Hayswood Foundation Grant Program

Hayswood Foundation, Inc. is a private foundation based in Maysville, Kentucky. Since 1985, the Foundation has provided over $10.6 million in grant funding to support projects that enhance the well-being of communities in northeastern Kentucky and southeastern Ohio. The Foundation specifically funds nonprofit organizations that promote mental or physical health or education within a defined geographic region. The grant program is open to nonprofit organizations that are recognized by the IRS as tax-exempt. Preference is given to those with 501(c)(3) status and those not supported by a tax base. Organizations must either be located in the eligible counties of Bracken, Fleming, Lewis, Mason, and Robertson in Kentucky, or Adams and Brown in Ohio, or must demonstrate that grant funds will directly benefit residents of these areas. Projects associated with political, religious, or social indoctrination are not eligible. Grants are not awarded to individuals or for-profit organizations, and typically cannot be used for property improvements on assets not owned by the applicant. Applications open each year in June and must be submitted by 5 p.m. on August 1. Following submission, the Foundation reviews applications to ensure eligibility. The Grant Committee meets in September to develop recommendations, which the Board of Directors considers during its October meeting. Grants are typically awarded for one-year terms, though major capital projects may span multiple years. Major capital grants require a match of $1 Foundation dollar for every $2 raised by the applicant and cannot exceed one-third of total project costs. The application process requires submission of a completed application form and an IRS determination letter. Applicants must clearly explain how their project meets eligibility criteria and benefits the targeted geographic area. The Foundation may impose additional requirements based on the specific nature of the grant. Matching grants and major capital grants have specific documentation and reporting obligations regarding matching funds and project progress. Organizations seeking additional guidance can contact Hayswood Foundation at hfound@att.net or by phone at (606) 563-9333. The Foundation’s office is located at P.O. Box 208, 135 W. Second Street, Suite 1A, Maysville, Kentucky. Prospective applicants should carefully review current application forms for any updates or additional requirements each grant cycle.

Ensure compliance with geographic and project purpose criteria; clarify match structure if applicable; review updated application form each year.