Best Grants for Equine Nonprofits in Kansas

Kansas equestrian and outdoor recreation organizations in Kansas can access funding through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to develop and maintain recreational trails and related facilities for motorized and non-motorized use. Private nonprofits, municipal and other government agencies may be reimbursed for eligible trail projects, including those benefiting horseback riding and other outdoor activities.

The Dressage Foundation

The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization, whose mission is to cultivate and provide financial support for the advancement of dressage in the United States.

In 1989, Lowell Boomer founded The Dressage Foundation (TDF) with a vision: to empower dressage across the country. Since then, we've awarded millions of dollars in grants, helping people across our sport, and across the country, achieve their dreams. From grassroots initiatives to high-performance endeavors, we aim to create a strong, inclusive, and vibrant dressage community.

We strive to cultivate dressage excellence by reducing some of the financial barriers of dressage training and education, and we believe that every aspect of our sport deserves help.

George Williams Young Professional Fund

The George Williams Young Professional Fund supports dressage professionals, ages 25-35, who are committed to the sport and have established businesses as instructors and trainers.   

The George Williams Young Professional Fund was established in 2018 to honor his lifelong commitment to dressage. Applicants should have a strong desire to participate in continuing education opportunities, in order to provide higher-quality instruction to their students. 

Equine nonprofits and groups in Kansas promoting Morgan horses can request up to US $10,000 for breed promotion projects, events, or outreach activities. Focused on equestrian sports, the American Morgan Horse Association invites AMHA clubs, organized Morgan groups, Morgan barns, and AMHA-affiliated organizations to apply, provided applicants include a current AMHA member and use registered Morgans.

Students entering or continuing college who have participated in equestrian activities can apply for the NC Hunter and Jumper Association’s Norah Morris Memorial Scholarship Endowment, offering more than US $1,000 for higher education. Focused on equestrian sports, North Carolina Community Foundation invites eligible applicants, including those from Kansas, to apply through its statewide scholarship program.

Female high school seniors involved in equestrian sports who live in Henderson, Smith, or Van Zandt County and plan to attend any U.S. college can receive the Leslie Reid Memorial Scholarship for US $1,250. This East Texas Communities Foundation award supports tuition, fees, room and board, or supplies and may interest equine-focused students similar to those in Kansas.

Children and adults with cystic fibrosis in California seeking support for horseback riding, dance, swimming, or golf can apply for Loretta Morris Memorial Grants, offering up to US $750. Focused on equestrian and other physical activities, BreatheStrong CF pays awards directly to the activity provider, which may benefit equine-focused programs and facilities.

U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations promoting polo or tennis, including equestrian sports groups in Kansas, can seek support for youth-focused sports programs. Collin Frederic C TUW provides Kansas equestrian nonprofits with US $2,000 - US $3,800 to advance these activities. Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed at the annual grant meeting.

Kansas equestrian sports organizations working with NCAA-member institutions can access funding for student-athletes pursuing accredited graduate programs. Fall-sport varsity athletes in equestrian and other listed sports who excel academically, athletically, and in leadership may be nominated for a one-time US $10,000 NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship by their institution’s faculty athletics representative or designee.

Equine welfare nonprofits in Kansas focused on retired Thoroughbred racehorses can seek funding to expand adoption capacity or provide safety-net programs that help keep owned equines in their homes. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals offers US $5,000 - US $50,000 grants to ASPCA Right Horse partners and Warm-Up Ring participants meeting its organizational standards.

Equine adoption organizations working to rehome retired Thoroughbred racehorses in Kansas and nationwide can seek US $10,000 - US $40,000 to expand capacity and improve outcomes. With a mission to protect animals, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals provides support for training, rehabilitation, adopter engagement, and collaborative racehorse transition programs.

Universities, animal welfare organizations, veterinary clinics, and other public or private entities conducting animal welfare research in Kansas and beyond can seek funding for shelter-focused studies from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Grants up to US $50,000 support rigorous research to improve the well-being and care of equines, dogs, and cats in shelter environments.

With a mission to advance animal welfare research, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals provides Kansas universities, animal welfare organizations, veterinary clinics, and other entities with up to US $50,000 for cruelty-focused studies involving equines, cats, or dogs. Projects may examine policy, criminal justice, veterinary forensics, prevention, or community-level responses to cruelty.

Universities, veterinary clinics, animal welfare organizations, and other research-focused entities in Kansas and across the U.S. and Canada can seek ASPCA support for studies improving access to veterinary care for horses, as well as cats and dogs. ASPCA research grants fund rigorous projects that generate practical tools or guidelines to enhance animal welfare systems-wide.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with audited expenses over $2 million that provide direct social services can seek more than US $100,000 for program, capital, or general support from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation. Kansas equine nonprofits with large, proven initiatives in areas like youth development, job training, or poverty alleviation may be competitive, especially at the national headquarters level.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Kansas equine and other community-focused nonprofits can access funding through O'Reilly Automotive Foundation for programs improving quality of life for underserved people. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations near O’Reilly Auto Parts locations may request project, general operating, or capital support in areas like economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, and disaster relief.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Kansas equestrian and other nonprofit organizations that lead strong, replicable community partnerships can access funding through Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award. This U.S.-wide competition honors collaborations among public, private, and social sector partners that measurably improve communities and address significant social issues, with multiple awards recognizing scalable, high-impact models.

Nonprofit and humanitarian organizations supporting health, education, or disaster relief can seek funding for marginalized communities in Kansas and worldwide. Focused on global human welfare, the Semnani Family Foundation invites programs addressing healthcare access, women and children’s health, hunger, homelessness, and related social services, which may include equine-assisted or farm-based initiatives serving vulnerable populations.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Scaife Family Foundation Grant has been supporting vulnerable community members for nearly 40 years, providing over $180 million in donations to non-profits. The Foundation aims to match organizations with aligned goals, focusing on women and children, addiction prevention, and animal welfare. It offers grants for general operating and program support, prioritizing impactful programs that address societal issues. Notably, the Foundation considers proposals that foster healthy relationships and promote treatment for addiction, enhancing the welfare of both humans and animals.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.