We Love Supporting Bold, Innovative Entrepreneurs.

The Fortitude Fund was formed to stimulate the growth of entrepreneurial companies in Northeast Indiana. That starts with you.

This is what we are looking for.

Big & Bold
Thinking.

We look for founders or early-stage ventures that have growth potential. Since we want to move the needle on regional economic growth, we prefer founders who have a plan for growth.

Skin in the
Game.

Those who are actively engaging their customers (or ideally making sales) or building a product or a prototype. We are much less likely to approve a grant for a founder who is waiting for $1,000 before they start doing anything.

Community Engagement.

We look for founders who engage with the Fortitude Community. That could be by attending Fortitude events, following and being actively engaged in our social media or online community, and more.

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What if I’m a student?

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We recognize the differences between school age and adult founders. Sometimes you may only be able to afford to talk with potential customers, not sell to them. In any case, there is always some action you can take to move a venture forward. We respect action and effort that is appropriate to an individual’s situation. Adult founders have more resources available than school age founders, so we expect more from them.

We know that you may feel you need a little more time and help to be prepared to apply. This is common and you are not alone. That’s why our mantra is “Community, Mentors, Money”. We urge you to join us at events where you can learn from your peers and mentors. You will know when it feels right!

What if I need more time?

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What if I’m a non-profit?

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We love nonprofits! All of our community and mentor resources are available to nonprofit entrepreneurs, however our grants are reserved for for-profit businesses.

If you apply and do not receive a grant, don’t despair! Less than 50% of applicants receive grants (we simply can’t give grants to everyone who applies.)

We encourage you to reapply after six months and engage with our community in the meantime!

What if I don’t receive a grant?

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