Have an Idea That Could Change Lives?
The KenCrest New Business Ideas (NBI) Program invests in bold concepts that create growth opportunities in collaboration with KenCrest and strengthen social enterprise programs for people with developmental disabilities or early childhood education.
If your idea can improve lives, fill service gaps, or spark meaningful change—we want to hear it.
New Business Ideas (NBI) Initiative
Where Innovation Meets Inclusion
At KenCrest, we believe innovation is essential to creating opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and young children to live full, meaningful lives.
Our New Business Ideas (NBI) Initiative, launched in 2019, is funded through proceeds from the 2001 sale of KenCrest’s RiverCrest property. These funds are reinvested into our mission by supporting bold, creative, and practical solutions that expand what’s possible for the people and communities we serve.
The KenCrest New Business Idea Program will support business ideas that help create growth opportunities in collaboration with KenCrest and/or improve social enterprise programs that focus on individuals with developmental disabilities or early childhood education.
How It Works
We welcome proposals from:
- KenCrest employees and Board members
- People we support
- Families connected to our services
- Other nonprofit organizations in the disability services or early education fields
Projects are evaluated for their potential to improve lives, fill service gaps, and create sustainable impact. Funding is awarded through a two-step process:
- Letter of Intent & Conditional Award Notification
- Full Business Plan Submission & Final Selection
Why It Matters
The NBI Initiative is more than a grant program—it’s a commitment to reimagining possibilities. By investing in fresh approaches, we help people with IDD and children in early learning programs gain greater independence, pursue personal goals, and participate more fully in their communities.
Every project we fund reflects KenCrest’s belief in potential, inclusion, and the power of new ideas to create lasting change.
Spotlight on NBI-Funded Projects
- 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.
- Ticket to Work – Offers employment and benefits counseling, job readiness training, and placement services in partnership with Community Integrated Services (CIS).
- Peer Mentor Network – Pairs individuals in Supported Independent Living with peer mentors to guide their transition to independent life and strengthen social connections.
- Child Care SWIFT Support – Helps young children with developmental delays remain in inclusive early learning environments through classroom support and coaching.
How To Apply
To apply, simply submit a Letter of Intent with the required information by one of our grant cycle deadlines.
Full details, required forms, deadlines, and FAQs can be found in the attached documents and linked resources below.
Online Application (preferred)
(This link is active beginning July 1, 2025 to May 8, 2026)
Email Submission
Have an idea you want to discuss before applying?
Schedule a brainstorming session with our VP of Business Development to explore your concept and get feedback before you submit.