Best Harlan County Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

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 Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant supports high-quality programs that combat malnutrition and improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for underserved communities and families with young children. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units. The fund prioritizes long-term behavioral change towards healthy eating and nutrition, with grants typically not exceeding 25% of an organization's operating budget. International requests start at $25,000, fostering sustainable food security and education initiatives.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

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.

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 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.

The Southern Plains Grassland Grant Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to conserve and restore vital grasslands in the Southern Great Plains. Collaborating with nonprofit organizations and ranching communities, the program enhances ecosystem health and resilience while providing financial resources. Additionally, it supports carbon storage efforts, benefiting both wildlife and rural economies. Key funding partners include Sysco, Burger King, Cargill, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The SpartanNash Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on Hunger, Heroes, and Hope. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within a 30-mile radius of SpartanNash facilities. The Foundation ensures that every dollar raised directly benefits partner organizations, with a commitment to community impact. Grants are not available for ineligible entities, including those outside the radius or not aligned with the Foundation's mission. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has positively influenced local communities.

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 Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

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.

A funding opportunity designed to support food security, refugee services, licensed free healthcare clinics and community development organizations in the United States.

Summer Food Service Program (SUN) program 2026

The Summer Food Service Program (SUN), created and funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), currently provides organizations with limited funding opportunities to purchase and provide meals to their local communities in the form of reimbursements. Starting in 2011, IRUSA began to supplement and support the USDA in this effort. SUN recipient, organizations are able to start a USDA-approved site, increase the capacity of their current USDA-approved site(s) or develop their role as the meal-providing sponsor to subgrantees. Grants are provided to further enable and encourage wider participation in this program as well as increase food access and support to food-insecure children throughout the summer months. 

A funding opportunity designed to support food security, refugee services, licensed free healthcare clinics and community development organizations in the United States.

Day of Dignity 2026

Day of Dignity creates an opportunity for caring individuals from diverse communities to provide services to their neighbors in need. The Day of Dignity mission is to promote volunteerism, build relationships, and encourage local organizations to have a transformative impact on their unique community. Bookbags, school kits, jackets, and hygiene kits are some of the in-kind items provided by IRUSA to be distributed during Day of Dignity events. A grant is also given to help support the costs of food, entertainment, venue, etc. Free medical care, screenings, and even barber services can be offered out by the host organization at the event. The host organization is responsible for accommodating their community’s needs and reaching out to different services and vendors. The day is an effort to provide basic living essentials, medical care, and connect those in need to support services available to them in the long term.

DREAMS Grant Program

DREAMS For Duchenne

Launched in 2023, Entrada DREAMS is a competitive annual grant program designed to fund efforts within the Duchenne muscular dystrophy community to better identify, understand and reach those who are currently underrepresented and underserved.

DREAMS and Belonging

Entrada is building a company culture where everyone can belong, contribute and grow. In the same way, we are committed to working toward a healthcare system that is equitable and inclusive. Entrada DREAMS is part of our commitment to support Duchenne-focused non-profit organizations in their efforts to address disparities in healthcare and to better serve all people living with Duchenne.

DREAMS and Impact

DREAMS has funded transformative projects that bridge healthcare disparities and strengthen community connections. Keep reading to learn more about past recipients and their projects.

This year, two nonprofit organizations will each receive a $50,000 USD grant to fund projects that advance equity, accessibility and inclusion for individuals with Duchenne. Entrada will award one grant to a U.S.-based nonprofit and another to a nonprofit in the UK or EU.

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

Kieth and Serena Cockrell Scholarship

This program was established in honor of long-time HBCU and UNCF supporters Kieth and Serena Cockrell, who are passionate about education and paving the way for future leaders. Eligible applicants must be permanent residents of North Carolina and a high school senior graduating from any public, private, or charter high school in Mecklenburg County, Union County, or Cabarrus County during this current Spring 2026 term.

Renewable Up to $30,000 Over a Four (4) Year Period. Up to $7,500 Per School Year.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. Scholarships and awards are made possible by NCCF Funds, established by generous individuals and families. 

Valerie Rose Pinnette Memorial Scholarship Fund

Award Average:

• $1350

Established by Ed and Rosalie Pinnette in memory of their daughter, Valerie. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school student who resides in and attends school in NCCF's 20-town service area. Preference is given to students pursuing a degree in environmental sciences.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Alex Sevcsik Opportunity Scholarship

The Alex Sevcsik Opportunity Scholarship is open to students who are graduating seniors from the Academy of Arts, Careers, and Technology, or students who have received services from the Eddy House. Preference will be for students who are interested in pursuing Business or Automotive Technologies. Qualifying students will be planning to attend any 2- or 4- year college or university, community college, or trade school in or out of state.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Claudine Williams Harrahs LV Employee Scholarship

You are eligible to apply for the Claudine Williams Harrah’s LV Employee Scholarship if you meet all of the following requirements:

• your parent or legal guardian has been a full-time employee of the original Harrah’s Las Vegas property for three (3) consecutive years at grade L14 or below (including all H and S grades
• your parent or guardian continues to be employed by Caesars Entertainment either at Harrah’s Las Vegas or another Caesar’s property for three consecutive years on the date the application is submitted
• your family income shows a need for tuition assistance
• you are a high school senior or college student with a minimum cumulative unweighted 2.75 GPA
• you have a minimum 1200 SAT or 20 ACT score
• you agree to maintain a minimum 2.5 grade point average and provide a copy of your unofficial transcripts at the end of each semester you are receiving a scholarship for review prior to annual scholarship renewal

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

General Fred Michel Memorial Scholarship

You are eligible to apply for a scholarship if you:

• provide strong evidence of interest in aviation as a career
• are a senior graduating from a northern Nevada high school, or are enrolled in or accepted to an accredited institution of higher education (2-year, 4-year, trade school, or certificate program)
• are pursuing or plan to pursue a degree in a field related to aviation
• have a minimum 1000 SAT and/or minimum 20 ACT score
• have a minimum 2.75 GPA
• agree to maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and submit an unofficial copy of transcripts at the end of each semester you are receiving an award

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Jean Bear Mullins Memorial Scholarship

In honor of our beloved wife and mother, who was lovingly known as Jean Bear to her children, we have started the Jean Bear Mullins Memorial Scholarship to help students from Washoe County who have been accepted to or are currently enrolled in a Physician Assistant program or Medical School program at an accredited college or university nationwide. We are so proud to be able to honor her legacy.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Response & Emergency Needs Fund

The NAFC Response & Emergency Needs Fund is designed to address urgent and unforeseen challenges that threaten operations or patient access to care within NAFC member organizations. These organizations often operate with limited reserves, making them especially vulnerable to unexpected repairs, equipment failures, workforce disruptions, or community emergencies. This fund provides rapid, flexible support to help stabilize operations and ensure continuity of care for uninsured and underserved patients.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund

The NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund supports the launch or expansion of clinical programs and new service areas that increase access to care for underserved patients. This funding is designed to help NAFC members introduce new services or grow existing programs that address unmet community health needs and improve access to comprehensive, patient-centered care.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Capacity Fund

The NAFC Capacity Fund supports investments that strengthen clinic and pharmacy infrastructure and organizational effectiveness. This funding is designed to help NAFC members build the systems, tools, and capabilities needed to operate more efficiently, improve quality, and expand their ability to serve patients over time.

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.

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.

Edward Arciniega Scholarship

For graduating seniors from Churchill County High School, Charter School, or from a Churchill County Home-school program, intending to study at a 2-4 year college, having studied a foreign language for at least 4 years. This is a single year award for students who have at least four years of study in a language other than English in grades 6-12, and who have demonstrated an aptitude for language and academic accomplishment. This is a one-time award of up to $1,000.

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.

Cynthia Chapman Memorial Scholarship

Cynthia Chapman was a renowned pianist who was dedicated to the pursuit of science and education. She devoted much of her life developing educational videos for Encyclopedia Britannica. This scholarship is in honor of her exceptional accomplishments and career.

The Cynthia Chapman Memorial Scholarship is designed for students who have a background in music (such as playing an instrument, choir, band, etc.) and who are pursuing a degree in a science related field. This scholarship is for graduating high school seniors from Northern Nevada, with a preference for those from Eureka County. This is a one-time award of up to $2,000.