Project Drive was founded in 2007 by G.L. Huyett, a manufacturer and master distributor of non-threaded and engineered fasteners, grease fittings, and lifting hardware, as part of a comprehensive community improvement program intended to serve the needs of non-profit organizations within a 50-mile radius of Minneapolis, KS. Grants are awarded in increments from as little as $500 up to $50,000 for any one project to a non-profit individual, institution, or organization seeking to improve a North Central Kansas community.
Project Drive started with $1,000, grew to $5,000 in 2010, and increased to $25,000 in 2015 thanks to contributions from private donors. In 2018, Project Drive awarded $59,022 to 11 projects in Cloud, Ottawa, and Saline Counties.
Applications will be accepted August 1st through October 1st and reviewed by the Project Drive Selection Committee during the month of November. Grant awards will be announced in November.

Project Drive Criteria
- Project must be nonprofit and may be awarded to institutions or organizations.
- Project must be located within a 50-mile radius of Minneapolis, Kansas.
- Post project documentation including project plans, receipts, etc., must be provided for G.L. Huyett grant funnd distribution.
- Applications must be postmarked or emailed on or before October 1st.
- Applicant must be available to meet with selection committee during the month of November.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of projects qualify?
Any project that will help make your community a better place. Previous recipients of grant funds include: technology, electronics, playground equipment for schools; books and supplies for libraries; equipment/appliances for local organizations; building materials for facility renovations; and training materials for support groups.
What can I use the Project Drive grant funds for?
Project Drive Grant funds are intended solely for the purchase of physical goods: materials, supplies, tools, etc. Funds will not be reimbursed or paid out for operating costs, labor, gift cards, existing expenses, or materials purchased prior to grant award date, or physical goods consumed in day-to-day activities.
When are applications available?
Applications are available each year in August.
When are applications due?
Applications must be postmarked or e-mailed on or before October 1st each year. Any applications sent after this date will not be eligible for grant consideration.
How will I know if my project will be selected?
You will be notified by mail if your project is selected.
When will selected applications be announced?
Grant award recipients will be announced during our annual Company Thanksgiving gathering held in November on the day before Thanksgiving. Awards will be announced though local newspapers by December 1st and posted online at www.huyett.com/projectdrive.
How are grant funds distributed?
If your project is selected, grant funds will be distributed by G.L. Huyett following the receipt of an invoice showing the purchase of materials related to your project.
What projects have been funded previously?
To read about past winners, click here.