Registration Now Open for Fall 2026 Nonprofit Program Series; Launches September 5 at Central Library

Indianapolis, Indiana - The Indianapolis Public Library invites the community to learn how to build a nonprofit organization via a series of free, in-person workshops covering a variety of nonprofit management topics.

The Fall 2026 Nonprofit Series begins Sept. 5 and runs through Oct. 10, but registration opens in August. The series, led by local nonprofit experts, will cover essential topics including starting a 501(c)(3) organization, building an effective board of directors, strategic planning, fundraising, volunteer recruitment, program development, and writing successful grant proposals. These sessions will be led by librarians on the Library's nonprofit team at Central Library.

“Indiana’s nonprofit community plays a role in strengthening our neighborhoods and economy, employing about 10% of the state’s workforce,” said Divya Pathak, public services librarian with The Indianapolis Public Library and part of the Library’s nonprofit team. “Whether someone is launching a new organization or looking to build a stronger foundation for an existing one, this workshop series provides practical guidance from experienced professionals. We hope participants leave with the knowledge, resources, and connections they need to create lasting impact in their communities.”

“Our 2025–27 Strategic Plan recognizes that thriving nonprofits are key partners in creating a stronger, more equitable Indianapolis,” said Gregory A. Hill Sr., MLS, MSM, CEO of The Indianapolis Public Library. “This series reflects our commitment to equipping nonprofit leaders with practical tools that help organizations grow and serve their communities.”

The Fall 2026 Nonprofit Series was made possible by the Meridian Foundation through gifts to The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.

Walk-ins welcome, but registration is preferred. The schedule can be found below or online at indypl.org/nonprofit.

Fall 2026 Nonprofit Program Series:

Intro to Candid Search: Navigating Grants - Saturday, September 5 - 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Developing an Effective Board of Directors - Saturday, September 5: 2 - 4 p.m. - Central Library

Financial Management for Nonprofits: Accounting, Tax & Board Reporting - Saturday, September 12: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Central Library

Starting a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization - Saturday, September 12: 2 – 4 p.m. - Central Library

Volunteer Recruitment, Retention, and More - Wednesday, September 16: 2 - 4 p.m. - Central Library

Fearless Asking: How to Build an Individual Giving Program - Saturday, September 19: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Central Library

Is Your Program Making a Difference? A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Your Program's Impact - Saturday, September 19: 2 - 4 p.m. - Central Library

Evidence-based Research for Grant Proposals - Wednesday, September 23: 2 - 4 p.m. - Central Library

Planning Effective Programs - Saturday, September 26: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Michigan Road Branch - Central Library

Successful Grant Proposals - Fall 2026 Nonprofit Series - Saturday, September 26: 1:30 - 4 p.m. - Michigan Road Branch - Central Library

Strategic Planning for Nonprofits - Saturday, October 3: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Central Library

Successful Grant Proposals - Saturday, October 03: 1:30 - 4 p.m. - Central Library

Ask-Me-Anything: Answers to Nonprofit Legal Questions - Monday, October 05: 6 - 8 p.m. - Central Library

Campaign 101: Planning for a Successful Fundraising Campaign - Wednesday, October 07: 2 - 4 p.m. - Central Library

Storytelling That Inspires Investment - Saturday, October 10: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Central Library

Mission Amplified: Marketing Smarter to Fundraise Stronger - Saturday, October 10: 2 - 4 p.m. - Central Library

Media Contact: Keshia McEntire, media@indypl.org