Best Health Care Grants in Nebraska

The Nebraska Rural Veterinarian Grant Program aims to address the critical shortage of production animal veterinarians in rural Nebraska. Offered by the Nebraska Department of Labor, this initiative provides financial grants of up to $150,000 to recent veterinary graduates or new practitioners who commit to practicing in rural areas. Eligible applicants must secure a job offer in a rural county and demonstrate a long-term commitment to serving the community, thereby enhancing local veterinary services and supporting agricultural health.

The CSA Midwest Region: Otto Thieme Memorial Internship provides a unique opportunity for students to engage in a hands-on curatorial experience with costume collections at Midwestern museums, historical societies, or universities. Awarded a $2000 stipend for an eight-week internship, students will gain valuable mentorship and training in the field of costume. This program honors Otto Charles Thieme, an influential figure in costume scholarship, enhancing students' academic pursuits while fostering appreciation for historic costumes.

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 Daub Family Scholarship, managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers financial support to a student of German descent on their father's side, residing near Plymouth, Nebraska, who plans to attend UN-L. Established in 1987, the foundation awards over $55,000 annually to Beatrice High School graduates, aiming to enhance educational opportunities within the district. Interested applicants must apply for university admission by January 15, indicating their scholarship interest.

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.

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

The Burlington Capital Foundation focuses on community-driven initiatives with significant impacts in Nebraska and Iowa, particularly in the areas of Military/Veteran support, senior communities, education, and the arts. They encourage applications from local organizations and those with national reach that can benefit these regions. Grant requests should be submitted at least one week before scheduled committee meetings, which occur quarterly.

Nebraska Blue Foundation

For more than 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has been a champion for the health and well-being of our members and the communities we serve. Founded in 2024, the Nebraska Blue Foundation now allows us to concentrate our efforts into pockets of our community that need to be uplifted the most.

The foundation has four priority areas:

• Serving Seniors – Addressing the needs of Nebraska’s aging population
• Increasing Access to Preventive Healthcare – Proactive measures to prevent illness, detect health issues early and reduce the risk of chronic disease
• Economic Vitality – Investing in job creation and civic programs to promote a vibrant economy
• Third Places – Building and strengthening the social fabric of communities across the state

The Nebraska Blue Foundation is particularly interested in supporting innovation and pilot projects. As a new foundation, our approach is to be catalytic with our grants – primarily investing in new ideas or programs that could meet a specific need with a one-time investment.

Serving Seniors

The spring cycle focuses on Serving Seniors and Preventive Healthcare. 

This funding addresses the needs of Nebraska’s aging population.

The WNAN Natural History Research Grant supports research in biological natural history within western North America. Grants of up to $2,500 are available for five authors to assist with travel, supplies, and other research-related expenses. This initiative particularly encourages applicants from institutions where research is not the primary focus, aiming to foster diverse contributions to natural history.

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 W R Berkley Corporation Charitable Grant Program supports local 501(c)(3) organizations in Central Iowa, SW Minnesota, and Eastern Nebraska. With a focus on health, community betterment, youth development, education, and food insecurity, grants are awarded twice a year. There are no limitations on request sizes, but only one grant per organization is accepted annually. Funding decisions prioritize organizations with a proven track record of efficiency and success in serving their communities.

Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation

For more than 80 years, the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation has worked to ensure that Nebraska’s history isn’t just preserved—it’s actively shared, explored, and reimagined. Through private donations, the Foundation supports projects across the state that restore historic places, expand access to educational resources, and bring new life to local stories. Signature programs and experiences, like WanderNebraska and Walk to the Rock, invite people to connect with the state’s past in fresh, meaningful ways—whether by visiting a small-town museum, discovering a hidden landmark, or exploring a piece of forgotten heritage.

Grant Focus

The focus for the fall cycle is Education and Access and the main areas for grant distribution will be:

• School visits, field trips and transportation
• Youth and family engagement
• Festival or milestone event support
• Professional development and conference registrations

RoamNebraska (formerly the NSHSF Statewide Grants Program) was developed in July 2020, with the guidance of Michael J. Smith, former CEO of the Nebraska State Historical Society, to address a critical funding need for local historical and educational organizations across Nebraska.

Through this program, grants support museums, historical societies, libraries, and community partners in delivering core education, preservation, and interpretive programs that bring community history to life.

The Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation is committed to advancing efforts that build respect, dignity, fairness, equality, and self-esteem. We value diverse life experiences and are devoted to fostering inclusive and equitable environments where all Nebraskans can see their stories reflected and honored.

Nebraska Department of Transportation 

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is responsible for the planning, development, design, construction, maintenance and administration of the state highway system. The goals of the Department are to preserve the billions of dollars Nebraskans have invested in their state highway system, making the highways safe and efficient, and accomplishing this in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Highway Safety Grants

The Highway Safety Office is responsible for the planning, administration, and evaluation of the state’s federal highway safety funding that is authorized by Congress. Federal funding is provided to assist states and their counties and communities to initiate projects, which direct activity towards resolving identified and prioritized traffic safety problems. Only governmental agencies, their subdivisions and 501c3 non-profit organizations are eligible for funding assistance. 

Funding is provided to assist with the implementation of projects, which will address specifically identified traffic-related safety problems. Specific emphasis areas include:

• Impaired Driving
• Distracted Driving
• Occupant Protection
• Youth Driving and Education
• Speeding

FNBO: Capital or Major Donations aims to support nonprofit organizations through significant financial contributions for capital projects. This initiative focuses on enhancing community well-being by addressing key areas such as affordable housing, environmental stability, and education. FNBO prioritizes partnerships with nonprofits dedicated to long-term impacts, especially for historically underrepresented populations. By fostering community engagement and providing essential resources, FNBO strives to create a positive influence in the regions it serves.

The 5310 Enhanced Mobility Transportation Grant provides federal funding to help meet the transportation needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities when existing transportation services are unavailable, insufficient, or inappropriate. Funds can be used for vehicles to improve mobility and access to community services.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

Nebraska Arts Council

Nebraska Arts Council aspires to positively impact the lives of Nebraskans through the power of art. We provide programming, grants, and opportunities to foster creative innovation statewide.

Formed in 1974 by an act passed in the Nebraska Legislature, Nebraska Arts Council is comprised of 15 board members appointed by the Governor of Nebraska. Together, the board and staff partner with the State of Nebraska, National Endowment for the Arts, and Nebraska Cultural Endowment—a unique partnership among the state and private contributors.

Creative District Development Grant

The purpose of the Creative District Development Grant is to provide funds to the Creative Districts of Nebraska. This program is designed for projects that focus on significant cultural tourism projects.

Applicants can use the grant funds on the following:

• Construction: Building, renovation, and/or expansion of existing buildings.
• Marketing: Promotion of the district; this may include the district’s website, branding, and marketing. Can also include improved signage and wayfinding for the district.
• Operational Support: Organizational support for the management and operations of the district (only for designated District Administrator organizations in certified Creative Districts)
• Physical Enhancements: Enhancements to the Creative District to make it more accessible, attractive, cohesive-looking, and safe for visitors.
• Planning: In-depth strategic planning and/or planning related to the development or rehabilitation of eligible projects such as engineering or technical studies.
• Programming: High-quality arts programming that will attract a significant number of visitors to the Creative District.

Priority will be given to organizations in districts that have not received funds in the past in this grant category.

The Patterson Foundation offers Oral Health Grants to support programs that enhance access to dental care for underserved communities. Eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can apply for funding up to $35,000 for capacity expansion, $10,000 for personnel support, or $10,000 for program support. The foundation prioritizes projects led by volunteer dental professionals and requires follow-up reports for continued funding. Applications are accepted year-round through a two-step process.

The Cooper Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Nebraska, especially in Lincoln and Lancaster County. It prioritizes innovative ideas and sustainable organizations across various sectors, including arts, education, and human services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) entities and public institutions. Funding is available for program support and capacity building, while the foundation does not support individuals, businesses, or operational deficits. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the foundation before applying.

The Abel Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Nebraska, particularly in Lincoln and Lancaster County. Their funding priorities include education, human services, community enhancement, arts and culture, and environmental conservation. Eligible projects must benefit local communities, while ineligible requests include those from non-501(c)(3) organizations and individuals. The foundation emphasizes projects with direct community impact, particularly those that involve physical improvements and educational initiatives.

The Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence: Development Phase (COBRE-D) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in IDeA states, which historically receive low NIH funding. By providing critical support for early-career investigators and essential infrastructure, COBRE-D facilitates a long-term vision for institutions. This initiative not only supplements start-up packages for new hires but also establishes research facilities and improves administrative services, paving the way for less-resourced institutions to transition into the COBRE E/S program.

The Windgate Charitable Trust Grant supports contemporary craft and visual arts in the U.S. It offers funding for fellowships, residencies, educational outreach, and materials for craft programs. The foundation prioritizes strengthening visual arts in colleges and expanding K-12 art-integrated programs, providing opportunities for artists and educators to enhance their skills and foster creativity among students. Organizations with previous funding from Windgate can apply through the grantee portal.

The Ethel S. Abbott Charitable Foundation aims to continue the charitable legacy of Ethel S. Abbott by supporting 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities in Nebraska. The foundation focuses on diverse areas such as education, the arts, and human services, evaluating each grant request for its potential community impact. Organizations meeting eligibility criteria are encouraged to submit a grant interest form via their website to seek funding and make a difference in the lives of Nebraskans.

Richard P Kimmel And Laurine Kimmel Charitable Foundation Inc

The Richard P. Kimmel and Laurine Kimmel Charitable Foundation was incorporated in 1988. Its spirit, however, can be traced back to the Kimmels’ farm and orchard near Nebraska City, to their lifelong commitment to agricultural education and research, and to their many years of civic charity and leadership.

Just as Kimmel Orchard has grown and diversified over the years, so too has the Kimmel Foundation’s grant support for education and innovative ideas that offer benefits to many and that may encourage others to contribute similar or even larger grants. The Kimmel Foundation supports proposals that contribute to an organization’s mission and service and offer leadership particularly in the areas of Education, Arts, Agriculture, Humanities and Human Services.

Kimmel Foundation Grants

The Kimmel Foundation provides funds to organizations in Nebraska and Iowa that are exempt from tax and classified as public charities by the Internal Revenue Service, giving highest priority to proposals for funding in five areas below:

• Education, particularly programs of broad impact in Art, Agriculture and Business.
• Arts, including the improvement of art education, appreciation and exhibition.
• Agriculture, notably the teaching and study of significant changes that have broad effects on agricultural practices, with emphasis on horticulture.
• Human Services, including broad community improvements that emphasize partnerships among agencies and stakeholders, eliminate duplication, and improve the awareness of human services.
• Humanities, with priority given to improvements in the teaching of the humanities including increased accessibility to underserved audiences.

Emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, application of new research and organizational collaboration. The Foundation supports ideas that provide leadership in a field, encourage matching grants of equal or greater size, and contribute substantially to an organization’s mission and service to its constituents.

The Kleveland, Garold E., and Clarice A. SCC Scholarship, established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School pursuing Auto Mechanics at Southeast Community College. It supports students demonstrating interest and financial need while promoting academic excellence. The foundation, a nonprofit established in 1987, awards over $55,000 annually in scholarships, working alongside a 15-member Board and students to enhance educational opportunities in the community.

NACO Scholarship

NACO began its scholarship program in 1999 when it presented six high school seniors with $500 awards each to be used toward their post-secondary educations. Since 2004, NACO has presented twelve high school seniors with $1000 awards each to be used toward their post-secondary educations. 

To be considered, students must complete the required application form, submit a seven-semester transcript from an accredited Nebraska high school and prepare a written essay on the importance of county government.

Scholarship recipients must plan to attend a post-secondary educational institution within the state of Nebraska and may use the NACO scholarship for any costs associated with their continuing education. Scholarships are available for one year and are non-renewable.