Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Kentucky

The Edith Schwab Memorial Scholarship, established by the Blue Grass Community Foundation in honor of Edith Schwab, aims to support graduate students in Kentucky pursuing careers in public service. This non-renewable scholarship offers at least $1,000 to candidates with excellent academic records and demonstrated financial need, focusing on fields such as public administration, teaching, public health, or social work. The foundation seeks to empower future leaders dedicated to community enhancement.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

About The American Chestnut Foundation:

Our mission is to return the iconic American chestnut to its native range.

Our vision is a robust eastern forest returned to its splendor.

Small Grants Program

Are you looking for funding to support your American chestnut research? External small grants offer recipients a variety of benefits such as professional development and an expanded network. Grant activities contribute to the continuous renewal and development of faculty and staff, to the education and motivation of students, and achievement of our mutual interest — restoration of the American chestnut. This is a small grants program. TACF does not ordinarily fund projects in excess of $10,000.

Kentucky Department of Tourism

The Kentucky Department of Tourism is an agency within the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, which promotes the Commonwealth as a travel destination

The Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet (TAH) is dedicated to making Kentucky a welcoming place for everyone to visit, with a focus on tourism, the arts and sharing the commonwealth's unique heritage.​ TAH serves as Kentucky's top tourism agency, and collaborates with local tourism partners to coordinate tourism, arts and heritage efforts through legislation, tourism development and marketing outreach.

Regional Marketing and Matching Funds Program

The Matching Funds Program provides local non-profit tourism organizations with financial assistance to promote tourism in their areas. The program is administered by KDT staff in accordance with 300 KAR 1:010, Regional Marketing and Matching Funds Program.

Specific projects eligible for reimbursement include:

• Tourism publications, Videos, CDs and DVDs
• Media advertisements
• Billboards and Signage
• Brochure Distribution Services
• Consumer travel show expenses
• Group tour marketplace expenses
• Meeting/Convention & Sports marketing Trade Shows and Expo expenses
• Media Press Kits
• Sponsorship of Tourism Trade Shows and Events
• Bid Fees to Assist in Bringing Events to the State
• Web Site design expenses

The Rural Business Development Grants in Kentucky aim to provide essential technical assistance and training to small rural businesses, defined as those with fewer than 50 employees and under $1 million in gross revenue. Funding is prioritized for smaller requests, and grants must support projects that benefit rural communities outside urban areas. Eligible recipients include public entities, nonprofit corporations, and institutions of higher education, among others, focusing on fostering economic development and job training.

Norton Healthcare

For more than 130 years, Norton Healthcare’s faith heritage has guided its mission to provide quality health care to all those it serves. Today, Norton Healthcare is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients from throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond.

Norton Healthcare Foundation

The Norton Healthcare Foundation raises funds to purchase new equipment, provide programs and education, and fund research that makes a difference for the more than 400,000 patients and their families who come to us for help each year.

Scholarships

Norton Healthcare is proud to offer a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to support the academic and professional growth of students pursuing careers in health care. These programs reflect our commitment to investing in the next generation of skilled, compassionate health care professionals. Whether you are beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, Norton Healthcare scholarship opportunities provide valuable financial assistance and recognition for your dedication to excellence in patient care and community health.

Norton Healthcare Summer College Internship Program

Norton Healthcare invites you to apply for our summer internship program. The program runs from May to August and is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students.

In this immersive, 12-week, paid internship program, you will receive hands-on experience, explore many facets of our health care system and learn how we continuously strive to improve the quality of care for our patients, community and employees.

The Program Consists of Four Key Areas:

• Project work
• Professional development
• Community engagement
• Executive exposure

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

The WHAS Crusade for Children Grant supports organizations, schools, and hospitals that assist children with special needs up to age 18 in Kentucky and southern Indiana. Grants are aimed at direct services, specific programs, and equipment that benefit these children. Applicants must be in good IRS standing, and grants cannot fund administrative costs or be awarded to individuals. Since 1954, the Crusade has distributed over $217 million to further this mission.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5418 - Optimizing PFAS Treatment Systems for Multi-contaminant Removal and Operational Benefits

Project Objectives

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.

Helen "Heidi" Badgett Scholarship

The Helen "Heidi" Badgett Scholarship was established to provide financial assistance to re-entry adults who are returning to college after a period away from school or students graduating from high school or college seeking to further their academic, professional, or career training. Grants will be awarded to applicants with limited financial means who have a strong desire to further their education and demonstrate sufficient academic promise to complete their course of study.

The Appalachian Region Healthcare Support Program aims to enhance healthcare delivery in rural areas by providing technical assistance to organizations such as critical access hospitals and rural health clinics. By focusing on planning and implementing healthcare service improvements, the program seeks to strengthen the operational performance and quality of care within these communities, ultimately benefiting the residents served by the Appalachian Regional Commission.

The Austin E. Knowlton Foundation Grant, established in 1981, provides financial support to students pursuing higher education in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. With a focus on STEM fields, the Foundation aims to promote academic excellence through direct grants to qualified colleges and universities. Since its inception, it has awarded millions in scholarships, making a significant impact on the educational landscape. The Foundation invites suggestions for expanding its reach and enhancing its contributions to higher education.

Kentucky Arts Rising Grant

The Kentucky Arts Council is now accepting applications for the new Kentucky Arts Rising (KAR) Grant, a program created to support small, community-based arts and cultural organizations that provide year-round arts programming for Kentuckians.

Kentucky Arts Rising offers $1,500 in operational support to help strengthen and sustain grassroots arts organizations with limited operating budgets.

Goals

Through the Kentucky Arts Rising program, we strive to work in collaboration with arts organizations across the commonwealth in order to:  

• Develop and maintain strong arts organizations,  
• Increase arts participation statewide, 
• Promote diverse arts and culture, and  
• Help build an efficient arts delivery system across the state. 

The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship (WRKS) provides financial assistance to Kentucky residents who have not earned an associate’s degree, enabling them to pursue industry-recognized certificates or diplomas. This scholarship is aimed at supporting students in high-demand fields such as healthcare, construction, and manufacturing, ensuring they have the opportunity to gain valuable qualifications. With a focus on accessibility, WRKS helps alleviate the financial burden of education for eligible students across the state.

The WHAS Crusade for Children Grant supports non-profit agencies, schools, and hospitals in Kentucky and southern Indiana that assist children with special needs. Since 1954, over $217 million has been awarded to improve the lives of these children. The grants focus on direct services and specific programs or equipment, excluding administrative costs and personal items. Eligible organizations must have IRS standing and county financial support before applying.

About the KBF

Guided by a clear purpose and a deep sense of responsibility, the Kentucky Bar Foundation is committed to fueling access to justice and expanding legal knowledge throughout the Commonwealth. We envision a Kentucky where justice is within reach for all and we bring that vision to life through values rooted in integrity, compassion, service, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous growth.

Signature Justice Grant

We award a $50,000 grant to support bold, innovative projects that create lasting improvements in access to justice and legal education across Kentucky.

About the Signature Justice Grant 

The Signature Justice Grant is a new opportunity from the Kentucky Bar Foundation to invest in bold ideas that have the potential to make a meaningful and lasting difference. 

Unlike KBF's regular annual grants, which support a broad range of important programs and services throughout Kentucky, the Signature Justice Grant is intended for a single transformative project. 

KBF is looking for projects that are new, innovative, or represent a substantial expansion of an existing initiative. The project should address a significant need and have the potential to improve access to justice or expand legal knowledge in ways that can continue beyond the grant period. 

The Signature Justice Grant is an additional grant opportunity and will not replace or reduce KBF's regular annual grantmaking.

KBF is looking for projects that think differently about how access to justice or legal education can be improved. An innovative or transformative project may introduce a new approach, technology, partnership, service model, or resource; significantly expand the reach or impact of an existing program; or address a longstanding need in a new and potentially more effective way. 

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

The Pipeline Grants Competition by the Russell Sage Foundation aims to bolster early-career scholars and enhance diversity in the social sciences. It supports innovative research focusing on economic mobility and systemic inequalities in the U.S. Eligible applicants can receive up to $35,000 individually or $50,000 in teams. The foundation emphasizes methodological diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging novel data usage. Projects should align with RSF's mission to improve social conditions, prioritizing underrepresented scholars from under-resourced institutions.

The Frank King Fund Grant provides matching funds of up to $3,000 to support churches within the Kentucky Annual Conference for improvements and additions. Eligible churches must have fewer than 200 members or 100 in worship and must submit a project accounting upon completion. A letter of support from the district superintendent is also required. This grant honors the legacy of Rev. Frank C. King, a dedicated United Methodist Pastor.

The NCDDG program supports innovative research aiming to discover and develop new treatments for mental disorders, including substance use and alcohol use disorders. This initiative encourages collaborations between academic and industry partners to advance neurostimulation techniques and drug/device development. Applicants are invited to submit proposals that focus on specific projects utilizing the U01 mechanism, with a clear emphasis on rationally designed candidate agents and cutting-edge technologies. Letters of Intent are encouraged 30 days prior to the submission deadline.

The National Cooperative Drug/Device Discovery/Development Groups (NCDDG) program invites applications to foster innovative research in treating mental disorders and substance use issues. This initiative promotes collaboration between academia and industry, supporting diverse, multidisciplinary projects aimed at developing rational therapies and neurostimulation techniques. Applicants are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent 30 days before the proposal deadline to enhance project alignment with funding goals.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Safety First Grant Program aims to enhance community safety across its 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, it supports organizations that provide safety services or promote safe behavior. This program reflects Norfolk Southern's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowering employees to engage locally. By investing in safety and workforce development, Norfolk Southern fosters thriving communities, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility and community well-being.

The Teaching Artists Directory Grant by the Kentucky Arts Council aims to empower local artists by providing career opportunities and professional development in arts education. It supports artists of various disciplines, encouraging them to collaborate with educators and students in creative settings. This initiative fosters artistic engagement within Kentucky, ensuring a diverse and accessible arts community. By highlighting qualified teaching artists, the grant serves as a valuable resource for educators seeking to enrich their programs with high-quality artistic contributions.

The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund offers crucial financial support and counseling for individuals in the theatrical exhibition and distribution sectors facing health-related challenges. This fund assists with medical expenses, housing emergencies, and essential services like vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years in exhibition or five years in distribution. The fund aims to provide a safety net for those impacted by illness, injury, or significant life changes.