Best Grants for 501(c)(3) in Kentucky

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Mimi and Marvin Sandler Scholarship

The Mimi and Marvin Sandler award is funded by longtime friends of the Federation, Mr. and Mrs. Sandler. Marvin Sandler served as president of Independent Living Aids for more than thirty years. He and his wife wish to further academic excellence by sponsoring this award.

The Adrienne Asch Memorial Scholarship, offered by the National Federation of the Blind, provides thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships to legally blind students in the U.S. Selection criteria include academic excellence, community service, and leadership. Finalists attend the national convention in July, where winners are announced. This scholarship emphasizes the belief in the potential of blind individuals to achieve their dreams and contribute to society, making education accessible to all qualified candidates.

The Raymond B. Preston Family Foundation focuses on educational, artistic, and charitable needs primarily in Henderson, Kentucky. The foundation seeks to support initiatives that promote the arts, ethical decision-making, and community improvement. Grants prioritize measurable projects with long-term viability that enhance quality of life in the region. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified, while ineligible activities include fundraising events and support for individuals or political causes. Preference is given to specific projects over general operating expenses.

The USA Track & Field Foundation was established in 2002. Our Foundation provides a means to attract and guide funds to new and innovative track & field programs, with an emphasis on providing opportunities for youth and elite athletes.

Mission: 

To support the development of emerging elite athletes, while fostering integration within the broader track & field community. To facilitate the physical, educational, social and character development of youth track & field athletes and to help prepare them to mature and succeed in adult life.About USATF Maternity GrantTo be considered for a USATF Foundation Maternity Grant, please begin by filling out the Elite Grant Application. Our Maternity Grant Committee will utilize the application information to consider your grant request. In addition to the Elite Grant Application please send along a formal letter for the committee to review. USATF Foundation is accepting formal letters of request for funding throughout the year. The Maternity Grant committee will consider and award grants on a quarterly basis dependent on available funding.

Please include in your letter:

• A detailed description of your current situation (expecting or recovering from childbirth)
• Timeline including estimated due date and estimated time frame when your training became affected by pregnancy
• Include your intentions and plans for after child birth
• List your most recent competition date where you were in peak form and the time / mark of the performance
• Were you ever ranked in the top 20 in the US or top 50 in the world within the 2 years before you became pregnant? If yes, please list the ranking, month/year and by what source.
• How Foundation funding would benefit you personally and in your track & field/running career.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

JAWS for Windows Scholarship

Vispero is proud to once again sponsor the JAWS for Windows scholarship. For over three decades, JAWS, the world’s most widely used screen reader, has helped expand educational and employment opportunities for people who are blind through speech and Braille access. This scholarship reflects Vispero’s continued commitment to innovation in assistive technology and to supporting the next generation of blind and low vision students and future leaders. “We are honored to give back by supporting scholarships that empower blind students to pursue their educational and professional aspirations and help them achieve their goals.” Each scholarship winner will receive a five-year JAWS, ZoomText, or Fusion Access license of their choice.

The Pabst Steinmetz Foundation Grant supports innovative projects at the intersection of arts, education, and wellness. It aims to empower organizations that address critical community issues and foster sustainable models for change, particularly in Florida. The foundation encourages collaboration and seeks initiatives that create a ripple effect, enhancing community capacity and promoting impactful solutions. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) entities in the U.S. focusing on community betterment through creative approaches.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Margaret and Dr. Paul Borton Music Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dr. Paul Borton, who established the Margaret and Dr. Paul Borton Music Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in memory of his wife, Margaret Borton. Margaret "Maggie" Borton arrived in Muskegon in the late 40s, bringing with her the rich heritage and culture of South Carolina. Not having had the opportunity in her youth to pursue music, she sought ways to include it in her daily life, enjoying the many concerts and festivals available in our area. Maggie always admired the talented youth she met in Muskegon's musical community. Knowing of her dream, her love for people and her passion for music, Maggie's husband, Paul established the Margaret Borton Music Scholarship Fund in her memory to provide scholarship assistance to Muskegon County students who will major in music in college.

ASPCA PRO

ASPCApro.org provides tools and resources for animal welfare professionals, veterinary personnel and volunteers. We take a progressive approach to helping the country's at-risk animals, promoting cutting edge research to advance the field.

ASPCA Research Grants

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) research grants fund high-quality research with a clear potential to benefit animals, either directly or through effecting systems-level change. Proposals to extend existing studies, focused on other disciplines, will also be considered if they can clearly demonstrate substantial potential benefit to animal welfare.

This year we are soliciting proposals in the following six research areas:

• Access to Veterinary Care (AVC) Research
• Applied Behavior Research
• Cruelty Research
• Farm Animal Welfare Research
• Psychological Trauma Research
• Shelter Research

Proposals focused on evaluating the effectiveness of a program or service must demonstrate methodological rigor and a clear plan to produce generalizable scientific knowledge. Please view eligibility information for specific projects from the research area you are interested in. 

Psychological Trauma Research

Proposals related to developing and validating novel approaches to the objective documentation of animal cruelty and neglect in the absence of physical trauma (i.e., documenting psychological trauma) in dogs. Proposals are encouraged from any relevant discipline (e.g., physiology, psychology, ethology). Of particular interest is research that focuses on objective measures, including biomarkers and quantitative behavioral phenotyping.

The Humana Foundation offers research grants by invitation only, focusing on health equity and barriers to healthy living. The foundation aims to support organizations that identify scalable solutions addressing emotional connections, nutrition, and chronic disease. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and accredited educational institutions. The foundation prioritizes solution-driven research that benefits communities in Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Texas, while adhering to strict anti-discrimination policies.

The Human Trafficking Youth Prevention Education (HTYPE) Demonstration Program aims to empower local education agencies (LEAs) by funding initiatives that equip school staff to identify and respond to human trafficking signs. Collaborating with nonprofit partners, LEAs will provide students with essential knowledge on avoiding victimization and recognizing trafficking indicators. This program fosters a safer school environment by establishing reporting procedures and safety plans in consultation with local law enforcement, ultimately enhancing awareness and prevention of human trafficking in educational settings.

The AAUW Branch and State Affiliate Community Action Grants aim to empower AAUW branches and state organizations by providing up to $10,000 for innovative STEM programming targeted at girls in grades K-12. This initiative is designed to foster hands-on learning experiences, expand local impact, and showcase AAUW's commitment to gender equity in STEM. By collaborating with other organizations, AAUW seeks to build confidence and inspire the next generation of female STEM leaders.

The Jacquilyn Billey Memorial Scholarship, offered by the National Federation of the Blind, provides thirty merit-based scholarships of $10,000 each to legally blind students pursuing post-secondary education in the U.S. The scholarship emphasizes academic excellence, community service, and leadership. Finalists are selected in spring and must attend the NFB National Convention in July for the award announcement. This initiative empowers blind individuals to pursue their educational and career aspirations, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and opportunity.

The NIA Postdoctoral Fellowship Award aims to enhance diversity in the translational research workforce for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD). This fellowship supports promising candidates from diverse backgrounds in developing essential translational research skills. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to treatment, prevention, and early detection of AD/ADRD while providing research experience under the guidance of mentors in clinical trials, fostering a diverse and effective research community.

The NIA Predoctoral Fellowship Award aims to enhance diversity in the translational research workforce focusing on Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. This funding opportunity supports promising predoctoral candidates from underrepresented backgrounds, fostering their research training and skills in various aspects of AD/ADRD. By encouraging interdisciplinary teamwork, the program seeks to develop a diverse workforce capable of contributing significantly to the prevention, treatment, and management of these conditions.

The Carolyn Gallmeyer Scholarship, provided by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports students from Kent County pursuing college or career training. This scholarship aims to remove barriers to education, empowering students to achieve their aspirations. With awards typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, it directly contributes to tuition and essential costs. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive in their academic journeys.

The Intervention Research to Improve Native American Health initiative aims to enhance health outcomes in Native American communities through innovative research. This program supports studies focused on health promotion, disease prevention, and culturally informed treatment strategies. Key deadlines for grant applications are October 21, 2025, and January 7, 2026. By addressing health disparities and leveraging community strengths, the initiative fosters sustainable interventions tailored to specific cultural contexts.

The Intervention Research to Improve Native American Health (R34) aims to support research that enhances health interventions for Native American populations. This includes studying the efficacy of health promotion and disease prevention strategies, culturally informed treatments, and addressing existing health disparities. The initiative encourages community-based solutions that are sustainable and adaptable to various Native American tribes. Key deadlines for grant applications are set for October 2025 and 2026, with additional dates for AIDS-related proposals.

The Food and Farm Communications Fund's Wildseed Grants program supports grassroots organizations in the U.S. that aim to bring transformative change to food and agricultural systems. With grants ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 for one year, and up to $75,000 for two years, the program emphasizes strategic communications, community engagement, and racial equity. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with the Fund’s mission and have a revenue of less than $3 million.

The Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) funding opportunity aims to enhance safety on roads for all users by supporting planning, infrastructure, and operational initiatives. For fiscal year 2026, funds will be awarded competitively to projects that prevent fatalities and serious injuries among pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation users, motorists, and commercial vehicle operators. This initiative underscores the commitment to creating safer road environments.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Melvin L. and Frances E. Tolson Scholarship Trust Fund

The Melvin L. and Frances E. Tolson Scholarship Trust Fund was established to assist students who are residents of Carroll County, Ohio in furthering their education with interests in either aviation, art education or fine and performing arts who are enrolled or accepted at a college, university, technical, or vocational school.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Grief Reach Grants: Community Education Cycle, funded by the National Alliance for Children's Grief (NACG), aims to empower organizations that support grieving youth. With $10,000 grants available, the initiative enhances access to essential bereavement resources and education, addressing the needs of children coping with loss. This program is crucial as 1 in 12 children will experience the death of a loved one by age 18, highlighting the urgent need for support in diverse communities.

The Music's Future Scholarship, provided by the Music Performance Trust Fund, aims to enhance music education by offering financial support to students enrolled in music degree programs. The scholarship requires applicants to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, submit a letter of reference, a resume, a personal statement, and a prior semester transcript. This initiative not only encourages academic excellence but also addresses the importance of music in education, fostering opportunities for students to discuss improvements in music education.

The Summit Credit Union Grant emphasizes charitable giving through partnerships that support equity, financial wellbeing, and women's empowerment. Committed to reducing inequities, the credit union seeks nonprofit organizations that align with these pillars to foster community growth. Eligibility criteria include being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving specific areas and submitting an online application. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious or political organizations, or any entities that discriminate based on various identities.

The Bausch Foundation, established by Bausch Health Companies Inc., supports global charitable initiatives focused on disease prevention, improving patient outcomes, and education related to its core businesses. The Foundation also aids disaster recovery efforts and assists underserved communities. Applications for funding are accepted continuously, with quarterly reviews, ensuring timely support for impactful projects. All submissions must be unsolicited, and decisions by the Advisory Committee are final, fostering a transparent giving process.

The Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission (JUSFC) is a federal agency established in 1975 to enhance U.S.-Japan relations through educational and cultural exchanges. JUSFC supports various initiatives in arts, education, and global challenges, focusing on fostering partnerships between U.S. and Japanese organizations. The Commission aims to facilitate dynamic people-to-people exchanges, ensuring a robust understanding between the nations and promoting collaborative projects that enrich both societies.

The Jazz Road Creative Residencies Grant Program, initiated by South Arts, supports professional jazz artists in the U.S. by removing financial barriers to their creative practices. This initiative aims to enhance artistic growth through flexible residency activities, fostering community engagement and innovative collaborations. By providing crucial funding, it encourages artists to explore new creative visions, connect with diverse audiences, and build meaningful partnerships across the country, thereby enriching the jazz landscape.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Jenice Schlein Denning Scholarship

This scholarship is to provide assistance with educational expenses for students who cannot otherwise afford attendance at an institution of higher learning. The applicant must be matriculating to a bachelor degree graduate institution, shown academic potential, and be pursuing a 4 year degree at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university. Financial need should be a major consideration for this award.

The scholarship is renewable.