New Business Ideas Initiative
Turn Innovative Ideas Into Lasting Impact
The KenCrest New Business Ideas (NBI) Program invites innovative ideas that can advance our mission, improve services, increase efficiency, or create new opportunities for growth. Selected ideas may receive KenCrest funding and support to help bring them to life.
We encourage submissions from KenCrest employees, board members, family members, community partners, and nonprofit organizations who want to help make a meaningful impact.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- KenCrest employees
- KenCrest Board members
- Individuals and families supported by KenCrest
- Nonprofit organizations working in related fields
Internal applicants must identify an Executive Director, Vice President, or other senior leader who will serve as their project sponsor and support development of the proposal.
2026-27 NBI Program Priorities
The 2026–27 New Business Ideas Program is focused on three strategic priorities. Proposed ideas should align with at least one of these areas.
Revenue Diversification
Ideas that create sustainable funding opportunities, launch new service lines, explore alternative payment models, or develop mission-aligned ventures that strengthen KenCrest's financial future.
Innovative Efficiencies
Ideas that improve operations through technology, process improvements, data-driven solutions, or workflow redesign to increase capacity and reduce inefficiencies.
Strategic Investment Readiness
Ideas that position KenCrest for future growth by developing scalable initiatives that can attract mission-aligned investors, philanthropic partners, and social-impact funding opportunities.
How the NBI Process Works
Ready to submit your New Business Idea?
Complete the Letter of Intent (LOI) form outlining your idea, its purpose, anticipated impact, and alignment with KenCrest's strategic priorities. LOIs are accepted during three submission windows each year, with deadlines of October 2, 2026, January 8, 2027, and May 7, 2027.
Depending on when your LOI is submitted, selected applicants will receive a Conditional Award Notification by November 6, 2026, February 26, 2027, or June 25, 2027. Applicants invited to move forward will then do step 2 and schedule a strategy session to develop a pitch to be presented to the business planning committee.
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Examine the core idea, clarifying the problem it addresses, and confirming alignment with organizational priorities and strategic direction.
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The NBI team will walk through each section of the LOI with the applicants
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Together, they will shape the long-term financial model, identifying revenue streams, estimating start-up and multi-year costs, and evaluating scalability, creating a preliminary sustainability blueprint that will form the financial narrative for the final submission.
In addition to the LOI, the KenCrest NBI team will work with applicants to develop a pitch presentation for the Business Development Screening Committee. The presentation will clearly summarize the core idea, its alignment with organizational strategy, key risks, operational requirements, and financial outlook. Because the screening meeting is closed-door, the NBI team will present the proposal to the committee on the applicant’s behalf.
If the idea is selected to continue, applicants receive a Conditional Award Notification based on the submission window in which their LOI was reviewed.
Applicants who receive conditional approval are invited to complete a full business plan with more detail around budget, operations, sustainability, and long-term impact.
Final awards are reviewed and approved by the KCC Board. Funding is not guaranteed until the full business plan is approved and the grant agreement is completed.
Letters of Intent (LOIs) may be submitted anytime between July 1, 2026, and May 7, 2027. The date you submit determines which review window your idea will be considered in.
From Idea to Impact
These ideas started as New Business Idea (NBI) submissions and have since grown into impactful KenCrest initiatives. Yours could be next.
- Remote Possibilities – Uses sensor-based and adaptive technology to help individuals live safely and independently, with remote support when needed.
- Smarter Living Home – A model home that demonstrates accessible design and smart technology to support daily living skills and independence.
- Day Sharing – Connects individuals with IDD to community members for shared activities, friendship, and mutual support.
- SWIFT Support – Helps preschool children with challenging behaviors remain included in early learning environments through coaching, consultation, and support for families and educators.
What idea could you bring to life through the NBI Program?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any ineligible uses for these funds?
Grant funds may not be used for subsidies for deficits in program operations, existing program operating expenses, lobbying, political campaign contributions, or direct support of individuals.
Who will own the business, service, or technology created by this grant?
All projects (employee applicants) funded by this grant program will become the property of KenCrest. Ownership of other projects will be determined on a case-by-case basis in the business planning phase.
What documents do I need to submit with the application?
Nonprofit applicants must submit a W-9 form, proof of tax-exempt status (IRS tax determination letter), and their latest IRS Form 990. For-profit applicants must submit a W-9 form. All applicants except KenCrest staff must submit proof of liability insurance.
Ready to Submit Your Idea?
If you have a concept that aligns with KenCrest's mission and strategic priorities, we encourage you to submit a Letter of Intent and start the conversation.
(This link is active beginning July 1, 2026 through May 7, 2027)