The Benjamin H. Smyser Foundation offers annual grant funding to support a broad range of charitable causes, with a primary focus on serving the Fort Wayne, Indiana area. While the Foundation does not impose strict geographic limitations, its giving history reflects a strong preference for organizations located in or providing services to Indiana residents. Grants are made to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and may support initiatives in the fields of arts and culture, education, environment and animal welfare, health, human services, public benefit, and religion.

The Foundation typically awards three grants per year, with an average grant size ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. Annual total giving usually falls between $20,000 and $30,000. The Foundation reviews applications submitted by the May 1 deadline at its June annual meeting, and grant decisions are generally communicated during the summer months.

Applications are accepted year-round but must be submitted by May 1 to be eligible for consideration in the current grant cycle. Submissions are made through the Foundation’s online platform, and applicants receive an automated confirmation email upon successful submission.

Awardees may be required to submit periodic progress updates and a final report documenting the project’s impact and use of funds. Grant funding is discretionary, and the Foundation reserves the right to determine the scope and size of each award.