The Kicking The Stigma Action Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations working in the mental health sector by providing financial assistance for programs and projects that align with five key focus areas. These grants are designed to enhance the accessibility, quality, and reach of mental health initiatives, particularly for underserved communities. The program consists of two types of grants: the Legacy Action Grant, which is offered by invitation only to organizations selected by Kicking The Stigma for strategic engagement, and the Community Action Grant, which is open for applications from eligible organizations.

The Community Action Grant allows organizations to apply for up to $25,000 per grant cycle for projects fitting into one of the five designated focus areas. These areas include Behavioral Health Workforce Development, Equitable Access to Treatment and Resources, Grassroots Peer-to-Peer Programming, Awareness and Anti-Stigma Initiatives, and Youth Mental Health. The grant supports programs that either expand mental health services, remove barriers to treatment, advocate for mental health awareness, or enhance the behavioral health workforce. Special consideration is given to initiatives that focus on youth, particularly those connected to youth sports.

Eligible applicants must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit or a government-equivalent entity that operates within the state of Indiana. The proposed programs must employ evidence-based or evidence-informed mental health practices. Applicants must submit an itemized budget outlining how the grant funds will be utilized. However, applications requesting funding for general fundraising activities, administrative expenses, or website and app development are not eligible.

The application process begins with an interest form submission. Only organizations that are selected through this initial screening will be invited to proceed with the full grant application process. Interest form applications for the current cycle will close on Friday, February 28. Organizations are allowed to submit their application to only one of the five focus areas per grant cycle.

Grant applications will be evaluated based on their alignment with Kicking The Stigma’s priority areas, the demonstrated impact of the proposed program, sustainability beyond grant funding, and the organization’s ability to effectively implement and manage the initiative. Programs that show clear and measurable benefits to mental health care access and awareness, especially within underserved communities, will be given priority.

The funding provided through the Kicking The Stigma Community Action Grant aims to support meaningful, community-driven mental health initiatives that contribute to reducing stigma, increasing treatment access, and expanding the capacity of behavioral health services in Indiana. Organizations interested in applying should carefully review the eligibility requirements and ensure their proposed programs align with the stated focus areas.