Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Kentucky

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Committed Scholarship

The Napa Valley Community Foundation Committed Scholarship benefits one graduating senior who attends a high school in Napa County, is the first person in their family to attend college, and who grew up in a household where English was not the first language spoken. Applicants must have a strong academic record coupled with demonstrated leadership qualities, extra-curricular activities, and heavy involvement in the community. They must also have a desire and a plan to return to the Napa Valley area to give back to the community after graduation. Recipients must attend a four-year college/university and will receive funding for up to four years of undergraduate study.

Scholarship award amount is renewable for up to four years. It will be based upon overall financial aid already received and any remaining funding gaps.

The American Epilepsy Society offers Postdoctoral Research Fellowships to support trainees conducting research on epilepsy's causes, treatment, and consequences. These fellowships provide up to $49,000 for stipend and benefits, $1,000 for travel to the AES annual meeting, and complimentary membership. Proposals can be basic, translational, or clinical research, and the number of awards depends on available funding.

The Patient Directed Investigation Grant by the Dermatology Foundation supports translational studies aimed at improving patient care in various dermatological fields. With an annual funding of $25,000, it fosters the career development of early-stage clinical investigators. Eligible applicants include those who have completed U.S. dermatology residency training and are not funded by other sources. The grant encourages diverse applicants, particularly from minority backgrounds, to contribute to vital health issues affecting underserved populations.

Casey's Cash for Classrooms Grants support K-12 public and nonprofit private schools through funding for physical improvements, material needs, teacher support, and community engagement. In 2025, $900,000 was awarded across 80 grants, allowing schools to enhance their learning environments. With a commitment to community engagement, Casey's has donated $15 million since 2019, emphasizing their dedication to making life better for communities and guests. Grants range from $3,000 to $50,000, with funds required to be used within 12 months.

The Benzie Central Legacy Scholarship Endowment, established by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Benzie County Central Schools pursuing postsecondary education. This scholarship emphasizes character, citizenship, and community service, while financial need and academic achievement are considered secondary. It aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals, fostering a spirit of giving back to the community that nurtured them.

LaVern Smith Scholarship

Scholarships awarded to members of a 4-H or a FFA chapter within Calhoun County. Applicants must be seniors in high school or enrolled in a technical school or college, and under the age of 19 at the time the application is submitted. GPA is not a determining factor.

The Arthritis Foundation's Clinical Fellowship RFP aims to address the rheumatology workforce shortage by inviting applications from institutions with clinical training programs. It encourages innovative training approaches to prepare future rheumatologists for the evolving needs of the arthritis community. Funding includes $150,000 for a two-year adult fellowship, $225,000 for a three-year pediatric fellowship, and $300,000 for a four-year Med-Peds fellowship, all designed to enhance access to specialized care.

The Craft Artists Emergency Relief Grant provides $3,000 to U.S.-based individual craft artists aged 18 and older who are facing recent, unforeseen emergencies. Established by the Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+) in 1985, this grant aims to empower artists during critical times, allowing them to use the funds as needed for recovery. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for artists in distress.

The CERF: Artist Get Ready Grant offers up to $1,000 to craft artists for safeguarding their studios and preparing for emergencies. Priority is given to underrepresented artists, including BIPOC and folk/traditional artists. Eligible activities encompass studio safety upgrades and disaster readiness. Applicants must be 18 years or older, residing in the U.S. for two years, and not have received this grant in the previous year. Funds must be used within six months, with outcomes documented for CERF+.

Marshall Bowling Council Smith/Dannenberg Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to an active, certified member of the Marshall Youth Bowling Association/United States Bowling Council (USBC) who plans to further his/her education in a college or vocational school. Applicants must be an amateur as defined by the USBC. Service in USBC state, local and league offices will be considered. Civic, curricular and co-curricular activities; grade point and hobbies outside of bowling may be determining factors. DO NOT submit a Marshall Community Foundation Scholarship Application.

The Risk and Protective Factors of Family Health initiative invites research proposals to explore family health and resilience, addressing health disparities in minority communities. Key submission deadlines are set for various dates from February 2025 to February 2027. This program is supported by the National Institutes of Health, highlighting the importance of family well-being as a critical area for advancing health equity. Proposals should focus on interventions that improve family health outcomes.

Kari Hamaker Performing Arts Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to a student in Marshall, Olivet or the surrounding area, during school or upon graduation, seeking a degree in Performing Arts or for additional enrichment opportunities in performing arts. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. GPA is not a qualifying factor; however, transcripts and test scores are required. Students who receive this scholarship are encouraged to apply for further support in subsequent years.

Devinci's Community Grant Program aims to support North American cycling organizations with financial assistance for development projects. Eligible applicants include cycling clubs, non-profits, and individuals leading community initiatives. Projects must occur in Canada or the U.S. within the year, with a maximum grant of $5,000 CAD. The program collaborates with key industry partners to foster growth in the cycling community, making a lasting impact through local initiatives.

George Sherman Scholarship

Applicants must be pursuing a two- or four- year degree or advanced education and/or training in the skilled trades and show evidence of involvement in co or extra-curricular activities or volunteerism related to the applicant’s field of interest. Transcripts and scores are requested, but not necessarily a determining factor.

The Arthritis National Research Foundation (ANRF) offers grants for research focused on Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA). With funding of up to $125,000 over two years, the ANRF encourages innovative projects that reveal the underlying mechanisms of PsA. Eligibility includes M.D. or Ph.D. qualifications and affiliation with a U.S. nonprofit research institution. Preference is given to senior post-doctoral researchers transitioning to independent status and new assistant professors. Applications without a Co-PI or those who have previously received ANRF funding will not be accepted.

The ChemClub Student Scholarship, offered by the American Chemical Society and the American Association of Chemistry Teachers, supports high school seniors who are active members of a Chartered ChemClub. Eligible students must demonstrate academic excellence and express their commitment to STEM fields. This scholarship provides financial assistance directly to the recipient's chosen college, fostering future leaders in chemistry and related disciplines.

The American Journalism Project is dedicated to enhancing local news organizations by investing in their business capacities and providing personalized coaching. They prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging inquiries from organizations serving underrepresented communities. Their approach offers tailored support based on grantees' strategic challenges, fostering sustainable growth in revenue and programming. They seek grantees with strong public-service missions, independent 501(c)(3) status, and a commitment to transparency and accountability in their operations.

The Journalism & Media Grant aims to promote inclusive narratives and accurate media that engage communities in democratic processes. It supports U.S.-based nonprofit organizations focused on professional reporting, multimedia storytelling, and civic media. The grant addresses barriers to media participation and fosters innovation in journalism, providing essential infrastructure for a diverse media landscape. While unsolicited proposals are not accepted, organizations can share ideas through a Letter of Inquiry (LOI).

The Parkinson Association of the Rockies Eric Wright Memorial Fund honors Eric Wright's legacy by providing scholarships to high school seniors and college students affected by Parkinson Disease. Recipients, eligible for up to $20,000 over four years, are selected based on merit and financial need. This fund aims to inspire the next generation while supporting students who have experienced loss or hardship due to this condition, promoting education and resilience within the community.

The Trails Capacity Program, previously known as the Trail Fund Grant, aims to enhance community capacity for trail maintenance, research, and stewardship training across the nation. The program focuses on supporting non-Forest Service Federal lands, as well as state and local areas, fostering inclusivity and improved user behavior. By collaborating with diverse trail partners, it seeks to ensure effective stewardship and sustainable trail management, ultimately promoting public access and enjoyment of America's natural landscapes.

The NCCIH Natural Product Early Phase Clinical Trial Phased Innovation Award (R61/R33) invites research proposals for early phase clinical trials of natural products, including botanicals and dietary supplements, emphasizing scientific validity for further testing. Applicants may receive up to three years of funding for pharmacokinetics and bioavailability studies, with potential for an additional three years to evaluate clinical outcomes. This initiative aims to optimize natural product delivery through innovative study designs.

The NCAA Jim McKay Graduate Scholarship honors the legacy of journalist Jim McKay by awarding a one-time $10,000 scholarship to one male and one female student-athlete annually. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.5, demonstrate integrity, and show interest in sports communication. There is no limit to the number of nominations from institutions, highlighting the NCAA's commitment to supporting student-athletes in their academic and professional pursuits.

The Exploratory Grant Award aims to enhance workforce diversity in basic cancer research by supporting junior and Early Stage Investigators from underrepresented groups in the biomedical and social sciences. This initiative provides essential funding to bridge the gap for researchers completing their training, ensuring they have the resources needed to develop larger grant applications. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization, emphasizing the importance of timely submissions.

The Combined Pilot Research Grants from the Plastic Surgery Foundation and the American Society for Peripheral Nerve support innovative research in peripheral nerve surgery. Aiming to enhance scientific knowledge and clinical practices, these grants fund preliminary projects with a maximum of $15,000 for one year. Eligible applicants include those with doctoral degrees or those in relevant clinical positions, encouraging new collaborations and research initiatives to advance the field.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to a variety of scholarships designated to benefit a graduating senior from Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). 

The Les and Anne Biederman Foundation, Inc. Scholarship Fund (Central, West)

In keeping with the visions and determinations that were held by the late Les Biederman, this scholarship is available to students who endeavor to pursue careers in nursing or business.

One scholarship awarded annually at each Central and West for a student pursuing a career in business and one scholarship awarded annually at each Central and West for a student pursuing a career in nursing.

This initiative aims to support research interventions targeting disparities in liver diseases and liver cancer among underserved populations in the U.S. It encourages innovative approaches to reduce health inequities and improve health outcomes. The funding opportunity is available through various deadlines for both standard and renewal applications, promoting multi-level strategies to address these critical health issues effectively.

The NIMH Career Transition Award (K22) supports tenure-track intramural investigators at NIMH in their transition to independent research faculty positions. This program aims to foster innovative research in mental health, encouraging applicants with a strong record of research excellence. Key deadlines for applications vary, including those for standard and renewal submissions, emphasizing the importance of timely applications to secure funding and advance mental health research initiatives.