L.I.F.T. Fund (Leveraged Investment for Federal Traction) Fund for Appalachian Kentucky

L.I.F.T. Fund for Appalachian Kentucky

Purpose: Provides responsive and timely matching funds for Eastern Kentucky organizations and municipalities applying for state and federal funding that supports economic opportunity in the region.

Geographic Scope: Eastern Kentucky communities and rural areas

Focus Areas:

• Workforce development
• Economic development
• Public and low-income housing
• Renewable energy
• Broadband access and planning
• Upskilling workforces
• Arts and culture

Eligible Applicants: Eastern Kentucky organizations and municipalities

Why This Fund Exists: Created to help remove barriers many communities face, particularly lack of access to required matching funds for state and federal grant applications. The Fund provides responsive and timely match funding aligned with ongoing technical assistance.

Success Examples: The Foundation has helped Eastern Kentucky communities be competitive for funding from the NEA (National Endowment for the Arts) and ARC (Appalachian Regional Commission) POWER & INSPIRE programs.

Contact:

• Lora Smith at lora@appalachianky.org
• Phone: (606) 439-1357
• Address: 420 Main Street, Hazard, KY 41701

How to Apply

1. Determine Eligibility: Your organization or municipality must be applying for state or federal funding in one of the focus areas listed above.
2. Submit Application: Apply online through the Grant Application Portal or contact Lora Smith for application materials.
3. Required Information:
   • Description of the project
   • Amount of matching funds needed
   • Details of the state/federal grant being pursued
   • How the project aligns with L.I.F.T. Fund focus areas
   • Timeline for implementation
4. Technical Assistance: Ongoing technical assistance is provided alongside grant funding to support successful applications.

Contact for Questions:

• Lora Smith: lora@appalachianky.org