KANSAS CITY, Mo., (Apr. 13, 2026) – The Research Foundation will begin accepting applications for its 2026 community grants cycle in June 2026.
The 2026 grant cycle will focus on two purpose areas — expanding access to care and promoting health equity. Funding is available for organizations with health-centered missions that primarily serve residents in Jackson County, Missouri with a priority on urban Kansas City. Awards will range between $25,000 to $50,000 to be utilized during a one-year cycle.
Community grants applications will open on June 4, 2026. The Research Foundation will host in-person and virtual community grant informational meetings for organizations to learn more about the focus areas, eligibility, and application process. The in-person meeting will begin at 9 a.m. on June 4, 2026, at Research Medical Center. The virtual meeting is scheduled for 2 p.m. on June 8, 2026. Organizations interested in attending these meetings can RSVP at theresearchfoundationkc.org/communitygrants.
Full applications are due July 31, 2026. All applicants will be notified of grant decisions by December 11, 2026.
The Research Foundation’s community grants program was launched in 2023 to deepen the investment in the health of the Kansas City community. In alignment with local needs and the foundation’s historic programmatic focus, the inaugural slate of community grants was awarded to support programs and organizations that expand access to care, promote health equity, and engage students in health care careers. You can view a list of The Research Foundation’s past community grantees here.
Organizations interested in the funding opportunity can contact Kate Heinen, Director of Community Grants, at kate@theresearchfoundationkc.org or 816-276-4812. More information about the grants program is available at theresearchfoundationkc.org/communitygrants.
