Best Transportation Grants in Kansas

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

About KDOT

At KDOT, transportation is about more than just moving from point A to point B. It's about connecting communities, supporting economies, and creating a better future. Join us in building a sustainable and efficient transportation network for all. 

FTA Section 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas provide funding to support transportation projects in rural and small urban areas (under a 50,000 population). These funds are available for both capital and operating assistance. 

Operating Expense Matching Requirement 

KDOT covers 50% of operating expenses, with the local share covering the remaining 50%. 

The state may contribute up to 20% to assist with the local match, subject to availability. 

Kansas Department of Transportation

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

FTA Section 5311 Formula Grants for Rural Areas

Section 5311 (General Public Transportation) Program Overview

The Section 5311 program provides funding to support rural and small urban (under 50,000 population) transportation projects that serve the general public. Funds are available for both capital and operating assistance. A focus of the Section 5311 program is to coordinate transportation funding sources and systems, in order to alleviate wastefulness created by duplication. 

Eligible Capital Expenses 

Transit vehicles and associated equipment (e.g., wheelchair lifts, ramps, restraints) 

Eligible Operating Expenses 

• Drivers and dispatchers 
• Fuel, oil, and tires 
• Repairs and vehicle license tags 
• Insurance and marketing 

Capital (Vehicle) Purchase Matching Requirement: KDOT share 80%, local share 20%

Operating Expense Matching Requirement 

• KDOT covers 50% of operating expenses, with the local share covering the remaining 50%. 
• The state may contribute up to 20% to assist with the local match, subject to availability.  

Mandatory Coordinated Transit District Membership

KSA 75-5057 states that any recipient of Federal or State grants (including Section 5311 grants) to provide rural public transportation services in Kansas shall be required to be a member of a Coordinated Transit District (CTD). An applicant must be an active member of their CTD prior to the submission of their grant application to be eligible to receive Federal and/or State public transportation program funding.

In order to make the best use of existing resources, all applicants for Section 5311 funding are required to carefully explore the possibilities of coordinating their operations with other transportation service providers in the area, who may be able to provide the needed transportation services.

Nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations using technology to tackle education, crisis response, economic empowerment, or climate resilience can seek up to US $100,000 for innovative programs in Kansas and worldwide. Grants from Cisco Systems Foundation help organizations serving mostly economically underserved communities, which may include groups improving access to transportation or related services.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Kansas can seek funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives. Grants from State Farm Companies Foundation help support projects like auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, job training, and transportation-related community development that may benefit local transportation efforts.

U.S. cultural nonprofits with audited expenses over $2 million can apply for the Hearst Foundation’s Culture Grant, awarding more than US $100,000 for program, capital, and limited general or endowment support. Kansas organizations running arts, museums, or STEAM initiatives that serve large audiences may be eligible, especially those engaging youth and developing artistic talent.

The Manhattan Community Health Foundation (MCHF) is committed to enhancing health and wellness in Manhattan, Kansas, by funding innovative projects that address critical health needs. The Community Grants program focuses on improving healthcare access for underserved populations, tackling social determinants of health, and promoting mental health initiatives. By partnering with local organizations, MCHF aims to create sustainable solutions that significantly improve health outcomes in the community, with applications accepted on a rolling basis.

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 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and eligible local government entities near Georgia-Pacific manufacturing communities can seek funding for education, environment, entrepreneurship, and community enrichment initiatives. Focused on strengthening communities, Georgia-Pacific Foundation invites Kansas organizations in qualifying counties to apply for projects that improve long-term well-being and sustainability.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Kansas located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office can seek funding for basic needs, youth enrichment, workforce readiness, and domestic violence safety programs. The TJX Foundation supports vulnerable families and children, so transportation-focused nonprofits serving these populations may be eligible if they align with its mission and guidelines.

With a mission to strengthen communities, Ameriprise Financial provides Kansas nonprofits addressing basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven causes with competitive grants. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations working on hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, financial literacy, workforce readiness, or community and cultural development across the U.S. may be prioritized where Ameriprise volunteers are actively engaged.

Private nonprofits and public agencies in Kansas can seek funding to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both motorized and nonmotorized use. Administered by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks under the federal Recreational Trails Program, these grants may benefit organizations improving outdoor access and transportation-related trail infrastructure.

Kansas Department of Transportation 

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

Kansas Safe Route to School (SRTS) Grants

Grants and funding opportunities are available to support Safe Routes to School planning, programs, and infrastructure improvements. These include the Kansas SRTS Planning Grant, Kansas SRTS Programming Grant, and Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program.

Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program

The Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program provides federal funding to promote and enable use of active transportation and for certain scenic and historic improvements, such as:

• Pedestrian/Bicycle/Non-motorized transportation infrastructure
• Abandoned railway corridors to trails conversion
• Safe Routes to School – construction and non-construction
• Historic transportation facility preservation and rehabilitation 
• Scenic and environmental improvements 

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving the Jewish community with health, social service, or community programs in Kansas and the greater Kansas City metro can apply for Menorah Heritage Foundation’s Jewish Community Grant Cycle. Funding may support transportation to Jewish communal activities or other services benefiting local Jewish residents, including those in Johnson and Wyandotte Counties.

Local public entities in Kansas seeking support for transportation infrastructure projects can apply for the KDOT Cost Share Program, which offers up to US $1,000,000 for construction costs. Kansas Department of Transportation funding can assist with highway, local road, bridge, rail, airport, bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit projects that enhance safety, mobility, and economic growth.

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 501(c)(3) nonprofits and independent emergency response organizations can access funding for safety, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability projects through the Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants, with awards from US $5,000 - US $30,000. Transportation-related initiatives, including rail, driver, bike, and pedestrian safety in Union Pacific–served communities, may be especially competitive.

Kansas Department of Transportation 

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

Kansas Safe Route to School (SRTS) Grants

Grants and funding opportunities are available to support Safe Routes to School planning, programs, and infrastructure improvements. These include the Kansas SRTS Planning Grant, Kansas SRTS Programming Grant, and Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program.

Planning Grants

Planning Grants provide technical assistance to help communities develop SRTS Plans. No local match is required, and KDOT's consultant team works directly with communities to create a plan that guides future SRTS improvements.

What is in a SRTS Plan?

SRTS Plans include an analysis of existing conditions, summary of public outreach, and identification of potential infrastructure and non-infrastructure solutions to help more students walk, bike, and roll to school. See our completed plans here.

How many schools can be included in one plan?

SRTS plans can be developed for one (1) school or up to eight (8) schools within a single school district. Elementary, middle, and high schools are all eligible for SRTS plans. For districts with more than eight schools contact KDOT’s SRTS Coordinator for assistance with selecting schools for the application.

If selected, grantee should be prepared to support plan development by meeting regularly with the project team (KDOT and their consultant), providing information, surveying parents and students (with online tools provided by the consultant team), helping to arrange and publicize public workshops, and participating in identifying local issues and solutions. Additionally, the grantee should be able to demonstrate a commitment to implementing the plan once it is complete.

How to Use Your Completed SRTS Plan

A completed SRTS Plan can be used as a communication and visualization tool for grant applications and to support SRTS programs and activities in your community. It can also be used as a catalyst for broader community conversations about walking, biking, and rolling.

Kansas Department of Transportation 

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

Kansas Safe Route to School (SRTS) Grants

Grants and funding opportunities are available to support Safe Routes to School planning, programs, and infrastructure improvements. These include the Kansas SRTS Planning Grant, Kansas SRTS Programming Grant, and Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program.

Programming Grants

Programming Grants provide funding over three years to implement education, encouragement, and enforcement (non-infrastructure) strategies identified in a community’s SRTS Plan. A 10% local match is required.

The SRTS Programming Grant is for Kansas communities with an existing SRTS Plan. The Grant is for a three-year period and provides up to $75,000 to support implementation of programming priorities identified in your SRTS Plan. See our completed plans here.

What to Expect if Awarded

Programming Grant recipients should be prepared to work with KDOT SRTS staff to finalize a scope for the program before it begins. KDOT staff will not implement programming. Grant funds can be used to supplement existing staff or hire consultant services through an RFP. The local project lead will meet with KDOT staff throughout the grant period to discuss program progress and outcomes.

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 public entities and nonprofit organizations in Kansas can seek funding to support small rural business development, including transportation improvements and related infrastructure. USDA Rural Development supports rural development projects by funding technical assistance, land and facility development, community and technology-based economic development, and business incubators that may strengthen local transportation and transit-related services.

Nonprofit arts presenters and eligible public or tribal entities in Kansas can receive up to US $5,000 to support touring artists’ fees and public-facing events. Mid-America Arts Alliance’s Regional Touring Program funds projects featuring artists from elsewhere in its six-state region, including performances and outreach activities that engage and educate local audiences.

Rural Health Transformation Program: Interfacility Transport Project RFP

Through the Interfacility Transport project (IFTp), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) seeks transformative ideas to decrease transport delays and improve patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, and provider satisfaction. Funds must be used for the development, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of IFTp program activities in accordance with Kansas RHTP and project requirements. Funding cannot be used to replace currently reimbursable services but may be used to supplement existing services or to create new approaches.

Goal:

Enable eligible organizations to participate in the Interfacility Transport grant project to improve health outcomes and transportation times among rural Kansas facilities by supplementing existing resources or creating dedicated rural-focused interfacility transport teams.

Objectives:

• Decrease transport delays.
• Improve patient outcomes.
• Improve provider satisfaction.
• Improve patient satisfaction.
• Evaluation of effect on cost of care.
• Other objectives as proposed by applicant(s)/awardee(s).

Nonprofit organizations helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant, including those in Kansas, can apply for Gupta Family Foundation grants of US $5,000 - US $250,000 to support focused human and social services. Grants from Gupta Family Foundation help smaller organizations worldwide addressing poverty, disability, social alienation, or disaster relief, typically with revenues between $300,000 and $3,000,000.

Kansas 501(c)(3) organizations supporting older adults aging in community can seek funding for senior services, including transportation and access to community-based supports, with awards up to US $15,000. With a mission to strengthen community well-being, Menorah Heritage Foundation provides operating, program, and invited special project support in the greater Kansas City metro area.

Kansas Department of Transportation 

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

FTA Section 5339 Bus and Bus Facilities: Low or Zero-Emission Program

Purpose

The Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities program (49 U.S.C. 5339) makes Federal resources available to States and designated recipients to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities including technological changes or innovations to modify low or no emission vehicles or facilities. Funding is provided through formula allocations and competitive grants. 

• Low-No Program funds will be awarded competitively for the purchase or lease of buses that use low- or no-emission propulsion technologies, including related equipment or facilities.
• Any zero-emission project or components of a zero-emission project must use 5 percent of Federal funds for workforce development, unless the applicant certifies less or no funding is needed for this purpose.

Statutory References 49 U.S.C. Section 5339 / FAST Act Section 3017

Eligible Activities

Eligible activities include capital projects to purchase or lease zero-emission or low-emission transit buses; and acquire, construct, rehabilitate, and lease required supporting facilities such as recharging, refueling, and maintenance facilities.

Kansas Department of Transportation 

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

FTA Section 5339 Bus and Bus Facilities Program

Purpose

The Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities program (49 U.S.C. 5339) makes Federal resources available to States and designated recipients to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities including technological changes or innovations to modify low or no emission vehicles or facilities. Funding is provided through formula allocations and competitive grants. A sub-program provides competitive grants for bus and bus facility projects that support low and zero-emission vehicles.

Statutory References 49 U.S.C. Section 5339 / FAST Act Section 3017

Eligible Activities

Capital projects to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses, vans, and related equipment, and to construct bus-related facilities, including technological changes or innovations to modify low or no emission vehicles or facilities.