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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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9,454 Results based on applied filters

Alfred P. Sloan Economics Grant Program

Alfred P Sloan Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Alfred P. Sloan Economics Grant Program aims to provide essential public goods through innovative research that enhances U.S. economic progress. With a focus on equity and technological advancement, the program supports projects addressing pressing economic issues, such as competitiveness, regional development, and the economics of caregiving. By fostering rigorous, unbiased research, the foundation seeks to empower communities and inform policy, ultimately improving quality of life across the nation.
Economics

STEM Higher Education Grant Program

Alfred P Sloan Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The STEM Higher Education Grant Program, funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, aims to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM graduate education. The program focuses on transforming educational pathways, empowering universities, and supporting innovative initiatives that cultivate a diverse faculty body. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting inclusive environments, the Foundation seeks to ensure that all students have equitable opportunities to succeed in STEM fields, ultimately strengthening the scientific enterprise.
Education - Higher Education Diversity, Equity & Inclusion STEM / STEAM Education

National MS Society: Research Grants

National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Association/Society
Afghanistan, Africa +76 more
Unspecified amount
The National MS Society offers annual Research Grants for investigator-initiated proposals addressing key research questions from the Pathways to MS Cures Roadmap. These grants support diverse studies, including clinical and nonclinical research aimed at stopping MS disease activity, restoring function, and preventing new cases. Eligible applicants must hold an M.D. or Ph.D. and demonstrate relevance to the Society's research priorities. This funding opportunity promotes collaboration and focuses on underserved MS populations.
Multiple Sclerosis

Launchpad Funds: Pre-seed Funding

Coefficient Giving
Private
Countries
US $200,000 - US $10,000,000
The Global Health and Wellbeing Grantmaking program by Coefficient Giving focuses on addressing critical health and welfare issues worldwide. With an emphasis on proactive engagement and evidence-based solutions, the initiative supports projects that improve health outcomes and wellbeing. The program prioritizes funding for organizations tackling neglected global health challenges, advocating for effective philanthropy, and enhancing the lives of both humans and animals in vulnerable communities.
Diseases & Conditions Air Quality Emerging Technology Development +13 more

Sun Life’s Health Access Heroes Grant Program

Sun Life Financial
Corporate
United States
US $25,000 - US $100,000
Sun Life’s Health Access Grant Program aims to enhance access to health services, specifically targeting diabetes and oral health in local communities. With funding options ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, this program supports 501(c)(3) charities focused on diabetes prevention, management, and oral health care. By fostering access to essential health services, Sun Life is committed to building healthier communities and addressing health disparities faced by underprivileged populations.
Diabetes Obesity Nutrition & Healthy Eating +1 more

Nestle Purina Pet Food Donations & Disaster Relief

Nestlé Purina
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
Nestlé Purina offers pet food donations and disaster relief primarily to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. Their commitment includes supplying food and litter to over 900 organizations, reflecting their dedication to the well-being of pets and communities. Purina also assists during natural disasters, providing essential support to pets in distress. Organizations interested must ensure eligibility and can expect a decision within 10 business days after application submission.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Nestle Purina Event Sponsorship

Nestlé Purina
Corporate
Adams County, Colorado, Adams County, Pennsylvania +361 more
Unspecified amount
Nestlé Purina is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of pets and the communities they serve. Through their event sponsorship program, they support 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. that focus on the welfare of cats and dogs. Eligible events must be located within 50 miles of their St. Louis headquarters, ensuring that their contributions directly benefit local communities. Purina's commitment to pets and people strengthens the bond between them.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

William L. and Diane C. Wilson Scholarship for Karst Science

Karst Waters Institute Inc
Private
United States
US $3,000
The William L. and Diane C. Wilson Scholarship for Karst Science, established in 2002, honors the legacy of William L. Wilson and aims to support innovative karst scientists. Funded by Diane C. Wilson, it provides a one-time award of $2,500 and recognition at the KWI spring banquet. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a master's program focused on karst science and its subfields, while PhD students are excluded. This scholarship fosters the growth of new talent in karst research.
Geology Hydrology Geophysics +1 more

JAMS Foundation / NAFCM Mini-Grant Program

Jams Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $15,000
The JAMS Foundation / NAFCM Mini-Grant Program offers funding to support innovative community mediation programs that foster sustainability and growth. This initiative emphasizes conflict resolution training for local leaders, enabling them to effectively address community issues. Through structured peer interactions, grantees share best practices and insights. Resources generated by the program are freely accessible to enhance the wider community mediation field, ensuring shared knowledge and enhanced practices across the nation.
Community / Public Safety Violence Prevention Civic Leadership Development +1 more

A Little HOPE Grants

A Little HOPE
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
A Little HOPE, Inc. is a charitable foundation that provides grants to organizations offering bereavement support services and grief counseling for children and young adults who have lost a loved one. The grant amounts vary based on project scope and budget. Applications are by invitation only, sent out each October, and interested organizations should submit an email with necessary details for consideration.
Children’s Mental Health

The Samull Classroom Herb Garden Grants

The Herb Society of America
Association/Society
United States
US $500
The Samull Classroom Herb Garden Grant, established through a generous donation from Donald Samull, supports elementary classrooms (grades K-6) with at least ten students to create herb gardens. Grants of $500 are awarded annually to enhance curricula with hands-on learning experiences about herbs. Eligible classrooms may use funds for plants and necessary supplies like soil and tools. Applications are reviewed by a committee, ensuring equitable access to these educational resources.
Horticulture & Gardening

Tyson Foods: Community Giving Grants

Tyson Foods, Inc.
Corporate
Accomack County, Virginia, Alameda County, California +93 more
US $500 - US $5,000
Tyson Foods Community Giving Grants support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for communities and their members. With a focus on scaling existing effective programs, these grants are aimed at organizations that operate in underserved areas. Eligible nonprofits must have a 501(c)(3) status and local Tyson plant support. Applications are accepted annually, with priority given to projects addressing systemic community issues. Notable past support includes a $25,000 grant to the Arkansas Foodbank Mobile Pantry Initiative.
Food Access & Hunger Volunteerism & Philanthropy

Swantz Family Foundation Grant

Swantz Family Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Swantz Family Foundation Grant aims to support innovative nonprofit organizations that reconnect young people with nature. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, and grants are typically awarded for one year, with some exceptions for multi-year funding. Recipients are required to submit a final report detailing project activities and the use of funds within 12 months. The foundation may recover funds if misused, ensuring accountability and effective use of resources.
Environmental Education

New York Life Foundation Grief Reach Grants: Capacity Building Cycle

National Alliance for Children's Grief (NACG)
Private
United States
US $15,000
The New York Life Foundation Grief Reach Grants aim to enhance the capacity of nonprofit organizations serving grieving children. This program, offered in partnership with the National Alliance for Children's Grief, provides $15,000 grants over one year to support internal improvements like organizational development and strategic collaborations. The initiative focuses on strengthening infrastructure and sustainability, ensuring that children have the resources they need to cope with loss effectively.
Children’s Mental Health Social / Emotional Learning & Development Bereavement / Grief Services +1 more

Emergent Fund Grant

Emergent Fund
Association/Society
United States
US $10,000 - US $30,000
The Emergent Fund Grant, established in 2016, supports BIPOC-led social justice movements through rapid response funding. It addresses urgent community needs by providing low-barrier grants to organizations facing crises such as family separation and systemic oppression. The fund prioritizes initiatives that foster Black liberation, multiracial solidarity, and empower communities to build transformative power. By investing in innovative strategies, the Emergent Fund aims to challenge oppressive structures and advance social justice, ensuring that impacted communities are at the forefront of their own advocacy.
Social Justice / Human Rights Civic Engagement & Education Minority Services +2 more

Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant

Bayer Fund
Corporate
Ada County, Idaho, Adams County, Nebraska +488 more
Unspecified amount
The Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant supports high-quality programs that combat malnutrition and improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for underserved communities and families with young children. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units. The fund prioritizes long-term behavioral change towards healthy eating and nutrition, with grants typically not exceeding 25% of an organization's operating budget. International requests start at $25,000, fostering sustainable food security and education initiatives.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating Food Access & Hunger

Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley Restoration Fund RFP

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Adams County, Mississippi, Alexander County, Illinois +103 more
US $150,000 - US $750,000
The Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley Restoration Fund RFP aims to provide grants for projects that restore and maintain bottomland hardwood forests and wetlands, enhance agricultural lands for better soil health and wildlife habitat, promote aquatic connectivity, and improve community resilience. Grants range from $150,000 to $1,000,000, depending on project scale, and applicants are encouraged to consult NFWF for proposals outside this range. This program follows an annual application cycle.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration

LGBTQ Fund Grant Program

Appalachian Community Fund
Private
Adair County, Kentucky, Alleghany County, Virginia +138 more
Up to US $2,000
The LGBTQ Fund Grant Program, offered by the Appalachian Community Fund, supports grassroots social change in Central Appalachia. It prioritizes funding for organizations that promote inclusivity and tackle systemic issues affecting LGBTQ communities, particularly youth. Grants are available to community-led organizations with a focus on building capacity and addressing social, economic, and racial justice. This initiative embodies a commitment to collective action and resource-sharing, fostering positive transformation in Appalachian communities.
LGBTQIA+ Services Sexuality & LGBTQIA+ Rights

ACF Technical Assistance Grants

Appalachian Community Fund
Private
Adair County, Kentucky, Alleghany County, Virginia +138 more
Unspecified amount
The Appalachian Community Fund's Technical Assistance Grants are designed to strengthen grassroots organizations in Central Appalachia. These small grants support specific technical assistance needs, enhancing skills in areas such as leadership, fundraising, and community organizing. ACF prioritizes projects that address systemic issues and promote social, economic, and environmental justice. Organizations eligible for funding must be community-led and demonstrate a commitment to creating equitable change in their communities.
Social Justice / Human Rights

PCC Rapid Response Grants

Pop Culture Collaborative
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $100,000
The PCC Rapid Response Grants provide support for cultural initiatives that aim to shape narratives during critical cultural moments. These grants prioritize projects that engage communities of color, immigrants, refugees, and other marginalized groups, focusing on intersectionality, gender justice, and social equity. Eligible projects include pop culture campaigns, research, and public spectacles that respond to urgent political and cultural events, aiming to reach mass audiences and disrupt harmful narratives.
Immigration & Refugee Rights Islam & Islamic Culture Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights

Kars4Kids Small Grant Program

Kars4Kids
Private
United States
US $5,000
The Kars4Kids Small Grant Program aims to support educational initiatives globally, impacting the lives of children. This program welcomes applications from IRS-recognized nonprofit organizations focused on youth development, mentorship, and education. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000, depending on mission alignment and available funds. Kars4Kids, a national Jewish nonprofit, is dedicated to nurturing productive community members through educational and mentoring opportunities.
Youth Development & Leadership After School / Summer Educational Programs Academic Success & Enrichment +5 more

Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund Fellowships

Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund
Private
Addison County, Vermont, Alameda County, California +62 more
Up to US $18,000
The Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund Fellowships provide financial support for U.S. citizens pursuing graduate studies in various fields at accredited institutions. The fellowships cover tuition and offer an annual stipend of $18,000 for living expenses. Candidates must demonstrate financial need and have an outstanding undergraduate record. Applications are submitted through the dean of the university, with deadlines in January and notifications by mid-June. This program honors Dolores Zohrab Liebmann's legacy of supporting education.
Humanities & Social Science Health & Medicine Law +3 more

RTK Scholars Program

RTK Environmental Group
Corporate
United States
US $1,500
The RTK Scholars Program, funded by RTK Environmental Group, provides a $1,500 scholarship to support students pursuing careers in science, particularly in environmental studies, biology, and engineering. This initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of experts in environmental testing and technology. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be enrolled in an accredited institution. The application deadline is May 31 each year, promoting academic excellence and dedication to environmental sciences.
Engineering Environment Biology

RedRover Relief Safe Housing Grants

RedRover
Private
United States
Up to US $60,000
RedRover Relief Safe Housing Grants provide vital support for domestic violence survivors by enabling them to keep their pets safe during challenging times. With grants up to $60,000, nonprofit organizations can create or enhance programs that offer shelter for pets, foster care, and veterinary services. This initiative fosters collaboration between domestic violence and animal organizations, ensuring comprehensive community support. By addressing the unique needs of families, these grants promote safety and well-being for both humans and their beloved pets.
Domestic Violence Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Aurand Harris Grants & Fellowships

Children's Theatre Foundation of America (CTFA)
Private
United States
US $2,000 - US $3,000
The Aurand Harris Grants & Fellowships support children’s theatre by funding projects that foster artistic growth and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Eligible applicants include 501c3 nonprofit theatres and individual artists. The grants cover various expenses, such as fees for artists and equipment costs, while prioritizing projects that align with the values of the Children's Theatre Foundation of America. Notably, funding will not cover general operating support or projects already in progress.
Theater

Recordings at Risk Grant

Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR)
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $10,000 - US $50,000
The Recordings at Risk Grant, administered by CLIR, supports the preservation of rare audio and audiovisual media of scholarly value through digital reformatting. With funding from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the program aims to award $6.75 million across twelve competitions, offering grants between $10,000 and $50,000. It encourages U.S. nonprofit institutions to preserve vulnerable media, helping them to develop strategies for effective digital reformatting and promoting best preservation practices.
Historical Records & Archives

Reproductive Health & Justice Grant Program

Educational Foundation of America
Private
Adair County, Kentucky, Adams County, Ohio +372 more
Unspecified amount
The Educational Foundation of America (EFA) supports the Reproductive Health & Justice Grant Program to enhance access to abortion and contraception throughout the U.S., particularly in Appalachia, Alabama, and Florida. EFA funds innovative organizations that advocate for reproductive rights, provide direct support to abortion services, and leverage impact investing strategies. This commitment aims to ensure reproductive freedom, foster equity, and promote sustainability in underserved communities.
Reproductive Health Reproductive Rights

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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