The Lilly Endowment
Empowering Indiana’s Global Vision
Founded in 1937, the Lilly Endowment is a philanthropic powerhouse that has significantly contributed to the global awareness and development of the state of Indiana.
The Lilly Endowment was established over eight decades ago, as a way to carry on the Lilly Family tradition of generous public philanthropy. Since 1937, the Endowment has distributed over $12 billion in grants to more than 10,000 organizations across the country. But to this day, the foundation maintains a special commitment to supporting Eli Lilly’s hometown of Indianapolis.
As a non-partisan, non-profit organization, the Endowment stands as a beacon of local philanthropy and community service, ensuring a brighter future for all Hoosiers. Its mission has evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of each generation, but the Endowment still supports the same three causes: education, community development and religion. Through this work, the Lilly Endowment has been a driving force in the globalization of Indiana, elevating the state’s prominence on the national and international stage.
In fact, one of the Endowment’s most striking contributions to a more global Indiana has been investing in international education. Over the years, the Lilly Endowment has provided substantial support to numerous educational institutions, allowing them to expand their offerings and create a more globally-focused curriculum. By funding academic programs in international studies, the Endowment has empowered students across Indiana to understand and engage with the broader world.
This investment in education has not only enhanced the state’s intellectual capital but also opened doors for collaboration with international partners. In recent years, Indiana has become a popular destination for global researchers and industry innovators, attracting over $13.7 billion in foreign direct investment since 2017.
The Lilly Endowment has played a critical role in fostering this culture of innovation in Indiana by investing in key research projects. From university research grants to funds for the 16 Tech Innovation District, the Endowment has positioned Indiana as a center for technological advancement and a magnet for global entrepreneurs.
As part of this mission, the Lilly Endowment has also made a concentrated effort to promote cross-cultural understanding. The Endowment regularly provides funding for multicultural
events and non-profits that showcase Indiana’s diverse heritage. Whether they operate on a local, regional or statewide level, these community development initiatives help foster an environment where all cultures are valued and treated with respect.
This inclusive approach to philanthropy ensures that the Endowment’s contributions make Indiana a more vibrant and welcoming place to live—no matter one’s race, religion or background. In a world where interconnectedness is more critical than ever, the Lilly Endowment has not only made Indiana a more globally aware and engaged state, but also set an example for how philanthropy and community development can extend beyond borders.
Ultimately, this far-reaching impact is a testament to the Endowment’s enduring commitment to the state’s prosperity and well-being. Through its various grants and investments, the Lilly Endowment continues to leave an enduring legacy here in Indiana, enhancing the lives of Hoosiers across the state while elevating Indiana’s reputation as a global destination.
