Lilly Endowment Inc. was founded in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. for the “promotion and support of religious, educational or charitable purposes.” Throughout its history, the Endowment has sought to nurture the human spirit, intellect and character.

Lilly Endowment Inc., headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, is one of the world's largest private philanthropic foundations and among the largest endowments in the United States.

View Lilly Endowment initiatives open to eligible organizations that support work within one of the Endowment’s three main areas of focus: community development, religion and education and youth.

L illy Endowment Inc. is a private philanthropic foundation based in Indianapolis. The Endowment was created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons – Eli and J.K. Jr. – through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company.

Founded in 1937 by three descendants of Col. Eli Lilly, Lilly Endowment grew to become one of the nation’s foremost philanthropic institutions. From the start, the Endowment focused its giving to a large degree in Indianapolis and Indiana.

Nov 26, 2024 · INDIANAPOLIS – Lilly Endowment Inc. has awarded grants to 33 museums, libraries, historic sites and other organizations across the United States to develop exhibitions and education programs and...

Aug 3, 2024 · The Lilly Endowment Inc. has announced it’s awarded more than $300 million to 13 colleges and universities in Indiana. The funds will be used to support projects developed by the institutions...

Dec 22, 2019 · INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment is now the nation's second-largest private charitable foundation, trailing only the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, a new analysis has found.

Jan 10, 2024 · Purdue University announced on Tuesday that Lilly Endowment is giving it grants totaling $100 million for two separate university initiatives. The commitment represents the largest private...

Lilly Endowment Inc. has awarded grants to 20 organizations across the United States to provide resources to help churches in rural areas and small towns enhance the vitality of their ministries and strengthen the leadership of the pastors and lay leaders who guide them.