Best Grants for International Development in Kentucky

Kentucky 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, or community arts and culture can seek funding through the Community Possible Grant Program. Focused on equitable, high-impact community development, US Bancorp Foundation prioritizes organizations in designated U.S. Bank communities, especially those led by people of color and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Nonprofit organizations in Kentucky that are 501(c)(3)s and run programs for children, education, or health and human services can seek monetary support through Costco Foundation. Costco Foundation provides Kentucky community-focused nonprofits with grants for evidence-based programs, especially those demonstrating measurable outcomes and strong community collaboration, which may benefit international development efforts connected to these priorities.

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.

Early-stage, impact-first nonprofit and mission-driven for-profit organizations tackling major social or environmental challenges can access funding, capacity support, and community through Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation. Focused on scalable solutions for underserved populations, this global opportunity may benefit Kentucky-based groups working on international development or related issues across sectors like poverty, health, education, or sustainability.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities in select Kentucky counties can seek up to US $20,000 for workforce development, climate resiliency, and equity-focused community programs. Focused on vibrant economies and environmental resilience, the Duke Energy Foundation invites Kentucky groups to support underserved communities, disaster preparedness, and STEM education initiatives.

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.

Nonprofit and governmental organizations running humanitarian, social, education, science, and community programs in Kentucky can access funding through Amgen Foundation; support is for non-healthcare charitable activities and fundraising events. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities, qualifying Puerto Rico charities, and U.S.-based governmental entities serving Kentucky or providing nationwide programs.

Kentucky 501(c)(3) nonprofits running education, social services, community development, or public health projects in the larger Northern Kentucky region can access funding through the R. C. Durr Foundation. Priority goes to innovative, collaborative, and measurable programs in Boone, Bracken, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Harrison, Kenton, Mason, Owen, Pendleton, and Robertson counties that show long-term viability.

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 and NGOs working on international health, education, or humanitarian relief can access funding through Semnani Family Foundation for projects serving marginalized communities worldwide. Organizations engaged in areas like healthcare access, disaster relief, child welfare, or women and girls’ services may be eligible if their work aligns with the foundation’s global focus.

Wildlife conservation 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kentucky seeking support to share their impact stories can apply for the Storytelling Grant, with awards of more than US $50,000. Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation funds storytelling projects that highlight work in preservation, education, or wellness, which may benefit organizations engaged in international development-related efforts.

With a mission to cultivate philanthropy, Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation provides Kentucky and neighboring-state youth organizations with support for leadership development programs. Eligible 501(c)(3) public charities and certain public entities serving youth 19 and under in Christian County, KY, Effingham County, IL, and Dearborn County, IN may apply for projects building young leaders’ skills and character.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving communities in Kentucky and the broader Southern region can seek funding for humanitarian, education, health, poverty relief, conservation, and faith-based programs. Robinson Foundation supports efforts that demonstrate tangible, meaningful impact, with priority for established organizations active more than three years and seeking single-year project support.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

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.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on education, arts, community development, or human services in the Cincinnati–Dayton–Northern Kentucky region can access funding through various funds managed by Fifth Third Foundation. Grants may benefit Kentucky groups advancing community development or poverty alleviation with an international development or global outreach component.

Individual writers and literary arts organizations in Kentucky can seek funding for contemporary literary projects, community engagement, and professional development through South Arts, with awards up to US $5,000. Grants support creation, research, public programs like readings or festivals, and opportunities such as conferences, workshops, retreats, or residencies.

With a mission to strengthen communities, Ameriprise Financial provides Kentucky nonprofits working on basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven causes with competitive grants. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations must serve U.S. clients, show measurable outcomes and financial stability, and may receive priority if they engage Ameriprise employees or advisors as active volunteers.

Kentucky 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in education, social services, health care, civic and cultural programs, or environmental initiatives can access funding through the Dr Scholl Foundation, with typical awards of US $5,000 - US $25,000. Organizations doing international development work from a Kentucky base may be eligible if they meet the foundation’s priorities and guidelines.

Kentucky arts and cultural organizations with year-round public programming can receive unrestricted operating support for general organizational costs. Focused on strengthening arts organizations, Kentucky Arts Council invites eligible Kentucky-based, tax-exempt groups to apply for formula-based awards ranging from US $1,000 - US $59,999, which may benefit nonprofits engaged in international development-related cultural work.

Established 501(c)(3) arts and culture nonprofits in Jefferson County can apply for Louisville Metro Government’s External Agency Fund for operational support, with awards ranging from US $25,000 - US $50,000. Funding helps sustain programs, services, and facilities that provide meaningful arts experiences, grow the creative workforce, and cultivate vibrant community spaces in Kentucky.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Jefferson County, Kentucky can seek approximately US $100,000 to support high-impact projects in arts and culture, education, environment and recreation, family, or health and wellness. Grants from Impact100 Louisville help Kentucky organizations with capacity building, program expansion, or innovative initiatives that transform local communities and may benefit international development-related work.

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.

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 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 and government agencies serving women and children in South Central Kentucky can seek project funding for capital needs, education, health, human services, and community development. Focused on improving quality of life and gender equity, The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky invites proposals with strong planning, measurable outcomes, and collaborative, preventative approaches.