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Best Kentucky Grants for Nonprofits

Find nonprofit grants in Kentucky, including opportunities in Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green. Updated listings for 501(c)(3) organizations statewide.

9,000+

Available grants

$2.62B

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

9,000+ grants
$2.62B total
$5K median

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9,458 Results based on applied filters

EBBA: Research Grants

Eastern Bird Banding Association (EBBA)
Association/Society
Central America, North America +1 more
Up to US $5,000
The Eastern Bird Banding Association is offering the Memorial Fund Research Grants to support research utilizing avian marking techniques, such as banding. Applicants must submit a detailed project proposal, including significance and budget, alongside their background in ornithology. Grants are open to all, particularly encouraging student applications, with no lifetime award limit per individual. Projects must focus on species within EBBA territory, ensuring marking techniques are integral to the research.
Ornithology

Post-Doctorate Research Grants: W. Storrs Cole Memorial Research Award

Geological Society of America (GSA)
Association/Society
United States
US $7,000 - US $10,000
The W. Storrs Cole Memorial Research Award, offered by the Geological Society of America (GSA), supports innovative research in invertebrate micropaleontology. This prestigious award honors the legacy of Dr. W. Storrs Cole, a pivotal figure in the society's history. Recipients may be previous awardees and must have published significant works in the field. The GSA aims to advance geoscience through such initiatives, fostering scientific discovery and professional growth among earth scientists globally.
Palynology Paleontology Geology

Philip Keenan Award

American Orchid Society (AOS)
Association/Society
Canada, United States
US $500
The Philip Keenan Award, presented by the American Orchid Society, honors individuals dedicated to studying or preserving native orchids in North America. This prestigious award acknowledges past accomplishments in these fields, promoting broader appreciation for orchids and supporting ongoing conservation efforts. Applicants can include students, amateurs, or professionals who demonstrate commitment and passion for orchid research and preservation, contributing to the sustainability of these beautiful plants.
Botanical Conservation Plant Science

SETAC North America: Meeting Attendance Grants for Students

Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC)
Association/Society
North America
Unspecified amount
The SETAC North America Student Meeting Attendance Grant supports student participation in annual meetings, emphasizing inclusivity and excellence. This program provides waived registration and stipends for costs such as travel and dependent care. Eligible students can apply during abstract submission from March to May, with grants available for each degree program. The initiative encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from indigenous communities and minority-serving institutions, enhancing representation within the environmental sciences.
Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology

The Charles Albert Shull Award

American Society of Plant Biologists
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Charles Albert Shull Award, established by the American Society of Plant Biologists in 1971, honors outstanding investigations in plant biology by early-career researchers. Eligible candidates must be ASPB members under 45 years old or within ten years of their doctoral degree. This award recognizes significant contributions to the field, promoting the growth and education of plant scientists. Recipients will present their work at the annual meeting, fostering community engagement and knowledge sharing.
Plant Science

Mary Clutter Leadership in Science Public Service Award

American Society of Plant Biologists
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Mary Clutter Leadership in Science Public Service Award, established by the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB), honors individuals who significantly contribute to plant science and public policy leadership. Renamed in 2019, this award recognizes efforts that advance ASPB's mission, encouraging diverse contributions to the field. Recipients, who may not be plant scientists themselves, are invited to address the Society at its annual meeting, highlighting their achievements and the importance of their work in the broader scientific community.
Plant Science

Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust Grant

Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust
Private
Australia and New Zealand, Caribbean +3 more
Up to US $25,000
The Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust Grant supports education and research in ornamental horticulture, funding projects that enhance public gardens, promote ornamental plants, and support related educational initiatives. Grants typically range up to $20,000, with a maximum of $25,000, focusing on project support rather than general operating expenses. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities and similar entities worldwide, while the Trust does not fund individuals or capital campaigns.
Horticulture & Gardening

Farmers Advocating for Organic Grant

Organic Valley
Corporate
United States
US $5,000 - US $50,000
The Farmers Advocating for Organic Grant (FAFO) supports impactful projects that enhance the organic agricultural sector, focusing on initiatives that assist family farmers and promote organic soil health. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and research institutions. FAFO prioritizes projects that address the needs of organic dairy, meat, and produce farmers while fostering cooperative growth. This grant aims to strengthen the organic industry and ensure the livelihood of organic farmers across the nation.
Agriculture

SAF Technology Transfer Award

Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $1,500
The SAF Technology Transfer Award honors exceptional contributions to technology transfer in forestry by an SAF member. It recognizes leaders who have significantly impacted forestry practices through innovation and quality work. The award includes a $1,000 honorarium, complimentary registration for the SAF convention, and up to $500 for travel costs. Presented at the SAF national convention, it emphasizes the importance of effective technology transfer for sustainable forest management.
Forestry

NANFA Conservation Research Grant

North American Native Fishes Association (NANFA)
Association/Society
North America
Up to US $2,000
The NANFA Conservation Research Grant, offered by the North American Native Fishes Association, supports research focused on conserving North America's indigenous fish species, particularly those that are threatened or endangered. With a maximum funding of $1,000 per proposal, this grant is open to academia, conservation groups, and independent researchers. Since 2001, NANFA has aimed to enhance knowledge about native fishes and promote their conservation through scientific research and community engagement.
Ichthyology (Fish) Fisheries Fish Conservation

Steven Berkeley Marine Conservation Fellowship

American Fisheries Society
Association/Society
North America
US $15,000
The Steven Berkeley Marine Conservation Fellowship, established by the American Fisheries Society in 2007, honors a dedicated fisheries scientist. This $15,000 award supports graduate students engaged in thesis research on marine conservation topics. Applicants must be enrolled in a North American university's M.S. or Ph.D. program and be AFS members in good standing. The fellowship encourages innovative research addressing various conservation issues, not limited to fisheries.
Marine Biology Fisheries Marine / Ocean Conservation

Marliave Scholarship Fund

Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists Foundation
Association/Society
United States
US $2,000
The Marliave Scholarship Fund, established in honor of Elmer C. Marliave and his family, supports students in Engineering Geology and Geological Engineering. This scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievement and potential contributions to the profession. Awarded by the AEG Foundation, recipients are designated as "Marliave Scholars" based on their qualifications and involvement in professional societies. The program aims to foster excellence and commitment within the field, promoting future leaders in geoscience.
Engineering Geology

Norman R. Tilford Field Studies Scholarship Fund

Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists Foundation
Association/Society
United States
US $1,000 - US $1,500
The Norman R. Tilford Field Studies Scholarship Fund, established in 1998 by the AEG Foundation, honors the contributions of Norman R. Tilford. It provides grants to undergraduate and graduate students undertaking field studies in geology. Awards include $1000 for undergraduates and $1500 for both Master’s and doctoral candidates, based on academic merit and potential contributions to the field. This fund promotes hands-on learning and professional development in geosciences.
Geology Engineering Geology

West-Gray Scholarship Fund

Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The West-Gray Scholarship Fund, established in 2014, supports undergraduate and graduate students in applied geology who demonstrate academic excellence and are members of the Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists. This fund aids students conducting field studies in environmental and engineering geology particularly in the eastern United States, fostering future professionals in the field.
Engineering Geology

AEG K-14 Education Fund Grant

Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The AEG K-14 Education Fund Grant supports geological education across K-14 levels, including elementary, middle, high schools, and community colleges. Established by the AEG Foundation, its purpose is to encourage innovative teaching methods in geology through hands-on activities and professional demonstrations. Grants are available to accredited educators and institutions in the U.S. While AEG membership is encouraged, it is not mandatory. The fund excludes support for political activities and overhead costs.
Geology

Winifred Goldring Award

Association for Women Geoscientists
Association/Society
Afghanistan, Albania +189 more
US $2,000
The Winifred Goldring Award, presented by the Association for Women Geoscientists, offers a $2000 cash prize and membership in the Paleontological Society to an outstanding female student in paleontology. Named after the pioneering woman paleontologist Winifred Goldring, the award recognizes students exhibiting exceptional motivation and professional potential. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in graduate studies and provide proof of student status. This award aims to support women's contributions to the geosciences.
Paleontology

AWG Geoscience Idea Scholarship

Association for Women Geoscientists
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $2,500
The AWG Geoscience Idea Scholarship supports women from under-served communities to pursue careers in Earth Sciences, a field known for its lack of diversity. It offers $2,500 to three upper-division and $500 to one lower-division undergraduate student, along with a one-year AWG membership. Recipients can also be matched with mentors, enhancing their educational journey and career prospects in geoscience disciplines. This initiative aims to promote inclusion and diversity in the geoscience workforce.
Earth Science Geoinformatics & Geospatial Sciences Geology +20 more

Curtis Gates Lloyd Research Fellowship

Lloyd Library and Museum
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $3,000
The Curtis Gates Lloyd Research Fellowship, provided by the Lloyd Library and Museum, supports research in various fields, including botany, conservation, and history of science. This fellowship offers a stipend of $2,000 for local applicants and $3,000 for those from outside the region. To be eligible, applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree and commit to conducting research at the library for a minimum of 20 hours per week. The fellowship duration ranges from one to three months.
History Zoology Mycology +5 more

1Fur1 Foundation Grant

1Fur1 Foundation
Private
United States
US $500 - US $7,500
The 1Fur1 Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) charities that engage in animal-assisted programs. Eligible organizations can apply for grants ranging from $500 to $7,500 to support Animal Assisted Therapy, Activity, and Service Dog programs. The foundation focuses on charities that align with its mission and does not fund individual requests, for-profit businesses, or initiatives that promote animal cruelty. Applications are reviewed within 90 days.
Service Animals Human-Animal Interactions & Therapy

Grants For Grades 6-12 ($5,000 or More)

Toshiba America Foundation
Corporate
United States
More than US $5,000
The Toshiba America Foundation offers grants of $5,000 or more to support innovative STEM projects for grades 6-12 in public and nonprofit private schools across the U.S. These grants encourage teachers to implement project-based learning in their classrooms. Founded in 1990, the foundation aims to enhance STEM education by providing necessary resources and support for educators to inspire their students. Applications require school official endorsement and must focus on innovative teaching methods.
Science Mathematics STEM / STEAM Education

Grants For Grades 6-12 ($5,000 or Less)

Toshiba America Foundation
Corporate
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Toshiba America Foundation offers grants of up to $5,000 for innovative STEM projects aimed at grades 6-12. These grants support teachers seeking to enhance science and math education through creative project-based learning. Eligible applicants include public and nonprofit private school teachers, with a focus on fostering engaging classroom experiences. Projects must be endorsed by a school official, and funding is not available for general operations or equipment purchases.
STEM / STEAM Education Science Mathematics

Grants For Grades K - 5 Teachers

Toshiba America Foundation
Corporate
United States
Up to US $1,000
The Toshiba America Foundation offers grants to K-5 teachers in public and nonprofit private schools, funding innovative projects in math and science education. Designed to support teachers in implementing hands-on learning experiences, these grants encourage creativity and community involvement. Applicants can propose projects that enhance student engagement and foster scientific inquiry. The foundation prioritizes teacher-led initiatives, making it a valuable resource for educators aiming to enrich their classrooms and inspire young learners.
STEM / STEAM Education Education - Elementary School

Franklin Research Grants

American Philosophical Society
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $6,500
The Franklin Research Grants support noncommercial research by funding travel to libraries and archives, purchasing research materials, and covering fieldwork or laboratory expenses. With a maximum award of $6,000, these grants are aimed at scholars with a doctorate or equivalent publications, excluding Ph.D. candidates. Grants are taxable, not retroactive, and are not intended for conference attendance or publication costs. The program encourages young scholars and allows reapplications after two years.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Religion & Spirituality

Undergraduate and Graduate Student Training Fellowship

Torrey Botanical Society
Association/Society
United States
US $1,000
The Undergraduate and Graduate Student Training Fellowship, offered by the Torrey Botanical Society, provides $1,000 annually to support students in plant science. This award is intended for society members to help cover course costs at biological field stations. Founded in the 1860s, the society promotes interest in plant life among botanists and nature enthusiasts alike, making it one of the oldest botanical societies in America.
Plant Science

Mathers Charitable Foundation Grant

The G. Harold & Leila Y. Mathers Charitable Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Mathers Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on advancing basic scientific research with the potential to transform human health. It supports institutions and investigators in fields such as immunology, cancer biology, and neuroscience while prioritizing impactful, foundational discoveries. The foundation empowers researchers to drive innovative solutions and foster meaningful contributions to science and society. Eligibility includes U.S.-based institutions and principal investigators with equipped labs, while ineligible entities include overseas institutions and private foundations.
Cell Biology Neuroscience Cancer / Oncology +7 more

The Eppley Foundation for Research Grant

The Eppley Foundation for Research
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Eppley Foundation for Research, established in 1947, supports advanced scientific research in chemistry, physics, and biology. It prioritizes innovative studies, particularly in medical investigations and climate change. The foundation does not fund social sciences or projects with ample existing financial support. Applicants must hold a PhD or MD and be associated with a nonprofit in the US. The foundation aims to foster groundbreaking research that is unlikely to be replicated elsewhere.
Physics Biology Health & Medicine +4 more

BHW Women in STEM Academic Scholarship

The BHW Group
Corporate
United States
US $3,000
The BHW Women in STEM Academic Scholarship is a new initiative by The BHW Group, aimed at supporting women pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in undergraduate or master's programs at universities in the United States. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of female representation in STEM fields and provides financial assistance directly to the winner's educational institution.
Engineering Mathematics Science +1 more

Kentucky Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Kentucky grants for nonprofits provide funding to support public health, education, and rural development projects. The following grants help organizations address state-specific challenges, promote equity, and improve the quality of life across Kentucky.


Search Instrumentl's Kentucky Grants Database


Explore 136 funding opportunities for nonprofits in Kentucky, with $57.7M in resources. Instrumentl streamlines the funding search with deadline notifications, customized filtering, and key insights to support impactful initiatives throughout Kentucky.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Kentucky Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

100+ Kentucky grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

30 Kentucky grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

21 Kentucky grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

22 Kentucky grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

100+ Kentucky grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Human & Social Services

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Kentucky grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
33.9%
Q2
21.2%
Q3
23.7%
Q4
21.2%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Kentucky Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $8,000.

$500 $500 Min.
$8,000 $8 K Median
$711,767 $711.8 K Average
$40,331,313 $40.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

A wide variety of funding sources for nonprofits are available in Kentucky. Over 100+ individual grants, totaling $57,653,111, are available. If you’re interested in applying for grant funding in Kentucky, know that the median grant size is $8,000. Grants for nonprofits in Kentucky provide funding to support areas like public health, education, and rural development initiatives.

In Kentucky, grants come from all different types of funders, including private foundations, federal government agencies, and corporations. Here’s a breakdown of where you’ll find available grants in Kentucky:

  • Private Foundations: Private foundations in Kentucky fund 81 grant opportunities. When filtering for these grants, you'll see that many focus on education, arts and culture, and more.
  • Federal Government Agencies: There are 14 grants available in Kentucky through federal government agencies. Many of these funding opportunities focus on initiatives like agriculture, rural development, and health care.
  • Corporations: There is a moderate amount of grants from corporations available in Kentucky. The 16 grants available focus on food access and hunger, community services, and more.

Whether you go after government grants or foundation grants depends on your grant readiness. Keep in mind that government grants often have large awards but equally large compliance requirements.

Based on the data we have now, the best time to apply for grants in Kentucky is in Q1, which is when 33.9% of grant deadlines fall. Of the available grants, 23.7% of deadlines fall in Q3 and 21.2% fall in Q2. Comparatively, Q4 is the grant period with the least activity, as only 21.2% of deadlines fall within this timeframe. To maximize your odds of receiving funding, be aware of the peak fundraising periods.

The nonprofit funding landscape throughout Kentucky has shown large activity across the past several years. Based on the funding reports sent to the IRS, overall grant funding reached up to ~$1.7 billion in 2021 and increased to ~$1.8 billion in 2022, a growth of nearly 6%. Among all of the grants awarded in Kentucky during this time, the most popular focus areas for funding were single-organization support from professional societies and associations and alliance/advocacy organizations. Likewise, the top counties receiving the most funding were Jefferson County, Kenton County, and Fayette County.

If you want to start finding more grants, Instrumentl simplifies the entire grant process. You can find grants within Kentucky for your nonprofit while also researching funders, managing deadlines, and keeping on top of everything in our all-in-one platform.

With Instrumentl, you'll get access to over 20,000 live grants and 400,000 funders beyond what you see here in Kentucky. Learn more about Instrumentl's platform.

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