MOUNT VERNON– Knox County Foundation’s Board of Directors has approved updates to the foundation’s Guidelines for Grantmaking to better support local nonprofits and ensure a more efficient, accessible grantmaking process.

These updates will take effect with the 2026 grant cycles, offering more precise guidance for applicants and stronger alignment with community priorities. 

All applicants for the foundation’s small and major grants will be required to submit an Expression of Intent (EOI) form before completing a full application. 

Applicants must provide a brief project description, goals and objectives, and a simple budget overview. If a nonprofit is new to Knox County or hasn’t received foundation funding before, they must also show local partnerships or connections that strengthen their proposal.

Following review, the foundation will invite applicants meeting the criteria to submit a full grant application. EOIs will be due by the 15th of the month before each grant application deadline (see chart below). 

“The new Expression of Intent step allows organizations to share a brief overview of their project so we can confirm eligibility and provide early feedback,” said Lisa Lloyd, senior program director for the foundation.

“It’s a simple way to make sure applicants’ time and efforts are well spent, while helping us learn more about the great work happening across our community.”

Summer Youth Enrichment Grant

In addition to the updated procedures, the foundation is excited to introduce a new Summer Youth Enrichment Grant beginning in 2026.

This grant supports nonprofit community partners working to reduce financial barriers that prevent children and teens from participating in meaningful summer and extracurricular programs.

Funding may be used for scholarships, registration fees, activity passes, or related costs for Knox County youth from families with low income or underserved backgrounds. Eligible programs may include educational camps, grief support programs, 4-H or nature camps, recreational activities, and other structured youth enrichment opportunities.

Applications for the new Summer Youth Enrichment Grant are due January 15 each year,. An Expression of Intent form is not required for this program.

Grant application deadlines

Application Deadlines
Type(s) of Grant	Expression of Intent Form Due	Application Due	Notifications Made
Small & Major	December 15th	January 15th	February
Summer Youth Enrichment	None required	January 15th	February
Small	March 15th	April 15th	May
Small & Major	June 15th	July 15th	August
Small	September 15th	October 15th	November

Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review the updated grant guidelines and submit materials through the Foundation’s online grant portal at www.knoxcf.org under the ‘Grants and Scholarships’ tab.

“Our goal is to make grantmaking more collaborative, transparent, and impactful,” said Lloyd. “We’re excited to continue investing in ideas that strengthen Knox County and create opportunities for everyone to grow and thrive.” 

For questions or assistance, contact Lloyd at 740-392-3270 or [email protected].

by Knox County Foundation October 16, 2025