Best Knox County Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

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 Jim B. & Lillian F. Cooper Foundation Community Grants support non-profit organizations in Nebraska that focus on health, education, and recreation. Established in 1997 by the Cooper family, the foundation aims to give back to communities served by Midwest Bank. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. The foundation has a strong commitment to fostering community well-being and enhancing the quality of life for residents across various Nebraska towns.

The Gilchrist Foundation offers capital campaign grants to pre-selected non-profit organizations, particularly those enhancing arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. While the Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications, eligible organizations can request an invitation to apply. Grants typically support significant renovation or expansion projects, aiming to foster long-term viability and special initiatives. Preference is given to projects in the Sioux City area, with a focus on stimulating matching funds.

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.

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 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 - 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 Gilchrist Foundation offers project grants to pre-selected non-profit organizations that align with its mission in the arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief, primarily focusing on the Sioux City area. Organizations can apply for funding to enhance or establish programs that are self-sustaining, as the foundation does not intend to provide long-term financing. Interested parties must first request an invitation to apply for funding.

The Gilchrist Foundation offers endowment grants aimed at supporting pre-selected non-profit organizations that align with its mission in the arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. Although unsolicited applications are not accepted, organizations can request an invitation to apply. The Foundation prefers projects that demonstrate robust board participation and offers matching funds, particularly favoring initiatives in the Sioux City area. Approximately 55% of grants are allocated to endowment and capital campaigns.

The Gilchrist Foundation offers micro-grants up to $5,000 to support nonprofit organizations focused on the arts, wildlife conservation, and disaster relief, particularly in the Sioux City area. This initiative allows for one-time funding aimed at fostering creativity and community engagement. Organizations eligible for these grants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities. Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made within 30 days, promoting impactful projects that benefit local residents.

The PositiveNRG Grant Program, led by NRG Energy, focuses on investing in communities through choice and education, community engagement, resilience, sustainability, and well-being. The program is open to non-profit organizations and governmental entities that can demonstrate a meaningful impact. Preference is given to initiatives that foster community involvement and inclusiveness. However, sponsorships for religious or political activities are generally not supported. This program aims to empower communities through innovative energy solutions.

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.

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.

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 Patient Care Fund

The NAFC Patient Care Fund supports direct patient services that expand immediate access to care. This funding is designed to help NAFC members meet urgent patient needs by supporting clinical supplies, expanded services, contracted providers, transportation assistance, medication access, and other direct care resources.

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.

Breast Cancer Screening & Prevention Initiative

The Breast Cancer Screening & Prevention Initiative, supported by the McKesson Foundation and administered by the NAFC, aims to expand access to lifesaving breast cancer screening and prevention services for uninsured and medically underserved. Through this initiative, the NAFC will provide $30,000 grants to members to establish or strengthen breast cancer screening programs in alignment with evidence-based guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society. Funding will support activities such as improving patient identification and referral systems, increasing access to mammography services through partnerships or mobile units, strengthening staffing and technology capacity, and providing patient education and case management to ensure follow-through with recommended screenings. By enhancing early detection and preventive care, the initiative seeks to reduce barriers to care and improve health outcomes for women who might otherwise go without critical cancer screening services.