This investment reflects a core belief: learning doesn’t stop at a certain age or stage. It’s how individuals grow, families thrive, and communities move forward. Through this initiative, the Foundation is seeking projects where learning is the primary focus and expanding access to meaningful opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities.
Questions should be directed to Ali Maxey, Director of Education & Grantmaking, at ali@communityfoundationbc.org.
Grants will range from $250,000 to $1,000,000 and may support programs, projects, or capital investments that strengthen Boone County’s learning ecosystem. Competitive proposals will remove barriers to access, demonstrate clear and measurable impact, either deep or broad, and show strong potential for long-term benefit beyond the grant period
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, libraries, and public entities serving Boone County residents. Organizations may apply independently or collaboratively, and fiscal sponsorship is permitted.
Given the scale of funding, applicants must demonstrate strong organizational capacity, including financial stability, implementation readiness, and a clear plan for sustainability.
- REQUIRED Info Session for Interested Applicants: June 16, 2026, 9:30 – 10:30am, at Ulen Country Club in Lebanon
- Application Window: July 20 – August 21, 2026
- Grant Awards Announced: Late October 2026
Funded projects must be completed by December 2028, with ongoing reporting to track progress and impact.
Matching funds are not required; however, leveraged funding may strengthen proposals. Grant funds may not be used to establish or contribute to endowments.
Applicants will be asked to provide:
- Organizational budget and financial statements and/or audit
- Evidence of successfully managing large programs or grants
- A clear project plan and timeline
- A sustainability plan beyond the grant period
- A letter of support from Board leadership
Organizations that may not yet have this level of capacity are encouraged to apply collaboratively, partner with a fiscal sponsor, or apply for a grant through CFBC’s competitive granting cycles. More details for these cycles can be found on the Foundation’s website.
Strong proposals will:
- Expand Access: Increase access to learning opportunities and remove barriers for residents
- Create Impact: Deliver deep impact for a specific population or broad reach across the community
- Strengthen Boone County: Benefit multiple communities and build or strengthen systems, partnerships, or infrastructure
- Demonstrate Readiness: Show strong financial and operational capacity, with a clear plan to implement and manage a large-scale project
- Sustain Impact: Extend benefits beyond the grant period through long-term planning and sustainability
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF BOONE COUNTY
The Community Foundation of Boone County exists to unite people, organizations, and philanthropy to create a thriving community for all. Since 1991, its leaders have worked to empower and engage local communities to make a difference right here in Boone County, while also leading a vision to collaboratively address the root causes of challenges facing Boone County in diverse and equitable ways. The Community Foundation continues to invest in the people working to fill local needs and has granted more than $32.7 million to nonprofit organizations and programs working to solve critical challenges in Boone County. With nearly $43.6 million in assets, the Community Foundation works with donors to create permanent funds for charitable giving, to strengthen Boone County for generations to come.