The Indianapolis African American Quality of Life Initiative (IAAQLI) is inviting applications for projects and programs aimed at improving educational outcomes for Black students in Marion County, Indiana. The funding is focused on advancing literacy and promoting lifelong learning for African Americans of all ages.
This grant opportunity supports efforts to close literacy gaps and expand access to culturally responsive educational resources. Proposals should present inclusive and scalable programming that encourages literacy development throughout different life stages.
Applicants are encouraged to focus on key areas such as early childhood literacy—helping children read proficiently by third grade—adult literacy for those lacking basic skills, and digital literacy programs that bridge the technology gap, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. Building partnerships between schools, libraries, businesses, and community organizations to support these efforts is also a major priority.
IAAQLI’s educational goals align with specific student benchmarks including access to quality Pre-K, reading and math proficiency by key grade levels, Algebra I completion by eighth grade, participation in the 21st Century Scholars Program, FAFSA completion, high school graduation with a Core 40 or Honors Diploma, and successful entry into college or a career.
To qualify for funding, applicants must address at least one of the following strategies: implementing culturally relevant curricula that reflect African American experiences, or developing comprehensive literacy programs accessible to all ages. Each application must include at least one specific key action supporting these strategies.
IAAQLI has made $1,000,000 available in total funding. Individual grant awards will range from $100,000 to $250,000. While the grant duration is not explicitly stated, a clearly defined project period with measurable outcomes is expected.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities that offer educational services, such as nonprofits, college access organizations, youth programs, and community-based education providers. Traditional K–12 schools and school districts are not eligible.
Preference will be given to African American-led organizations with a strong presence in and commitment to Marion County communities. Applicants can apply alone or as part of a partnership. If applying as a consortium, supporting letters from all collaborators are required, detailing each partner’s role and contributions.
While partners do not have to be African American-led or nonprofits, preference is given to Indiana-based entities, especially those in Indianapolis. All applicants should outline clear outcomes, evaluation methods, and a collaborative project team. Strong, community-rooted, results-driven proposals will receive priority in the review process. The application deadline is August 11, 2025.
For more information, visit IAAQLI.
