Best Youth Sports Grants in Kentucky

The Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant aims to enhance early care and education systems in the U.S. by supporting targeted investments in technology and data analytics. This initiative, led by the Administration for Children and Families, encourages states to improve program quality, family choice, and data-driven decision-making for children from birth to five years old. The funding is designed to create measurable outcomes and strengthen coordination within the mixed-delivery system.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Pisgah Chapter of Trout Unlimited William L. Arbuckle Memorial Scholarship

Recipients of this award must be accepted to an accredited degree granting college or university within the Southern Appalachian Region. Recipients must be pursuing an undergraduate and/or graduate degree in the field of fisheries, aquaculture, freshwater biology, or other related fields. 

The Kentucky Department of Education is offering the FY26 CTE Innovation and Support RFA to enhance public education through innovative projects in Career and Technical Education (CTE). The grant allocates $500,000 to fund up to five awards, each valued at $100,000, aimed at supporting new career paths in CTE schools and programs. All funds must be utilized by June 30, 2027, with local school districts acting as fiscal agents.

The Truist Foundation Grants aim to empower communities by providing resources for economic mobility and supporting small businesses, particularly those owned by racially and ethnically diverse individuals. The foundation focuses on enhancing job navigation for disadvantaged workers and building sustainable business ecosystems through collaboration and innovation. By addressing barriers to growth and promoting access to capital and education, the Truist Foundation strives to create equitable opportunities for all.

Nonprofit organizations serving children and youth in Kentucky and other eligible regions can receive donated toys to support play-based programs. The Toy Foundation supports youth services by distributing member companies’ toy donations through regional logistics partners, allowing approved organizations to pick up toys quarterly for the children they serve.

About Us

The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky (FHKY) is a nonprofit organization funded by an endowment that aims to transform our state so that every Kentuckian has what they need to live a healthy life. Since it opened its doors in 2001, the Foundation has invested millions in health policy advocacy, research, and demonstration projects across the Commonwealth.

Partnerships for Success Grants

Partnerships for Success (PFS) provides funding to enhance and support Kentucky community-based organizations that serve communities with limited opportunities. Applicants should focus on reducing alcohol, nicotine (including vaping), and cannabis use/misuse and related consequences by implementing evidence-based prevention programs, practices, and policies that are trauma and resilience informed, and responsive to local and community context. The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky (FHKY) is facilitating this funding opportunity as one of its pass-through grant programs. The project is supported by the Kentucky PFS 2023 Grant via the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Grant H79SP083680.

Grants will provide up to $50,000 in funding for 12 months. 

Goal

To provide funding that enhances and supports evidence-based strategies to prevent alcohol, nicotine (including vaping), and cannabis use/misuse in communities that are at higher risk in Kentucky.

Overview

This funding opportunity allows potential grantees to creatively address localized behavioral health-related issues. Funding is intended to support solutions that address the issues, identified by those who live and work locally, as most relevant to communities that are at higher risk in Kentucky.

Proposed projects should:

• Focus on communities with limited opportunities as the primary focus of a proposed or existing project or program, including leadership and decision-making power.
• Make communities that are at higher risk the primary beneficiaries of the project or program's outcomes.
• Address a substance use challenge identified by the community.
• Plan, develop, implement, and/or sustain a prevention initiative.

Nonprofit organizations in Kentucky that support children’s health, child welfare, or educational access can apply for Kosair Charities’ grants to enhance the well-being of children. Programs that serve kids in the community, including those that integrate youth sports within broader health, education, or social services, may be eligible for support.

The Reading Diagnostic and Intervention Fund Mini Grant from the Kentucky Department of Education aims to enhance the reading skills of struggling readers in grades K-3. This initiative supports districts in acquiring high-quality instructional resources that foster structured literacy practices for tier 2 and tier 3 instruction, ensuring alignment with Kentucky Academic Standards. Eligible applicants include Kentucky public school districts and specialized schools, promoting equitable access to effective reading interventions.

The Kentucky African American Heritage Commission Grant supports 501(c)3 organizations aiming to preserve and promote African American heritage in Kentucky. Established in 1994, the Commission recognizes significant contributions of African Americans to the state's history. Grants can fund various initiatives, including research, educational programs, and historic preservation projects, fostering awareness and appreciation of Kentucky's rich cultural legacy. This initiative aligns with the America 250-KY Preservation program, encouraging community engagement and heritage conservation.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The John Dink Memorial Scholarship, established by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, aims to support residents of Hardin County who plan to attend a Kentucky college or university with a minimum GPA of 2.8. Since its inception in 1960, this scholarship has provided valuable educational opportunities, encouraging local students to pursue higher education and contribute positively to their communities.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence: Development Phase (COBRE-D) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in IDeA states, which historically receive low NIH funding. By providing critical support for early-career investigators and essential infrastructure, COBRE-D facilitates a long-term vision for institutions. This initiative not only supplements start-up packages for new hires but also establishes research facilities and improves administrative services, paving the way for less-resourced institutions to transition into the COBRE E/S program.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare. Focus areas include agriculture, education, fighting hunger, and public safety. Eligible applicants must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and a Taxpayer Identification number. Requests are prioritized for programs directly benefiting communities near Perdue facilities across various states. The foundation emphasizes responsible stewardship and community engagement in all funding decisions.

Background

The Community Foundation of Louisville has opened the third round of funding from the Charles & Jack Fund for LGBTQ+ Advancement. This open grant opportunity supports organizations, projects, and programs committed to fostering supportive, inclusive, and affirming environments for LGBTQ+ youth – defined as those under the age of 24. Up to six (6) grants will be made for up to $20,000, which can be used for any purpose, including general operating expenses.

Through a permanent endowment fund at the Community Foundation created by the late Charles Gruenberger and Jack Kersey—two visionary advocates for queer rights and HIV/AIDS education—the Charles & Jack Fund for LGBTQ+ Advancement stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. This permanent endowment is more than just funding; it symbolizes a commitment to meet the unique needs of queer youth and to elevate the tireless efforts of organizations dedicated to their well-being.

Local governments certified under the Certified Local Government (CLG) Program, pursuant to Title 36 Section 61.5 of the Code of Federal Regulations, are eligible to compete for annual CLG grant funds. The Funding Priorities are: Preservation Education, Community Outreach & Education, Updating Documentation, Preservation Building Trade Schools & Workshops, Surveys, Historic Context & Thematic Studies, and National Register Nominations. 

The 2027 Continuing Education Grant is made possible by funding from the Grants to States program administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).  This grant aligns with Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives' (KDLA) five-year strategic plan to enhance Institutional Capacity to “enhance the knowledge and skills of public library and archival staff through professional development and training opportunities. This grant will only cover conferences taking place between October 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027.  The goal is to provide essential funding to Kentucky's public libraries, enabling them to expand and enhance their staff’s learning opportunities.

Awards shall be disbursed as follows-

• $5000 large libraries (40+ full-time staff)
• $4000 medium libraries (15 – 39 full-time staff)
• $3000 small libraries (6 – 14 full-time staff)
• $2000 very small libraries (1 – 5 full-time staff)

The Arts Miles Program Grant, offered by the Kentucky Arts Council, supports Kentucky teachers and schools in providing quality arts experiences for students. This grant covers transportation costs for field trips to organizations listed in the Arts Miles Directory, allowing schools to apply based on mileage and driver pay. Applications are accepted from October to March, with a focus on enhancing student access to arts education.

About KHC

Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) invests in affordable housing solutions by offering programs and services designed to develop, preserve, and sustain affordable housing throughout the state.

Created by the 1972 General Assembly, KHC is a self-supporting, public corporation of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and is governed by a 15-member Board of Directors. KHC is a quasi-government agency, which is administratively attached to the Kentucky Finance and Administration Cabinet, and a portion of KHC's funds are derived from the interest earned through the sale of tax-exempt mortgage revenue bonds. From these proceeds, KHC has made homeownership possible for more than 76​,000 Kentucky families.

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)

​The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program is designed to identify sheltered and unsheltered homeless persons, as well as those at risk of homelessness, and provide the services necessary to help them quickly regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis and/or homelessness.

The ESG Program provides funds to:​

• Engage homeless individuals and families living on the street.​
• Improve the number and quality of emergency shelters for homeless individuals and families.
• Help operate these shelters.
• Provide essential services to shelter residents.
• Rapidly re-house homeless individuals and families.
• Prevent families and individuals from becoming homeless.

The program is also intended to lower the increase of homelessness through the funding of preventive programs and services.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Full-Time Associates

Regions supports organizations important to our associates through the Regions Matching Gifts Program. This program, which is open for use for all full-time Regions associates, affiliate associates and recent retirees, allows you to make an even greater difference to your favorite charities by doubling your tax-deductible contributions to these organizations. 

The ACT on Health Equity Community Solutions Challenge Grant, backed by the Astrazeneca Foundation, aims to enhance health equity by funding community-based nonprofit programs. Since its inception in 2021, it has allocated over $2.6 million to initiatives addressing nutrition, healthcare access, and lung health for historically marginalized populations. Eligible US-based 501(c) organizations can apply, with a focus on projects serving underserved communities and improving health outcomes through targeted support.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Watson-Brown Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the South. It offers various types of grants, including for educational programming and historic preservation, with a focus on southern studies. Eligible recipients include public charities in the southeastern United States. The Foundation's Junior Board of Trustees also awards grants to preservation projects in east central Georgia, emphasizing youth engagement in cultural heritage.

The Peoples Bank Foundation Grant aims to create a significant impact in local communities by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With over 20 years of service, the foundation has awarded more than $7.5 million in grants and scholarships across several states. It prioritizes initiatives that assist low to moderate-income individuals and families, encouraging organizations within its footprint to apply for funding to enhance their community-focused programs.

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.

The Arts in Rural Places Grant, offered by South Arts, aims to enhance access to the arts in rural and isolated communities across nine southern states. Grants of up to $3,000 support public activities featuring Southern artists, requiring a dollar-for-dollar cash match. Eligible organizations must host at least two public events and engage a professional artist, promoting cultural engagement and artistic expression within these communities.

The Women's Mini Grant Application supports county Farm Bureaus in Kentucky by offering grants up to $500 for educational programs aimed at enhancing agricultural literacy among children and adults. Funded by a live auction, this initiative prioritizes programs demonstrating financial need. Six mini-grants will be awarded in 2025, encouraging innovative educational efforts in the community.