Best Grant County Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

The Hirschfeld Family Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations in Nebraska, focusing on projects that aid disadvantaged communities. Established in 1993, the foundation prefers time-limited requests over ongoing budgetary support. Priority is given to local organizations in Central and Western Nebraska that demonstrate community involvement and efficient operations. Grants are available for projects that align with the foundation's mission to promote well-being and make a meaningful difference.

The Immanuel Vision Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) nonprofits that align with their mission of meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of seniors, enhancing community health, and supporting the ministry of the Church. Since 2015, the Foundation has prioritized organizations that demonstrate strong leadership and financial stability, while addressing strategic health concerns in Nebraska and select Iowa counties. Special consideration is given to initiatives focused on seniors and community health, ensuring a culture of wellness and dignity.

The Armstrong Foundation, established in 1949, focuses on funding educational initiatives that promote the significance of the U.S. Constitution. To be eligible, organizations must provide an IRS determination letter confirming their 501(c)(3) status. This foundation aims to enhance public understanding and appreciation of constitutional values through various educational mediums.

The A.J. and Sigismunda Palumbo Charitable Trust supports organizations committed to enhancing the lives of children and young adults. They focus on educational institutions, health-related initiatives, and community services in the St. Marys, Pennsylvania area. Grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations demonstrating accountability and measurable outcomes, with a preference for projects that benefit the community at large. The Trust encourages collaborative funding efforts and endeavors that inspire hope and vision.

The JSF Scholarships aim to empower economically disadvantaged students by providing financial assistance for their education. This initiative addresses barriers to education and employment, enabling students to achieve academic success and meaningful careers. The Foundation supports various scholarship programs, partnering with schools and universities, and focusing on areas such as financial need and mentorship. By fostering educational opportunities, the JSF Scholarships contribute significantly to community development and individual empowerment.

The JSF People with Disabilities Grant supports organizations that empower students with disabilities through education and employment opportunities. With a focus on scholarships and mentorship, the Foundation addresses barriers that hinder access to higher education. It has established partnerships with universities and schools, including Gallaudet University, to create impactful programs. Additionally, it funds initiatives that help transition individuals into the workforce, ensuring inclusivity in educational and professional settings.

The JSF Indigenous Peoples Grant Program is dedicated to fostering economic development in Indigenous communities through entrepreneurship and business education. With over 30 years of experience, the program supports Indigenous students with scholarships and capacity-building grants. It has produced more than 80 graduates from its MBA in American Indian Entrepreneurship, addressing barriers to education and employment, and enhancing opportunities for entrepreneurs. JSF's commitment to these initiatives is evident in its annual investment of approximately $500,000.

The NUMF: New Start/New Faith Community Grant, offered by the Nebraska United Methodist Foundation, aims to strengthen ministries and churches in Nebraska. This grant supports innovative church development projects that address the needs of a diverse society. With generous donors contributing to this initiative, the Foundation facilitates financial assistance for new church starts, fostering growth and community engagement in the region.

The Nebraska United Methodist Foundation offers ministry grants to churches and agencies affiliated with the Great Plains United Methodist Conference. Aimed at enhancing ministries, these grants support programs and operating expenses but exclude building repairs or expansions. Funded by the "Gifts From the Heart" Endowment Fund, applications are reviewed by the Foundation's Stewardship Committee and approved by the Board of Directors during their October meeting.

The NHC Mini Grants, offered by the Nebraska Humanities Council, aim to support nonprofit projects that foster cultural connections and enhance the understanding of humanities across Nebraska. Grant applications are encouraged from a diverse range of organizations, focusing on projects that serve Nebraskans and address underserved audiences. Emphasizing collaboration and innovative partnerships, these grants prioritize initiatives that explore interdisciplinary connections within the humanities, enriching the cultural landscape of the state.

Humanities Nebraska (HN) provides grants aimed at enhancing public humanities projects across the state, with a mission to foster cultural connection and understanding. These grants support nonprofit organizations and government entities in promoting history, literature, philosophy, and the arts, ensuring inclusivity and representation for diverse communities. Applications focusing on the theme of connections are prioritized, while maintaining a competitive selection process. HN is dedicated to creating engaging, meaningful experiences that resonate with all Nebraskans.

The NHC Media Grants, offered by the Nebraska Humanities Council, support innovative media projects that enhance the understanding of the humanities. Eligible applicants must be non-profits or governmental entities, focusing on projects with significant relevance to Nebraska. The grants promote interactive and engaging experiences, allowing Nebraskans to explore diverse cultures and histories. The application process includes technical reviews to ensure project feasibility, and applicants outside Nebraska must demonstrate direct relevance to the state.

The Terry Farrell Firefighters’ Fund, established post-9/11, provides vital educational and financial support to families of firefighters across the U.S. With over $10 million distributed in grants and surplus gear, the fund offers scholarships, emergency assistance, and training for first responders. It also supplies rural fire departments with necessary equipment and sponsors health initiatives like blood and bone marrow drives, ensuring comprehensive support for those who serve our communities.

The Alma Gibbs Donchian Foundation provides grants primarily to support institutions in Vermont, focusing on issues such as elderly welfare, educational assistance for learning disabilities, and community preservation. Emphasizing partnerships and innovative program models, the Foundation prefers applicants with a strong financial management background. Grants typically range from a few thousand dollars to $20,000, with larger amounts considered for significant impact projects. Eligibility is limited to tax-exempt organizations.

The Research Grants on Improving the Use of Research Evidence program aims to enhance the application of research findings for young people aged 5-25 in the U.S. It offers major grants ranging from $100,000 to $1,000,000 over 2-4 years, focusing on impactful studies and capacity-building for researchers. The foundation encourages collaboration among scholars and practitioners to strengthen research practices and evidence use in various settings.

NEXT for AUTISM's grants program empowers autistic adults by funding innovative initiatives across work, home, social engagement, and health & well-being. With over 380 funded projects nationwide, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. First-time grantees can apply for up to $10,000, while returning grantees may request up to $25,000. The program emphasizes community-based solutions and aims to enhance the quality of life for autistic individuals.

Brothers Helping Brothers is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing essential tools and equipment to small and rural fire departments. Founded in 2014 after a tragic loss, the organization has raised over $20,000 to support fire services. They grant financial assistance to eligible fire and EMS organizations across the U.S. with a focus on enhancing safety and operational capability. Their mission continues to grow as they research and address the pressing needs of emergency services.

The Brothers Helping Brothers initiative aims to provide essential equipment to small fire departments and EMS organizations in the U.S. Established in 2014, the program offers grants to eligible agencies serving communities with populations under 10,000. With a focus on tools like wireless backup cameras, the organization strives to enhance safety and operational efficiency for first responders. Through community support, they have raised significant funds to assist in this critical mission.

National Community Care Corps Grant

Community Care Corps encourages organizations across the country to apply for 18-month grants ($30,000–$200,000) to develop and scale innovative volunteer programs that provide nonmedical assistance to older adults, adults age 18 and older with disabilities and family caregivers.

Projects funded through this initiative will increase the number of community-based volunteer programs available to provide nonmedical assistance while decreasing the number of older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers who need assistance in maintaining independence in the community but are unable to obtain help. In doing so, the initiative will strengthen community-based supports that help people maintain independence, reduce unmet needs, and improve overall well-being.

Focus Areas

Proposals must include one or more of the following focus areas:

• Integrate principles of the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers
• Support grandparent/kinship-led households
• Use off-the-shelf materials. Off-the-shelf materials are products, components, or resources that are readily available for purchase and immediate use, without the need for custom development, modification, or special ordering
• Engage college students/interns for intergenerational connections
• Expand virtual or low-tech access
• Provide volunteer chaperone programs for non-emergency medical appointments
• Increase access to respite programs
• Build opportunities for volunteer skill-building

The NorthWestern Energy Impact Analysis Grant Program offers funding for cities, counties, economic development organizations, and non-profits in Montana, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Grant applications are simple, requiring a one-page form, with decisions made within 48 hours. The program aims to assess the economic impacts of local businesses and development projects. Circle Analytics will provide detailed reports on the economic footprint, including job creation and community benefits, to support informed decision-making.

The Dale Jr. Foundation, founded by NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., has raised over $8 million since 2007 to support various charities focusing on youth and underprivileged communities. The foundation emphasizes empowerment, education, wellness, hunger relief, and hope, aiming to provide resources that enhance confidence and opportunities for children facing hardships. Through fundraising efforts and partnerships with organizations like Make-A-Wish, the foundation strives to positively impact lives and foster a sense of normalcy among children in need.

The Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Grant Program, initiated by Eric Smidt through The Smidt Foundation, supports high school students in skilled trades education. This initiative facilitates pathways to graduation and fosters opportunities for meaningful employment. Each year, it awards $1.5 million in cash prizes to 25 exceptional U.S. public high school skilled trades teachers, enhancing support and investment in trades education. This program is a vital resource for schools aiming to improve their vocational training.

The New Music Organization Fund Grant supports non-profit organizations and performance groups dedicated to promoting new music and nurturing creators. This grant prioritizes artistic merit, community impact, immediate funding needs, and a commitment to inclusion. Eligible entities can apply for assistance to sustain their vital programming and resources for artists, ensuring the continued development of a vibrant music community.

The NAC: Arts Projects for the General Public Grant provides funding for various arts and arts education projects, both online and in-person, adhering to health guidelines. With a focus on public accessibility, it supports exhibitions, performances, and new artwork development. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and government entities in Nebraska, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match for funds. Projects should enhance arts opportunities for underserved communities and must be completed within the fiscal year.

The Nebraska Arts Council offers the Arts Accessibility for Event Services grant to provide reimbursement funds for services that enhance access to arts events. This includes essential services such as American Sign Language interpretation, video captioning, audio descriptions, and language translation. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a six-week advance deadline prior to the event. A Letter of Interest can be submitted if applicants are not yet certain about hiring the service.

The Arts Accessibility Grant for Improvement Projects, provided by the Nebraska Arts Council, aims to enhance access to arts programs and facilities for individuals with disabilities. Nonprofit arts organizations in Nebraska can apply for this non-matching grant to improve their existing services beyond ADA requirements. Priority is given to those lacking access due to geographical or economic barriers. A Letter of Intent is required before applying, ensuring alignment with accessibility goals.

Service Objects In-Kind Grants support non-profit organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. By leveraging their data validation services, they aim to assist projects that promote ecological health and responsible resource management. The program prioritizes applications with clear, measurable objectives and impactful outcomes within one to three years. Organizations with 501(c)(3) status in the U.S. are eligible, while initiatives lacking detailed plans or focusing on generalized education will not qualify. This grant fosters community involvement in environmental stewardship.