Grant Readiness Checklist
Is your nonprofit ready to apply—and win?
✅ Organizational Essentials
We have a clear mission and measurable goals.
Our organization is a registered 501(c)(3) or eligible entity.
Our board of directors is active and supports fundraising efforts.
We have an up-to-date strategic or program plan.
✅ Financial Preparedness
We have a current operating budget (organization-wide).
We can produce a project-specific budget and narrative.
We have a system for tracking expenses and reporting.
Our most recent IRS Form 990 or financial statement is available.
We can clearly show how grant funds will be spent.
✅ Program Readiness
We have clear program objectives, outcomes, and deliverables.
We can demonstrate community need for the program.
We have data, testimonials, or case studies to back our impact.
We can articulate our theory of change or logic model.
✅ Administrative Capacity
We have a designated staff or consultant to manage grants.
We have policies for procurement, compliance, and recordkeeping.
We understand the funder’s requirements for reporting, evaluation, and audits.
We have tools or systems to track grant deadlines and deliverables.
✅ Competitive Edge
We’ve researched funders who align with our mission.
We can tailor our language and outcomes to fit funder priorities.
We’ve partnered with a grant writer or expert who understands public funding (if applying for government grants).
We have letters of support or community endorsements.
Bonus Tip: If applying for government funding…
We have a SAM.gov registration and UEI number (formerly DUNS).
We understand allowable vs. unallowable costs.
We’ve reviewed federal or state funding guidelines in full.
Final Score:
18–20 boxes checked? You’re grant-ready—let’s go!
12–17? You’re almost there—some prep will strengthen your chances.
Below 12? Let’s pause and build your foundation first (we can help!).
CALL to ACTION📢 Senate Changes to HB1001 Undermine Health First Indiana’s Flexibility and Impact
The Indiana Senate has released its version of House Bill 1001, maintaining a $100 million annual allocation for local public health. While the funding amount remains unchanged, the Indiana Public Health Association (IPHA) has serious concerns about several key amendments that significantly reduce the flexibility, stability, and practicality of Health First Indiana (HFI) dollars for local health departments.
These changes come at a time when local health systems need more support—not more restrictions—to meet the evolving needs of Hoosiers. Here are the most significant changes:
1. Stricter Spending Requirements
The bill changes the required allocation of state dollars from a 60/40 split—60% for preventive services and 40% for regulatory activities—to a more rigid 90/10 split, prioritizing preventive services. While we support strong preventive care, this shift may hamper essential regulatory functions like food safety inspections and environmental health oversight.
Counties may still use their local matching funds for regulatory activities, but the limitation on state funds could burden under-resourced counties that rely heavily on HFI dollars.
(See Page 117, line 36; Page 118, line 6)
2. Elimination of Key Services
The Senate version removes Tobacco Prevention and Cessation and Emergency Preparedness from the list of core services that can be supported with HFI funding.
These are foundational public health services. Removing them undermines efforts to prevent chronic disease and prepare for public health emergencies—both of which have major implications for community well-being and safety.
(See Page 117, lines 39 & 47)
3. Restrictive Citizenship Language
The bill introduces a new requirement that HFI funds can only be used for Indiana residents who are legal U.S. citizens.
This restriction may create barriers to care for immigrant and refugee populations and runs counter to public health principles of serving all people within a community to reduce the spread of illness and improve outcomes for everyone.
(See Page 119, line 31)
Now Is Not the Time to Restrict Local Health Funding
These changes limit local public health departments’ ability to serve their communities effectively. Instead of adding bureaucratic constraints, Indiana needs flexible, stable, and practical funding that allows counties to tailor services to local needs.
Take Action: Contact Your Legislators Today
We urge you to contact your state legislators and share your concerns. Use the attached talking points to advocate for a stronger, more adaptable public health system that puts the health of all Hoosiers first.
Find your legislators here: Indiana General Assembly Legislator Finder
Together, we can ensure that Health First Indiana lives up to its promise—supporting healthy communities across our state without unnecessary restrictions.
Indiana Public Health Update: What’s Happening Across the State (April 2025)
At Public Health Connect, we believe informed communities are stronger communities. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, health professional, or community advocate, staying in the loop on the latest public health trends and policies helps us all plan smarter and serve better.
Here’s what’s happening in Indiana public health right now.
🦠 Measles Case Confirmed in Allen County
Indiana recently confirmed its first measles case of 2025—a child in Allen County who was unvaccinated. This comes during a broader national uptick, with more than 640 measles cases reported in 22 states so far this year. State health officials are encouraging families to check their vaccination records and ensure children are up to date on the MMR vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing infection (Axios).
💰 Health First Indiana Sees Budget Changes
The Health First Indiana initiative, launched to support local health departments, was originally funded at $225 million. In the upcoming budget cycle, that funding is expected to decrease by $25 million. Lawmakers are also exploring adjustments in how local health departments can use these funds. Conversations are ongoing about how to balance community health needs with responsible budgeting (Daily Journal).
Email us today to tell us the ways HFI Funding is being used in your county!
Owner@publichealthconnect.net
📉 Drug Overdose Deaths Decline
There’s some encouraging news: Indiana saw a notable decline in drug overdose deaths in 2023. The rate dropped from 41 to 34.2 deaths per 100,000 people, according to state data. Experts cite greater access to naloxone and more connectedness post-pandemic as contributing factors. While challenges remain, this is a hopeful trend for communities working hard to reduce substance-related harm (Axios).
🏥 Health Gaps Between Counties
The latest County Health Rankings highlight an ongoing reality: not all Hoosiers have the same health outcomes. Marion County continues to face higher health risks and lower life expectancy than many neighboring counties. Meanwhile, Hamilton County ranks among the healthiest in the nation. These disparities remind us of the ongoing need for investment in access, prevention, and community-driven solutions (Axios).
🏛️ Hospital Billing and Nonprofit Oversight
A bill under discussion in Indiana’s legislature would revoke tax-exempt status from nonprofit hospitals that charge patients more than 200% of Medicare rates. Supporters of the bill say it’s designed to ensure hospitals receiving tax benefits also provide affordable care. The proposal follows public concern over billing practices at some large health systems, and it has sparked statewide dialogue on healthcare affordability (The Guardian).
Final Thought
Public health is always evolving, and Indiana communities continue to adapt, innovate, and respond. Whether it’s protecting kids through vaccination, expanding access to care, or navigating new funding landscapes, staying informed helps us all work better—together.
Want help navigating public health policy, funding, or community initiatives? Text us! 317-702-0139. We’d love to support your work.
5 Practical Tips for Nonprofits Trying to Do It All (Without Burning Out)
Hey there, nonprofit rockstars. We see you—juggling programs, grant deadlines, fundraising asks, spreadsheets, community events, and about 73 other things that weren’t in your original job description.
At Public Health Connect, we work with nonprofits of all sizes, and no matter the mission, one thing holds true: you’re trying to do a whole lot with a little. So here are 5 tips to help you protect your mission and your sanity while making real impact.
1. Focus on What Only You Can Do
It’s tempting to try and handle everything. But truthfully? Some things can (and should) be delegated. Ask yourself: What’s the one thing only I can do for this organization right now?
Outsource grant research, automate your email responses, or bring in a consultant for short-term strategy. Freeing up your energy for mission-critical work isn’t just smart—it’s sustainable.
2. Turn Your Events into Assets
Events can be draining—but they’re also opportunities. Instead of one-time gatherings, think about how each event can be leveraged for:
Community partnerships
Internships
Fundraising follow-ups
Content creation (photos, videos, testimonials)
Even better? Look for free or low-cost event spaces (yes, they exist—we offer one through Skyline!) to keep your budget in check.
3. Don’t Chase Every Grant
We get it: every grant looks like a lifeline. But applying for the wrong ones can waste time, drain your staff, and risk mission creep. Build a clear funding strategy:
Prioritize funders aligned with your long-term vision
Create a grant calendar to track deadlines
Repurpose proposal content strategically
Remember, not every dollar is worth the cost.
4. Measure What Matters
Data doesn’t have to be scary—it’s your friend. But instead of tracking 40 metrics, choose 3–5 that really reflect your mission’s success. For example:
Number of people served
Client satisfaction scores
Program completion rates
These numbers make storytelling stronger and funders more confident.
5. Invest in Your People
Your team is your organization. Whether it’s professional development, mental health days, or bringing in support for HR and onboarding—investing in your staff creates ripple effects in your programs, partnerships, and impact.
And if you’re a team of one? You still count. Rest is productive. Boundaries are leadership. You’re building something that matters.
Final Thought
You don’t have to do it all alone—and you shouldn’t have to. Whether it’s a partner in strategy, someone to guide your next grant cycle, or just a fresh set of eyes on your budget, we’re here when you need us.
You’re doing important work. Let’s make sure you’re resourced to keep doing it well.