Best Travel and Tourism Grants in Kentucky

Nonprofit tourism organizations in Kentucky can receive matching funds to promote local travel and tourism through the Kentucky Department of Tourism. Eligible projects include advertising, publications, signage, website design, trade show participation, and sponsorships that market destinations and events, helping strengthen regional tourism visibility and visitor engagement.

Tourism businesses and developers in Kentucky planning major tourism attractions or full-service lodging projects can recover a portion of approved development costs through this incentive program. Kentucky Department of Tourism supports projects like cultural or historical sites, recreational or entertainment facilities, scenic attractions, and qualifying lodging developments via incremental sales tax recovery over time.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky and the broader Southern region can seek funding for programs that relieve hardship, such as poverty relief, education, health, disaster response, and support for children, families, or veterans. Focused on compassionate service, Robinson Foundation invites eligible charities to propose projects with clear, tangible impact that may also enhance local tourism or ecotourism experiences.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions focused on ecotourism, conservation, or nature-based tourism projects in Kentucky can access funding through grants from Biophilia Foundation; awards US $5,000 - US $25,000 for work on biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and restorative economies. U.S.-based projects, especially in priority regions, may be particularly competitive.

Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation

The mission of the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation is to support research, education, and training within the hospitality industry by bestowing scholarships and grants to those seeking careers or advancement in the hospitality industry; funding education programs that promote the hospitality industry; and awarding research grants to those interested in blending academia with practical industry know-how. 

Primary Goals: To support the professional development and academic advancement of the hospitality industry by continuing to support the foundation’s current programs, promote recipients, maintain positive working relationships with associations, and provide support to underserved communities with individuals pursuing hospitality education, training, and job advancement. 

In 2024, TSYLF introduced new initiatives to support and empower underserved communities and underprivileged and underemployed individuals. We invite all hospitality associations, students, research teams, and professionals to explore how the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation can support your educational and professional endeavors in the field of hospitality. 

Research Grants

Grantmaking Focus

The foundation supports programs that are practical and directly benefit the hospitality industry. Of particular interest are efforts that apply rigorous academic research to solve practical hospitality issues. All grants are measured on the direct results of improved efficiency and efficacy for the hospitality industry. The Foundation emphasizes activities in the following areas and organizations that work in the following areas:

• Research programs that improve employment possibilities and career advancement for those entering or incumbents in the hospitality industry.
• Research programs that enhance efficiency in the hospitality industry.
• Articles or textbooks that contribute to the comprehensive body of knowledge and/or promote industry practices, standards, and ethics.
• Practical and applicable research projects with immediate benefit to the hospitality industry.

Grants are payable to the organization or institution and not to an individual.

Grant funding is dispersed in two payments. One payment will be made upon award approval and the second will be made once the research grant report has been submitted.

Research Grant funding should be used for the following:

• TSYLF funds should be used for research facility overhead and general maintenance.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable software, computer systems or programs to organize, track and store data.
• TSYLF funds can be used for tangible research items such printed documents, writing utensils, books, office supplies or related tools and materials needed to document research and practical observations.
• TSYLF will fund equipment or materials used for hands-on training such as cleaning, and sanitation supplies, safety items or other personal protection, furnishings found in hotels, restaurants or other hospitality related facilities being used to observe applicable productivity or conditions.
• TSYLF funds can be used to obtain proper permits for conducting research or staging a practical observation or production space.
• TSYLF funds can be used be used for creating resource material and related distribution costs to hospitality professionals, businesses and educators.
• TSYLF funds can be used for support materials or services for hosting focus groups, interviews or other activities related to the research topic.
• TSYLF funds should be used wisely for reasonable and cost-effective accommodations for staff, research team and subjects such as meals, travel or lodging.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable mileage or transportation fees for research subjects, team and special advisors.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable travel accommodations related to research topic data collection.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable compensation to the research team for their time in collecting, analyzing and organizing data related to the funded research topic.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable compensation to the research subjects.
• TSYLF funds can be used for expenses related to community engagement.
• TSYLF funds can be used for fees related to attending a hospitality event that aligns with the funded research topic.

Students pursuing tourism or hospitality-related majors in accredited colleges, universities, or trade schools can receive scholarship support through the Visit Bucks County Tourism & Hospitality Scholarship. Bucks County Foundation supports higher and vocational education that prepares future professionals for the tourism industry, which may benefit Kentucky students focused on travel and tourism careers.

Students in Kentucky pursuing aviation or hospitality degrees can receive scholarships supporting higher education and tourism-related careers. Grants from The Columbus Foundation help Kentucky tourism and travel students cover tuition through the NetJets Scholarship, offering US $25,000 awards to full-time U.S. students with strong academics and interest in business aviation and hospitality.

Grants from Native Forward Scholars Fund help Kentucky American Indian and Alaska Native students fund full-time undergraduate or graduate study in tourism, gaming, financial, or hospitality-related fields. Eligible juniors, seniors, and graduate students at accredited U.S. institutions can receive need-based awards ranging from US $2,500 - US $5,000 per academic year.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Owensboro/Daviess County working on leadership development, accessible arts, family support, or community needs can seek project funding that benefits local residents and visitors. With a mission to build community capacity, Marilyn and William Young Charitable Foundation supports initiatives that strengthen quality of life and can bolster Kentucky tourism and cultural vitality.

Tourism and economic development organizations in eligible Kentucky Appalachian counties can pursue planning or implementation projects that strengthen regional economies and visitor-related industries. Appalachian Regional Commission’s ARISE initiative supports multi-state collaborations that build business capacity, workforce readiness, community revitalization, and tourism across Appalachia, with awards up to US $10,000,000.

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.

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.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Invasive and Noxious Plant Management program focuses on preventing and controlling invasive species that threaten public lands and native plant communities. These invasive plants impose significant economic burdens and disrupt ecosystems. The program aims to enhance detection, rapid response, and education on invasive species, while also promoting rehabilitation efforts and biological control to protect valuable resources on public lands.

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.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

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 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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing basic needs or economic mobility programs for youth and families, including those in Kentucky, can apply for Nordstrom Community Grants. Focused on essentials like food, shelter, clothing, and workforce development, Nordstrom offers US $5,000 - US $20,000 in unrestricted support to grassroots, community-based programs.

Kentucky nonprofits and other 501(c)(3) organizations working in health, education, or community services can access funding through the Labcorp Charitable Foundation to support programs and services. Grants may benefit local tourism efforts that intersect with community health, food access, STEM education, or social services in Kentucky. Funding requests are reviewed in March and September.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Kentucky can apply for State Farm Foundation’s Good Neighbor Citizenship grants to support safety, education, and community development initiatives. Projects that strengthen neighborhoods, improve public safety, or expand economic opportunity may benefit tourism and local visitor experiences.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky working on basic needs, community development, or volunteer-driven programs can seek support that strengthens local communities. Focused on meeting basic needs and supporting community vitality, Ameriprise Financial invites applicants addressing hunger, shelter, adult self-sufficiency, economic development, cultural enrichment, and volunteer-driven causes in the U.S.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Kentucky and across the U.S. can seek funding for community development, basic needs, workforce training, arts, environment, and inclusion initiatives. With a mission to advance economic mobility, Bank of America Charitable Foundation provides regional sponsorship support that can benefit tourism-related and ecotourism projects that strengthen local communities.

Kentucky 501(c)(3) nonprofits and aligned for-profit organizations seeking to tell the story of their impact can access funding through Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation’s Storytelling Grant, with awards of more than US $50,000. Eligible projects span preservation, education, or wellness, and may include ecotourism or nature-based tourism efforts that fit these pillars.