programs
- Down payment assistance initiatives
- Home repair and housing revitalization programs
- Development or preservation of affordable rental housing
Workforce Development
Programs that connect individuals with career opportunities and help build job-ready skills.
Examples include:
- Apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities
- Job training programs in high-demand industries
- Career advancement and professional development initiatives
- Programs supporting employment entry and retention
Economic Development
Programs that support entrepreneurship and strengthen local economies.
Examples include:
- Small business development programs
- Entrepreneurship education and coaching
- Technical assistance for startups and nonprofits
- Programs that expand economic opportunity in local communities
Financial Empowerment
Programs that improve financial literacy and expand access to safe banking and credit.
Examples include:
- Financial education programs
- Credit counseling and foreclosure prevention services
- Community lending programs and microloans
- Initiatives supporting financial independence for underserved populations
The foundation prioritizes programs serving low- to moderate-income communities and underrepresented populations.
Eligible Support Types
Funding may support:
- Programmatic initiatives
- General operating support aligned with the organization’s core mission
- Community-based economic opportunity programs
- Financial education and housing initiatives
Capital campaigns and multi-year grants are rare and typically initiated by the foundation’s leadership.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a 501(c)(3) public charity recognized by the IRS
- Serve communities within Old National Bank’s banking footprint
- Demonstrate measurable outcomes and sustainable program impact
Eligible states include:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- North Dakota
- Tennessee
- Wisconsin
Organizations receiving a grant may apply again every two years, provided reporting requirements are complete.
Funding Amounts
The average grant award is approximately $15,000, typically supporting one-year projects or initiatives.
Timeline & Review
📅 Application Window: June 1 – July 10, 2026
📩 Board Decision: September 16, 2026
📧 Notification: Applicants are notified shortly after the board decision date.
The foundation offers two grant cycles each year.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the Old National Bank Foundation’s online grant portal.
Applicants should ensure their proposals:
- Align with one of the foundation’s four funding priorities
- Demonstrate measurable community impact
- Address disparities affecting underrepresented communities
- Include clear goals and plans for sustainability
Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://www.oldnational.com/about-us/community/sponsorships-and-grants/foundation-grants/
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This opportunity is well suited for nonprofits that:
- Operate in Old National Bank’s nine-state service region
- Address housing stability, workforce development, or financial literacy
- Support economic mobility for low- and moderate-income communities
- Demonstrate measurable program outcomes
The Old National Bank Foundation provides consistent regional funding for organizations working to strengthen economic opportunity and community resilience.
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
Review Type: Competitive grant cycle
Typical Lead Time: Apply during the June–July application window
Best Suited For: Nonprofits focused on housing stability, workforce development, economic development, and financial empowerment.
