Best Grants for Global Health in Kentucky

Agricultural producers, ranchers, and non-industrial private forest landowners in Kentucky can receive technical and financial help to implement conservation practices that improve soil, water, air quality, and wildlife habitat. Focused on working lands, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service invites eligible land stewards to develop EQIP plans that may also benefit organizations advancing global health through environmental resilience.

Tax-exempt 501(c)(3) and 509(a) organizations working in health, human services, education, conservation, or cultural programs, including those serving Kentucky, can seek McGraw Foundation support for general operations, projects, or occasional capital needs. McGraw Foundation provides US $2,000 - US $10,000 grants, with occasional larger awards, which may benefit global health-related initiatives.

Graduate students researching drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 to advance projects with actionable outcomes for the water industry. Focused on water-related environmental and health challenges, the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship from American Water Works Association may benefit students whose work connects to global health issues in Kentucky and beyond.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky can seek funding for economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, and community arts and culture initiatives. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation help community-based groups, especially those led by people of color, that advance diversity, equity, and inclusion and serve designated U.S. Bank communities.

Agricultural and forest producers in Kentucky seeking to improve conservation on working lands can receive contract payments for sustainable practices through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. With a mission to strengthen environmental stewardship, NRCS provides technical and financial assistance to enhance soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and climate resilience, which may benefit organizations engaged in global health-related outcomes.

Nonprofit organizations addressing global health-related needs such as health care, sanitation, food security, and child welfare in Kentucky can access funding through The Father's Table Foundation. The foundation provides up to US $750,000 to support programs that build self-sufficiency for women, children, and vulnerable families, including education, employment readiness, and humanitarian aid projects.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions conducting biomedical and public health research in Kentucky can use this NIH program to support small-scale research projects and enhance their research environment. The US Dept. of Health & Human Services National Institutes of Health provides up to US $375,000 for institutions that meet its NIH funding history and degree-granting requirements.

Kentucky nonprofits focused on economic opportunity or affordable housing can access funding through Bank of America Charitable Foundation to build organizational capacity and leadership. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in designated Kentucky markets participate in a two-year leadership development program while advancing income creation, workforce readiness, small business resilience, and stable, equitable housing that may improve community and global health outcomes.

Faculty at Kentucky higher education institutions focused on undergraduate teaching can seek one-year research support for scientific projects across disciplines, including health sciences and environmental science. With a mission to foster scientific discovery, Kentucky Academy of Science provides up to US $5,000 for personnel, equipment, supplies, travel, and consultants; global health-related projects may be eligible.

Early-career research scientists in low- and middle-income countries conducting clinical global health research can apply for approximately US $140,000 in career development support through the Emerging Global Leader Award. Grants from US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health support mentored research that may collaborate with Kentucky-based global health partners while remaining LMIC institution–anchored.

Health and community-focused 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky can seek funding for programs that promote human health, wellness, and vibrant communities. Grants from Cleveland Cliffs Foundation help support initiatives such as health and medicine, health care access, and healthy living in areas where the company operates, which include parts of Kentucky.

Early-career research scientists at academic or research institutions in eligible low- and middle-income countries can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award to support mentored global health research careers. Offered by the National Institutes of Health, this program provides approximately US $140,000 and protected time over three to five years for country-priority health projects.

School districts and community or faith-based organizations in Kentucky can use this grant to create or expand out-of-school academic and enrichment programs for students in high-poverty, low-performing schools. Kentucky Department of Education funding, up to US $150,000, supports after-school and summer learning, youth development, arts, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional programs that may benefit global health-related initiatives.

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

Focused on education and related community programs, 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky working on learning, youth development, arts education, or community initiatives can seek funding from the John Ben Snow Memorial Trust. Grants of US $5,000 - US $20,000 may support scholarships, tutoring, literacy, after-school programs, libraries, shelters, or similar services that complement global health efforts.

Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky can apply for Ensign-Bickford Industries’ Ensign-Bickford Foundation Grant, which offers up to US $5,000 for education, environmental, health, arts, and community programs. Kentucky groups working on global health, preventative healthcare, hospitals, clinics, disaster relief, or related services may be especially well positioned to benefit.

Organizations planning health-related congresses, events, or initiatives in Kentucky can seek sponsorship funding for activities that offer tangible benefits like exhibit space, banners, or marketing visibility. Biogen Foundation considers a wide range of disease areas, so global health programs hosting educational or scientific events may be eligible if sponsorship opportunities are also open to other sponsors.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in Kentucky can benefit from Regions Bank’s employee Matching Gifts Program, which doubles full-time associates’ tax-deductible donations for eligible causes. Programs in economic and community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, services for veterans, and support for individuals with disabilities may be eligible.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations working in economic and community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services in Kentucky can receive matching donations through Regions Bank’s retiree program. Accredited educational institutions nationwide are also eligible, with matches up to US $1,000 per recent retiree donor.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, and healthy food access in Kentucky can seek general operating support from the Clif Family Foundation. U.S.-based grassroots groups with strong community ties and budgets under $8MM may be prioritized for one-year awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $50,000.

The William and Helen Thomas Charitable Trust provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on education, environmental protection, medical research, and support for the underprivileged. This trust, based in Florida, primarily serves communities in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie Counties, along with select areas in Appalachia. It seeks to assist public charities classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for impactful charitable initiatives.

The Community Partners Grant Program, led by the Humana Foundation, aims to enhance community health by addressing social barriers and promoting equitable health outcomes. With a focus on Kentucky, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas, the program fosters connections through emotional support and nutritional education. It also provides disaster relief funding to ensure long-term recovery and preparedness. By collaborating with local organizations, this initiative helps individuals access essential services and resources, thereby improving their overall well-being.

The First Financial Foundation, established in 2017, aims to enhance local communities through targeted grants. With a focus on neighborhood development, workforce education, and cultural initiatives, the foundation supports organizations creating affordable housing, enhancing financial literacy, and promoting the arts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving specific counties and must align with the foundation's mission. The foundation seeks to foster community growth and diversity while ensuring impactful contributions.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund

The NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund supports the launch or expansion of clinical programs and new service areas that increase access to care for underserved patients. This funding is designed to help NAFC members introduce new services or grow existing programs that address unmet community health needs and improve access to comprehensive, patient-centered care.

The Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, provides financial support to students pursuing careers in natural resources. Applicants must reside in specific Illinois counties and plan to enroll in a full-time program related to fields such as ecology, hydrology, and conservation. Academic performance is a key consideration in the selection process. For more details, contact the Winnebago County Soil & Water Conservation District.

The OECD Conference Sponsorship aims to enhance scientific knowledge and provide essential information to influence policy decisions on sustainable resource use in food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. It supports international events that showcase innovative research and developments, inviting applications from scientists in these fields. The event sponsorship encourages collaboration among policymakers, industry, and academia, ensuring that research insights are effectively communicated and utilized in decision-making processes.

The RNRF Planning and Small Grants program provides funding up to $50,000 to support projects that enhance collaboration among community partners in addressing critical environmental issues. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in the U.S. and demonstrate multidisciplinary cooperation. Projects should align with RNRF's mission and focus areas, including air quality, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable and impactful outcomes by bridging research and practical implementation.