Step into a learning experience that will shape how you lead and influence change.
Applications are now open for the 2026 class.
Deadline: October 31, 2025.
The Mutz Institute is Indiana’s premier leadership program for rising professionals in philanthropy, business, nonprofits, and public service. Since its founding, more than 200 leaders have advanced their careers and expanded their impact through this unique, cohort-based experience.
This cohort-based program provides a continuing education experience that prepares future leaders for board and executive roles at foundations and corporations serving communities across Indiana. Participants graduate ready to lead with confidence, perspective, and purpose.
What participants gain:
- A stronger voice in shaping Indiana’s philanthropic sector.
- Practical knowledge and tools for board and executive leadership.
- A powerful statewide network of peers committed to building thriving communities.
How the program strengthens Indiana philanthropy:
- Introducing new ideas and perspectives into community leadership.
- Supporting emerging leaders with professional growth and mentorship.
- Creating a diverse, connected network that reflects the communities we serve.
Mutz was instrumental in launching my career in philanthropy.
This institute has changed my life.
These new relationships are invaluable.
One of the best personal and professional experiences I have engaged.
An opportunity to be in the room with diverse thinkers and change-makers.
We are making life-changing connections!
The opportunity to learn from and collaborate with smart, thoughtful leaders from around the state was transformative.
The relationships that you build are amazing and career-altering.
What you thought about philanthropy before will be enriched and broadened.
A rare opportunity to build relations with leaders across the philanthropic spectrum.
I feel more prepared to make a larger impact.
Equipped me to be a better grantmaker.
A valuable investment for personal and organizational growth.
Highlights
- Face time with some of the most influential people in the state and across the nation, including those in economic development, community development, business, higher education, nonprofits, and politics.
- Real-talk on media pitches from Indianapolis Business Journal, IndyStar, Axios, Western Wayne News, Franklin College School of Journalism, and VOX Global.
- Big idea talks with CivicLab, Mission Investment Exchange, IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, AmPhil, Locus Lab, and Monitor Institute.
- Experts shed light on systems change, trust-based philanthropy, being data informed, impact investing, corporate social responsibility, and environment, social, and governance (ESG).
Support Future Participants
Financial constraints should not be barriers for participants. In collaboration with The Putnam County Community Foundation, Mutz Alums established an endowment for future participants. Please contribute today to ensure equitable access for decades to come at www.pcfoundation.org/donate-mutz.
About John M. Mutz
A trailblazer in both public service and philanthropy, John M. Mutz has helped shape Indiana, including the formation of IPA, through decades of leadership. Born in Indianapolis and educated at Northwestern University, Mutz served in the Indiana House and Senate, playing a key role in introducing the set of legislative reforms that came to be known as Unigov, the creation of IUPUI, and the White River Park Commission. As Indiana’s 45th Lieutenant Governor and later President of Lilly Endowment Inc. and chairman of the Lumina Foundation board of directors, Mutz consistently championed public-private partnerships that benefited Hoosiers statewide.