Best Grants for Community Service Projects in Kansas

Nonprofit organizations planning capital campaigns or major facility projects that support community development and related priorities in Kansas can apply for First National Bank of Omaha’s capital or major donations. Funding supports projects like construction, renovation, or other large-scale efforts that advance areas such as affordable housing, community health, arts access, and neighborhood stability.

Nonprofits, local governments, and other eligible local organizations in Kansas can apply for the Kansas Department of Commerce’s HEAL grants, awarding up to US $100,000 for rural downtown building rehabilitation and façade improvements. Projects that create spaces for businesses, housing, arts, childcare, or civic uses and drive community revitalization may be competitive.

Kansas community and downtown revitalization organizations can access technical assistance and support for Main Street district redevelopment through the Kansas Main Street Program in Kansas. Kansas Department of Commerce helps designated communities with strategic planning, organizational development, design services, professional training, and access to state and national grant funds to strengthen historic commercial districts and community life.

Upward Mobility Mass Action Mini-Grant Program

Upward Mobility is the opportunity to stabilize, thrive and build a better future over time. It means that hard work leads to real opportunity, and people have the freedom to make choices about their lives without constantly falling behind. Today, too many Kansans are working hard but are still unable to get ahead. While Kansas ranks 11th nationally on income inequality according to America’s Health Rankings – a strength for our state – persistent gaps in opportunity remain for many Kansans. These Kansans – often referred to as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) struggle to afford basic living expenses.

In Kansas:

• Nearly 40% of households fall below the ALICE Survival Budget threshold
• In 84 of 105 counties, the average job pays less than $0.60 for every $1 needed to meet basic costs of living
• 1 in 5 Kansans has debt in collections
• 1 in 5 Black Kansans live in poverty – nearly twice the rate of White Kansans

These are not isolated challenges. They reflect a systemic mismatch between wages, costs, and access to opportunity. Working families are not failing – the math simply does not work. Kansas has the ideas, people and commitment to move this work forward, and Kansas Health Foundation (KHF) is investing in solutions that accelerate progress on Upward Mobility across Kansas.

KHF will award grants of up to $10,000 each (including cost of travel expenses) to eligible Kansas nonprofit organizations for community-driven solutions that help Kansans facing financial hardship get ahead.

This opportunity is designed to put the Blueprint for Upward Mobility into action. The Blueprint was shaped by ideas, experiences and feedback from approximately 1,000 Kansans and identifies 11 strategies for addressing significant barriers preventing Kansans from achieving greater economic stability. Funded projects must advance at least one of the 11 strategies identified in the Blueprint for Upward Mobility.

Local governments, nonprofits, and universities in Kansas can receive reimbursement grants for historic preservation planning, surveys, education, and physical preservation projects that produce tangible products. Kansas Historical Society’s Historic Preservation Fund supports activities like National Register nominations, disaster preparedness plans, and preservation-focused workshops, with priority for projects highlighting underrepresented histories and significant preservation anniversaries.

Kansas property owners planning preservation or restoration of buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places or the Register of Historic Kansas Places can access funding for professional fees and construction costs. Kansas Historical Society’s Heritage Trust Fund offers US $5,000 - US $100,000 matching grants, which may support community development and revitalization projects across the state.

Organizations and individual artists in Kansas seeking to enhance public spaces with creative placemaking projects can apply for the Transformative Art for Public Spaces (TAPS) Grant, offering US $1,500 - US $2,000 per project. Kansas Department of Commerce supports public and community art that boosts economic growth, community vitality, and local identity, with priority for communities new to Commerce funding.

Kansas community and economic development entities in rural areas can seek funding to improve storefront signage and strengthen downtown commercial districts in Kansas. Kansas Department of Commerce provides matching support up to US $25,000 to upgrade high-quality, cohesive signage for three to five local retail or commercial businesses, boosting visibility, customer traffic, and long-term economic vitality.

Destination marketing organizations, tourism communities, and travel industry businesses in Kansas can access funding through the Tourism Marketing Grant to launch new or first-time tourism marketing and promotion projects, with awards up to US $10,000. Grants from Kansas Department of Commerce: Tourism Division help Kansas community development efforts by expanding promotional reach, increasing visitation, and enhancing visitor experience.

Nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations running arts, education, social services, or community development programs in Kansas can seek project support through the Dwane L and Velma Lunt Wallace Foundation. Grants from this funder help Kansas groups, especially in Wichita, enhance quality of life and community service without covering operating deficits, staff salaries, or individual aid.

Patterson Family Foundation

The Patterson Family Foundation, based in Kansas City, Missouri, is a family-led foundation that extends the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson. The Foundation’s mission, “Working together to help rural communities thrive,” is carried forward through strategic grantmaking and other collaborative initiatives that serve rural counties across Kansas and western Missouri. 

At the Patterson Family Foundation, we believe that thriving rural communities aren’t just about the numbers—they’re about the people who choose to live there. A strong and engaged community is built on essentials like access to good jobs, quality healthcare, educational opportunities, and a sense of belonging. But keeping rural communities strong doesn’t happen on its own—it takes all of us working together. That’s why we focus on working with local leaders, businesses, and organizations to invest in the areas that matter most, ensuring that rural places don’t just get by but thrive for generations to come.

Community Needs Grant

We continue to invest in community-focused work through dedicated programs and initiatives that strengthen local leadership and support long-term community vitality. Our Community Engagement opportunities for the 2026 cycle are offered through targeted, collaborative efforts rather than an open call application process, allowing us to work closely with communities and organizations on high-impact, locally driven projects.

This opportunity supports projects that strengthen resident retention and encourage former residents to return by enhancing the spaces, services, and community assets that make rural places appealing to live, work, and build a future. Projects should help communities create environments where people feel connected, supported, and inspired to stay or come home. Applicants should plan to report on community participation, improvements to key spaces or assets, and early indicators of resident retention or increased engagement from returning residents. 

With a mission to strengthen local communities, Parsons Area Community Foundation provides Kansas community organizations with mini-grants up to US $2,500 to implement or complete nonprofit projects within 25 miles of Parsons. Schools, churches, government entities, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits running community service or development initiatives may be eligible.

Nonprofits, school districts, and government entities in rural Kansas communities can apply for Patterson Family Foundation’s Innovation in Community Engagement grants, awarding US $25,000 - US $500,000 for creative community engagement projects. Funding supports new ideas that build long-term, multi-generational involvement and may benefit community service and development initiatives.

Kansas nonprofit organizations planning community events, fundraisers, or general operations can seek community sponsorship support that advances affordable housing, small business development, education, health, arts, and neighborhood revitalization. Focused on community impact, First National Bank of Omaha invites groups working on community development and related service projects in its Kansas communities to request unrestricted financial support, reviewed monthly.

With a mission to strengthen Kansas communities, Kansas Department of Commerce provides rural towns and organizations with support to hire a dedicated Rural Champion for one year to tackle a critical local need. Funding can back projects like community services, childcare, housing, food access, recreation, entrepreneurship, health, or broadband in Kansas.

Nonprofit organizations working on community development, affordable housing, workforce development, entrepreneurship, or adult financial education in Kansas can seek funding to expand economic and social opportunities. With a mission to strengthen communities, First National Bank of Omaha provides support for projects like neighborhood revitalization, small business development, job creation, and adult vocational or financial literacy programs.

Kansas community-focused, tax-exempt organizations with projects sponsored by a local Kiwanis club can receive support for community development and service initiatives in Kansas. Kansas Kiwanis Foundation provides Club Community Project Grants of up to US $1,000, awarded through Kiwanis clubs to help fund local community improvement projects.

Kansas community action agencies and neighborhood-based organizations can seek funding for innovative projects or training and technical assistance that reduce poverty and empower low-income residents. Focus areas include community development, housing, education, health, nutrition, and rural development. Grants from Kansas Housing Resources Corporation range from US $4,000 - US $39,000.

Kansas community-based organizations working on poverty reduction, community development, or nonprofit capacity-building can seek US $4,000 - US $39,000 for innovative programs or training/technical assistance projects in Kansas. Focused on anti-poverty strategies, Kansas Housing Resources Corporation invites proposals that strengthen local capabilities, serve low-income residents, and support leadership and governance within the CSBG network.

RBC Foundation USA provides Kansas community nonprofits with funding for workforce preparation, youth development, and arts access programs. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) public charities of at least three years with $100,000+ annual budgets, located in communities where RBC Wealth Management operates. Community service projects that build job skills or expand inclusive opportunities may be competitive.

Kansas 501(c)(3) nonprofits with established education or health programs can apply for funding to expand proven services that close opportunity gaps for underserved communities. The L B Research and Education Foundation supports small to medium organizations nationwide with multi-year youth, post-secondary, or adult vocational education initiatives and innovative physical or mental health access, research, or workforce development efforts; awards range from US $10,000 - US $75,000.

Kansas community service and development nonprofits, including 501(c)(3) emergency response and youth programs, can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants; awards range from US $5,000 - US $30,000. Eligible projects must serve Kansas communities on Union Pacific’s route and fit priorities like safety, workforce development, community vitality, or environmental sustainability.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Bennington Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Bennington, KS community.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Ottawa County Impact Fund

The Ottawa County Impact Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money to the Foundation for charitable use to address the present and future needs of Ottawa County.

From this endowed fund, the Foundation Board annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The applications are open to a variety of issues and target populations. However, successful applications are those that will help fulfill the Foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for Ottawa County.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Ottawa County.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

The Jewell County Community Fund, part of the Greater Salina Community Foundation, aims to enhance community welfare by providing grants for various projects and programs. This unrestricted fund supports initiatives that improve the quality of life in Jewell County, including capacity building, seed money for new projects, and capital improvements. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities, fostering collaboration to address local needs effectively.

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

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Delphos Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Delphos, KS community..

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program