Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Kansas

The Mabee Foundation provides challenge grants for projects in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, primarily focusing on construction, renovation, and major medical equipment purchases. Organizations must raise 40% of project costs from other donors before applying. Grants can reach up to 20% of total costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Applications are considered quarterly, requiring submissions by specific deadlines for review at upcoming board meetings.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is a leading philanthropic organization founded in 1978 that inspires and facilitates charitable giving to improve quality of life in the Greater Kansas City region and beyond. From its modest beginnings, the Foundation has grown into one of the nation’s most respected public charities, managing billions in charitable assets and administering thousands of funds for individuals, families, and businesses. Through donor-advised funds and other giving vehicles, it helps donors give strategically and effectively while providing education, leadership on key community issues, and personalized guidance that amplifies lasting community impact.

Dale I. and Emma Mae Crawford Scholarship Fund

The Dale I. and Emma Mae Crawford Scholarship Fund, established by the Franklin County Community Foundation, provides scholarship support to Kansas residents currently enrolled at Baker University. Eligible applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate active involvement in both the university and the broader community. Scholarship award amounts vary and are intended to assist students in continuing their undergraduate education.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is a leading philanthropic organization founded in 1978 that inspires and facilitates charitable giving to improve quality of life in the Greater Kansas City region and beyond. From its modest beginnings, the Foundation has grown into one of the nation’s most respected public charities, managing billions in charitable assets and administering thousands of funds for individuals, families, and businesses. Through donor-advised funds and other giving vehicles, it helps donors give strategically and effectively while providing education, leadership on key community issues, and personalized guidance that amplifies lasting community impact.

Dr. J.B. and Mrs. Isabella Bisceglia Scholarship Fund

The Bisceglia Scholarship Fund honors Dr. J. B. and Mrs. Isabella Bisceglia’s dedication to expanding educational opportunities for students in need. The scholarship supports graduating high school seniors in the Greater Kansas City area who plan to pursue further education at a two- or four-year college or university, or a technical school. Selection is based on financial need, work and community service involvement, and academic performance, with recipients required to maintain at least a 2.0 GPA. Preference is given to students affiliated with Christ Presbyterian Church in Kansas City, the First Haitian Fellowship at Christ Presbyterian Church, or Scuola Vita Nuova Charter School. The $1,000 award is supplemental to other scholarships, disbursed in two equal payments in August and January, and is not automatically renewable.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Tony DiPardo Instrumental Music Foundation Scholarship

The Tony DiPardo Instrumental Music Foundation and Scholarship Fund was established in honor and memory of instrumental music leader Tony DiPardo to support students pursuing instrumental music education at the college or university level and also programs that enhance and encourage students’ appreciation for instrumental music.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is a leading philanthropic organization founded in 1978 that inspires and facilitates charitable giving to improve quality of life in the Greater Kansas City region and beyond. From its modest beginnings, the Foundation has grown into one of the nation’s most respected public charities, managing billions in charitable assets and administering thousands of funds for individuals, families, and businesses. Through donor-advised funds and other giving vehicles, it helps donors give strategically and effectively while providing education, leadership on key community issues, and personalized guidance that amplifies lasting community impact.

Inez Y. Kaiser GKC-PRSA Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Dr. Inez Y. Kaiser Scholarship, offered by the Public Relations Society of America Greater Kansas City Chapter, honors the legacy of Inez Y. Kaiser, a trailblazing public relations leader and the first Black woman to own a national PR firm. The scholarship supports African American/Black college juniors and first-semester seniors nationwide who are enrolled in an accredited public relations or communications program and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. The $5,000 award recognizes students who demonstrate leadership, commitment to public relations excellence, and volunteerism—hallmarks of Dr. Kaiser’s career. Additional consideration is given to PRSSA members, PRSSA chapter leaders, and residents of Kansas or Missouri, though residency is not required. Scholars also receive recognition and networking opportunities to support their professional development.

The Driving a Stronger Community Scholarship, funded by The Walser Foundation, awards $1,000 to high school seniors demonstrating exceptional volunteer service and civic responsibility. Eligible students must complete 30+ hours of volunteer work and maintain a GPA of 2.75 or higher. The scholarship aims to support students' post-secondary education, fostering community engagement and academic achievement across the regions served by the Walser Automotive Group.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kelsey Family Scholarship for Nursing and Biomedical Engineering

This scholarship was established by Rick and Darla Kelsey in memory and patrimony of Richard and Greta Kelsey and their ancestors. For six generations, the Kelsey family farmed in the Kansas River Valley near Topeka. They were active in Freemasonry and devoted to charitable work and service to their church and community.

This is a one-time award. Students can reapply annually to be considered for a scholarship.

The CHS Foundation's Cooperative Education Grant aims to support educational projects that enhance understanding of the agricultural cooperative business model. With a focus on middle school to college-age students, the program encourages innovative approaches, measurable outcomes, and engagement strategies. It prioritizes initiatives with a national or state-level reach within the CHS trade area, fostering success and growth in cooperative education. Funding will be allocated to programs that align with these goals, ensuring a robust educational framework for future leaders in agriculture.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

reJOYCE KC Foundation Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this fund is to honor all those in the profession of nursing. In addition, recognizing the legacy of Joyce Ann Maurer whose dedication and passion for her patients, family, and advancement in nursing education paved a trailblazing path for others to follow. This fund will assist students pursuing higher education to become an RN, BSN, or NP.

The NCR-SARE Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative agricultural projects that are environmentally sound and socially responsible. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 are available for projects lasting up to 36 months, promoting collaboration among researchers, educators, and producers. This program emphasizes outreach, farmer involvement, and research on topics such as sustainable pest management, local food systems, and crop diversification, addressing the economic and environmental aspects of agriculture.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

AABE William Grant Pinkard Scholarship Fund

The American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) is a professional organization of African Americans in the energy industry. Through its Scholarship Program, AABE seeks to help increase the number of African Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans (underrepresented minorities) in energy related fields. By doing so, we help our nation address a critical need and a challenge to our future economic vitality in the world market.

About William Grant Pinkard II

The William Grant Pinkard Scholarship Fund was named after a member of the Kansas-Missouri Chapter of the AABE who best exemplified the organization’s purpose and goals. William Grant Pinkard, II was a dedicated and active member.

Awards

The Kansas-Missouri Chapter of AABE will award one scholarship of $2,000 per semester paid in August and January. Awards of $1,500 per semester will be issued to community college students. The top winner’s application is forwarded to compete for one of six National AABE Regional Awards of $3,000 per year. Additionally, a “Rufus D. Gladney” Premier Award of $5,000 is given annually to the candidate who is judged to demonstrate the most outstanding achievement and promise. National Awards are made to the students upon presentation of proof of enrollment at an accredited college or university. Distribution of local chapter awards are made at the discretion of the local chapter upon proof of enrollment at an accredited college or university. A William Grant Pinkard Scholar may renew the scholarship for a second year provided documentation that all scholarship guidelines and criteria have been sustained.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Genevieve Edmee Lenz Guldner Kansas University Fine Arts Scholarship

The purpose of the fund shall be to provide scholarships to students attending the Kansas University Fine Arts School.

Renewable for 4 years if all requirements are met.

The Kansas Nursing Service Scholarship aims to foster enrollment in LPN and RN programs. Priority is given to Kansas residents who meet specific eligibility criteria, including being accepted into a nursing program and maintaining full-time enrollment. Award amounts range from $4,000 to $6,250 per school year, depending on the program and sponsorship status. Recipients commit to practicing nursing in Kansas for one year per year of assistance received, ensuring support for the state's healthcare needs.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The IBT Industrial Solutions Scholarship, offered by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to children and grandchildren of full-time IBT employees pursuing higher education. Eligible candidates aged 16-26 must demonstrate financial need and academic merit. This one-time scholarship supports students in achieving their educational goals, fostering community growth and personal development, with a commitment to investing in the future workforce of the region.

Simmons First Foundation: Mini Grant

Amount:

• $1,000 up to $2,500 
•  Projects must pertain to youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care. Mini Grants are for immediate (long-term) needs for programs and entities must be a 501c3 organization.

Simmons First Foundation: Make a Difference Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $50,000

For the upcoming grant cycle, funding will be limited to programs focused on:Special Education:  K-12 Youth with disabilities, including physical disabilities, developmental and cognitive disabilities, and sensory impairments.   (examples including):

• Inclusive theater and performing arts programs
• Adapted, hands-on STEM learning
• Accessible coding, robotics, and maker-space activities
• Science-based learning adapted for diverse abilities
• Assistive technology and adaptive learning tools
• Adaptive physical education and recreation programs

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention:  K-12 Youth (examples including):

• Evidence-based prevention programs targeting alcohol, opioids, vaping, and other substance use
• Skill-building programs that focus on refusal skills, decision making, coping strategies, and peer pressure resistanc
• Early intervention programs for at-risk youth
• Recovery support services for youth in early recovery (including peer support groups, mentoring, and relapse prevention planning)
• Youth-focused programs that teach emotional regulation, anger management, and non-violent communication
• Intervention programs for youth exposed to or at risk of violence
• Peer mediation and restorative justice programs that reduce disciplinary incidents and promote accountability

Simmons First Foundation: Environmental Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $25,000

These funds are to be used for conservation and/or environmental purposes. We prefer the projects support the overall theme of youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care, however, we do have flexibility on projects that will have an indirect impact on youth. Categories for this grant include, but not limited to: water, air, hunting/fishing, forestry, outdoor education, energy, etc.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Harvest Ball Founders' Scholarship Fund

The Harvest Ball Founders’ Scholarship is created to honor the founders of the Harvest Ball Society, Patty Garney and Sandra Doolin Melinger in recognition of the leadership they demonstrated in establishing that organization to address numerous charitable needs in Clay and Platte Counties. The scholarship will be awarded to students in secondary school, military or other organizations who have demonstrated outstanding leadership.

The Kansas State Fair Grand Drive Scholarship Program awards ten $1,000 scholarships annually to youth livestock exhibitors who exemplify excellence, commitment, and integrity. Eligible applicants include graduating seniors and post-secondary students involved in the Grand Drive youth livestock show, with applications due by April 15. This initiative not only supports educational opportunities but also recognizes the dedication of young exhibitors at the Kansas State Fair Grand Drive Gala.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

The Kansas Promise Act Scholarship provides financial support for students enrolled in high-demand, high-wage programs at eligible two-year colleges in Kansas. Created to encourage local employment, this last-dollar scholarship covers tuition, fees, and materials after other financial aid. Applicants must be Kansas residents and commit to living and working in the state for two years following graduation. With funding capped at 68 credit hours or $20,000, it aims to facilitate education in crucial fields such as healthcare and technology.

The Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarships, offered by the Pacific Dental Services Foundation, provide financial aid of up to $5,000 for eligible dental assistant students. Applicants must be over 18, U.S. citizens or legal residents, and enrolled in a qualifying program. The scholarship emphasizes mentorship and training, supporting the next generation of dental assistants. Awards are based on financial need and application quality, with multiple cycles each year to support aspiring professionals.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.