Empowering Communities Through Collaboration
Community challenges require community solutions. The BFO Community Collaborations Program aims to fund up to $2 million from 2026- 2030 supporting multi-sector partnerships that assess local needs, identify shared priorities, and build coordinated plans that improve health and wellness. Collaborations must align with at least one BFO pillar and be located within at least one county within the BFO service region.
Community Collaboration Grants
A three-year, funded program that supports communities in exploring a shared challenge through a facilitated process, bringing partners together to build understanding and create a clear, actionable implementation plan.
Program Goals
Through our 6-3-9 Strategic Plan, BFO will fund at least six collaborations, with at least three implementation plans underway by 2029. Each collaboration will engage partners from different sectors — such as nonprofits, healthcare, local governments, education, and business — to address systemic barriers to health and wellness.
Funding & Term
Total Award: Up to $250,000 per collaboration; Duration: 3 years
Structure:
- Year 1: $50,000 (facilitation or early implementation)
- Year 2: Up to $125,000 (implementation)
- Year 3: Up to $75,000 (implementation)
BFO serves as a strategic partner providing oversight and support throughout the process.
What We’re Looking For
Successful collaborations will:
- Include stakeholders from across the community representing various sectors.
- Demonstrate community engagement with data-driven planning leading to an implementation plan.
- Aim to shift systems — changing policies, practices, or community conditions.
- Commit to shared metrics and transparent evaluation.
- Leverage multiple funding sources.
2026 Timeline
| Phase | Dates (2026) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Letter of Intent (LOI) Deadline | Feb 27 | Submit a brief application describing your idea, partners, and impact area. |
| Application by Invitation Only | Mar 9-Apr 2 | Detailed application and proposed workplan due. |
| Presentations | Apr 21–May 1 | Finalists meet with committee to present proposals. |
| Award Notification | June 2026 | Agreement and fund distribution. |
Eligibility
To apply, applicants/ projects must:
- Serve residents located within at least one Indiana county in the BFO service region.
- Align with at least one BFO grant pillar.
- Operate as a nonprofit, governmental entity, or a school.
- Not compete with services offered by Deaconess Memorial Medical Center.
Next Steps
- Review our Grant Priority Pillars and Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Framework.
- Submit your Letter of Intent (LOI) application during the open window.
- If invited, complete the Full Application via our grant portal.
- Finalists present a project overview in-person.
- Award decisions are made by the BFO Board of Directors.