Best Diversity Grants for Nonprofits in Kentucky

Focused on diversity, equity and inclusion, US Bancorp Foundation invites Kentucky 501(c)(3) nonprofits to seek funding for economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, and community arts and culture. Organizations led by people of color and serving designated U.S. Bank communities may be especially competitive under the Community Possible Grant Program.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

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.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Kentucky 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in early childhood education or community economic development can access funding through PNC Foundation to serve low- and moderate-income children, families, and neighborhoods. Support may benefit diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts through educational access, workforce readiness, affordable housing, small business support, and community revitalization in Kentucky communities where PNC has a significant presence.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Kentucky nonprofits providing health, education, or humanitarian services to marginalized communities can access funding through Semnani Family Foundation for programs such as healthcare access, child welfare, disaster relief, and social services. Organizations with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that intersect with these priorities may be eligible within the foundation’s broader global and U.S. focus.

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 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.

Artists, collectives, and arts organizations in the Greater Louisville area of Kentucky and nearby Indiana counties can receive US $100 - US $500 to perform or present work at community and workplace events. Grants from Fund for the Arts help groups offering diverse, inclusive arts programming connect with public festivals and private campaign presentations.

Nonprofit organizations and public entities in Kentucky that operate year-round arts facilities for preschool–12th grade field trips can apply for arts education funding that supports exemplary artistic experiences and curriculum resources. With a mission to foster arts participation, Kentucky Arts Council provides Kentucky diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in schools with opportunities to join the Arts Miles Directory for three years.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) conservation and community organizations, municipalities, Tribal Nations, and agencies in Kentucky and other Appalachian states can seek funding for fee or easement land acquisition projects. With a mission to conserve lands and waters, The Nature Conservancy provides up to US $100,000 for resilient, connected habitat protection with strong community and equity benefits.

Small, community-based arts and cultural nonprofits in Kentucky that provide year-round arts programming and have under $100,000 in annual revenue can receive US $1,500 in operational support. Kentucky Arts Council offers the Kentucky Arts Rising Grant to strengthen grassroots organizations, increase arts participation, and promote diverse arts and culture statewide, which may benefit diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and aligned for-profits can receive storytelling funding to highlight work in preservation, education, or wellness, including wildlife conservation, across the U.S., including Kentucky. Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation supports projects that communicate impact, which may benefit Kentucky nonprofits advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within these focus areas.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving Jefferson County, Kentucky can seek approximately US $100,000 to launch, expand, or strengthen high-impact programs or capacity-building projects. Grants from Impact 100 Louisville help Kentucky groups working in arts and culture, education, environment and recreation, family services, or health and wellness, including initiatives that advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in local communities.

Nonprofit and governmental arts presenting organizations in Kentucky and the broader South Arts region can receive up to US $1,000 for staff and guest artists’ professional development travel and training. South Arts supports film, visual, performing, traditional, literary, and multidisciplinary presenters, with a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and disability-led organizations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and libraries in Kentucky can seek funding for environmental and human services programs, including general operating support, through grants from Lawrence Foundation, typically ranging from US $5,000 - US $10,000. Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that fit these priorities may be eligible for unrestricted support.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

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.

Nonprofit organizations in Kentucky with strong, replicable community partnerships may apply for Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award, which honors collaborative efforts addressing significant social issues. Selected U.S. nonprofits receive recognition for exemplary leadership in building cohesive communities through equal public, private, and social sector partnerships that model effective collaboration for the greater good.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with DEI-focused projects in Kentucky’s CKCF region can seek funding to foster kindness, understanding, and inclusiveness in their communities. Central Kentucky Community Foundation’s Marvin and Joyce Benjamin Fund supports initiatives combating hatred, bigotry, and anti-Semitism through education, dialogue, and community-based programs in nine eligible counties.

Nonprofit charitable organizations serving Boyle County can seek funding for public education and services for disadvantaged and disabled youth and adults, supporting inclusive, equitable communities in Kentucky. Grants from Blue Grass Community Foundation offer up to US $7,500 for projects that address community needs with sustainable impact and measurable outcomes in Boyle County.

Kentucky 501(c) nonprofits improving access to health care or children’s health can access funding through the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky; awards range from US $50,000 - US $100,000. Eligible projects must be evidence-based, advance equity and reduce health disparities, and may support diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in Kentucky communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office can seek funding for basic needs, at-risk youth enrichment, workforce readiness, and domestic violence safety programs. TJX Foundation supports efforts that help vulnerable families and children, and Kentucky groups advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion may be eligible.

The 410 Grant aims to foster a new generation of philanthropic leaders in Northern Kentucky by pooling resources among members who contribute $410 annually. This initiative focuses on building a vibrant culture of giving and civic engagement through innovative grant-making practices that support local nonprofits and projects. By cultivating leadership and community investment, the 410 Grant seeks to ensure the region's growth and prosperity for both current and future generations.