Established by Nicholas H. Noyes and his wife, Marguerite Lilly Noyes, the foundation honors their son Nicholas Noyes, Jr., aiming to support charitable organizations and educational institutions primarily within the greater Indianapolis area. It focuses on improving arts and culture, education, health and human services, civic and community service, and religion, reflecting the interests and geographical connections the founders and board members hold dear.
The grant program by the Noyes Foundation directs its efforts towards charitable organizations and education institutions that benefit the residents of the greater Indianapolis area, notably focusing on Marion County. It aims to support a broad spectrum of causes, including arts and culture, education, health and human services, civic and community service, and religious initiatives. The foundation is open to funding program support, general operating support, capital funds, and scholarships, while it refrains from granting endowments or multi-year requests. Eligible organizations can apply for funding once per calendar year, aligning with the foundation's ongoing commitment to the specified areas of interest and geographical preferences.