Best Boone County Grants for Nonprofits in Kentucky

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

Community Development Block Grant

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department for Local Government (DLG) administers approximately $26 million annually from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The CDBG program provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services. With the participation of their citizens, communities can devote these funds to a wide range of activities that best serve their own particular development priorities.

All project activities must meet at least one of three national objectives:

• Benefit to low and moderate income persons
• Prevention or elimination of slums or blight
• Meeting particularly urgent community development needs​

For the 2026 funding cycle, DLG will receive $25,988,523​ for distribution. Funds are designated for various program areas including Community Projects, Community Emergency Relief Fund, Economic Development, Housing, Public Facilities Public Services (Recovery Kentucky).​

Economic Development

The Economic Development Branch works to fund development activities that create or retain jobs principally benefiting low and moderate income (LMI) persons. Additional goals provide for the training and provision of human services that allow for the professional advancement of LMI persons. As part of the Commonwealth's allocation from the CDBG program, these projects have been allocated estimate with up to $1,000,000 of CDBG funding per community.

There are two areas of eligibility for CDBG Economic Development funding:

Traditional:

Provides grant assistance to communities for projects which specifically address the creation or retention of jobs through eligible activities. Funds can be provided to a community to use for specific business/industrial clients.

Non-Traditional:

Allows for the funding of eligible activities benefiting low and moderate income persons not directly related to job creation.

ArtsWave’s Circle Grants aim to promote and celebrate Black and African American arts experiences in the Cincinnati region. Established in 1927, ArtsWave raises funds to support diverse artistic expressions and drive social impact in the community. Eligible organizations must be non-profits with a majority of their expenditures dedicated to arts activities and be based in the Cincinnati-Middletown area. This initiative seeks to foster inclusivity and cultural heritage through innovative projects.

L3Harris Technologies is partnering with PLTW to inspire PreK-12 students in STEM fields by funding grants for schools to start or expand PLTW Engineering programs. With a total award of $15,000 available for the 2025-2026 academic year, this initiative focuses on public and charter schools in specific counties, especially those with high-need student populations. The program also includes requirements for grant reporting and allowable expenses to ensure effective use of funds.

Department for Local Government

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department for Local Government (DLG), under the Office of the Governor, provides financial help in the way of grant and loan assistance, as well as advising local governments in matters of budget, personnel and other issues relevant to those entities.​

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The Department for Local Government (DLG) administers approximately $26 million annually from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The CDBG program provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services. With the participation of their citizens, communities can devote these funds to a wide range of activities that best serve their own particular development priorities.

All project activities must meet at least one of three national objectives:

• Benefit to low and moderate income persons
• Prevention or elimination of slums or blight
• Meeting particularly urgent community development needs​

Funds are designated for various program areas including Community Projects, Community Emergency Relief Fund, Economic Development, Housing, Public Facilities, and Public Services (Recovery Kentucky).​

Public Services (Recovery Kentucky)

​​​​​CDBG Public Services funds, in the form of operational costs to support the Recovery Kentucky Program, will be made available in 2026 to existing Recovery Kentucky Substance Abuse Centers. These centers serve individuals who have a history of substance abuse, with an emphasis on the homeless, those at risk of becoming homeless and those referred by the judicial system.

ArtsWave's Young Professionals Grant Program supports innovative arts initiatives in the Cincinnati region. Since 1927, ArtsWave has empowered local organizations through funding, fostering creativity and cultural engagement. The grants, fueled by contributions from young professionals, aim to enhance community connections and stimulate the economy by backing projects that resonate with young audiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 designated and focus on arts and cultural activities within the Cincinnati-Middletown area.

Department for Local Government

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department for Local Government (DLG), under the Office of the Governor, provides financial help in the way of grant and loan assistance, as well as advising local governments in matters of budget, personnel and other issues relevant to those entities.​

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The Department for Local Government (DLG) administers approximately $26 million annually from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The CDBG program provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services. With the participation of their citizens, communities can devote these funds to a wide range of activities that best serve their own particular development priorities.

All project activities must meet at least one of three national objectives:

• Benefit to low and moderate income persons
• Prevention or elimination of slums or blight
• Meeting particularly urgent community development needs​

Funds are designated for various program areas including Community Projects, Community Emergency Relief Fund, Economic Development, Housing, Public Facilities, and Public Services (Recovery Kentucky).​

Public Facilities

​​​​​The Public Facilities Branch provides funding to primarily develop Kentucky's water and wastewater systems. As part of the Commonwealth's allocations from the CDBG program, these projects have been allocated an estimate of $8,834,662 with designated maximum amounts for treatment plants and lines/pumps and tanks of CDBG funding per community. Self-help grants (maximum amount of $300,000 per project) are funded under this branch.

Foundation Office at Fifth Third BankThe Foundation Office at Fifth Third Bank is committed to creating a meaningful impact on programs and initiatives that create strong, vibrant communities and provide pathways to opportunity. We aim to strategically align resources entrusted to us by connecting the needs of the community to private foundations. Grants for programming in education, historic preservation, the arts, environment and nature conservation, housing and food security, and community wellness are considered. Patricia Kisker Foundation GrantSupports organizations that benefit or serve children and educational, musical or arts organizations, as well as organizations which Ms. Kisker supported during her lifetime. 

Who We AreFor nearly a century, ArtsWave has been the primary way the Cincinnati region’s arts are funded.Each year, tens of thousands of individuals and companies give to ArtsWave. These gifts support more than 150 organizations, artists, and projects through funding, services, and advocacy.The arts attract national recognition and boost tourism. They help make our region a better place to live and work. They bring energy and pride to our neighborhoods. They inspire creativity in future leaders. Most importantly, they bring people together across cultural divides.Young Professionals Grant Program ArtsWave YP grants provide both seed funding to support the development of new programming, as well as existing programming with demonstrated impact in engaging young professionals. Grants are made possible by the donations of young professionals to the 2025 ArtsWave Community Campaign.This affinity group project grant is designed to provide seed funding to support the development of new programming or to enhance existing programs to engage this ever-expanding community in our region through connective and innovation engagement. 

The Duke Energy Foundation offers Local Impact Grants of up to $20,000 aimed at supporting vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and justice, equity, and inclusion in Kentucky. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve Duke Energy communities, focusing on workforce development, environmental projects, and initiatives promoting access to opportunities for underserved populations. The grants are open year-round, encouraging impactful projects that foster community improvement and sustainability.

The Catalyzing Impact Grant Program by ArtsWave aims to enhance community connections and economic vitality in Greater Cincinnati through arts and cultural heritage projects. This program encourages diverse programming aligned with the goals outlined in the Blueprint for Collective Action. Eligible projects can be new or existing, focusing on expanding impact by reaching new audiences or deepening existing initiatives, ultimately fostering a more vibrant arts landscape in the region.

Department for Local Government

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department for Local Government (DLG), under the Office of the Governor, provides financial help in the way of grant and loan assistance, as well as advising local governments in matters of budget, personnel and other issues relevant to those entities.​

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The Department for Local Government (DLG) administers approximately $26 million annually from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The CDBG program provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services. With the participation of their citizens, communities can devote these funds to a wide range of activities that best serve their own particular development priorities.

All project activities must meet at least one of three national objectives:

• Benefit to low and moderate income persons
• Prevention or elimination of slums or blight
• Meeting particularly urgent community development needs​

Funds are designated for various program areas including Community Projects, Community Emergency Relief Fund, Economic Development, Housing, Public Facilities, and Public Services (Recovery Kentucky).​

Housing Program

​​​​​The Housing program works to fund projects designed to develop decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The ArtsWave Pride Grant Program aims to foster inclusive arts experiences that resonate with the LGBTQIA community. By funding arts and cultural heritage projects, it seeks to enhance Cincinnati's reputation as an inclusive city. This program supports both the development of new creative initiatives and the operational needs of existing ones, encouraging projects that extend beyond traditional Pride celebrations. Applicants are urged to craft projects that align with these goals throughout the year.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Jean Griswold Foundation

The Jean Griswold Foundation (JGF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Caregivers through educational opportunities and scholarships. 

Our Mission

The mission of the Jean Griswold Foundation is to support Caregivers by providing educational scholarships* to enable them to further their training, enhance their careers, and better assist the clients they serve.

By offering educational scholarships*, our Foundation will not only make a positive impact on the Caregivers themselves, but also the clients they assist and the home healthcare agencies where they are employed, as well as help advance the overarching home-care industry.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the federally accredited educational institutions of the winning Scholars’ choosing.

Empowering Caregivers Through Education

The Jean Griswold Foundation Scholarship Program awards scholarships to deserving Caregivers who wish to further their education in a care-related field. Applicants do not have to be associated with Griswold in any way, and the funds will be paid directly to the institution where the caregiver will be receiving education.  

Our Winter 2026 Scholarship Application period is now open! Applications will be accepted until 11:59pm ET August 31, 2026. Join our email list to get the first notice of all Scholarship happenings.  

Where would we be without Caregivers? 

Their selflessness is astounding, yet they are often overlooked and underappreciated. 

The Jean Griswold Foundation is dedicated to supporting Caregivers, the backbone of the care industry. We provide educational scholarships so Care Professionals can further their training, enhance their skills, elevate their careers, and better assist the people they serve.

The altafiber Sponsorships and Donations Program is dedicated to enhancing community well-being by investing in initiatives that promote economic and social mobility. With a commitment to volunteerism and local partnerships, altafiber aims to give back to the communities where their employees and customers reside. This program exemplifies altafiber's mission to provide exceptional services while fostering positive change in the areas they serve, ensuring a lasting impact through strategic investments.

The Daniel and Susan Pfau Foundation, established in 1994, focuses on enhancing education, health, cultural experiences, and social welfare for youth with disabilities and economic challenges in the Greater Cincinnati area. It supports arts organizations and recreation initiatives, prioritizing programs that help young individuals realize their potential. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits and demonstrate benefits to specific counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. The Foundation encourages collaboration with other donors for project funding.

English Language Learning Foundation Incorporated

The English Learning Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in 2006 to assist English language learners. The mission of the ELL Foundation is to help English learners to become successful in their academic lives while honoring their cultural identities.

Our vision is to assist English learners in the Greater Cincinnati area so that students:

• Appreciate and are proud of their cultural identities;
• Receive the needed support service for their education;
• Graduate from high school and succeed in college;
• And serve their communities as role models.

ELL Foundation’s College Emergency Grant

The College Emergency Grant Program provides emergency assistance of up to $500 for Greater Cincinnati college/ university EL students who are experiencing temporary financial emergencies. The focus areas for the grants include: 

• Student food insecurity (meal plans are eligible)
• Student housing insecurity (student housing is eligible)
• Student transportation barriers (bus passes are eligible)
  • Note that all assistance will be disbursed to the University, and not the student.

Due to funding availability, grantees can only receive one emergency grant per academic year. The ELL Foundation will accept emergency grant applications at any time, but applications will be reviewed on a quarterly basis. 

English Language Learning Foundation Incorporated

The English Learning Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in 2006 to assist English language learners. The mission of the ELL Foundation is to help English learners to become successful in their academic lives while honoring their cultural identities.

Our vision is to assist English learners in the Greater Cincinnati area so that students:

• Appreciate and are proud of their cultural identities;
• Receive the needed support service for their education;
• Graduate from high school and succeed in college;
• And serve their communities as role models.

ELL Foundation’s Educational Event Grant Program

The ELL Foundation’s Educational Event Grant Program is intended to financially support co-curricular and curricular educational events for K-12 English learners in Greater Cincinnati. Community partners can request up to $2000 for an educational event. Due to funding availability, grantees can only receive one Educational Event Grant per calendar year. The ELL Foundation will accept Educational Event Grant applications at any time, but they will be reviewed on a quarterly basis. 

If you are interested in requesting funds for an educational event, please apply online. If you have any questions about the Educational Event Grant Program, please email the foundation.

The Wyler Family Foundation, founded in 2009, aims to support charitable initiatives in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. As a 501(c)(3) organization, it prioritizes requests that benefit local communities, ensuring that at least 50% of contributions are directed towards programs. The foundation does not fund athletic events, fundraising dinners, or scholarships, focusing instead on impactful community support. This commitment reflects the foundation's mission to enrich lives and foster community development.

Interact For Health

Our organization started in 1997, when ChoiceCare sold its health maintenance organization to Humana for $221 million. The proceeds were invested and The Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati was created, serving a 20-county region in Southwestern Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Southeastern Indiana. The foundation was charged with changing the way health care was delivered—especially for under-resourced communities.

Our mission is to ensure people in our region have a just opportunity to live their healthiest lives. Our Vision is focused on people in our region being healthy and thriving, regardless of who they are or where they live.

Interact For Health: Event Sponsorship

Interact for Health provides sponsorships as a way to support organizations within Greater Cincinnati with funding beyond our grantmaking work. Sponsorships are a competitive process, and funding is limited. We prioritize sponsoring events that serve our priority populations, align with our strategic plan, and benefit (and are located in) our 20-county service area.

In general, sponsorship opportunities are meant to benefit organizations that are not current grantees of Interact for Health. 

The L&L Nippert Charitable Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance the lives of residents in the Tri-State Area through cultural arts, education, environment, or health initiatives. Established in 1981, the foundation is committed to continuing the philanthropic legacy of Louis and Louise Nippert. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and demonstrate a clear benefit to the community. This grant aims to foster opportunities that align with the foundation's mission.

FC Cincinnati Foundation

FC Cincinnati is committed to leaving a legacy, creating something bigger than ourselves, and being the embodiment of a rising Cincinnati. Through our own programs and initiatives, and the support of key partners, we aim to improve the lives of children through the game of soccer and will continue to do our part to create an inclusive community.

FC Cincinnati Foundation’s mission is accomplished primarily through five key programs: Club Ambassadorship through In-School and Out-of-School Programming, Mini Pitch Soccer Builds, West End Pride and Learning Is Cool. These programs help promote and encourage strong academic performance, and serve as catalysts to reinforce character values and improved health for children in the Greater Cincinnati region. The Foundation also serves as FC Cincinnati’s philanthropic arm, making donations and investments to Cincinnati-area organizations that have similar goals and ambitions for the area’s youth.

Donation Request

Donations are a way for FC Cincinnati to give back to local non-profit's as they are hosting fundraisers and events. These donations include, but are not limited to FCC signed merchandise items, FCC apparel items, and on special occasion, tickets to matches. Donations allow FC Cincinnati to show up across the city and support causes that are important to our fans, allowing us to connect with fans in a way that is meaningful to them. These items allow non-profits to use the donation for fundraising efforts and supporting their organization to raise money for a specific cause.

The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund Grant, established by the L&L Nippert Charitable Foundation, aims to support organizations enhancing musical and cultural arts, education, environment, and health in the Tri-State Area. Eligible organizations must be verified 501(c)(3) charities and demonstrate their impact on local residents. The foundation continues the philanthropic legacy of Louis and Louise Nippert, focusing on community enrichment through the arts and education.

The Fifth Third Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations in the Greater Cincinnati area, focusing on education, arts, community development, and health services. It aims to enhance community vibrancy and provide opportunities, supporting various funding interests from several benefactors. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in Cincinnati, Dayton, or Northern Kentucky. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that empower women, support children, and promote environmental conservation, among other charitable purposes.

The Millstone Fund aims to foster a vibrant, equitable community in Greater Cincinnati by supporting nonprofit organizations focused on health, education, and arts. The fund prioritizes initiatives that promote innovation, capacity building, and collaborative efforts among organizations. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, with a commitment to inclusion and equity. Requests exceeding $50,000 require prior approval. The fund seeks to invest in organizations that demonstrate a clear plan for sustainability and impactful services.