Best Grants for Museums in Kansas

The Koch Cultural Trust (KCT) Fellowship Grants provide substantial financial assistance to exceptional artists in Kansas. Founded in 1986, KCT supports painters, musicians, dancers, and performers seeking to further their independent studies beyond formal education. With a maximum grant of $30,000, these prestigious awards aim to open new opportunities for talented individuals committed to advancing their artistic careers.

The Koch Family Foundation supports individuals in Kansas by promoting arts and education initiatives. With over $60 million awarded in scholarships and grants, the foundation encourages personal growth and community contribution. Established by Fred and Mary Koch in 1932, it continues their legacy of fostering creative talents. The foundation aims to create opportunities for all individuals to reach their potential and make a meaningful impact in society.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Kansas aim to provide essential technical assistance and training for small rural businesses, defined as those with fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in revenue. These grants support projects that benefit rural areas outside major urban centers, with funding available for a variety of entrepreneurial initiatives. Priority is given to smaller funding requests, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to foster economic growth in local communities.

The Dependent Scholarship Awards, offered by the Koch Family Foundation, provide $2,000 scholarships to eligible dependents of full-time Koch company employees. This competitive program aims to support undergraduate and skilled-trade students pursuing education in accredited institutions. Selection is based on various factors, including essays and community involvement, with decisions finalized by May 1. The foundation emphasizes its commitment to fostering arts and education in Kansas, continuing a legacy of support for learning and creativity.

Mid-America Arts Alliance

Mid-America Arts Alliance (M-AAA) believes art can be a catalyst for expression, connection, collaboration, and community. This philosophy is reflected in our mission and values.

M-AAA is a nonprofit, regional arts organization representing Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and beyond. We focus on strengthening communities and improving lives by supporting artists, elevating arts organizations, and connecting people to extraordinary cultural experiences.

Artistic Innovations Grants for Individual Artists

Program Objectives

The Artistic Innovations program supports the development of new or original works of art across all disciplines, created exclusively by in-region individual artists and art-based organizations in M-AAA’s six-state region (Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and the Native Nations in this geography). Eligible applicants include individual artists and nonprofit 501(c)(3) arts organizations in the region.

Individual Artist Grant Considerations

The Artistic Innovations grant program supports direct project expenses incurred in the art-making process and production of public-facing engagements to individuals through private funds. These grants are funded through private support and, unlike Artistic Innovations grants to organizations, are not supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Koch Cultural Trust (KCT) Enabling Grants support visual and performing artists in Kansas by providing necessary funding to advance their careers. Established in 1986, KCT has a history of awarding over $3 million to talented individuals. These grants are designed for artists of all ages to help them seize key opportunities, although they cannot be used for degree programs. The maximum grant amount is $5,000.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

The Excellence in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Award

The purpose of the Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award is to recognize the contribution of a member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and made significant contributions to advance equitable health outcomes and reduce health disparities through research, which has enhanced the science and practice of nursing in the MNRS region.  

The KC Can Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations in Kansas City, focusing on projects that address children's basic needs, education, and wellness. Eligible projects should provide long-term benefits, be feasible within a year, and align with the KC CAN! mission. The grant aims to fund initiatives that might otherwise go unsupported and encourages community involvement through professional and volunteer efforts.

Kansas Kiwanis Foundation 

The Kansas Kiwanis Foundation was founded in 1963, the Kansas Kiwanis Foundation is a charitable corporation organized under the laws of the State of Kansas and in accordance with the IRS Code 501 (c)(3). Our Membership is ALL Kansas Kiwanians. If you belong to a Kiwanis Club in Kansas, you are automatically a member of our foundation. Each division in the Kansas District has a divisional representative who is a member of the Board of Directors and represents individual Kiwanis members.

Kansas Kiwanis Foundation Grants

Club Community Project Grants - Each year clubs can apply for a grant to be awarded to a tax-exempt organization for a community project.

If your club has a tax-exempt organization community project they would like assistance in funding, complete and submit the Grant Request Form. 

The Kansas Kiwanis Foundation Kiwanian of the Year award recognizes exceptional service by Kiwanians in Kansas. Established in 1963, the foundation supports all members of Kiwanis clubs across the state. Each year, a member is honored for their dedication to community service, encouraging clubs to nominate deserving individuals through a formal application. This prestigious award not only celebrates individual contributions but also strengthens community ties within the Kiwanis network.

The Patterson Family Foundation offers funding for advanced and specialized course access, aiming to enhance educational opportunities for rural students in Kansas and western Missouri. Organizations can apply after registering through the Grants Portal. The foundation focuses on collaborative initiatives that ensure thriving rural communities by providing essential resources like dual-credit and STEM courses. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, school districts, or government entities, while projects outside the foundation's catchment area are ineligible.

The Patterson Family Foundation supports healthcare workforce development in rural communities across Kansas and western Missouri. The foundation encourages programs that enhance education, licensure, and retention of healthcare professionals. Organizations must register for grant consideration, and eligibility includes being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or government entity. The foundation's mission focuses on strategic initiatives to ensure rural communities thrive, emphasizing collaboration and investment in essential services.

Kansas museums, educational nonprofits, and government entities running firearms, shooting sports, or hunting safety programs can seek funding to support charitable, educational, or research activities. Focused on firearms safety and marksmanship education, the NRA Foundation invites eligible Kansas organizations to apply for US $3,000 - US $5,000 to enhance public-benefit programming.

FNBO's Community Sponsorships provide vital financial support to nonprofit organizations and community events that enhance the well-being of our communities. By focusing on affordable housing, entrepreneurship, education, environmental sustainability, access to arts and culture, community cohesion, and health, FNBO aims to create impactful partnerships. Monthly reviews of sponsorship requests ensure timely decision-making, emphasizing FNBO's commitment to fostering community development and empowering historically underrepresented populations.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Kansas provide crucial support to communities facing water emergencies, allowing for the construction and repair of essential water infrastructure. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes. The program aims to ensure safe drinking water access after disasters, promoting recovery and sustainability in rural areas. With funding up to $1 million, it addresses both immediate needs and long-term water supply solutions.

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 SBIR/STTR Matching Program

(See page 5 of attached PDF)

This program provides early-stage funding and technical support to help Kansas-based businesses, innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers compete for and leverage federal SBIR/STTR awards.

Funding is available through two tracks: Phase 0 and Phase I

The goal is to increase the number, quality and success rate of SBIR/STTR proposals from Kansas, accelerate the commercialization of innovative technologies, and strengthen the state’s position in the national innovation economy.

Phase 0 - Proposal Development Assistance for Phase I SBIR/STTR Submissions

Funding is used for professional services related to preparing a Phase 1 SBIR/STTR proposal.

Match Requirement: 50%

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

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 SBIR/STTR Matching Program

(See page 5 of attached PDF)

This program provides early-stage funding and technical support to help Kansas-based businesses, innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers compete for and leverage federal SBIR/STTR awards.

Funding is available through two tracks: Phase 0 and Phase I

The goal is to increase the number, quality and success rate of SBIR/STTR proposals from Kansas, accelerate the commercialization of innovative technologies, and strengthen the state’s position in the national innovation economy.

Phase 1 -  State Matching Funds for businesses Awarded a Federal SBIR/STTR Phase I Grant

Funding is used for salaries/wages, materials/supplies, equipment and facility use, professional services, and travel expenses.

Match Requirement: Proof of SBIR/STTR award

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 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%

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. 

HEAL Amendment Request

If your organization is needing to make a change/amendment to your approved Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grant project, please complete thie request form.

It will be reviewed and you will be notified via email once your change/amendment is approved or denied. 

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.

Industrial Renovation for Opportunity & New Economic Development (IRONED) Grant

Purpose

The IRONED pilot grant was created to preserve and bring new economic activity to underutilized, vacant, or dilapidated industrial and manufacturing buildings in rural communities, stimulating local economies and supporting business growth. This grant is meant to be gap financing for projects that need one last piece of their funding stack to get the project across the finish line.

Eligible Projects

Renovation of industrial or manufacturing facilities for projects that are ready for implementation and need gap financing. Renovation must be completed within 12 months of award and the tenant operating in the space must be in place within 18 months. 

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 Arts Commision (KAC)| Arts Everywhere

Enhancing student success, the economy and Kansas communities through the arts

The Arts Everywhere grant program provides funding for cultural projects, programs, exhibitions, series, arts education projects, and other arts programming. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, enhance community development, and increase participation in the arts across Kansas. Projects must relate to an arts and culture discipline (music, dance, theatre, creative writing, literature, painting, sculpture, folk arts, photography, crafts, media arts, visual arts, programs of museums, and other such allied, major art forms).

Match Requirements: KAC requires that all grants are matched at a minimum of 1:1 through a combination of cash and in-kind expenses.

Arts Everywhere grants are awarded in four categories:

• Arts in Education;
• Organizational Development: a) Capacity Building; b) Salary Assistance
• Specific Arts and Culture Projects; and
• Visiting Artists

Arts in Education

This category funds projects that support the role the arts play in all levels of education, community service, and workforce development. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, and enhance community development. Arts in Education projects can take many forms and may or may not involve a professional teaching artist residency taking place over a period of days.

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 Arts Commision (KAC)| Arts Everywhere

Enhancing student success, the economy and Kansas communities through the arts

The Arts Everywhere grant program provides funding for cultural projects, programs, exhibitions, series, arts education projects, and other arts programming. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, enhance community development, and increase participation in the arts across Kansas. Projects must relate to an arts and culture discipline (music, dance, theatre, creative writing, literature, painting, sculpture, folk arts, photography, crafts, media arts, visual arts, programs of museums, and other such allied, major art forms).

Match Requirements: KAC requires that all grants are matched at a minimum of 1:1 through a combination of cash and in-kind expenses.

Arts Everywhere grants are awarded in four categories:

• Arts in Education;
• Organizational Development: a) Capacity Building; b) Salary Assistance
• Specific Arts and Culture Projects; and
• Visiting Artists

Organizational Development

Only organizations with arts and culture missions are eligible for Organizational Development. Organizational Development Grants are for: Capacity Building and Salary Assistance.

Capacity Building

This funding category provides up to $5,000 for projects that increase administrative or artistic capacity but do not provide public-facing programs. Eligible projects include but are not limited to:

• Staff/volunteer exchange
• Professional development opportunities such as attendance at seminars and workshops
• Planning for development opportunities such as fundraising or marketing
• Equipment/technology needs.

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 Arts Commision (KAC)| Arts Everywhere

Enhancing student success, the economy and Kansas communities through the arts

The Arts Everywhere grant program provides funding for cultural projects, programs, exhibitions, series, arts education projects, and other arts programming. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, enhance community development, and increase participation in the arts across Kansas. Projects must relate to an arts and culture discipline (music, dance, theatre, creative writing, literature, painting, sculpture, folk arts, photography, crafts, media arts, visual arts, programs of museums, and other such allied, major art forms).

Match Requirements: KAC requires that all grants are matched at a minimum of 1:1 through a combination of cash and in-kind expenses.

Arts Everywhere grants are awarded in four categories:

• Arts in Education;
• Organizational Development: a) Capacity Building; b) Salary Assistance
• Specific Arts and Culture Projects; and
• Visiting Artists

Organizational Development

Only organizations with arts and culture missions are eligible for Organizational Development. Organizational Development Grants are for: Capacity Building and Salary Assistance.

Salary Assistance

This funding is to be used for full or partial salary support for one or more positions. The positions must be critical to the mission of the organization, and the organization’s Total Operating Income for their most recent completed fiscal year must be $150,000 or less (see Organizational Development – Salary Assistance in the Specific Eligibility Requirements section). Organizations can only receive this grant for up to 3 consecutive years.