Best Financial Assistance Grants in Kansas

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

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.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

The Kansas Department of Commerce is committed to helping individuals, businesses and communities achieve prosperity in Kansas. One of the ways it accomplishes this mission is by providing financial assistance and partnership support to further identified goals. 

Broadband Acceleration Grant

Purpose and Goals

The Broadband Acceleration Grant Program is a critical program in Kansas’ plan to address broadband gaps. The Program is designed to offset capital expenses in the deployment of broadband to unserved areas in three distinct funding categories: 1) Last Mile, 2) Line Extension and 3) Middle Mile. The goal of this program is to facilitate broadband access to all Kansans while promoting practices that increase deployment and encourage adoption.

Goals

• Target economically distressed areas unlikely to receive broadband service without state or federal funding
• Focus on enabling last mile and line extension locations, and middle mile segments.
• Deploy reliable broadband solutions with speeds at or greater than 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps (100/20 Mbps) upload.
• Deploy middle mile segments supporting speeds at or greater than symmetrical 10 Gbps

Funding Priorities

The following items are BAG 6.0 funding priorities:

• Critical broadband needs within a community or rural area
• Lack of access to an affordable, reliable high-speed broadband connection
• Geographic Distribution of Grant Funds: The State of Kansas may geographically distribute awards to ensure that all Kansas regions can participate in connecting Kansans
• Serve Economically Distressed Counties that are unserved

Match Requirement: 50%

The Menorah Heritage Foundation's Unrestricted Operating Support Cycle aims to provide vital operating support to organizations in the Greater Kansas City area. This funding is directed towards essential services such as emergency assistance, shelter, and health care, allowing grantees to allocate resources towards administrative needs and employee benefits. Eligible organizations must maintain 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to the community's changing needs, ensuring impactful support for those in need.

The SkillBuilders Fund Grant supports organizations dedicated to empowering women and girls in the Kansas City area. With funding typically ranging from $20,000 to $50,000, the foundation prioritizes innovative programs that enhance self-sufficiency and leadership skills. Eligible applicants include public charities with 501(c)(3) status. The grant aims to foster educational opportunities and entrepreneurial skills, helping women and girls overcome barriers and achieve their full potential.

Kansas Department of Commerce

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses.

Kansas Rural Opportunity Zones

The state of Kansas has designated 95 counties as “Rural Opportunity Zones,” which means moving there comes with significant added benefits. Designated counties offer one or both of the following financial incentives for new full-time residents: Student Loan Repayment Assistance and/or 100% State Income Tax Credit.

As of June 2, 2025, 23 counties will be ineligible for the Student Loan Repayment program. These counties will still be eligible for the tax credit. To view which counties are or are not eligible, view the ROZ County Participation Registry.

Eligible Uses: Pay down student loan debt.

Match Requirement: 100% local match

The DCCF LiveWell Community Wellness Grants aim to enhance the health of Douglas County residents by promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles. These grants support projects that align with the 2018-2023 Douglas County Community Health Plan, focusing on food security and healthy environments. Organizations can receive funding to implement policy changes or programs that foster collaboration and community health improvement, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $80,000.

The Herington Community Legacy Grant, established in 2019 by The Community Foundation of Dickinson County, aims to support nonprofits in the Herington area. It prioritizes funding for community development, arts, education, and health services. Eligible organizations may apply for both this grant and the Community Foundation's Grant Cycle. However, it excludes funding for general operating expenses, capital campaigns, and individuals, emphasizing projects that foster collaboration and volunteerism.

Kansas Department of Transportation 

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

Cost Share Program

The KDOT Cost Share Program provides financial assistance to local entities for transportation projects that improve safety, support job retention and growth, improve access or mobility, relieve congestion and improve the state transportation system.

The Cost Share program is one of KDOT’s most flexible funding opportunities, allowing communities to apply for assistance with a wide range of highway, local road, bridge, rail, airport, bicycle, pedestrian and public transit projects – as long as they can provide at least a 15 percent local cash match. KDOT funds are used exclusively to match construction costs for these projects.

The Kansas Healthy Food Initiative (KHFI) aims to enhance access to affordable, healthy food in Kansas through technical assistance and financing. Projects should focus on serving low-resource and underserved areas and be led by experienced operators. Eligible applicants include food distributors, grocery store developers, and local food producers. KHFI provides funding through a mix of loans and grants, with a typical structure of 15% grant and 85% loan financing to support various community projects.

The Preserve Route 66 Grant Fund offers financial support to public agencies, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations aiming to preserve historic places along Route 66. This initiative prioritizes projects that enhance underrepresented narratives, including those related to diverse communities. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, with a focus on activities that restore, rehabilitate, or educate about significant historical sites, ensuring that this iconic American highway's legacy is maintained for future generations.

The National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Grants Calendar

The Kansas Department of Commerce is committed to helping individuals, businesses and communities achieve prosperity in Kansas. One of the ways it accomplishes this mission is by providing financial assistance and partnership support to further identified goals. Most grants call for local matches and other required stipulations that vary by project. Below are the funding opportunities Commerce offers on an annual basis. Please note that grant amounts and dates are subject to change.

https://www.kansascommerce.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2026-Grants-Guide-022726.pdf

Recognizing the value that rural communities add to the culture of our state, Commerce launched this new grant program to support small-scale quality of place projects that create quick, meaningful results in rural communities under 5,000 residents, that have not received Commerce funding since 2019. Projects may range from park upgrades and downtown beautification to murals, signage, and small infrastructure improvements. Communities have used funding for playground equipment, benches and public seating, new sidewalks and walking trails, welcome and wayfinding signs, fresh paint on downtown buildings, landscaping, bike racks, and even emergency helicopter pads.

The Menorah Heritage Foundation offers the Jewish Community Grant Cycle to support organizations that serve the Greater Kansas City area. Focus areas include health-related programs and initiatives to foster a vibrant Jewish community. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and operate within specified geographic parameters. The foundation prioritizes programs that adapt to community needs while ensuring non-discrimination in service provision. Grants may be requested for core operating support or specific programs, with a maximum request of $10,000.

The Kansas Department of Commerce is committed to helping individuals, businesses and communities achieve prosperity in Kansas. One of the ways it accomplishes this mission is by providing financial assistance and partnership support to further identified goals. 

ACCEL-KS Proof of Concept

(See page 5 of attached PDF)

ACCEL-KS is a statewide initiative aimed at supporting and accelerating the commercialization of groundbreaking ideas and products, transforming them into market-ready solutions. By prioritizing Proof-of-Concept (PoC) and Research & Development (R&D) efforts, ACCEL-KS activates Kansas’ innovation ecosystem to deliver critical financial and wrap-around support systems to fast-track high-potential projects toward commercial success.

Funding is used for equipment and facility use, grant funding distribution, professional services, travel, marketing, communications and training.

What Support is Available?

Selected partners offer:

• Proof-of-Concept development
• Prototyping and lab access
• Mentorship and coaching
• Commercialization and business planning support
• Access to funding resources

ACCEL-KS places special emphasis on supporting rural innovators. At least 30% of supported projects must originate in rural Kansas.

Match Requirement: 25%

The Solid Waste Grants program, administered by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, supports innovative waste reduction, reuse, and recycling projects. Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, and educational institutions. Projects may include recycling facilities, composting initiatives, and educational outreach programs. A minimum 25% match is required, and funds cannot be used for operational costs or grant application expenses. This initiative promotes sustainable waste management practices across Kansas.

The Knights of Columbus Endowment Fund, established to support the sick, disabled, and needy families in Pittsburg, Kansas, continues its mission through annual grants. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities, churches, schools, and government agencies. Grants support housing assistance, health services, and community improvements for vulnerable populations, ensuring their well-being and security. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Knights of Columbus to enhance the quality of life for those in need.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.