HAND among beneficiaries of Merchants Bank’s efforts to secure $200K in housing grants

Carmel-based Merchants Bank is celebrating securing $200,000 total in grants through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (FHLBI) Community Multiplier – Member Match Program. The grants will support RDOOR Housing Corporation, Coburn Place, and Hamilton County Area Neighborhood Development Inc. (HAND) enabling them to continue their vital work in providing affordable housing and community services for low-income individuals in the Indianapolis metro area.

The Community Multiplier – Member Match program is FHLBI’s newest program offering, designed to support targeted affordable housing initiatives that fall outside of FHLBI’s other grant programs. Community Multiplier offers grants between $25,000 and $125,000 for non-profit organizations headquartered in Indiana or Michigan who partner with an FHLBI member financial institution on targeted affordable housing initiatives. With a 10 percent matching funds commitment from the member financial institution, FHLBI has allocated $5 million in total grant proceeds.

The program opened March 27, 2025, and all funds have been exhausted.

“We are thrilled to secure funding for these local housing nonprofits and uplift their missions in creating affordable housing opportunities for individuals in need,” Merchants Bank President and CEO Mike Dunlap said. “These organizations hold deep significance to our team at Merchants Bank, and we are honored to continue their work as they provide meaningful solutions to those experiencing housing challenges.”

HAND, based in Noblesville, is dedicated to expanding affordable housing options in Hamilton, Boone, and Tipton counties. The organization develops and manages affordable rental properties, assists residents in obtaining homeownership, and advocates for housing options where everyone can thrive, owning more than 150 affordable housing units across the three counties.

Coburn Place is a greater Indianapolis nonprofit dedicated to providing ongoing support and secure housing to survivors of domestic violence and those battling homelessness. Founded in 1996, Coburn Place directly connects community members and their children with safe housing first while also offering both parents and children healing services aimed at ending the cycle of abuse and restoring hope.

To learn more about Merchants Bank, visit BankMerchants.com.