If you’re searching for grant funding in Kentucky, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Charitable Giving resource page offers a valuable tool: a list of private foundations operating in the state. While it may not be a well-known funding resource, this list can help nonprofits identify potential grant opportunities and diversify their funding sources.

Why This List Matters

Unlike federal or state grants, private foundation funding can sometimes have fewer bureaucratic hurdles and more flexible application processes, making them an excellent option for small and rural nonprofits.

The AG’s Private Foundation List compiles foundations registered to operate in Kentucky, meaning they actively invest in local organizations, even if their main address is in another state. Some foundations focus on specific causes or regions, while others have broader funding priorities. Either way, this list is a good, accessible starting point if you’re looking to secure new funding sources.

How to Use the List for Grant Prospecting

• Find Foundations That Match Your Mission – Unfortunately, the list doesn’t tell us what kinds or topics of projects the foundations fund, but you can use it as a jumping off point for your own research.
• Research Their Giving History – Once you’ve identified some foundations that may fund your type of project you can do more research to see if they’ve funded organizations like yours. Many foundations list past grantees on their websites or tax forms (Form 990s). If looking at tax form 990, the grantees will be in the supplemental section “Schedule I”. The easiest way to find a 990 is through a grant search tool like  Candid Search. (By the way, you can access the full Candid Foundation Directory Online tool FREE at many Kentucky libraries. How to Access the Foundation Directory Online for FREE in Kentucky.)
• Check Their Application Process – Some foundations have open grant cycles, while others give only by invitation. Knowing this upfront can save time.
• Build Relationships – Even if a foundation doesn’t have an open call for proposals, a thoughtful introduction could put your nonprofit on their radar.

Other Helpful Resources on the AG’s Page

While the Private Foundation List is the highlight for grant seekers, the Attorney General’s Charitable Giving page also includes:

• Charitable solicitation laws to help nonprofits comply with state fundraising regulations.
• A list of professional Fundraising Consultants registered in Kentucky.
• Donor protection information to support ethical fundraising practices.

More Kentucky-Specific Grant Resources

At Grant Ready Kentucky, we provide resources tailored to nonprofits seeking funding in Kentucky. Here are some of our Kentucky-specific resources:

• Kentucky Flood Recovery Resources: For disaster related funding for the recent floods 
• Finding Supporting Statistics for Grant Proposals: KY STATS: How to use KY STATS to find state-specific data to strengthen your grant proposals 
• How to Access the Foundation Directory Online for FREE in Kentucky: If you're looking to access even more grant opportunities

‍