Best Bracken County Grants for Nonprofits in Kentucky

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).​

Community Projects

​The Community program is designed to provide funds for community development projects that address human service needs, such as senior centers, crisis centers, fire stations and facilities that provide services to low-income persons. As part of the Commonwealth's allocation from the CDBG program, these projects have been allocated with the maximum amount of $8​50,000 of CDBG funding per community.

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.

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.

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.

Our Club

Club 17 Description

The Rotary Club of Cincinnati is the preeminent professional service organization for men and women. Club 17’s service to others focuses on children with disabilities in the Tri-state area through its partnerships with Stepping Stones/Camp Allyn, the Roselawn Condon School and other outreach efforts. The Rotary Club of Cincinnati also supports the global effort to eradicate polio worldwide through Rotary International’s End Polio Now program. We are the 17th oldest Rotary Club worldwide (formed in 1910) and have over 300 members.

A second century of engaged leaders making an impact on our club, community, and the world.

Providing selfless service in the community and the world through involved and engaged members.

Grants

The Rotary Foundation of Cincinnati provides the funding and resources necessary to support the diverse humanitarian efforts of The Rotary Club of Cincinnati. Its primary goal is to support children, particularly those whose future development is impaired by physical, cultural, emotional, financial and social obstacles. To accomplish this goal, The Rotary Foundation of Cincinnati actively solicits and awards grants to non-profit organizations.

The Northern Kentucky Creative Placemaking Grant, provided by ArtsWave, aims to enhance arts and cultural heritage projects in Northern Kentucky. This grant supports programming that aligns with ArtsWave's Blueprint for Collective Action, fostering economic vitality and community connection. Eligible projects can receive up to $10,000, with a 1:1 match requirement. The focus is on increasing engagement in the arts, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and enhancing neighborhood vibrancy, particularly in underserved areas.

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 Dermody Properties Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community well-being through support for the arts, education, and families, particularly children and the elderly. Established in 1988, the foundation has provided over $3.65 million in donations to various nonprofits, including grants and scholarships. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and be located within 30 miles of Dermody's projects. Grants typically range from $500 to $3,000, reflecting a commitment to corporate philanthropy.

The Inspire Artist Grants, funded by ArtsWave and the City of Cincinnati, aim to support under-represented artists in the Greater Cincinnati Region. These grants provide resources for creating impactful artwork that reflects the lived experiences of Black and Brown communities. Emerging artists can apply for up to $5,000, while practicing artists can receive up to $10,000. Successful applicants will showcase their projects in July 2026 and engage in a supportive artist cohort.

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.

The LG&E and KU Foundation Community Grants support initiatives focused on economic development, education, environmental excellence, and diversity. The foundation prioritizes programs that empower communities, enhance educational opportunities, and promote inclusion. Organizations can apply for one award per year, ensuring dedicated support for impactful projects. This commitment strengthens community ties and fosters a better quality of life for residents.

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 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.

The Plant for the Planet Grants, funded by the Lg&E and Ku Foundation, provide $500 to $5,000 for tree-planting projects across urban, suburban, and rural areas. This initiative encourages nonprofits and local governments within the service territory to enhance their tree-planting efforts. With an annual budget of $75,000, the program aims to support sustainable environmental practices in line with global tree-planting campaigns. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a history of successful projects and comply with utility line regulations.

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. 

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.

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. 

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 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.

The Rural Changemaker RFP by Interact for Health aims to enhance health and well-being in rural areas across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. With funding ranging from $10,000 to $70,000, the initiative targets grassroots projects that address vital health conditions. This year, a total of $600,000 is available for organizations that serve at least one of Interact for Health’s rural counties. The grant duration is between 12 to 18 months, fostering community-driven solutions.

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.