Updated Nov 2, 2026
Private foundations based in Paducah, Kentucky
5 grantmaking foundations headquartered in Paducah, Kentucky, holding $540M in assets. Ranked by grants paid in their latest 990-PF; 2 on this page say they accept applications. For foundations ranked by where their grants went, see local funders.
| Foundation | Grants paid | Median grant | Accepts applications | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ray and Kay Eckstein Charitable Trustsince 2005 | $23M183 grants · 2024 | $50K | Yes | $428M |
| Carson-Myre Charitable Foundationsince 2007 | $8.9M155 grants · 2025 | $25K | Yes | $55M |
| Ed Gardner Trsince 2005 | $1.3M1 grants · 2025 | $1.3M | Preselected only | $24M |
| Paducah-Area Community Reuse Organizationsince 1998 | $153K2 grants · 2024 | $77K | Preselected only | $1.8M |
| George Ellis Gay Jr Perpetual Charitable Trsince 2021 | — | — | Preselected only | $2.6M |
Sources: IRS Business Master File (assets), ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer and IRS 990-PF e-file (grants paid, application policy). "Accepts applications" reflects the foundation's own Part XV checkbox.
Open grant programs in Kentucky
All 2| Deadline | Grant | Funder | Award ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rollingno deadline | Kentucky Arts Council — Organizational GrantsStateKentucky Arts Council | Kentucky Arts Council | Not listed |
| Rollingno deadline | Kentucky Humanities — Humanities GrantsStateKentucky Humanities | Kentucky Humanities | Not listed |
Common questions
How many private foundations are based in Paducah, Kentucky?
Our directory lists 5 private grantmaking foundations in Paducah, Kentucky with at least $1 million in assets, holding a combined $540M. The data comes from the IRS Exempt Organizations Business Master File and Form 990-PF.
How do I get a grant from a private foundation?
Start with foundations that already fund organizations like yours nearby. Read the grantee list on each profile, check whether the foundation accepts applications (it says so on its 990-PF), and lead with a short letter of inquiry. Many family foundations fund only organizations they already know; an introduction through a shared grantee or board member works better than a cold proposal.
Can you help us approach foundations?
Yes. Our grant writers research foundation prospects, write letters of inquiry, and build a foundation fundraising plan. Request a free consultation.