Bontrager Family Foundation Grant Program in Indiana

The Bontrager Family Foundation, housed within the Community Foundation of Elkhart County (CFEC), was established to carry forward the philanthropic legacy of Lloyd and Bertha Bontrager, founders of Jayco Inc. Prior to the establishment of the company, the Bontragers practiced tithing and donated to charitable causes, especially Mennonite educational and religious institutions and other community organizations. The foundation continues this legacy, using its fund to support local nonprofits with values that align with the Bontrager family's Christian faith and commitment to the Middlebury, Indiana community. The foundation focuses its funding on organizations that emphasize youth and family, operate within the Middlebury community, and align with Christian faith-based principles. Grants are restricted to organizations with 501(c)(3) status in the United States, with a preference for those serving Elkhart County. The foundation does not award grants to individuals, fundraisers, political or lobbying entities, or non-501(c)(3) organizations. Applications must be submitted online and are accepted biannually, with deadlines on May 31 and October 31. The application is designed to be brief and straightforward to encourage participation from organizations with limited grant-writing resources. The average grant awarded in 2022 was $12,500, with individual grants ranging from $1,500 to $30,000. Applicants may submit multiple applications, and any applications received after a deadline will be considered for the next funding cycle. Proposals are expected to be specific and project-focused rather than supporting general fundraising or large capital campaigns. Successful applications clearly outline the intended use of funds, the target population, and methods for measuring project success. Applicants are encouraged to include a project budget to illustrate how funds will be allocated and should also discuss plans for sustaining the project beyond the grant period, if applicable. The foundation does not place a cap on the number of applications an organization may submit. All applications are reviewed by the Bontrager family advisors and CFEC staff. Once decisions are made, the Community Foundation will communicate results to applicants. Email confirmations are sent upon receipt of applications. Contact for questions or more information is Carrie Berghoff, Chief Development Officer, at [email protected] or (574) 295-8761.