Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Kansas

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.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

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.

About Us

As an affiliate of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation (GNWKCF), we join a collective of area community foundations aimed at increasing philanthropic giving in the northwest Kansas region. Both endowed (long-term, invested funds) and non-endowed (short-term, “pass-though”) funds are developed to provide financial support to 501(c)(3) and other qualifying non-profit organizations and for charitable purposes to benefit area residents.

When you partner with the SCCF for your philanthropic endeavors, your fund(s) will be commingled with other funds and managed professionally by the GNWKCF. Your fund assets will grow over time and have a lasting impact for years to come!

Our Available Grant Funds

To support a wide range of community needs, the Sheridan County Community Foundation utilizes multiple funding “buckets,” including unrestricted community funds, designated funds, field-of-interest funds, and other available grantmaking resources. This flexible structure allows us to match projects with the most appropriate sources of support and maximize the overall impact of each grant awarded. In some cases, the Foundation may also recommend additional or complementary funding from individual fund holders — particularly Donor Advised Funds — as we collaborate with donors to develop new funding streams and expand opportunities to meet evolving community priorities.

Sheridan County Community Foundation: Sponsorship Requests  (Up to $500)

Our Sponsorship Grant Program supports local events, seasonal activities, and community gatherings that bring people together across Sheridan County.

Ideal for:

• Community celebrations, fundraisers, youth activities, and annual events that enhance local quality of life.

Program Highlights:

• Awards of up to $500 per request
• Approximately 10 sponsorships awarded each year
• Maximum of $500 per organization per year
• Simple, streamlined application

Examples of supported events include: community recreation seasons, benefit walks and runs, fairs and rodeos, school and youth activities, holiday celebrations, and other local traditions.

General Grantmaking Criteria

We support projects and programs that benefit Sheridan County residents and strengthen local communities. Organizations based outside Sheridan County may apply if their project directly benefits Sheridan County.

Examples of eligible projects include:

• Community programs or services that meet local needs or advance your organization’s mission
• Seed funding to launch new projects, programs, or organizations (including start-up operating costs)
• Capacity building to strengthen organizational effectiveness — such as technology or equipment upgrades, professional development, staff expansion, or training
• Capital improvements including facility renovation or new construction
• Endowment support to ensure long-term sustainability of a program or organization

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Phillips County Unrestricted Endowment Fund offers a matching grant to support fundraising events for non-profits serving Phillips County, Kansas. With a match of $1 for every dollar raised, up to $50,000, this initiative encourages community investment in local projects. Eligible projects include enhancements to public spaces, health care initiatives, educational programs, and efforts to improve public health and safety. Grants are available monthly, promoting collaboration and growth within the community.

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation

Our mission is to empower our donors, affiliates and charitable partners through education, stewardship and regional collaboration, to create thriving communities and impact present and future generations.

Cultivate Sheridan County Fund

Established in 2017 through a matching initiative by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, this endowed unrestricted grant fund supports long-term community needs across Sheridan County.

The Rita J. Bicknell Women’s Health Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas, empowers women by funding initiatives that enhance their health and quality of life. Through its Women’s Giving Circle and Circle of Friends, the Fund has awarded over $350,000 since 2007, supporting projects focused on education and awareness. Grants range from $2,000 to over $2,000, ensuring vital resources reach nonprofits dedicated to women's health in Southeast Kansas.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The United Way KGC Impact 100 Grant seeks proposals from local nonprofit organizations that address critical health and human service needs in the Kansas City region. Selected organizations will receive a one-year unrestricted grant, enhancing their visibility and connections within the United Way network. This initiative emphasizes diverse approaches in Health, Education, and Financial Stability, ensuring a comprehensive impact across various community sectors. Organizations are encouraged to apply based on alignment with United Way's funding goals and community needs.

Heartland Community Foundation: Heartland Area Action Fund

The Heartland Area Action Fund is an unrestricted community grant funds designated to support current and future charitable needs of communities in the Heartland area. 

What do the funds support?

The funds support a wide variety of community needs and populations with one common goal- to improve the quality of life of the Heartland area.

Grants are typically restricted to the geographic areas served by the community foundation.

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

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.