Minnetrista Museum & Gardens Receives $5 Million Lilly Endowment Grant to Increase Organizational Capacity
Minnetrista’s Center Building
July 9, 2026
Media Contact: Lindsey Horan, President
E-mail: lhoran@minnetrista.net
Tel: 765.287.3537
MUNCIE, Ind. — Minnetrista Museum & Gardens has been awarded a $5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to support transformational capacity-building projects that will strengthen the museum's facilities, expand access to its collections, enhance visitor experiences, and preserve some of its most treasured historic spaces.
The funding will be invested over the next three years and will support a wide range of initiatives designed to ensure Minnetrista continues serving East Central Indiana as a vibrant cultural destination for generations to come.
“We are grateful to Lilly Endowment for this extraordinary grant, which will boost the efforts of our staff, volunteers, and supporters to make Minnetrista a world-class destination that everyone can enjoy,” said Brian Statz, Minnetrista’s CEO.
Among the projects funded through the grant are:
• Installation of fire suppression systems in museum collections and archival storage areas to better protect irreplaceable historical artifacts.
• Completion of the design and build-out of a planned Bob Ross Traveling Exhibition, expanding opportunities to share the legacy of one of Indiana's most beloved artists with audiences across the country.
• Improvements to pathways, lighting and other infrastructure throughout the historic Oakhurst Gardens, creating a safer and more accessible experience for visitors.
• Restoration of the iconic Colonnade garden, which sustained damage during a severe storm in late 2022.
Minnetrista is one of 12 Indiana art museums selected to receive a grant through Lilly Endowment's initiative to help museums strengthen and enhance their ability to contribute to the cultural vibrancy of their communities and regions.
Path in Oakhurst Gardens
Mary Lincoln Cottage and L.L. Ball Home
The grant reflects Minnetrista's ongoing commitment to preserving Indiana's cultural heritage while creating engaging, accessible experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
“This generous investment will be nothing short of transformational for us,” said Lindsey Horan, Minnetrista’s President. “We are honored to be recognized in this way and are excited to begin making critical improvements across campus that will strengthen Minnetrista for decades to come."
Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is your year-round gathering place! Born out of the Ball family legacy, Minnetrista connects people, encourages engagement, and improves our community. There is always something new to discover at Minnetrista—from beautiful gardens and unique events to interactive exhibitions and engaging workshops. Whether you're exploring local history, enjoying hands-on activities, or discovering new art, every adventure is fun, educational, and inspiring. Minnetrista is a place where learning and creativity come together, offering something for everyone to enjoy. For more information, visit www.minnetrista.net.
Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly and his sons, Eli and J.K. Jr., through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. While those gifts remain the financial bedrock of the Endowment, the Endowment is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with its founders' wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education, and religion. The Endowment funds programs throughout the United States, especially in the field of religion, and maintains a special commitment to its founders' hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana. For more information, visit www.lillyendowment.org.
