Grants for Early-Stage Growth and Community Efforts in Kentucky (USA)
GrantID: 6998
Grant Funding Amount Low: $5,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $30,000
Summary
This grant opportunity is designed to support early-stage and growing ventures through equity-free financial assistance paired with ecosystem support. The funding is intended to help entrepreneurs overcome early financial barriers, strengthen business operations, and accelerate sustainable growth. Grants are awarded annually and focus on practical, high-impact uses that help organizations move from idea to execution or from early traction to expansion.
Funding is available to small businesses and, in limited cases, nonprofit organizations that are actively contributing to economic development and entrepreneurial growth. Individual applicants are generally not eligible. Priority is given to legally registered organizations operating within a defined tri-state region that includes parts of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a clear need for funding and the ability to use grant dollars in a way that creates measurable progress.
Grant amounts typically range from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the stage of the organization and the scope of the proposed activities. Smaller awards are often directed toward early-stage or pre-revenue ventures that are refining products, validating customers, or preparing to enter the market. Larger awards support revenue-generating organizations seeking to scale operations, expand into new markets, improve infrastructure, or create jobs.
The intent of the funding is flexible but focused. Grant dollars may be used for activities such as product development, operational improvements, marketing efforts, equipment purchases, or other costs that directly support growth and sustainability. For ecosystem-focused awards, funding may support programs, events, or initiatives that strengthen collaboration, education, and access to resources for entrepreneurs.
Overall, this grant opportunity emphasizes inclusivity, innovation, and regional economic impact. It aims to reduce barriers to capital, support underrepresented founders, and foster long-term success for organizations that contribute to a stronger and more diverse entrepreneurial community.
Organizations and individuals based in Kentucky who are engaged in Black, Indigenous, People of Color may be eligible to apply for this funding opportunity. To discover more grants that align with your mission and objectives, visit The Grant Portal and explore listings using the Search Grant tool.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
