Lilly Foundation Open Call 2026: Grant Funding for Global Health, STEM Education, and Economic Mobility Programs @Unknown

The Eli Lilly and Company Foundation (Lilly Foundation) has officially launched its 2026 Open Call for Applications, providing funding opportunities for eligible charitable organizations working to improve health outcomes, strengthen education pathways, and expand economic opportunities for underserved communities.

Through its annual charitable grants program, the Lilly Foundation supports nonprofit organizations whose missions align with its strategic focus areas of Global Health, K-12 STEM Education, and Economic Mobility. The Foundation seeks to fund impactful initiatives that address pressing social challenges while creating sustainable opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive.

Organizations with innovative programs that improve healthcare access, strengthen STEM learning pathways, or enhance workforce and economic opportunities are encouraged to submit a pre-application during the 2026 funding cycle.

About the Lilly Foundation

Established in 1968, the Eli Lilly and Company Foundation was created to extend the charitable reach and social impact of Eli Lilly and Company.

The Foundation operates as a tax-exempt private foundation and supports charitable initiatives that align with its philanthropic mission of improving lives and strengthening communities.

Through strategic grantmaking, the Foundation partners with organizations that demonstrate measurable impact, innovation, and long-term sustainability.

Lilly Foundation Open Call 2026

The Lilly Foundation’s 2026 Open Call provides grant funding to eligible charitable organizations involved in initiatives that align with one or more of the Foundation’s core focus areas.

The Foundation is particularly interested in supporting programs that deliver meaningful outcomes for underserved and low-income communities while promoting long-term social and economic progress.

Funding Focus Areas

1. Global Health

The Global Health focus area supports charitable organizations working to improve access to quality healthcare services in resource-limited settings.

The Foundation aims to address healthcare disparities by supporting organizations that:

• Improve access to healthcare services
• Bring healthcare closer to underserved populations
• Strengthen healthcare delivery systems
• Address barriers to treatment and care
• Reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs)
• Improve health outcomes in vulnerable communities

Priority Areas

Particular priority may be given to charitable initiatives focused on:

• Cardiometabolic health
• Diabetes prevention and management
• Obesity prevention
• Cardiovascular health
• Healthcare system strengthening
• Community-based healthcare solutions

Geographic Scope

Programs may operate:

• In the United States
• In low-income countries
• In lower-middle-income countries

Organizations implementing innovative healthcare solutions in underserved settings are especially encouraged to apply.

2. K-12 STEM Education

The Foundation is committed to expanding educational opportunities for students from low-income communities through investments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

Program Objectives

Supported initiatives may focus on:

• STEM learning opportunities
• Educational equity
• Academic enrichment
• Career readiness
• STEM mentorship programs
• Teacher development
• Science and technology engagement

Target Population

The Foundation prioritizes students from low-income communities, particularly during:

• Middle school years
• Critical educational transition periods

Geographic Focus

This funding area specifically supports programs serving:

📍 Marion County, Indiana, USA

3. Economic Mobility

The Economic Mobility focus area seeks to increase opportunities for long-term prosperity and community well-being.

The Foundation supports organizations delivering programs that strengthen economic opportunity and improve quality of life for underserved populations.

Key Areas of Support

Eligible programs may focus on:

Workforce Readiness

• Skills training
• Career preparation
• Employment support services
• Professional development

Postsecondary Education Pathways

• College readiness
• Vocational training
• Technical education
• Skills-based learning programs

Housing Stability

• Housing support services
• Community development initiatives
• Programs promoting long-term stability

Geographic Focus

Funding under this category is directed toward organizations serving:

📍 Marion County, Indiana, USA

Additional Community Support Initiatives

Beyond the Open Call funding categories, the Lilly Foundation also contributes to community strengthening through:

Employee Giving Programs

Supporting charitable donations made by eligible Lilly employees.

Disaster Relief

Funding organizations involved in:

• Emergency response
• Humanitarian assistance
• Recovery efforts

Community Development

Supporting initiatives that address urgent local needs and strengthen community resilience.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants generally include:

• Registered nonprofit organizations
• Charitable organizations
• Community-based organizations
• Educational institutions
• Foundations
• Public charities
• Organizations recognized under relevant charitable regulations

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A clear charitable mission
• Alignment with Lilly Foundation priorities
• Strong organizational capacity
• Measurable program outcomes
• Sustainable implementation strategies

What Types of Projects May Be Competitive?

Organizations may be particularly competitive if they demonstrate:

Strong Community Impact

Programs that create measurable improvements in health, education, or economic outcomes.

Scalability

Solutions with the potential to expand and benefit larger populations.

Innovation

Creative approaches to addressing persistent social challenges.

Sustainability

Programs capable of generating long-term results beyond the grant period.

Equity and Inclusion

Initiatives designed to serve underserved and vulnerable populations.

Benefits of Receiving Lilly Foundation Funding

Successful organizations may benefit from:

• Financial support for program implementation
• Increased visibility and credibility
• Opportunities to expand impact
• Strengthened community partnerships
• Enhanced capacity for growth and innovation

As one of the world’s leading corporate foundations, Lilly Foundation support can help organizations scale proven solutions and improve outcomes for communities in need.

Application Process

The 2026 Open Call utilizes a pre-application process.

Organizations interested in seeking funding should review the program guidelines and frequently asked questions before submitting their application.

Applicants are encouraged to ensure their proposed activities align closely with one of the Foundation’s designated funding priorities.

Apply Here 

Important Dates

Pre-Application Opens

📅 1 June 2026

Pre-Application Deadline

📅 3 July 2026

Organizations are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid technical issues or last-minute complications.

Why Organizations Should Apply

The Lilly Foundation Open Call 2026 represents an important opportunity for nonprofit organizations working at the intersection of health, education, and economic opportunity.

With a strong emphasis on measurable impact, equity, and sustainable change, the Foundation seeks to partner with organizations that are creating lasting improvements in the lives of individuals and communities.

Whether your organization is expanding healthcare access in underserved regions, preparing young people for STEM careers, or helping families achieve economic stability, this funding opportunity may provide valuable support to advance your mission and amplify your impact.

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