The Kappa Detroit Foundation (KDF) is a nonprofit organization committed to expanding educational access and strengthening communities through scholarships, grants, and strategic community support. Since the late 1970s, the Foundation has provided financial assistance to deserving students and community-based organizations seeking to create meaningful, lasting impact.
Dear Applicant,
​
The Kappa Detroit Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Detroit (MI) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. We have been providing scholarship/grant awards to deserving students since the late 1970’s. Over the past nine years, we have given over $100,000.00 in scholarships and grants to deserving students and community organizations. The number of awards varies from year to year. The amounts of the awards range from $250.00 - $1,000.00.
​
The criteria for our general scholarship are as follows:
-
A Graduating High School Senior or Student enrolled in a community/junior college, four-year degree granting institution, or vocational training institution that grants a degree, certification or license
-
Previous recipients can reapply one additional time within a 4-year period
-
Selection criteria is based on Academic Progress, Extra-Curricular Activities, School/Community Service, Overcoming Barriers, and Potential for Success
-
Applicant must submit completed application, that must include the following:
-
Three Personal Reference Letters (at least two from school personnel). Letters must be current (dated within the last 3 months). Letters must be sent to you to include in your submission. If your school will not provide references directly to students, please have counselor e-mail policy and both letters directly to us (one email please).
-
Un-Official Transcript (Note: We may require an official transcript if an award is granted.)
-
Applicants not using our standard application will not be considered. However, you may include attachments or appendices to the standard form.
-
Applicants must reside in the Southeastern MI Tri-County area of Wayne, Oakland or Macomb counties.
-
Application must be received by 11:59pm May 8, 2026.
Submitting your application:
The only method of submission is electronic via google form. The application must be completed in its entirety upon submission. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. References submitted by a counselor with the corresponding policy will be the only documents appended to the application form.
​
Applicants will be notified by e-mail of their award status in June 2026. Please note, if you are awarded a scholarship, you may be required to submit a W-9 with a Federal EIN or Social Security Number for tax documentation purposes.
Best Regards,
Devon C. Watson
Chairman – Scholarship & Grant Committee
Our Commitment to Education & Community
Guided by a focus on academic achievement, leadership development, and service, KDF invests in individuals and initiatives that demonstrate promise, integrity, and a commitment to uplifting others.
​
To date, the Foundation has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships and grants to students and organizations throughout the Detroit area. The number of awards varies from year to year, with individual award amounts typically ranging from $250 to $1,000.
​
Through continued investment in education and community-centered initiatives, the Kappa Detroit Foundation seeks to empower future leaders, strengthen neighborhoods, and foster long-term opportunities for growth and advancement.