Best Sheridan County Grants for Nonprofits in Kansas

Dane G Hansen Foundation

Dane G. Hansen Foundation was established in 1965 with a generous estate gift from Dane G. Hansen. Mr. Hansen was an entrepreneur whose business interests over the course of his life included, among others, retail, lumber, road and bridge construction and oil. Reflecting Mr. Hansen’s lifelong love of Northwest Kansas, the charitable foundation that bears his name has a mission to improve the quality of life for the residents and the communities in the 26 counties that make up the northwest quarter of Kansas.

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation is committed to providing opportunities for the people of Northwest Kansas to enjoy the highest possible quality of life. Fulfillment of our mission is predicated on three specific goals: Strengthening and supporting our communities, Creating an environment for growth, and Increasing economic opportunities.

Early Childhood Education Enhancement Grants

A quality childcare center should be more than a place where children are safe and fed. Science is clear about the critical importance of a child’s first three years of brain development. The early years are the platform from which all learning starts.

This grant is designed to offer assistance to nonprofit childcare centers or family childcare homes (formerly group homes) with needs such as office equipment, outdoor space needs, curriculum, books, or other items.

More than US $1,001

Sheridan County Community Foundation: Larger Project Grants

The Sheridan County Community Foundation offers Larger Project Grants to support organizations enhancing the quality of life in Sheridan County, Kansas. Grants are available for programs, supplies, and short-term community needs, with a focus on projects that strengthen local communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, educational institutions, and governmental entities. The foundation reviews applications monthly, ensuring that funds are directed towards impactful initiatives that respond to evolving community priorities.

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US $25,000 - US $500,000

PFF: Innovation in Education Grant

The Patterson Family Foundation's Innovation in Education Grant aims to enhance educational opportunities in rural communities. With a focus on creative proposals that foster new ideas for sustainable growth, the foundation invites eligible organizations in Kansas and western Missouri to apply. Registration is required before submitting a Letter of Intent, with specific deadlines for each funding round. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to supporting initiatives that empower local communities and promote long-term benefits.

Unspecified amount

Northwest Kansas Early Childhood Sustainability Grant Fund

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation

Our mission is to empower our donors, affiliates and charitable partners through education, stewardship and regional collaboration, to create thriving communities and impact present and future generations.

Northwest Kansas Early Childhood Sustainability Grant Fund

To help sustain licensed childcare centers or nonprofit qualified family childcare homes (formerly classified as nonprofit group homes).

To assist with sustainability of quality nonprofit early education centers or qualified childcare homes in Northwest Kansas, the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, the State of Kansas – through the Children’s Cabinet, and the Patterson Family Foundation, have collaborated to create this permanently endowed grant fund.

What is meant by sustainability?

The grant is intended to address a budget shortfall or unforeseen issue that, if not addressed, could result in the closure of the facility or closure of classrooms, or that jeopardizes the standard of care provided.

Applicants can ask for budgetary support for operations in order to divert dollars for a necessary or critical capital expenditure without which the ability of the facility to stay open or provide safe, quality care is threatened.

Examples could include HVAC, structural or safety issues, or issues noted by the fire marshal or during a license review.

When possible, facilities must strive for full enrollment – while always meeting KDHE guidelines. It is understood that facilities will often “hold slots” while a current child in care ages up.

Unspecified amount

Early Childhood Education Start-up or Expansion Grants

Dane G Hansen Foundation

Early Childhood Education Start-up or Expansion Grants

This grant is for the start up or expansion of licensed home-based, qualifying family childcare homes (formerly group homes), or childcare centers.

To assist communities to start or expand quality nonprofit early education centers or group homes in Northwest Kansas. In certain situations, the Hansen Foundation can also work through governmental or qualified non-profit entities to assist in the start-up or sustainability of licensed childcare homes.

Unspecified amount

Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

Catholic Extension

Unspecified amount

Early Childhood Education Staff Support Grants

Applications due Oct 25, 2026

Dane G Hansen Foundation

Early Childhood Education Staff Support Grants

Though they are charged with caring for our most precious assets, classroom helpers and teachers in the early childhood field are historically low-wage earners. The Early Childhood Education Staff Support Grant is designed to provide financial recognition for these important workers, reduce costs associated with staff turnover, and stabilize the workforce.

Originally piloted for 5 years, the grant has been enhanced and renewed for another 5 years.

Unspecified amount

Francis Grants

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

Catholic Extension

US $25,000 - US $500,000

Innovation in Economic Opportunity

The Patterson Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering economic opportunity in rural areas through innovative proposals. They prioritize funding for regional innovation hubs and strategies aimed at industry diversification. Organizations eligible for support must be located in or serve communities in Kansas or western Missouri. With a strong commitment to education and community resilience, the Foundation aims to empower future generations while enhancing local economies.

Applications due Dec 15, 2026

Up to US $5,110

Kansas EMS Education Incentive Grant Program: Densely Settled Rural Counties and Cities

The Kansas EMS Education Incentive Grant Program supports licensed ambulance services in rural, frontier, and densely settled rural areas of Kansas. It aims to enhance the recruitment, training, and certification of EMS providers. Eligible services can apply for funding based on specific criteria, including costs for recruiting and initial training courses. The program also allocates funding amounts for continuing education and post-secondary education degrees, ensuring comprehensive support for EMS services throughout the grant cycles.

Kansas Board of Emergency Medical Services

US $100,000 - US $500,000

Childcare Grant

The Childcare Grant from the Patterson Family Foundation supports organizations in Kansas and western Missouri that enhance childcare services. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, school districts, and government entities focused on expanding childcare capacity, improving facilities, and making services more affordable for working families. Applications will be accepted through a Letter of Intent starting April 1, 2025, with a commitment to fostering thriving rural communities. The foundation emphasizes collaboration and sustainability in childcare initiatives.

Unspecified amount

Sheridan County Health and Wellness Fund

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation

Sheridan County Health and Wellness Fund

Established in 2022, this endowed fund supports health and wellness-related projects and organizations in Sheridan County.

Applications due Oct 17, 2026

Up to US $300,000

Commercial Rehabilitation Grant Program (KS)

The Kansas Community Development Block Grant Program aims to revitalize downtown areas by funding the rehabilitation of blighted commercial structures. This initiative, managed by the Kansas Department of Commerce, seeks to enhance the quality of life for residents and stimulate economic growth, particularly benefiting low- and moderate-income individuals. By strategically investing in key buildings, the program hopes to prevent further deterioration and act as a catalyst for positive change in local communities.

Kansas Department of Commerce

Up to US $500

Sheridan County Community Foundation: Sponsorship Requests

About Us

As an affiliate of the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation (GNWKCF), we join a collective of area community foundations aimed at increasing philanthropic giving in the northwest Kansas region. Both endowed (long-term, invested funds) and non-endowed (short-term, “pass-though”) funds are developed to provide financial support to 501(c)(3) and other qualifying non-profit organizations and for charitable purposes to benefit area residents.

When you partner with the SCCF for your philanthropic endeavors, your fund(s) will be commingled with other funds and managed professionally by the GNWKCF. Your fund assets will grow over time and have a lasting impact for years to come!

Our Available Grant Funds

To support a wide range of community needs, the Sheridan County Community Foundation utilizes multiple funding “buckets,” including unrestricted community funds, designated funds, field-of-interest funds, and other available grantmaking resources. This flexible structure allows us to match projects with the most appropriate sources of support and maximize the overall impact of each grant awarded. In some cases, the Foundation may also recommend additional or complementary funding from individual fund holders — particularly Donor Advised Funds — as we collaborate with donors to develop new funding streams and expand opportunities to meet evolving community priorities.

Sheridan County Community Foundation: Sponsorship Requests (Up to $500)

Our Sponsorship Grant Program supports local events, seasonal activities, and community gatherings that bring people together across Sheridan County.

Ideal for:

Community celebrations, fundraisers, youth activities, and annual events that enhance local quality of life.

Program Highlights:

Awards of up to $500 per request
Approximately 10 sponsorships awarded each year
Maximum of $500 per organization per year
Simple, streamlined application

Examples of supported events include: community recreation seasons, benefit walks and runs, fairs and rodeos, school and youth activities, holiday celebrations, and other local traditions.

General Grantmaking Criteria

We support projects and programs that benefit Sheridan County residents and strengthen local communities. Organizations based outside Sheridan County may apply if their project directly benefits Sheridan County.

Examples of eligible projects include:

Community programs or services that meet local needs or advance your organization’s mission
Seed funding to launch new projects, programs, or organizations (including start-up operating costs)
Capacity building to strengthen organizational effectiveness — such as technology or equipment upgrades, professional development, staff expansion, or training
Capital improvements including facility renovation or new construction
Endowment support to ensure long-term sustainability of a program or organization

Applications due Mar 31, 2027

Unspecified amount

Kansas EMS Education Incentive Grant Program: Frontier or Rural Counties

The Kansas EMS Education Incentive Grant Program offers financial support for licensed ambulance services in rural, frontier, and densely settled rural areas of Kansas. The program assists in recruiting, training, and certifying EMS providers. Eligible services can apply for funding throughout the fiscal year, with specific criteria prioritizing recruitment and initial training costs. The grant aims to enhance emergency medical services in underserved regions, ensuring better healthcare access and responsiveness in these communities.

Kansas Board of Emergency Medical Services

Unspecified amount

Literacy Advancement Grant

Letter of inquiry due Feb 18, 2027

The Literacy Advancement Grant, offered by the Patterson Family Foundation, aims to enhance foundational literacy skills in rural communities of Kansas and western Missouri. This grant supports public school districts and eligible nonprofits in implementing effective educational initiatives that foster reading comprehension and family engagement. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate community impact and sustainability in their proposals, ensuring a lasting benefit to local literacy efforts.

Letter of inquiry due Feb 18, 2027

Unspecified amount

Early College Pathways

The Early College Pathways program by the Patterson Family Foundation aims to empower students to earn both a high school diploma and college credit. This initiative fosters partnerships between school districts and accredited colleges, enhancing educational attainment while reducing costs. By supporting local career transitions and strengthening the workforce pipeline, it promotes sustainable growth in rural communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and educational entities serving Kansas and western Missouri, focusing on student success and community engagement.

Unspecified amount

Gerald A. & Darlene R. Schaffer Fund

Sheridan County Community Foundation

The Sheridan County Community Foundation is an Affiliate Foundation of Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation with all funds managed by GNWKCF.

The Foundation became an affiliate of GNWKCF in 2012. An affiliate is a collection of community funds to increase philanthropic giving in a geographic area. Both endowed and non-endowed funds are developed to provide financial support to 501(c)(3) and other qualifying nonprofit organizations and for charitable purposes to benefit area residents. The mission of Sheridan County Community Foundation is to encourage, prudently manage, and distribute charitable contributions to improve the quality of life in Sheridan County residents, now and in the future.

Gerald A. & Darlene R. Schaffer Fund

The Gerald A. & Darlene R. Schaffer Fund provides grant support to assist organizations or community projects that benefit Hoxie and/or Sheridan County in the following categories or entities as specified: Healthcare needs in Sheridan County; Education in Sheridan County (Hoxie Schools specific); Music, arts, and entertainment opportunities (Hoxie specific); City of Hoxie Golf Course; Hoxie Elks Projects; St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church; and St. Frances Catholic Cemetery. Grantmaking decisions are overseen by the Sheridan County Community Foundation Board of Directors.

Applications due Oct 1, 2027

Up to US $2,000

BCBSKS Foundation - Healthy Habits for Life Grants

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation offers Healthy Habits for Life Grants to support schools in promoting healthy lifestyle choices for K-12 students. With a maximum grant of $2,000 per school, programs may include initiatives that reduce cardiovascular risk, increase physical activity, and reinforce positive mental health. Schools are encouraged to collaborate on unique projects, such as gardens, health fairs, and fitness activities, aiming to instill lifelong healthy habits in students.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas

Unspecified amount

Trades Workforce Development Grant

The Trades Workforce Development Grant, offered by the Patterson Family Foundation, aims to support skill development in high-demand trades like HVAC, plumbing, and welding. Organizations in Kansas and western Missouri can apply starting April 1, 2025. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance community engagement and offer pathways to quality jobs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities. Early submission of the Letter of Intent is encouraged for timely review and consideration.

Up to US $1,000

Sheridan County Community Foundation: Small Grants

The Sheridan County Community Foundation offers Small Grants up to $1,000 to support local events and community activities in Sheridan County, Kansas. This program aims to enhance the quality of life through community celebrations, fundraisers, and youth activities. With a streamlined application process, the foundation awards approximately ten sponsorships each year, fostering collaboration among local organizations to meet evolving community needs and priorities.

Letter of inquiry due Feb 18, 2027

Unspecified amount

Chronic Disease Prevention, Screening, and Education Grants

The Patterson Family Foundation offers Chronic Disease Prevention, Screening, and Education Grants aimed at community initiatives that enhance health management. This funding supports programs that increase awareness of chronic conditions, promote healthy behaviors, and provide access to screening and education in rural areas. Projects must demonstrate community impact and readiness for implementation, focusing on early detection and long-term health improvement for residents in Kansas and western Missouri.

Up to US $20,000

Hansen Foundation New Fund Match

Dane G. Hansen Foundation

Reflecting Mr. Hansen’s lifelong love of Northwest Kansas, the charitable foundation that bears his name has a mission to improve the quality of life for the residents and the communities in the 26 counties that make up the northwest quarter of Kansas.

Our Mission: The Dane G. Hansen Foundation is committed to providing opportunities for the people of Northwest Kansas to enjoy the highest possible quality of life. Fulfillment of our mission is predicated on three specific goals:

Strengthening and supporting our communities
Creating an environment for growth
Increasing economic opportunities

Our Guiding Principles

Health: Healthy individuals form healthy communities.
Workforce: A capable workforce can build effective community economic opportunities.
Education: Education, both formal and informal, is the key for improved quality of life.
Environment:Appreciation for our natural world positively impacts human health.
Leadership: Leadership, management and volunteerism are essential ingredients of dynamic communities..
Culture: Attractive communities with cultural opportunities attract and retain residents.

Our Service Area

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation’s primary service area includes the 26 most Northwest Kansas counties. Consideration will be given to proposals from organizations outside the primary service area if the proposal provides substantial benefits to the people or communities within the primary service area.

Applications are received year-round and grants are awarded monthly to benefit Northwest Kansas and its residents.

NEW Fund Match

Helping community foundations and donors establish permanent funds

Beginning in 2025, The Hansen Foundation will offer a new, additional match opportunity to help donors and eligible countywide community foundations create new endowed field of interest, donor-advised, designated, and organization funds.

This matching opportunity will begin in January of 2025 and sunset December 31 of 2027.

How much funding is available and how does it work?

Community foundations can utilize up to $20,000 per year to be secured as follows:

1:1 match, up to $2000 for donors’ gift(s) to establish a NEW ENDOWED field of interest, designated, organization or donor advised fund established through the host foundation (GNWKCF or GSCF). Maximum match of $2,000 per fund.
Please note: either the donor, or the charitable organization that will benefit from the fund, must reside in the Dane G. Hansen 26-county service area to qualify for the match. New donor advised funds must therefore be donors who live in the defined service area.
Donors must agree to reach the $10,000 fund minimum within 3 additional years.
1:2 match for donors’ gift(s) to an existing ENDOWED field of interest, organization, or designated fund held within the host foundation that is not yet at the fund minimum. Maximum of $1,000 per fund.

Note that gifts to existing donor advised funds or any scholarship funds do not qualify.

A fund is eligible for only ONE match during the three-year program.

Fund agreements and proof of donation will be submitted to the host foundation to verify and then submit monthly to the Hansen Foundation for match qualification. Matching dollars will be awarded to the host foundations at the end of each month.

If a foundation does not utilize the full $20,000 in a year, there is no carry-over to the following year, but the foundation will be eligible for the full amount in the remaining years of the program.

Unspecified amount

Sheridan County Childcare Fund

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation

Sheridan County Childcare Fund

Created in early 2024 by the SCCF Board of Directors, this fund supports childcare initiatives across Sheridan County.

Applications due Oct 19, 2026

US $10,000 - US $25,000

Strategic Economic Expansion and Development (SEED) Grant

The SEED Grant program, administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, aims to revitalize Kansas communities with populations under 5,000 through funding for quality-of-life projects. Eligible projects include childcare and senior programming, community vibrancy initiatives, food retail access, and library enhancements. Grants range from $10,000 to $25,000, requiring a 10% match and completion within 12 months. This initiative fosters economic growth and community well-being in eligible counties across Kansas.

Kansas Department of Commerce

Unspecified amount

Sheridan County Arts & Culture Fund

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation

Sheridan County Arts & Culture Fund

This endowed fund supports arts and culture-related projects and organizations throughout Sheridan County. It was created in 2022 to encourage creativity and cultural enrichment in the region