THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LOUISVILLE logo

Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LOUISVILLE

Foundation Annual Grants for StartupsSmall Business GrantsFoundation Grants
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Funding Amount

$25,000 (with potential additional $25,000 from program partners)

Deadline

September 30, 2026

175 days left

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Vogt Invention and Innovation Awards

Program Focus: Supporting early-stage businesses and entrepreneurs in Louisville through non-dilutive grant funding and accelerator support.

Award Details:

  • Grant Amount: $25,000 base award per recipient

  • Additional Support: Selected recipients may qualify for an additional $25,000 in capital from participating program partners

  • Cohort Size: Six early-stage businesses selected annually

  • Accelerator Program: 10-week program including coaching, mentorship, strategic introductions, and other resources

    • Geographic Scope: Louisville, Kentucky area

    Eligibility:

  • Early-stage businesses and startups

  • Innovative business ideas

  • Entrepreneurs with scalable solutions

    • Program History:

  • Now in its 25th year (as of 2025)

  • Legacy rooted in Henry Vogt Machine Company (founded 1880) and the vision of Henry V. Heuser Sr.

  • Established to support invention, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Louisville

    • Support Provided:

  • Non-dilutive grant funding

  • 10-week accelerator program

  • Coaching and mentorship from experienced business leaders

  • Strategic introductions to industry connections

  • Access to entrepreneurial community and network

  • Demo Day opportunity to showcase progress

    • Contact Information:

  • Community Foundation of Louisville

  • Phone: 502.585.4649

  • Email: info@cflouisville.org

  • Address: 325 W. Main Street, Suite 1110, Waterfront Plaza, West Tower, Louisville, KY 40202

    • How to Apply

    Application Process

    Submission Details:

  • Competitive application process with highly dynamic and competitive applicant pool

  • Applications reviewed by selection committee

    • Selection Criteria:

  • Innovation and scalability of business idea

  • Feasibility and market potential

  • Entrepreneur qualifications and experience

  • Potential for growth and impact

    • Timeline:

  • Application deadline typically in summer months (specific date varies by year)

  • Recipient announcement typically in September

  • 10-week accelerator program follows announcement

  • Demo Day typically held in November

    • Required Materials:

  • Business plan and description

  • Information about founders/team

  • Details about the innovation or product

  • Market analysis and business projections

    • Note: Specific application requirements and submission format should be confirmed on the foundation website or by contacting the foundation directly.

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    Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    startupssmall-businessesfoundation

    Categories

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