Best Grants for Environmental Projects in Kentucky

Kentucky grassroots 501(c)(3) organizations working on social, economic, racial, or environmental justice in Appalachian counties can access funding through Appalachian Community Fund for technical assistance and capacity-building. Grants support leadership development, fundraising, board training, long-range planning, financial management, legal issues, community organizing, and related training costs for community-led efforts pursuing systemic social change.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services or environmental approaches in Kentucky can seek support for new solutions to social problems. Creag Foundation supports smaller or evolving programs finding new ways to address societal issues; funding is by invitation, but eligible groups may submit a letter of inquiry for consideration.

Eligible 501(c)(3) public charities, government entities, and school districts in select Kentucky counties can seek project support for environmental and community initiatives. Focused on vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and justice, equity and inclusion, the Duke Energy Foundation offers up to US $20,000 for efforts like land conservation, clean water, disaster preparedness, and environmental education.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Nonprofit organizations working on health, education, or community programs in Kentucky can apply for funding that supports food pantries, healthcare access, STEM education, and healthy lifestyle initiatives. Focused on community well-being, Labcorp Charitable Foundation invites eligible 501(c)(3) groups to strengthen local services that may complement environmental and sustainability efforts.

Community-led 501(c)(3) organizations or fiscally sponsored groups in eligible Kentucky Appalachian counties can seek funding to build LGBTQ institutional resources and organizing capacity. Grants from Appalachian Community Fund help Kentucky groups advancing social, economic, racial, environmental, and gender justice, with priority for new or emerging LGBTQ efforts, particularly those involving youth and systemic change strategies, up to US $2,000.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on early childhood education or community and economic development in Kentucky communities where PNC operates can seek support for programs serving low- and moderate-income residents. PNC Foundation provides funding that may benefit environmental or revitalization projects improving neighborhood quality of life and stabilizing local areas.

Environmental and community-focused charities in Kentucky and worldwide can seek philanthropic support for humanitarian, science education, community development, arts, and environmental projects. Grants from La Roche help accredited charities deliver sustainable development initiatives, disaster response, youth and STEM education, and contemporary arts and culture programs through local Roche affiliate offices in their own countries.

Rural, grassroots community groups in Kentucky working on social, economic, or environmental justice can access funding through the Discretionary Fund for organizing, capacity building, and travel support. Grants from Southern Partners Fund may benefit environmental projects that use community organizing strategies, especially around education reform, immigration rights, or voter engagement in rural communities.

IRS-qualified nonprofit organizations in Kentucky seeking support for environmental and wildlife protection activities can apply for the Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation’s grants, awarding US $1,000 - US $20,000. The foundation supports U.S. community-based programs, so Kentucky groups working on nature, conservation, or related community projects may be competitive applicants.

Grants from Fifth Third Foundation help Kentucky environmental and community nonprofits fund programs in conservation, historic preservation, education, arts, and human services across the Greater Cincinnati/Dayton/Northern Kentucky region. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations operating in listed Kentucky counties may receive support for projects that strengthen communities, aid children and families, and protect nature’s beauty.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

Kentucky environmental organizations and other 501(c)(3) nonprofits can access funding for programmatic projects through Dr Scholl Foundation, with typical awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $25,000. Grants support work in environment, education, health care, social services, civic, and cultural areas, primarily for U.S. applicants with at least three years of financial activity.

Nonprofit conservation and community organizations, municipalities, Tribal Nations, and agencies in Kentucky and other Appalachian states can seek up to US $100,000 to acquire land or easements and cover related project costs. With a mission to conserve lands and waters, The Nature Conservancy supports resilient, connected habitats that deliver strong community benefits and climate resilience.

Environmental and wildlife conservation 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kentucky can seek storytelling support to showcase their impact. Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation’s Storytelling Grant funds communications projects that highlight work in areas like wildlife conservation, historic preservation, food and waste management, and related environmental efforts, with awards of more than US $50,000 available nationwide.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Jefferson County, Kentucky can seek approximately US $100,000 to support environmental, preservation, or recreation initiatives, including housing, urban planning, and community spaces. Grants from Impact 100 Louisville help Kentucky organizations fund capacity building, program expansion, or innovative projects that improve local facilities, surroundings, and recreational opportunities.

Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet serves the public by enforcing laws relating to natural resources and the environment. It keeps citizens safe and healthy, while supporting a positive business climate. Within the EEC are two main departments and several offices, including:

• The Department for Environmental Protection protects and enhances Kentucky's environment through its divisions of Air Quality, Waste Management, Water, Enforcement and Compliance Assistance.
• The Department for Natural Resources provides technical assistance, education and funding to sustain Kentucky's natural resources. It is home to the divisions of Abandoned Mine Lands, Forestry, Mine Permits, Conservation, Oil & Gas, Mine Safety and Mine Reclamation.
• The Office of Energy Policy brings a common-sense approach that ensures the Commonwealth thrives amid rapid changes occurring in the production, delivery, and use of energy.
• The Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves works to protect the Commonwealth’s natural heritage and educate Kentuckians about its importance. 
• The Kentucky Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection (DNREP) was established in 1979 by Gov. John Y. Brown as a response to the rising environmental concerns that emerged in post-oil crisis America. By 1982, the agency was elevated to cabinet status and renamed the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet.

Urban and Community Forestry Tree Planting Grant

The Kentucky Division of Forestry’s goals for the Urban and Community Program are to: 1) Promote the development and enhancement of self-sustaining urban and community forestry programs. 2) Increase access to urban tree canopies and associated environmental, economic, and human health benefits. 3) Expand engagement in local community forestry planning. 4) Help make communities more resilient to pests, and natural disasters. 5) Improve levels of engagement and knowledge about trees and tree care across small and large communities. 6) Increase community preparedness by developing storm mitigation plans. 7) Prioritize projects focusing work on increasing urban and community tree canopies, mitigating heat islands, increasing stormwater benefits, and workforce development.

Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet serves the public by enforcing laws relating to natural resources and the environment. It keeps citizens safe and healthy, while supporting a positive business climate. Within the EEC are two main departments and several offices, including:

• The Department for Environmental Protection protects and enhances Kentucky's environment through its divisions of Air Quality, Waste Management, Water, Enforcement and Compliance Assistance.
• The Department for Natural Resources provides technical assistance, education and funding to sustain Kentucky's natural resources. It is home to the divisions of Abandoned Mine Lands, Forestry, Mine Permits, Conservation, Oil & Gas, Mine Safety and Mine Reclamation.
• The Office of Energy Policy brings a common-sense approach that ensures the Commonwealth thrives amid rapid changes occurring in the production, delivery, and use of energy.
• The Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves works to protect the Commonwealth’s natural heritage and educate Kentuckians about its importance. 
• The Kentucky Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection (DNREP) was established in 1979 by Gov. John Y. Brown as a response to the rising environmental concerns that emerged in post-oil crisis America. By 1982, the agency was elevated to cabinet status and renamed the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet.

Kentucky Firewise USA Community Grants

The Kentucky Division of Forestry, in cooperation with the USDA Forest Service, is pleased to announce the 2026 Kentucky Firewise USA™ Community Grant Program. Grants may be awarded for projects aimed at reducing wildfire risks and hazards in Kentucky's wildland-urban interface communities. Priority for grant funding will be given based on the level of wildfire risk, the establishment of a local Firewise USA™ Community, and the type of project proposed. Program Objectives:

• Support the establishment of Firewise USA™ Communities.
• Provide cost-share funds for wildfire mitigation and Firewise USA™ activities.
• Strengthen collaborative relationships with fire departments, communities, counties, and interested organizations.
• Educate the public about the benefits of wildfire risk reduction and the Firewise USA™ program.
• Reduce the risk of wildfires and their impact in wildland-urban interface areas.
• Complete Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs).

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Rural, community-based 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky and other Southeastern states can apply for Southern Partners Fund’s Hubert E. Sapp Regular Grant Cycle to support grassroots organizing for social, economic, and environmental justice. Eligible groups use community organizing strategies, may request general or project support, and must have leadership from the same race and class as their members.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Nonprofit organizations in Kentucky leading strong, replicable community partnerships can apply for Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award, which honors collaborative efforts addressing significant social issues. Environmental groups working through cross-sector partnerships to improve communities may be eligible for recognition and support through this U.S.-wide competition.

Public bodies, community-based nonprofits, and federally recognized Tribes in rural Kentucky can apply for USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities funding to build, purchase, or improve essential community facilities and equipment. Projects such as public safety, health, community centers, and local food system infrastructure may be eligible, including environmentally focused facilities and services in small, low-income communities.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.