Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Kentucky

Agricultural producers, non-industrial private forest owners, Tribes, and water management entities in Kentucky can receive technical and financial help to implement conservation practices on working lands. Focused on agricultural and environmental conservation, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service invites eligible land stewards to improve soil health, water and air quality, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience through EQIP support.

Small 501(c)(3) and similar tax-exempt organizations working in education, human services, health, conservation, or cultural programs, including those in Kentucky, can apply for McGraw Foundation support. McGraw Foundation provides U.S. nonprofits with US $2,000 - US $10,000 for general operating support, specific projects, and occasionally capital programs across these focus areas.

Graduate students conducting research in drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 through the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship from the American Water Works Association. Students in Kentucky whose work addresses current challenges faced by the water industry may be strong candidates.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kentucky working on economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, or community arts and culture may be eligible for Community Possible funding; grants support work, home, and play initiatives. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation prioritize organizations in designated U.S. Bank communities and those advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Agricultural producers and forest landowners in Kentucky can receive financial and technical assistance to enhance conservation on working lands through the Conservation Stewardship Program. With a mission to strengthen environmental stewardship, USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Kentucky provides five-year contracts that support sustainable agriculture, improved soil and water health, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience on eligible operations.

Small nonprofits in Kentucky working on humanitarian aid, child welfare, education, health care, or disaster relief can apply for funding from The Father's Table Foundation, with awards up to US $750,000. Grants prioritize programs that build self-sufficiency for women and children, including homelessness services, employment assistance, food security, microfinance, and anti-human trafficking initiatives.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions in Kentucky conducting biomedical research can apply for NIH Academic Research Enhancement Awards to support small-scale projects and student research experiences. US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health offers up to US $375,000 for institutions with limited prior NIH funding that award baccalaureate science degrees.

Kentucky small nonprofits focused on economic mobility or affordable housing can access funding through Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Neighborhood Builders Program, which pairs a capacity-building grant with a two-year leadership development experience. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations must meet revenue thresholds, operate in designated markets, and have leadership and strategic plans in place.

Faculty at Kentucky higher education institutions focused on undergraduate STEM and science education can seek one-year research awards supporting personnel, equipment, supplies, travel, and consultants. With a mission to foster scientific discovery, Kentucky Academy of Science provides Kentucky educators with up to US $5,000 to advance projects across disciplines from agriculture and ecology to health sciences and computer science.

Kentucky 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in education, environmental conservation, or community health and vitality can seek project funding that benefits areas where Cleveland-Cliffs operates. Grants from Cleveland Cliffs Foundation help small nonprofits expand STEM education, restore land and water, improve public safety, and deliver services to underserved populations in nearby communities.

Early-career medical and health researchers at academic or research institutions in eligible low- or middle-income countries can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award to support mentored clinical research and career development. Grants from the National Institutes of Health help Kentucky-focused small nonprofits collaborating with such LMIC investigators participate in global health research projects.

Early-career research scientists at academic or research institutions in eligible low- or middle-income countries can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award from the National Institutes of Health; awards approximately US $140,000 for mentored health-related research and career development. Kentucky-based nonprofits hosting or employing such LMIC scientists may be able to support eligible applicants.

Kentucky small nonprofits and other local organizations running K–12 out-of-school programs can receive up to US $150,000 to provide academic, artistic, and cultural enrichment for students in high-poverty, low-performing schools. Kentucky Department of Education funding supports afterschool and summer learning, tutoring, youth development, and social-emotional learning that help students meet state academic standards.

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits offering educational or youth-focused programs in Kentucky can apply for grants of US $5,000 - US $20,000 to expand opportunities for disadvantaged or high-need populations. Focused on education, John Ben Snow Memorial Trust also considers community initiatives, arts and culture, youth programs, and related environmental or historic preservation projects with an educational component.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kentucky can apply for Ensign-Bickford Industries’ Ensign-Bickford Foundation Grant, with awards up to US $5,000 for education, environmental, health, arts, and community programs. Organizations in Muhlenberg County may be eligible, especially those in priority areas of education and environment or with active Ensign-Bickford employee volunteers.

Kentucky nonprofits and institutions planning health-related congresses, events, or initiatives can seek corporate sponsorship funding that provides tangible benefits like exhibits or recognition. Biogen Foundation provides Kentucky small nonprofits with support for programs in areas such as neurology, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, stroke, lupus, ALS, and related disease-focused activities.

Eligible 501(c) or 170(c) nonprofits in Kentucky working on community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services can receive matched donations through this program. Regions Bank provides Kentucky organizations with up to US $1,000 per recent retiree each year when a qualifying gift is verified and approved.

Small 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in Kentucky working on economic and community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability support may be eligible for matching gifts through Regions Bank’s employee giving program. Gifts must come from full-time associates or recent retirees and be monetary donations within the Regions footprint.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits, including those in Kentucky, can seek US $5,000 - US $50,000 in general operating support for grassroots work in regenerative agriculture, climate justice, healthy food access, and pollution-free environments. Clif Family Foundation prioritizes U.S.-focused, community-rooted groups with budgets under $8M advancing people-centered, locally driven solutions.

The William and Helen Thomas Charitable Trust provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on education, environmental protection, medical research, and support for the underprivileged. This trust, based in Florida, primarily serves communities in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie Counties, along with select areas in Appalachia. It seeks to assist public charities classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for impactful charitable initiatives.

The Community Partners Grant Program, led by the Humana Foundation, aims to enhance community health by addressing social barriers and promoting equitable health outcomes. With a focus on Kentucky, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas, the program fosters connections through emotional support and nutritional education. It also provides disaster relief funding to ensure long-term recovery and preparedness. By collaborating with local organizations, this initiative helps individuals access essential services and resources, thereby improving their overall well-being.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund

The NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund supports the launch or expansion of clinical programs and new service areas that increase access to care for underserved patients. This funding is designed to help NAFC members introduce new services or grow existing programs that address unmet community health needs and improve access to comprehensive, patient-centered care.

The Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, provides financial support to students pursuing careers in natural resources. Applicants must reside in specific Illinois counties and plan to enroll in a full-time program related to fields such as ecology, hydrology, and conservation. Academic performance is a key consideration in the selection process. For more details, contact the Winnebago County Soil & Water Conservation District.

The First Financial Foundation, established in 2017, aims to enhance local communities through targeted grants. With a focus on neighborhood development, workforce education, and cultural initiatives, the foundation supports organizations creating affordable housing, enhancing financial literacy, and promoting the arts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving specific counties and must align with the foundation's mission. The foundation seeks to foster community growth and diversity while ensuring impactful contributions.

The OECD Conference Sponsorship aims to enhance scientific knowledge and provide essential information to influence policy decisions on sustainable resource use in food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. It supports international events that showcase innovative research and developments, inviting applications from scientists in these fields. The event sponsorship encourages collaboration among policymakers, industry, and academia, ensuring that research insights are effectively communicated and utilized in decision-making processes.

The RNRF Planning and Small Grants program provides funding up to $50,000 to support projects that enhance collaboration among community partners in addressing critical environmental issues. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in the U.S. and demonstrate multidisciplinary cooperation. Projects should align with RNRF's mission and focus areas, including air quality, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable and impactful outcomes by bridging research and practical implementation.