Best Grants for Museums in Kansas

Who we are

The Kansas Historical Society, established in 1875, is a state agency. Designated as the trustee of the state in 1879 and as the repository of official government records in 1905, the Historical Society collects and preserves the story of Kansas history.

Historic Preservation Fund

The Kansas State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) administers the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) to finance local preservation activities that will contribute to planning for the preservation of the built environment and archeological resources. Up to 60 percent of the cost of eligible activities can be funded through this program. Through property identification and evaluation, communities may assess their historic properties and develop plans for their recognition and preservation.

The Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) is a grant program administered by the National Park Service (NPS). Funds for the HPF program are derived from Outer Continental Shelf mineral receipts. Each year the NPS provides the Kansas State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) with funds that finance its operations, salaries, and grants. Ten percent of those grant funds awarded to the SHPO must be passed through to Certified Local Governments (CLGs) per federal regulations. The SHPO awards additional grant monies to cities, counties, universities, and other eligible organizations, to help support local historic preservation activities when funding levels permit. Grants reimburse up to 60% of project costs.

Graduating seniors from Chillicothe High School (MO) or Gardner Edgerton High School (KS) who played on their school golf team and are pursuing higher or technical education can receive scholarships for tuition and related costs. Grants from Greater Kansas City Community Foundation offer two non-renewable US $1,000 awards, which Kansas museums may promote to eligible student athletes in their communities.

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.

Mary J. Weber Memorial Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Mary J. Weber Scholarship Fund is to provide scholarships to high school graduates who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year college or university or trade/technical school. Preference will be given to graduates of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in Shawnee Mission, Kansas, and Andale High School in Andale, Kansas. The Fund is established in memory of Mary J. Weber, a 1960 graduate of Andale High School.

Scholarships are not automatically renewable, however scholarship recipients may re-apply in years after their initial receipt of the scholarship.

The George R. Tiller, M.D. Memorial Fund for the Advancement of Women’s Health supports Kansas nonprofits focused on reproductive health. The Fund aims to empower women through comprehensive health services and compassionate support. Grants are available for medical education, testing, research, and social programs that enhance women’s reproductive health. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) certified and in good standing with state regulations, ensuring funds reach those in need.

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.

Kris Paper Legacy Scholarship for Women in Technology Fund

The Kris Paper Legacy Scholarship for Women in Technology Fund provides an annual scholarship to a graduating female high school senior or returning female college student who intends to further their education at a two-year or four-year college or university or at a vocational or technical school who share Kris Paper’s love of technology and will be seeking a degree in a technology related field.

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.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

Who We Are

We are an organization full of dedicated individuals who work every day to improve health in the state of Kansas. We dream big, promote bold visions and truly believe that it’s possible for Kansas to someday lead the nation in health.

But, it’s only possible with a broad network of effective partnerships across the state. We work closely with other health foundations, nonprofit groups, community foundations, state agencies, universities, hospitals, communities and advisory groups to develop programs and initiatives and to find answers to complex health issues.

And we will continue to form and strengthen partnerships with more Kansas organizations and communities.

Our work has continued for nearly 40 years, and we’re currently in the midst of an exciting new challenge. We invite you to view the information below to learn about our strategic framework, our history and our dynamic team.

Three-Part Purpose Statement

Every successful organization has to know its “Why.” Our “why” is demonstrated through our three-part purpose statement. These three statements serve as our overall goals and our greatest aspirations.

• Empower Kansas to lead the nation in health.
• Eliminate the inequities that lead to the greatest health disparities.
• For KHF to become THE model for philanthropic impact

Kansas Innovation Fund

Are you a visionary, a problem solver, or someone who is passionate about creating positive change in your community? Is your organization open to exploring new strategies and taking bold steps toward innovation? Have you come across ideas or projects from community members, youth or nonprofit staff that you are eager to implement but lack the necessary resources? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we invite you to consider applying for the Kansas Innovation Fund.

KHF will provide up to $5,000 for each approved idea/project. Our goal is to provide a funding opportunity for nonprofits looking to explore new strategies to solve complex issues.

How the Opportunity Works

To enable eligible Kansas nonprofits to test innovative ideas to address health and health equity, KHF is providing mini grants of up to $5,000. The mini grants will support a range of ideas from different sectors that address the underlying factors causing poor health outcomes and health disparities.

Criteria for Grant Selection

Does your funding request:

• Make it possible for more Kansans to have the opportunity to live a healthy life, or improve overall health?
• Propose a new and innovative project for your organization?
• Benefit Kansans or Kansas communities?

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 Waste Tire Grant Program, administered by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, supports local governments and schools in purchasing tire-derived products made from recycled materials. Eligible projects must use at least 50% waste tire material. Applicants must be in good standing, comply with safety regulations, and meet match requirements. The program aims to promote sustainable practices and enhance playground safety through the use of innovative materials derived from waste tires.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

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.

Carlson Family Educational Foundation Fund

The purpose of this scholarship fund is to assist students who plan to attend junior college, trade schools, university or certification training who have demonstrated a strong work ethic both inside and outside the classroom.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

The Dr. George & Jeanne Tiller Fund Grant supports nonprofits in Kansas focused on advancing women's health. Since its inception, it has awarded over $1 million, emphasizing reproductive health services and education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing. Grants range up to $25,000. The fund prioritizes projects that provide comprehensive health services, medical education, and support for women in need. Applications are subject to board approval, with specific exclusions for business expenses and advertisements.

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.

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.

Betty Charlton Scholarship Fund

This fund was established by the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce in memory of Betty Charlton, a strong supporter of education. It provides scholarships for education to high school seniors who either reside in the City of Shawnee or attend a school in the City of Shawnee, who have demonstrated involvement in community leadership and received special honors, and who meet the criteria outlined below.

The Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence: Development Phase (COBRE-D) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in IDeA states, which historically receive low NIH funding. By providing critical support for early-career investigators and essential infrastructure, COBRE-D facilitates a long-term vision for institutions. This initiative not only supplements start-up packages for new hires but also establishes research facilities and improves administrative services, paving the way for less-resourced institutions to transition into the COBRE E/S program.

The Kansas State Scholarship supports financially needy students in the top 40-50% of Kansas high school graduates. Eligible seniors must complete the FAFSA and the State of Kansas Student Aid Application. Awarded scholars can receive up to $1,000 annually, renewable for up to four years based on financial need. Scholars must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA and enroll in at least 12 credit hours per semester to remain eligible for funding.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

Kansas and Missouri high school seniors who are Deaf or hard of hearing can receive scholarship support for 2- or 4-year colleges, universities, or technical programs. Greater Kansas City Community Foundation supports higher and vocational education through the Hear 2 help Scholarship Fund, offering US $1,000 awards to eligible students who meet GPA and documentation requirements.

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 KS Agricultural Land Easements program, administered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, protects vital croplands and grasslands by limiting non-agricultural land uses. It supports private and tribal landowners in preserving their agricultural land through conservation easements, ensuring long-term sustainability and enhancing public benefits like wildlife habitat and environmental quality. Eligible participants can receive significant financial assistance to maintain the agricultural use of their land, fostering local partnerships for stewardship.

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

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.

Life on Purpose Scholarship Fund

We provide scholarships for college tuition and expenses to students who demonstrate an interest in developing their unique potential in and beyond the classroom and using their talents to foster the well-being of themselves and others. This scholarship is renewable for up to 4 years ($10,000 per year) pending all requirements are met.

Cohort

The cohort program is grounded in developing authentic, meaningful relationships and connections. Learning experiences are designed to explore our strengths, personalities, guiding principles, and unique potential in a safe and accepting environment. If selected for this scholarship, you can expect to meet scholars, instructors and leaders all focused on improving themselves, their relationships, and the community.

Kansas Health Foundation We are an organization full of dedicated individuals who work every day to improve health in the state of Kansas. We dream big, promote bold visions and truly believe that it’s possible for Kansas to someday lead the nation in health.We operate with a three-part purpose statement that explains our overall goals and highest aspirations: 1) To empower Kansas to lead the nation in health; 2) To eliminate the inequities that lead to the greatest health disparities; and, 3) To be THE model of philanthropic impact.Upward Mobility Transformation FundUpward 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.  Kansans have shaped a shared understanding of Upward Mobility through a year-long process of statewide listening, crowdsourcing, data analysis and cross-sector collaboration. Approximately 1,000 Kansans contributed ideas, insights and feedback. This process resulted in the creation of a Blueprint for Upward Mobility—a focused set of strategies to address the key barriers preventing Kansans from getting ahead.KHF is seeking bold, scalable ideas to accelerate the Blueprint. Funded projects will: 

• Advance one of the eleven Blueprint strategies 
• Operate at a regional or statewide level, or clearly serve communities experiencing concentrated economic hardship (*)   
• Launch within one year of receiving funding 
• Catalyze new approaches, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and unlock additional resources. Rather than funding disconnected projects, KHF intends for these grants to contribute to a broader, coordinated movement advancing Upward Mobility across Kansas. 

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.

Go-Long Scholarship Fund

The Go-Long mantra is to give of oneself, live life fully and to never give up. The Go-Long team was formed in 2002 when a group of football-loving friends decided to give back. Go-Long decided they would seek to enrich the lives of young people who aspired to attend college. They did this by creating a yard work and neighborhood beautification business, in which 100% of all earnings would go to the Go-Long Scholarship Fund. In addition, the Go-Long volunteer team provides scholarship recipients with neighborhood beautification service projects, which raise funds to fuel the next class of Go-Long scholars.

The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships to students in the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan Area.

Students receiving the scholarship will be expected to complete at least 8 hours of community service when they receive the award.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments in August and January. Scholarship amounts may vary and are non-renewable.