Transforming Employment Outcomes with Novel SolutionsInnovation lies at the core of all the Foundation’s Signature Employment Grants. It involves developing or adapting ideas, processes, or services to improve employment outcomes for people with disabilities. Innovation requires assessing needs, applying knowledge, creativity, and initiative to develop new solutions or repurpose existing ones in a novel way. To qualify, proposed interventions must demonstrate broader impact beyond your organization and be innovative at the state, national, or industry level. |
2025 Grants Target States with Low EmploymentFor our 2025 Signature Grants, the Foundation invites proposals for groundbreaking employment projects from tax-exempt organizations operating in states with some of the lowest employment participation rates for people with disabilities. These states – Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, and West Virginia – represent areas where targeted interventions can have a transformative impact. |
Funding Terms and ConditionsEligible organizations in Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, and West Virginia may apply for up to two years of funding, ranging up to $50,000 annually with a maximum total of $100,000. Applicants may include up to 15% for indirect costs in their proposed budget. All grants are awarded at the discretion of Kessler Foundation and its Board of Trustees. |
Types of Organizations Eligible to ApplyTax-exempt organizations, including nonprofits, schools, universities, and government entities in the U.S. or its territories, may apply. Kessler Foundation does not fund projects outside the U.S. or those that discriminate based on race, gender, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, or national origin. Proposals from organizations with a high percentage of staff self-identifying as having a disability are rated more favorably. |
Grant Award ProcessThe Signature Employment Grant Program begins with an online concept submission, which is reviewed by the Foundation for its originality, creativity, feasibility, and collaborative stakeholder team. Then, a select group of candidates will be invited to submit full grant proposals to be reviewed. Final candidates will be invited to present their proposal to the Foundation's Grants Committee and staff via video conference. 2025 Grant Concept Deadline: February 21, 2025, 5:00 pm ET. |
Questions?For additional questions, please email us at [email protected]. |