The City of Paducah’s Grant-in-Aid Program for Fiscal Year 2026 is now open for applications from eligible nonprofit agencies within the Paducah city limits. This funding opportunity is designed to support local organizations in providing programs and projects that enhance the quality of life for residents. The fiscal year begins on July 1, 2025, and the application deadline is March 28, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. Central Standard Time. Nonprofit agencies interested in applying must attend a mandatory workshop on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 11 a.m. at City Hall.

The program consists of two grant categories: the Quality of Life Standard Grant and the Quality of Life Micro Grant. The Standard Grant is available to nonprofit agencies implementing new or existing projects aimed at improving residents' quality of life. The Micro Grant is a smaller-scale opportunity, with funding requests limited to $5,000 or less, and is also designed for nonprofit agencies focusing on quality-of-life improvements.

To be eligible, applicants must meet several requirements. The agency’s primary office must be located within the Paducah city limits, and it must be recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Only one application per agency is allowed, and applications must be submitted with all required documents by the deadline. Organizations applying for operational funding may only request up to 50% of their operational budget. If selected, recipients of the Standard Grant must provide an annual audit and will be required to enter into a Contract for Services with the City of Paducah. All awarded agencies must also submit a final report detailing the use of funds and their impact on the city.

The grant application process includes a timeline of key dates. The program officially opens on February 14, 2025. The mandatory workshop is scheduled for February 27, 2025. Applications must be submitted by March 28, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. The Grant-in-Aid Committee will review applications in April 2025, followed by a review of committee recommendations by the City Manager’s Office in May 2025. The final budget for Fiscal Year 2026 will be approved by the Paducah Board of Commissioners in June 2025, with funds becoming available starting July 1, 2025.

In previous funding cycles, grants have been awarded to a range of nonprofit organizations, including arts institutions, social service agencies, housing authorities, and cultural organizations. Award amounts have varied from small grants of $2,500 to larger awards of $30,000. This reflects the city's commitment to supporting diverse initiatives that positively impact the local community.

For additional information, applicants can contact the Grant-in-Aid Committee Chair, Hope Reasons, via email. Further details about the grant policy, required documentation, and past recipients are available on the City of Paducah’s website.