Best Workforce Grants in Kansas

Kansas workforce and education entities with established registered apprenticeship programs can access funding to expand workforce preparation and job readiness efforts in Kansas. Kansas organizations such as Joint Apprenticeship Training Councils, state educational institutions, businesses, nonprofits, and workforce boards may receive up to US $100,000 from the Kansas Department of Commerce to grow high-demand apprenticeships, including staffing, marketing, and training equipment.

Nonprofit organizations building pathways out of poverty through education, job training, or workforce readiness in Kansas can access funding and intensive capacity-building support. Arbor Brothers supports workforce preparation and job readiness with unrestricted, multi-year grants of US $125,000 - US $175,000 per year plus consulting, for 501(c)(3)s (or fiscally sponsored groups) meeting its budget and staffing criteria.

Focused on healthcare workforce development, Patterson Family Foundation invites Kansas rural 501(c)(3) organizations, school districts, and government entities to strengthen critical healthcare roles. Eligible programs support education, licensure, recruitment, and retention of healthcare professionals in rural communities within the foundation’s Kansas catchment and may advance local workforce preparation and job readiness efforts.

Nonprofit organizations planning capital campaigns or major projects that support workforce preparation, job readiness, or related community development in Kansas can apply for First National Bank of Omaha’s capital or major donations. Funding supports construction, renovation, or other large-scale initiatives within FNBO’s focus areas, which include education, workforce development, and community health and wellbeing.

Kansas 501(c) and 170(c) organizations focused on workforce preparation, job readiness, or related community services can receive up to US $1,000 in matched donations through Regions Bank’s Matching Gifts Program for recent retirees. Eligible nonprofits must be within the Regions footprint and receive monetary gifts from qualifying Regions retirees.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in Kansas working on workforce preparation, job readiness, education, or related community development can apply for matching gifts that double donations from eligible Regions Bank associates. This national program may benefit workforce initiatives that fit Regions Foundation priorities and are supported by employee giving.

Nonprofit organizations supporting workforce development, entrepreneurship, or adult financial education in Kansas can seek funding to expand economic and social opportunity programs. With a mission to strengthen communities, First National Bank of Omaha provides Impact Grants that back affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, job creation, small business development, and adult education initiatives improving financial well-being.

Rural Kansas communities and organizations pursuing workforce preparation, job readiness, or other local development projects can seek support to hire a dedicated Rural Champion for one year. With a mission to empower communities, Kansas Department of Commerce provides stipends and requires a 25% cash and in-kind match to plan and implement critical community strategies through 2028.

Eligible Kansas employers and educator preparation programs can obtain tuition reimbursement for registered teacher apprentices through this workforce training grant, with awards up to US $2,750 per apprentice each year. With a mission to expand teacher educator apprenticeships, Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship provides Kansas workforce preparation and job readiness initiatives with multi-year support for tuition, fees, books, and materials.

Nonprofit organizations hosting community events or fundraising in Kansas can seek community sponsorships supporting workforce preparation, job readiness, and related community development efforts. Focused on financial well-being and seven community impact areas, First National Bank of Omaha provides unrestricted support for events, general operations, and arts and culture seasons that benefit its Kansas communities.

Kansas 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, and churches can seek approximately US $200,000 to launch bold, scalable projects that advance upward mobility, including workforce preparation and job readiness. With a mission to improve health statewide, Kansas Health Foundation supports regional or statewide efforts, especially in communities facing concentrated economic hardship, that implement Blueprint for Upward Mobility strategies within one year.

Kansas 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on workforce preparation, safe and affordable housing, or community arts and culture can seek funding to advance economic and racial equity. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation support organizations in designated U.S. Bank communities, with priority for leaders of color and programs addressing multiple pillars of work, home, and play.

Kansas 501(c)(3) public charities with $100,000+ budgets can seek funding for workforce preparation, youth development, and related programs in communities where RBC Wealth Management operates. RBC Foundation USA supports efforts that build in-demand skills, provide work experiences, and expand career pathways, along with select community prosperity and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Kansas Office of Apprenticeship

The Kansas Office of Apprenticeship (KOA) supports the development and expansion of Registered Apprenticeship programs across the state and administers the Kansas Apprenticeship Council (KAC), which ensures programs meet state and federal apprenticeship standards.

Mission: To meet the needs of the Kansas economy and its citizens, the office of Apprenticeship will actively grow a robust system that supports our apprenticeship stakeholders, sponsors, intermediaries, and apprentices. We do this by strategically empowering partnerships that serve a diverse and inclusive workforce through occupational proficiency, for generations to come.

Rural Apprenticeship Innovation for a Stronger Economy (RAISE) Grant

Overview

The Kansas Department of Commerce and the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship are committed to meeting Kansas’ high-wage, high-demand workforce needs by expanding Registered Apprenticeship programs in counties with populations under 50,000 residents. This grant provides direct operational support to new and existing programs—such as business support, marketing, and training equipment—to help them grow, expand services, and reach more Kansans.

Purpose

The purpose of this grant is to provide seed funding for long-term investments in the expansion of new or established Registered Apprenticeship programs in rural Kansas with populations under 50,000. Registered Apprenticeships are a sustainable and economical way to connect residents to meaningful training for long term careers, retain talent in rural areas, and keep Kansas competitive.

Goals

• Support expansion of Registered Apprenticeship programs in rural Kansas counties.
• Increase Registered Apprenticeship enrollment by at least 10% year over year in high-wage, high-demand occupations

Kansas workforce development and job readiness nonprofits, including 501(c)(3) emergency response, youth, and training organizations, can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation for programs in communities served by Union Pacific; awards US $5,000 - US $30,000 for safety, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability initiatives that demonstrate clear need, strong capacity, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Future of Work Accelerator

A program of HP Inc. and the HP Foundation

In an increasingly digital world, people without access to technology and the skills to use it are often locked out of economic opportunity. The Accelerator helps scale the impact of organizations that are working to change this.  

Since 2022, the Accelerator has served 35 nonprofit organizations across 13 countries, helping them reach an additional 11.3 million people. 

As a joint program of HP and the HP Foundation, the Accelerator offers selected organizations USD$100,000 in funding, HP technology & solutions (~USD$100,000 value), and a six-month, virtual program designed to strengthen capacity and scale impact.  Exciting changes are ahead for the 5th year of the Accelerator. 

The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation transforms lives across our local community. Our deep commitment to giving back helps spark innovation, fuels growth, and builds a stronger community for everyone over the last 25 years.

Howe Family Foundation Grant - 1st Quarter

Established in 2013 through the generosity of Phil and Margaret Howe, the Foundation supports qualified 501(c)(3) organizations working to strengthen safety, opportunity, and quality of life in the Manhattan community.

The Howe Family Foundation (HFF) is dedicated to strengthening family bonds, promoting health and well-being, and fostering entrepreneurial spirit. We strive to empower individuals and communities by supporting initiatives that nurture strong families, advance physical and mental health, and inspire innovative business leadership for a thriving future.

The Howe Family Foundation gives priority to proposals that:

• Improve the lives of children and families
• Develop workforce skills and quality employment opportunities
• Support systems that provide community disaster relief
• Enhance and expand formal education systems
• Advance unique and impactful community improvement projects

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Opportunity

About RSVP

Established in 1971 and now one of the largest senior volunteer programs in the nation, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP engages people ages 55 and older in a diverse range of volunteer activities. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers tutor children, help prepare simple taxes, assist victims of natural disasters, provide nutrition/food support, facilitate opioid and substance abuse education workshops, and serve in their communities in many other ways. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments ranging from a few hours to a maximum of 40 hours per week. While serving, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers improve their own lives by staying active and civically engaged. 

Funding Priorities

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP programming is designed to meet community needs. Applicants may propose activities intended to address community needs by thoroughly explaining the unmet need and activities to be completed by volunteers to address that need. In addition, AmeriCorps is interested in programming that addresses agency priorities. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP priorities for this funding opportunity are:

• Supporting Older Adults and Caregivers: Provide respite, support groups, system navigation, care coordination, and resources for older adults, including custodial grandparents, and caregivers.
• Helping Older Adults Re-enter the Workforce: Offer job readiness, mentoring, training, and remove barriers to employment for older adults (volunteers provide services, not seek jobs).
• Building Strong Families: Support parents in helping children succeed, mentor parents, connect families to resources, and strengthen community partnerships.
• Preventing and Mitigating Fraud and Scams: Use digital navigators and other strategies to protect older adults from financial fraud and exploitation, including emerging AI-driven scams.
• Reducing Homelessness: Develop or renovate affordable housing, assist people experiencing homelessness in finding and maintaining permanent housing, and address housing needs for vulnerable populations.
• Supporting Behavioral Health Initiatives: Improve mental health, reduce isolation, prevent substance use, provide harm reduction tools (Naloxone, fentanyl test strips), peer support, and recovery services.

Award Funding Requirements

Applicants must construct the budget in the following manner. The federal share of the budget must not exceed $75,000 plus up to $350 for every unduplicated volunteer, whether or not they serve in an outcome-based work plan. 

What We Do

At the North Carolina Community Foundation, we bring together generous people and connect them to causes and organizations they care about.

Our mission is to inspire North Carolinians to make lasting and meaningful contributions to their communities.

Our Philanthropic Network

We believe in the power of permanent philanthropy to strengthen our communities and people. By stewarding and growing donors’ gifts, our philanthropic network makes a powerful impact through robust grants and scholarships programs.

Geraldine Mayo Beveridge Scholarship Endowment

About Geraldine Mayo Beveridge

Geraldine “Gerry” Mayo Beveridge taught school in Carteret County for 40 years. She was a Home Economics teacher and thought of her students as her children; she and husband “Captain David” had none of their own. Gerry would discreetly provide classroom supplies and clothing items for students in need. She quietly contributed money toward college for capable students who couldn’t afford it.

Gerry’s concern for students continued after retirement. As a member of the Carteret County Retired School Personnel (CCRSP), Gerry convinced members of the importance of awarding a scholarship to a graduating senior in each high school – East Carteret, West Carteret, and later, Croatan. To raise money, she organized bake sales and brought plants and canned foods to sell to members. The scholarships, though small, were a great effort for members and were greatly appreciated by recipients.

Gerry left a considerable sum of money to CCRSP with the expectation that it be managed well and used for scholarships. Today, the Geraldine Mayo Beveridge Scholarship is awarded to qualifying graduating seniors who want to teach Vocational Education, now called Career and Technical Education.

Gerry’s passion for her students and her love of education continues through this scholarship. She was an amazing educator whose philanthropy will last in perpetuity.

The Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) focuses on enhancing education and workforce development in food and agricultural sciences. It invites applications for various grants aimed at professional development, non-formal education for youth, community college training, and fellowships for both predoctoral and postdoctoral candidates. The program, managed by the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, emphasizes the cultivation of skills necessary for the future workforce in agriculture, with multiple deadlines for submissions.

The NRF Foundation provides access to the education and opportunities needed for successful retail careers, helping people build better lives and stronger communities.

Retail Training Initiative

Building Career Pathways Through Retail Training

The NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative expands access to industry‑recognized retail training and credentials for job seekers across the United States. Through partnerships with community‑based organizations, workforce development providers, and educational institutions, the fund equips individuals with the skills, confidence, and credentials needed to secure meaningful employment and advance in retail and related industries.

Retail is the nation’s largest private‑sector employer and offers accessible entry points, transferable skills, and clear pathways for career growth. By investing in training that aligns with employer needs, the NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative helps individuals overcome barriers to employment while strengthening the talent pipeline for the retail industry and beyond.

Organizations selected to participate in the NRF Foundation Retail Training Initiative receive support designed to help them deliver high‑quality, employer‑aligned training programs, including:

• Access to the NRF Foundation RISE Up training and credentialing program
• Capacity awards to support program implementation and delivery
• Tools and resources to help participants earn industry‑recognized credentials

Together, these resources help organizations expand their impact and better support job seekers on their path to employment and career growth.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Robert and Judy Dreiling Scholarship

This scholarship offered to northern Nevada residents who are high school graduates or who have earned a high school equivalency certificate and adults seeking education to attain better employment.

The ideal candidates will be enrolled in an Associate's Degree track or certificate program at the school of their choice; the degree track or certificate program should result in a good lead to a good job. 

The scholarship will pay up to $5,000 for an Associate’s Degree or certificate program at private trade schools or community colleges for one or more candidates. You will be asked to write brief essays discussing: your life, your plans for the future, why you chose your certificate program, and how your education will impact your life and your family.

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation

Mission: In partnership with our community, we ignite positive change and create a legacy of impact.

Scholarships

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation annually awards more than $2 million in scholarships to students pursuing higher education, job training and certification. The Foundation hosts several different scholarship opportunities throughout the year. 

Workforce Training

Open to adult residents of Chautauqua County enrolled in a certification program outside of higher educational degree. Examples include phlebotomist, LPN, CNA, EMT, Radiologic Technologist, Automotive Technician, CDL, HVAC, Welding, Machining etc.

The Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation offers Single Program Grants to support impactful programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. These grants, ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, prioritize initiatives that enhance independence and service delivery. Eligible organizations must be US 501(c)(3) non-profits, and unsolicited proposals are not accepted. The foundation emphasizes community-based solutions and invites qualified applicants to submit a Letter of Inquiry followed by a full proposal.

Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation

The Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals who are blind or visually impaired by fostering independence and self-sufficiency. Its mission is to support programs that help people with vision loss lead independent, productive lives, while its vision is an accessible and inclusive world where individuals have the tools, resources, and opportunities to fully participate in society.

The Foundation’s funding priorities focus on supporting nonprofit organizations and initiatives that provide education, training, and rehabilitation services, assistive technology innovations, vision care and access to aids, and capacity building for professionals serving the visually impaired community. It also invests in programs that enhance employment opportunities, promote independence, and improve service delivery systems for people with vision loss, emphasizing practical, community-based solutions and long-term impact.

Small Discretionary Grants

The Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation (RDPFS) Track #3 Small Discretionary Grants provide flexible, year-round funding for smaller-scale initiatives that support individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Grant requests are accepted on a rolling basis and awarded at the discretion of the Executive Director. Awards are made until available funds are exhausted, allowing the Foundation to respond to timely or emerging needs.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

The Rare Impact Fund, founded by Selena Gomez, is dedicated to transforming mental health support for young people. With a commitment to mobilizing $100 million, the fund aims to enhance access to mental health services and promote a stigma-free community. Through public Requests for Proposals, the initiative seeks to strengthen the nonclinical youth mental health workforce, ensuring effective support systems that reflect the diverse backgrounds of youth. This innovative approach fosters lasting change in mental health care.