Best Garfield County Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

The Building Capacity Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the financial and operational capabilities of dioceses. This initiative focuses on funding projects that promote efficiency, financial stability, and effective fiscal management, ultimately fostering a self-sustaining community. Eligible programs include fundraising development initiatives and operational assessments, ensuring resources are utilized efficiently while supporting professional development for church leadership. This grant empowers dioceses to strengthen their foundations for future growth.

The Engaging Young Catholics Grants aim to support ministries that provide faith formation to children, teens, young adults, and families. By focusing on the pastoral needs of young Catholics, the program enhances community vibrancy and fosters new leadership within the church. Catholic Extension prioritizes operational support and seed funding for initiatives that develop youth and young adult ministries, ensuring that dioceses can effectively reach and engage younger generations in their faith.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Community Development Block Grant - Economic Development (NE) aims to enhance Nebraska's economic base by supporting for-profit businesses that create quality jobs for low- and moderate-income individuals. With maximum project costs of $1,000,000 and a minimum of $125,000, these funds are crucial for local development. The initiative ensures compliance with federal regulations and promotes timely use of resources, thereby fostering economic prosperity across communities.

The Building Leaders Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the recruitment, education, and ongoing formation of church leaders. This initiative provides critical funding for the professional development of both ordained and lay leaders in mission dioceses. By fostering partnerships with various organizations, it addresses the need for trained ministers and supports various funding areas, including seminarian sponsorship and diaconate formation, ensuring a robust future for church leadership.

The Building Foundation Grants by Catholic Extension aim to support essential pastoral and administrative functions in under-resourced communities. These grants provide salary subsidies and operational funding to ordained, religious, and lay ministers, ensuring access to Catholic services. Prioritizing areas with significant financial need, this initiative seeks to sustain the church's presence where it is most critical, enabling continued ministry and outreach for those who may otherwise be underserved.

Catholic Extension provides essential funding to support the construction, expansion, or renovation of churches and community facilities. This initiative aims to meet the facility needs of under-resourced Catholic dioceses across the U.S. By focusing on active projects, Catholic Extension ensures that communities can enhance their worship spaces and support local ministries, ultimately fostering a stronger church community. Funding is available for both minor and major requests, with an emphasis on urgent needs and robust funding strategies.

The Northern Great Plains Grant Program, initiated by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to conserve and restore grasslands and wildlife in the Northern Great Plains. With approximately $22 million available in grants for 2025, the program focuses on sustaining healthy populations of grassland-obligate species while promoting sustainable livelihoods and preserving cultural identities, including tribal cultures and food sovereignty. Key funding partners include multiple federal agencies and private organizations.

The Community Development Block Grant - Tourism Development (NE) aims to enhance economic development through funding for effective tourist attraction projects. This initiative supports communities that prioritize long-term growth while benefiting low- and moderate-income individuals. With a funding range between $250,000 and $450,000, it focuses on projects that contribute to regional and local economies, ensuring sustainable development and combating slums and blight.

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

Nebraska Department of Economic Development

Since 1967, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has been focused on growing and diversifying the state’s economic base, bringing new dollars, new businesses, and new people into the state.

DED Functions:

• Support communities with development efforts
• Assist with starting, retaining, and expanding businesses.
• Promote the state for business locations and expansions.

Rural Workforce Housing Fund

Signed into law in 2017 by Governor Pete Ricketts as part of the Rural Workforce Housing Investment Act (LB518), the Rural Workforce Housing Fund (RWHF) provides competitive matching grants to non-profit development organizations who administer workforce housing investment funds. The funds are invested in eligible projects to increase the supply and reduce the costs of workforce housing in Nebraska’s rural communities.

Workforce housing is housing that meets the needs of working families and is attractive to new residents locating in a rural community.

Eligible Areas

Communities in a county with a population of less than 100,000, as determined by the most recent federal decennial census, are eligible. Presently, this excludes communities in Douglas, Lancaster, and Sarpy Counties.

The Catholic School Leadership Development Grant Program aims to cultivate and retain promising leaders within the Catholic school system. In partnership with Loyola Marymount University, this initiative offers a graduate-level online Certificate in Catholic School Administration, covering 80% of tuition costs and providing funding for essential travel. The one-year program focuses on mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, requiring participants to serve two years in their diocese post-completion, thereby enhancing local educational leadership.

The Black Hills Charitable Giving Program supports community growth by providing sponsorships and donations to eligible organizations. Focused on thriving communities, conservation, and nurturing future leaders, it invites applications from 501(c)(3) organizations and schools. Funding priorities include critical needs like food security and education, while requests benefiting individuals or political causes are generally not funded. Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made within 120 days.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

Nebraska Dept. of Economic Development

About Us

Since 1967, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has been focused on growing and diversifying the state’s economic base, bringing new dollars, new businesses, and new people into the state.

Our Mission

Provide quality leadership and services that enable Nebraska’s communities, businesses, and people to succeed in a global economy. We are here, equipped and ready, to assist you and your community in developing and capitalizing on economic development opportunities.

HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP)

Congress appropriated $5 billion in American Rescue Plan funds to be administered through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) to address the need for homelessness assistance and supportive services. The State of Nebraska was allocated $14 million for the Balance of State. The HOME-American Rescue Plan or “HOME-ARP” was created to perform four activities that must primarily benefit qualifying populations. The funding is available through September 2030.

Willis H. Jondahl Memorial Fund Scholarship

This fund is created to promote continuing educational opportunities for obstetrical nursing personnel of Cameron County hospitals, and midwifery education or training to promote the best possible nursing care for obstetrical patients.

The course(s)/seminar must be from an accredited source, offering  CEU’s, and must be expected to reasonably improve the employee’s  performance in the OB/GYN area.

Must achieve a grade "C" or above on graded courses and must file  documentation of grade(s) received with the Jondahl Fund Committee. 

For non-graded courses (seminars/workshops) documentation of  attendance must be filed, and CEUs earned.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Orlo M. Kintz and Stanley M. Kintz Memorial Scholarship Endowment

The Orlo M. Kintz and Stanley M. Kintz Memorial Scholarship supports outstanding students who demonstrate both academic excellence and dedication to community service.

The Orlo M. Kintz and Stanley M. Kintz Memorial Scholarship Endowment is named after the mother and brother of Rosalie Quesnoy, a passionate educator who taught 7th grade math in Palo Alto, CA. She was a teacher who went the extra mile for her students, and now whose legacy will be carried forward for northern Nevada students pursuing their postsecondary education. This scholarship is designed for students with a high level of academic achievement and community involvement, who plan to attend a school that has a strong program for their chosen major. Students must have a clearly demonstrated financial need. This scholarship is for students who plan to attend a college or technical program that is one, two, or four years. Multi-year scholarships may be awarded. 

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Finchum Family Scholarship

The Finchum Family Scholarship is designed to support students who are graduates of high schools in Douglas, Carson City, Lyon, Storey, Chuchill, Pershing, Humboldt, or Lander counties or who have received their high school equivalency/GED in Nevada, and plan to attend or are currently attending a trade or vocational school, community college, or 2- or 4- year institution in state or out of state. Preference will be given to students who demonstrate significant financial need, those with barriers or hardships that have made it difficult to attend school, and non-traditional (trade/vocational studies) students. This is a one-time award of $1,000 or more, with the potential to be renewed with reapplication. Students may reapply throughout their time in college, but can only receive the scholarship for a total of two years.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Don Carano Legacy Scholarship

The Don Carano Legacy Scholarship was established to provide support for dependents of Caesars Entertainment Team Members who are a graduating high school senior or who are enrolled in a college or advanced learning program. The qualifying Team Member must be a Management Grade 14 or below, have minimum two (2) years of full-time service with the company, and be in good standing with no written discipline at the time of application.

Awards will be a fixed amount of $5,000; recipients may reapply for up to three (3) additional years. Scholarship awards will be distributed to any college, university, trade school, or degree-granting program for the student's benefit upon confirmation of enrollment, and upon completing and signing a scholarship acceptance agreement.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Robert and Judy Dreiling Scholarship

This scholarship offered to northern Nevada residents who are high school graduates or who have earned a high school equivalency certificate and adults seeking education to attain better employment.

The ideal candidates will be enrolled in an Associate's Degree track or certificate program at the school of their choice; the degree track or certificate program should result in a good lead to a good job. 

The scholarship will pay up to $5,000 for an Associate’s Degree or certificate program at private trade schools or community colleges for one or more candidates. You will be asked to write brief essays discussing: your life, your plans for the future, why you chose your certificate program, and how your education will impact your life and your family.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship honors the brave firefighters and law enforcement officers who safeguarded our Nevada communities by supporting their family members' pursuit of higher education.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship was established by the residents of the Montreux, Arrowcreek, Saddlehorn, and surrounding communities to demonstrate deep appreciation for the firefighters and law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to hold the fire line during the September 2024 Davis Fire and saved their homes.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Family Scholarships are offered to family members of Nevada firefighters and/or family members of law enforcement who are seeking a 2- or 4-year degree, trade school, or vocational certificate. This is a one-time award of $3,000.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Otto A. Huth Scholarship Fund

Aging out of foster care or child welfare custody in Nevada?

The Otto A. Huth Scholarship Fund is established to provide support for youth who are about to age out of foster care or have already aged out of foster care in the state of Nevada who are seeking support for post-high school education (university, community college, business school, and trade school) at institutions located within the United States. Applicants must apply before their 21st birthday.

Applicants may apply for a scholarship for a maximum of 5 years for up to $40,000 in total. Annual scholarship awards are not to exceed $10,000. Scholarship awards may cover tuition, on-campus room & board, books, student health insurance, on-campus meal plans, and other education-related expenses.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Nico Goon Compassionate Scholar Award

The Nico Goon Compassionate Scholar Award is designed to support graduating high school seniors from Northern Nevada who are planning to attend a 4-year university to complete their degree. One scholarship of $2,500 will be awarded each year to a student who the committee feels exemplifies the qualities that Nico possessed. Consciously, Nico had a love for learning and pursuit of knowledge that was inspiring to his classmates and teachers. Subconsciously, Nico walked through life with a kindness and compassion that impacted the lives of others. Together, these qualities can have a lasting impact on the world around you. This is a one-time award. 

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Foster Children Education Scholarship

The Foster Children Education Foundation Scholarship supports youth who are, or have been, in foster care in the State of Nevada. This includes: a) youth who were never legally adopted or expected to be legally adopted, b) youth who were adopted at or after age 13, and c) youth who were placed with foster families outside the State of Nevada.

This scholarship has the potential to be renewed with reapplication.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Gordon Lymbery Scholarship

Candidates for the Gordon Lymbery, PhD Memorial Scholarship must have graduated from a Northern Nevada high school, or received a GED, and must be seeking an Associate’s, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

Candidates for the Gordon Lymbery, PhD Memorial Scholarship must have graduated from a Northern Nevada high school, or received a GED, and must be seeking an Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, or Master’s degree. Awards for up to $1,000 are available for graduates of any Northern Nevada high school. Please see the Lymbery Certification Scholarship if you are seeking a certificate. This is a one-time award but has the potential to be renewed with reapplication.

Dr. John and Mary Martin Scholarship Fund

This fund was established to honor Dr. Martin and Mrs. Martin’s service as educators. The fund shall provide scholarship assistance to support the college-going ambitions of graduating seniors of Grandview High School who aspire to teaching careers in the field of pre-K through grade 12 education. Preference shall be given to students who are underrepresented in their area of focus within the education field; for example, males of color in pre-school or elementary school.

Award

• $1,000

About the Esther Katz Rosen Fund

The Esther Katz Rosen Fund derives from a bequest to support “…activities related to the advancement and application of knowledge about gifted children.” 

About the Pre College Psychology Grant Program

The Esther Katz Rosen Pre College Psychology Grant Program provides financial support for efforts aimed at improving the quality of education in psychological science and its application in the secondary schools for high ability students. Proposals must focus on supplying education for gifted and talented high school students. 

Program Goals:

• improves the quality of high school education in psychology
• encourages high ability high school students to pursue careers in psychology

Amount:

• 1 grant of $13,000