Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Kentucky

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

The Kalliopeia Foundation Grant focuses on supporting projects that foster cultural and ecological renewal through a deep reverence for the Earth. By prioritizing US-based organizations that demonstrate strong community relationships and intergenerational leadership, the foundation seeks to empower marginalized voices and traditional practices. With an emphasis on land care and Indigenous leadership, Kalliopeia aims to cultivate a resilient future where diverse ways of knowing and being thrive harmoniously with nature.

Kentucky RHT is investing in expanding access to behavioral health services through a statewide telebehavioral health hub. Nonprofit behavioral health organizations are invited to apply for funding to participate as regional partners, supporting psychiatric consultation, care coordination, and connection to primary care and crisis services. 

Rapid Response to Recovery: Telebehavioral Health Support (Rural Health Transformation Program)

These three core focus areas of the Rapid Response to Recovery Program reflect an opportunity to coordinate a larger system of care strategy for tailoring RHT-funded work to address unique community needs A collaborative, cross-disciplinary network of providers will strengthen the behavioral health crisis continuum by: facilitating a process to plan, coordinate, and oversee elements of a crisis system; coordinating with system partners for community assessment and planning; coordination and interconnectedness of services; and data-driven continuous quality improvement.

Rural Health Transformation has a long-term vision of enabling systems change to increase our ability to serve entire populations through enhanced partner collaboration, as opposed to serving individuals as single providers. We encourage applicants to consider how telebehavioral health capacity, integration, and coordination can support this broader system vision. We encourage applicants to think about the following framework when developing their responses:

• Improving outcomes for the entire crisis system, so that every person receives the right service in the right setting, every time
• Promotion and adoption of enhanced data-sharing technology, agreements, data collection and reporting processes, and real-time information sharing between different system partners as a person moves through the crisis care journey;
• Facilitation of a data-driven quality improvement process, tracking quality outcomes and performance measures and strategizing amongst system partners for improving measures of success, access, and quality;
• Collaboration through shared care planning, policy, protocols, and procedure development; engagement in collaborative structures such as coalitions, committees, workgroups; and moving beyond siloes to ensure people receive the right care at the right time;
• Advancement of clinically effective crisis services across partners, while closing safety net gaps to strengthen prevention, early identification, and access to behavioral, physical, and social supports, through telebehavioral health-enabled care coordination and consultation

The anticipated budget ceiling for applicants supporting the telebehavioral health hub focus area is approximately $500,000. 

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The Kentucky Foundation for Women offers the Feminist Artist Career Development Mini Grant, providing up to $500 to support career advancement for feminist artists in Kentucky. This grant aims to enhance artistic impact and foster community engagement. Eligible applicants include current and past KFW grantees. The funding requires a 3:1 match and can be used for various activities that promote artistic growth and networking opportunities, prioritizing underrepresented artists.

The Poetry Out Loud Grant, offered by the Kentucky Arts Council, supports high school students in grades 9-12 as they engage in poetry memorization and performance. This initiative promotes public speaking skills and self-confidence while celebrating America's literary heritage. Schools can apply for funding to bring teaching artists into their classrooms, enhancing students' appreciation for poetry through dynamic educational experiences. Eligibility extends to all Kentucky public and private high schools, encouraging broad participation across the state.

The Southern SARE: Producer Grant supports farmers in conducting their own research projects to develop sustainable agricultural practices. Established in 1994, the program aims to enhance farmer profitability, promote responsible land use, and improve community quality of life. By focusing on areas like organic agriculture, sustainable marketing, and alternative crops, the grant empowers farmers to address production challenges and share valuable insights with others in the farming community, fostering a culture of sustainability and innovation.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Dennis and Lisa Parrett Family Scholarship

The applicant must be a graduate of a high school in Hardin County, Kentucky.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

The Arts Miles Program Grant, offered by the Kentucky Arts Council, supports Kentucky teachers and schools in providing quality arts experiences for students. This grant covers transportation costs for field trips to organizations listed in the Arts Miles Directory, allowing schools to apply based on mileage and driver pay. Applications are accepted from October to March, with a focus on enhancing student access to arts education.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

Community Foundation of Louisville

Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville mobilizes people, networks, and capital to spark meaningful change in and beyond Louisville. Just as our name signifies, here, community comes first. With over $874 million in assets, over 2,200 charitable funds, and collaborations with hundreds of local partners, we connect real investments with relevant causes. The Foundation has addressed and continues to address a wide range of community needs. The key priorities of the Foundation’s mission are to remove barriers to accessing capital and resources and to open opportunities for all. Working with neighbors, changemakers, and community investors, we’re inspiring greater generosity to move us all forward.

Scholarships

Since 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville has provided tens of millions of dollars in scholarships to support students with their educational goals. We assist donors in establishing scholarship funds so that a quality education can be available for everyone.

Antoinette & Phillip Schuwey Scholarship

The Antoinette & Phillip Schuwey Scholarship was established to provide scholarship assistance in the form of grants to help defray college or university expenses of first year nursing students who have excelled in academics and community involvement while overcoming adversities.

The LGBTQ Grant from Just Fund KY aims to support antiracist projects that uplift LGBTQ individuals, especially those from marginalized communities in Kentucky. By promoting understanding, grassroots leadership, and inclusivity, this grant seeks to bridge gaps between LGBTQ and non-LGBTQ organizations. The initiative emphasizes that true freedom is collective, as noted by Emma Lazarus, and works towards creating a brighter future for all Kentuckians.

The Kentucky Read to Achieve Grant supports schools in enhancing reading skills for primary students (K-3) through evidence-based interventions. Schools receiving funding must implement a reading intervention program aligned with the Multi-Tiered System of Supports and a comprehensive reading program that meets state standards. This initiative emphasizes professional teacher training and ongoing assessment to address individual student needs, ensuring a robust educational framework for improving reading proficiency.

Community Foundation of Louisville

Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville mobilizes people, networks, and capital to spark meaningful change in and beyond Louisville. Just as our name signifies, here, community comes first. With over $874 million in assets, over 2,200 charitable funds, and collaborations with hundreds of local partners, we connect real investments with relevant causes. The Foundation has addressed and continues to address a wide range of community needs. The key priorities of the Foundation’s mission are to remove barriers to accessing capital and resources and to open opportunities for all. Working with neighbors, changemakers, and community investors, we’re inspiring greater generosity to move us all forward.

Scholarships

Since 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville has provided tens of millions of dollars in scholarships to support students with their educational goals. We assist donors in establishing scholarship funds so that a quality education can be available for everyone.

Harriet Poynter Musician Scholarship

The Harriet Poynter Musician Scholarship was established to provide scholarship assistance to help defray college or university expenses of a graduating senior from Shelby County, KY who has a passion for music.

The Kentucky Department of Education is offering the FY26 CTE Innovation and Support RFA to enhance public education through innovative projects in Career and Technical Education (CTE). The grant allocates $500,000 to fund up to five awards, each valued at $100,000, aimed at supporting new career paths in CTE schools and programs. All funds must be utilized by June 30, 2027, with local school districts acting as fiscal agents.

The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.

The Kentucky Comprehensive Literacy (KyCL) Grant, funded by the Kentucky Department of Education, aims to enhance literacy programs across the state. Notably, an extension for questions has been announced until November 25, 2025, due to an omitted certification form. A new FAQ will be available around November 27th. Interested applicants should submit inquiries to KDERFP@education.ky.gov to ensure timely responses.

Norton Healthcare's Community Initiatives Funding supports not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to serving community health needs in Greater Louisville and Southern Indiana. With a mission to invest in organizations that align with their faith-based heritage, they encourage applications that demonstrate community benefit. Requests for funding should be submitted at least 60 days prior to events, ensuring timely review and support for impactful initiatives.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP), managed by the Kentucky Department of Education, aims to enhance fresh produce consumption among elementary school students across the nation. This initiative targets schools with the highest rates of free and reduced-price meal enrollment, prioritizing those in need. By fostering healthy eating habits, the program aligns with federal nutrition assistance goals, supporting families and promoting well-being in educational settings.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Kentucky Touring Grant is a matching grant designed to enhance public access to quality performances in the commonwealth. It supports presenters in booking artists from the Kentucky Arts Council's Performing Artists Directory, with applicants able to request up to $5,000 for fees and marketing. A 25% cash match is required, ensuring community involvement. This grant fosters cultural engagement through diverse artistic expressions, benefiting nonprofit organizations and public institutions within Kentucky.