Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Kansas

The Sumners Foundation Grant aims to engage and educate the public about self-government through various programs, including civic education, democracy reform, and teacher training. Grants are available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, supporting activities that foster civic engagement and understanding of democratic principles. The Foundation emphasizes direct involvement in the political process and does not fund political activities or provide individual grants.

The Women’s Fund Grant seeks to empower women and children in Topeka/Shawnee County by funding innovative programs focused on economic well-being, STEAM education, health services, affordable housing, and access to healthy food. Grants will support one-year projects with awards under $10,000, emphasizing impactful solutions that foster community resilience and promote philanthropy. Proposals from nonprofit organizations demonstrating charitable intent are encouraged, aligning with the Fund's mission to catalyze meaningful change.

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

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. 

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 Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Programs in Kansas aim to enhance outreach services for victims in underserved areas. This initiative provides direct assistance to those affected by domestic violence and sexual assault, ensuring that vital support reaches marginalized populations. Additionally, funding will serve as a cash match for federal grant programs, further expanding the resources available to combat these pressing issues. The program underscores the commitment to protecting and empowering vulnerable communities.

The Kansas Civil Money Penalty Reinvestment Program aims to enhance the quality of life and care for nursing home residents using Civil Monetary Penalty funds. These funds, collected from nursing homes for non-compliance with Medicare and Medicaid standards, can be reinvested in initiatives that support resident care, facility improvements, and consumer involvement in quality assurance. Eligible organizations can apply for funding, provided they comply with CMS requirements.

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 NRP Research Grant Program offers up to $50,000 for healthcare professionals to explore optimal neonatal resuscitation methods. It encourages innovative research addressing gaps in transitional physiology and effective teaching of resuscitation skills. Applications must focus on evidence-based practices and demonstrate potential for meaningful impact in delivery room care. Researchers from Canadian and US institutions are eligible, though applications primarily focused on quality improvement without a research emphasis will not be considered.

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 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 ASP Conservation Small Grants program is dedicated to supporting primate conservation efforts. It invites proposals for conservation research or related projects, including education, with awards up to $3500. This initiative encourages ASP members, especially those in habitat countries, to submit impactful projects that contribute to broader conservation goals. The program emphasizes funding for local salaries, research supplies, and educational materials, ensuring the sustainability of primate conservation efforts.

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. 

Cost Share Program

The KDOT Cost Share Program provides financial assistance to local entities for transportation projects that improve safety, support job retention and growth, improve access or mobility, relieve congestion and improve the state transportation system.

The Cost Share program is one of KDOT’s most flexible funding opportunities, allowing communities to apply for assistance with a wide range of highway, local road, bridge, rail, airport, bicycle, pedestrian and public transit projects – as long as they can provide at least a 15 percent local cash match. KDOT funds are used exclusively to match construction costs for these projects.

The Giving Branch Foundation, fully funded by Flat Branch Mortgage, Inc. employees, aims to support local communities through donations. By distributing funds to individuals facing hardships such as unexpected medical bills or disaster recovery, the foundation strives to uplift those in need. Grants are available for various eligible hardships, ensuring financial assistance reaches those who require immediate support. The mission is to give back to communities that have long supported the foundation's efforts.

The Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations grant program, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Tribes and Alaska Native Villages to engage in emerging markets that enhance forest health and resilience. With funding of $200,000 to $500,000 per grant, this initiative supports projects focusing on sustainability, innovation, and traditional knowledge. Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop forest products, certifications, and practices that contribute positively to biodiversity and ecosystem management.

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. 

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

The Creative Forces Community Engagement Grant aims to enhance the well-being of military service members, veterans, and their families through non-clinical arts engagement programs. Funded by the Mid-America Arts Alliance, grants of $10,000 to $25,000 support diverse artistic activities in various settings. Projects should foster creative expression, social connectedness, resilience, and independence, ultimately empowering military-connected individuals to thrive through art and community involvement.

The Asian Cultural Council's New York Fellowship offers a transformative six-month program for artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia. Participants engage deeply with New York City's vibrant cultural landscape, attending performances, exhibitions, and workshops while building networks with local communities. This unique opportunity fosters peer-learning and individual artistic development, encouraging fellows to incorporate their experiences into their practices and contribute to their home cultures. The fellowship emphasizes exploration, exchange, and support, culminating in a rich cultural immersion.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The Asian Cultural Council's Individual Fellowship provides artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia and the United States with opportunities for self-directed cultural exchange and research in unfamiliar regions. This program supports activities such as interviews, workshops, and archival research, fostering cultural immersion and collaboration. With a funding limit of $35,000, the fellowship encourages innovative proposals that enhance creative perspectives and relationships among peers, while also ensuring strong eligibility criteria for applicants.

The CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

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.