Conference/Training Grant

The Ohio County Community Foundation (OCCF), based in Rising Sun, Indiana, offers Conference and Workshop Grants to support non-profit organizations whose training or conference initiatives directly benefit the residents of Ohio County. As part of its broader mission to enhance the quality of life in the county, OCCF provides these grants to help local organizations expand their capacity and improve their service delivery through educational opportunities. This grant program is structured to offer financial assistance specifically for attending or hosting conferences and trainings. The eligible use of funds is strictly limited to registration fees or training materials and speakers. Notably, the program excludes costs such as lodging, food, and travel, which must be covered through other means. This narrow but focused scope ensures that the funds directly contribute to professional development and knowledge dissemination. Organizations may apply at any time throughout the calendar year, with grants awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until the designated annual fund pool is depleted. Each organization is allowed to receive up to two awards per calendar year, with a cumulative limit of $300. However, no single application may exceed $150 in funding. The structure of this program encourages modest, yet impactful participation in training activities that benefit the county’s non-profit landscape. The review and approval process for the Conference and Workshop Grant is streamlined. Applications do not require approval from the full board; instead, they may be approved directly by the OCCF Executive Director. This simplified approval process supports quicker turnaround and enables organizations to plan with confidence. Decisions are communicated in a timely manner, making the program responsive to organizational needs throughout the year. To apply, organizations are directed to read the grant guidelines available on the OCCF website and then complete the application through the provided link. While there is no explicit mention of required documents or evaluation criteria in the description, the foundation emphasizes that only organizations whose activities serve Ohio County residents are eligible. Applicants are encouraged to align their proposed training or conference participation with the broader areas OCCF supports, including Community Development, Education, Health, Human Services, Cultural Affairs, and Scholarships. For further assistance, potential applicants can contact OCCF staff. General inquiries about scholarships and grants may be directed to Tracy Stegemiller at [email protected] or (812) 438-9401. For endowment or administrative questions, Jane Angst ([email protected]) may also be contacted. The grant cycle for 2026 officially opened on January 1 and will close on December 28 at 3:00 PM EST, provided funds remain available.