Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Kansas

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on economic advancement, affordable housing, or community arts and culture in Kansas can apply for the Community Possible Grant Program. The U.S. Bank Foundation prioritizes organizations in designated bank communities, especially those led by people of color and addressing multiple pillars of work, home, and play with high-impact, equitable programs.

Kansas 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on children, education, or health and human services can seek monetary support for community programs. Focused on youth, education, and family well-being, Costco Foundation invites small nonprofits to apply for program funding in communities where Costco operates, with decisions based on community need, measurable outcomes, collaboration, and diversified financial support.

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.

About KDOT

At KDOT, transportation is about more than just moving from point A to point B. It's about connecting communities, supporting economies, and creating a better future. Join us in building a sustainable and efficient transportation network for all. 

FTA Section 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas provide funding to support transportation projects in rural and small urban areas (under a 50,000 population). These funds are available for both capital and operating assistance. 

Operating Expense Matching Requirement 

KDOT covers 50% of operating expenses, with the local share covering the remaining 50%. 

The state may contribute up to 20% to assist with the local match, subject to availability. 

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. 

FTA Section 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas

Section 5311 (General Public Transportation) Program Overview

The Section 5311 program provides funding to support rural and small urban (under 50,000 population) transportation projects that serve the general public. Funds are available for both capital and operating assistance. A focus of the Section 5311 program is to coordinate transportation funding sources and systems, in order to alleviate wastefulness created by duplication. 

Eligible Capital Expenses 

Transit vehicles and associated equipment (e.g., wheelchair lifts, ramps, restraints) 

Eligible Operating Expenses 

• Drivers and dispatchers 
• Fuel, oil, and tires 
• Repairs and vehicle license tags 
• Insurance and marketing 

Capital (Vehicle) Purchase Matching Requirement: KDOT share 80%, local share 20%

Operating Expense Matching Requirement 

• KDOT covers 50% of operating expenses, with the local share covering the remaining 50%. 
• The state may contribute up to 20% to assist with the local match, subject to availability.  

Mandatory Coordinated Transit District Membership

KSA 75-5057 states that any recipient of Federal or State grants (including Section 5311 grants) to provide rural public transportation services in Kansas shall be required to be a member of a Coordinated Transit District (CTD). An applicant must be an active member of their CTD prior to the submission of their grant application to be eligible to receive Federal and/or State public transportation program funding.

In order to make the best use of existing resources, all applicants for Section 5311 funding are required to carefully explore the possibilities of coordinating their operations with other transportation service providers in the area, who may be able to provide the needed transportation services.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits and NGOs in Kansas using technology to tackle crisis response, education access, or economic empowerment for mostly economically underserved communities can apply for Cisco Systems Foundation’s Global Impact Cash Grants, offering up to US $100,000. Eligible organizations submit a brief LOI first and may then be invited to complete a full application.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Kansas can seek funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives. With a mission to build safer, stronger, better-educated communities, State Farm Companies Foundation provides support that may benefit small nonprofits focused on housing, job training, disaster preparedness, financial literacy, and K-12 or higher education programs.

Kansas nonprofits and social enterprises working on education, children’s health, or family economic stability can access funding through Michael & Susan Dell Foundation for project support or scaling efforts. Eligible organizations must serve children or youth in urban low-income communities, request more than US $50,000, and have projects located in the U.S., India, or South Africa.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kansas communities where PNC operates can apply for PNC Foundation’s Foundation Grant to support early childhood education or community economic development initiatives. Funding may cover programs for young children, workforce development, affordable housing, small business support, arts and culture, or revitalization efforts serving low- and moderate-income residents.

The Sheridan County Community Foundation offers Larger Project Grants to support organizations enhancing the quality of life in Sheridan County, Kansas. Grants are available for programs, supplies, and short-term community needs, with a focus on projects that strengthen local communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, educational institutions, and governmental entities. The foundation reviews applications monthly, ensuring that funds are directed towards impactful initiatives that respond to evolving community priorities.

The Sheridan County Community Foundation offers Small Grants up to $1,000 to support local events and community activities in Sheridan County, Kansas. This program aims to enhance the quality of life through community celebrations, fundraisers, and youth activities. With a streamlined application process, the foundation awards approximately ten sponsorships each year, fostering collaboration among local organizations to meet evolving community needs and priorities.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kansas working on basic needs, housing, workforce development, arts, environment, or inclusion can seek sponsorship support for community-focused programs and events. With a mission to strengthen communities, Bank Of America Charitable Foundation provides U.S. organizations with regional sponsorships that enhance economic mobility and the social and cultural life of local areas.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing community hardships can seek funding for programs such as poverty relief, education, medical assistance, disaster relief, or family and youth services in the Southern U.S. Focused on tangible, meaningful impact, Robinson Foundation invites organizations active for over three years and serving areas below the Mason-Dixon line to apply.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and libraries in Kansas seeking support for environmental, human services, or related community programs can apply for unrestricted grants of US $5,000 - US $10,000. The Lawrence Foundation funds both program and general operating requests, with no geographic restrictions and reasonable indirect costs allowed.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kansas seeking support for community programs can apply for US $1,000 - US $20,000 in funding from the Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation. With a mission to help impactful organizations, the foundation provides U.S. nonprofits with support for arts, education, health facilities, environmental protection, and other community-based services that benefit local residents.

Small health and human service nonprofits in the Kansas City region can seek one-year unrestricted support for mission-driven work across health, education, and financial stability. Focused on community well-being, United Way of Greater Kansas City invites organizations in Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte, Johnson, and Wyandotte counties to join its Impact 100 network.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Nonprofits, federally recognized tribes, and higher education institutions in Kansas that serve rural areas can apply for United States Department of Agriculture Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program loans and grants; awards Up to US $500,000 for rural microloan revolving funds and technical assistance. Small rural businesses may then access microloans for startup, growth, and eligible expenses.

Kansas 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven causes can access funding through Ameriprise Financial to support hunger relief, shelter, self-sufficiency, arts, or community development programs. Organizations must serve U.S. clients, demonstrate measurable outcomes and financial stability, and may receive priority if Ameriprise employees or advisors actively volunteer with them.

Small public agencies and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kansas can seek US $2,500 - US $5,000 for historic preservation planning and education projects. With a mission to advance local preservation, National Trust for Historic Preservation provides funding for professional planning, organizational capacity building, and innovative public education and outreach efforts that introduce new audiences to preservation.

Nonprofit healthcare providers in Kansas can seek funding for healthcare facilities, equipment, and service delivery projects through the Mount Carmel Foundation Legacy Grant, with awards up to US $75,000. Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas prioritizes providers serving Bourbon, Cherokee, and Crawford Counties, supporting hospital care, clinics, and improved access to medical services.

Kansas 501(c)(3) nonprofits and aligned for-profit organizations can access funding to tell powerful stories about their impact through the Storytelling Grant. Offered by the Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation, awards over US $50,000 support work in preservation, education, wellness, conservation, mental health, and related community-focused initiatives across the U.S.

Small 501(c)(3) public charities in Kansas can apply for Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $30,000 for specific projects in safety, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. Eligible programs must primarily serve a Union Pacific–served community and demonstrate strong need, capacity, impact, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in Kansas can apply for USDA Rural Development’s Rural Business Development Grants, awarding US $10,000 - US $500,000 for technical assistance and projects that support small rural businesses. Funding may cover training, facilities, equipment, revolving loan funds, incubators, and broader community and technology-based economic development efforts.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.