The IndyGo Foundation marked Transit Equity Day 2026 with over 15,500 free rides, record-breaking grant awards to 136 nonprofit partners, and a community celebration at the Eiteljorg Museum.
On February 4, 2026, the IndyGo Foundation joined communities across the nation in celebrating Transit Equity Day, honoring the 111th birthday of Rosa Parks. The day marked a powerful reminder that transportation is not just about mobility—it's about dignity, access, and opportunity.
Free Fare Day Reaches Thousands
Thanks to the generous sponsorship of OneAmerica Financial Foundation, all IndyGo riders enjoyed free fare throughout the day. More than 15,500 free rides were provided, connecting Indianapolis residents to work, healthcare, education, and daily life.
Record-Breaking Grant Awards
In its fifth year of awarding bus fare grants to nonprofits, IndyGo Foundation distributed fare to the largest number of organizations yet. 136 nonprofit partners received grants to improve mobility for those who rely on transit the most—including 36 first-time grantees.
Since the program began in 2021, IndyGo Foundation, in partnership with IndyGo and Mobility Access Fund donors, has awarded a total of $1.68 million in transit fare to local nonprofits.
Community Celebration at the Eiteljorg Museum
Nearly 200 people gathered at the Eiteljorg Museum for a celebration that brought together grantee organizations, donors, and community leaders. This year's theme centered on transportation funding and featured presentations by IndyGo Foundation and IndyGo leadership, as well as a panel discussion with local philanthropic leaders.
Voices from the Community
"Transit is essential. It is the backbone of a thriving city," said Jennifer Pyrz, President & CEO of IndyGo. "Without the ability to get to work, school, doctor's appointments, or even the grocery store, mobility becomes a barrier to simply living your life."
Dr. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, Founding Dean of Founder's College at Butler University, highlighted the impact on education: "When you hear about students with some college credit and no degree, it's not because they're not smart enough. It's because life got in the way—and for 57% of them, it's transportation."
Shannon Jenkins, Vice President of Impact at United Way of Central Indiana, emphasized the foundational nature of transit: "All of the basic essential needs we talk about are grounded in transportation access. It sits at the epicenter."
Looking Ahead
"Transit equity will not be achieved by one organization, one funder, or one policy," said Emily Meaux, Executive Director of IndyGo Foundation. "It will be shaped by the everyday choices we make about what transit options we value and are willing to support together."
The IndyGo Foundation continues to work toward a future where transportation is treated as shared community infrastructure—where everyone in Indianapolis can move freely to reach jobs, healthcare, education, and opportunity.
Thank You to Our Donors
The 2025-26 Bus Fare Grants were made possible by the generous support of The Brave Heart Foundation, Glick Philanthropies, JD Finish Line Foundation, Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust, Nicholas H. Noyes Jr. Memorial Foundation, and Scales Family Foundation.
To learn more about how you can support equitable transit access in Indianapolis, visit our Sponsorship page or contact us.