Best Grants for Global Health in Nebraska

The Lozier Foundation

Formed in 1986, The Lozier Foundation is a family foundation funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The foundation’s focus is education, social services and issues involving women and children with an emphasis on the inner city and underrepresented populations.

Our Mission: The Lozier Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life for the underrepresented communities in the Omaha/Metro area.

Grants

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation Education Application

The Education Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Jack Lewis Safety Fund, established by the Walter Scott Family Foundation, honors Dr. Jack K. Lewis and supports Nebraska and southwest Iowa communities. Grants up to $50,000 are available for safety-related projects, including equipment, training, and facility improvements. Applicants must serve communities with 5,000 or fewer residents or be located in specific counties. Priority is given to projects showcasing local fundraising and collaboration. Applications are accepted year-round with specific deadlines for review cycles.

The National Cooperative Drug/Device Discovery/Development Groups (NCDDG) program invites applications to foster innovative research in treating mental disorders and substance use issues. This initiative promotes collaboration between academia and industry, supporting diverse, multidisciplinary projects aimed at developing rational therapies and neurostimulation techniques. Applicants are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent 30 days before the proposal deadline to enhance project alignment with funding goals.

The Pipeline Grants Competition by the Russell Sage Foundation aims to bolster early-career scholars and enhance diversity in the social sciences. It supports innovative research focusing on economic mobility and systemic inequalities in the U.S. Eligible applicants can receive up to $35,000 individually or $50,000 in teams. The foundation emphasizes methodological diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging novel data usage. Projects should align with RSF's mission to improve social conditions, prioritizing underrepresented scholars from under-resourced institutions.

The Dr. Ralph and Marian Falk Medical Research Trust – Falk Catalyst Awards support high-risk, high-reward biomedical research with up to $350,000 in funding over one to two years. These awards aim to address critical scientific challenges and enable the translation of innovative research into clinical practices. Projects focus on identifying biological markers, therapeutic targets, and developing interventions to disrupt disease processes, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for patients.

The Sherwood Foundation offers program and capital grants aimed at promoting equity through social justice initiatives in Nebraska. Supporting 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, schools, and churches, the foundation focuses on urban community partnerships, rural community partnerships, and early childhood education. The foundation values civil liberties and equality, encouraging applicants to align with its mission. First-time applicants are advised to contact the foundation for guidance on suitable grants and application processes.

The NCDDG program supports innovative research aiming to discover and develop new treatments for mental disorders, including substance use and alcohol use disorders. This initiative encourages collaborations between academic and industry partners to advance neurostimulation techniques and drug/device development. Applicants are invited to submit proposals that focus on specific projects utilizing the U01 mechanism, with a clear emphasis on rationally designed candidate agents and cutting-edge technologies. Letters of Intent are encouraged 30 days prior to the submission deadline.

The Sherwood Foundation's Capital Grants program aims to enhance Nebraska's communities through strategic investments in public education, human services, and social justice. By providing funding for land purchases, construction, renovations, and significant equipment, the foundation supports projects that improve child and family welfare. Organizations seeking grants must provide their EIN/TAX ID, ensuring that funds are directed to eligible applicants committed to fostering community development and well-being.

The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund offers crucial financial support and counseling for individuals in the theatrical exhibition and distribution sectors facing health-related challenges. This fund assists with medical expenses, housing emergencies, and essential services like vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years in exhibition or five years in distribution. The fund aims to provide a safety net for those impacted by illness, injury, or significant life changes.

The Legal Aid and Service Fund Grant, administered by the Nebraska Commission on Public Advocacy, aims to provide essential legal representation to indigent defendants in serious criminal cases. Established in 1995, the Commission supports public defenders and oversees the Legal Aid and Services Fund to assist those unable to afford civil legal services. The agency ensures that counties comply with constitutional mandates while offering additional assistance based on financial need and service years, enhancing access to justice for vulnerable citizens.

The HDR Foundation Grant Cycle supports community organizations aligned with HDR's values, focusing on education, healthy communities, and environmental stewardship. This employee-funded initiative emphasizes the importance of employee engagement in grant proposals, requiring a clear scope of work and completion within a year. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based nonprofits, educational institutions, and tribal governments, while grants are not provided for faith-based organizations or individual support.

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 Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to enhance their green spaces and community forests. By meeting five key standards, campuses can achieve recognition, promoting environmental stewardship and mental well-being among students. This program not only fosters a sense of pride within institutions but also contributes to combating climate change through tree planting and maintenance. Participating schools can leverage resources and support to cultivate a healthier, more sustainable campus environment.

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 Career-Readiness and Dual-Credit Education Grant Program in Nebraska aims to enhance teacher qualifications by providing financial support for tuition and related costs associated with graduate coursework and certification for teaching dual credit and career technical education courses. This initiative focuses on improving educational standards and accessibility for teachers, ensuring they are well-equipped to deliver quality education in postsecondary institutions.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

The Nebraska Environmental Trust offers annual grants to conserve and restore Nebraska's natural environments. Projects must align with specific funding categories and demonstrate clear environmental benefits. Eligible applicants include individuals, organizations, and public entities, provided they meet stated criteria. The Trust encourages collaboration and private investment in environmental projects, emphasizing the importance of public benefits. Funding is typically awarded as reimbursement, with a focus on projects that are both technically and financially feasible.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The Verne P. Jackson and Rose Marie Jackson Charitable Trust Grant provides crucial financial assistance to organizations supporting physically handicapped individuals within a 100-mile radius of Omaha, Nebraska. Established by Verne P. Jackson, the trust aims to empower those facing physical challenges, drawing from personal experiences with disability. Administered by Wells Fargo Bank, it typically awards one to two grants annually, focusing on assisting organizations that promote productive and rewarding lives for the handicapped.

The Neil Lancaster Scholarship, established by the Nebraska Community Foundation, supports Plattsmouth high school seniors and PHS graduates who are college sophomores to seniors. This scholarship aims to empower local students to pursue higher education by providing financial assistance that may be renewable for subsequent years. The initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering community growth and supporting educational opportunities, ensuring that aspiring students have the resources needed to achieve their academic goals.

The CHS Foundation supports initiatives that benefit the agriculture industry, focusing on 501c3 organizations within specific states. Their funding is aimed at empowering cooperative growth and sustainable practices. Local projects may also be eligible through the CHS Seeds for Stewardship program. However, funding is not available for individuals, sports teams, or religious groups, ensuring that the support remains directed towards community and cooperative development.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

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.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Nebraska provide funding to organizations that assist low-income families in constructing their own homes. This program encourages community collaboration, where participants contribute labor under the guidance of qualified organizations. Eligible applicants include government non-profits, federally-recognized tribes, and private non-profits. Funds support technical assistance, family recruitment, and loan application processes, while prohibiting expenses related to hiring construction labor or purchasing materials.

Through partnerships and collaboration, Lincoln Community Foundation facilitates positive change for the common good.

Since 1955, we have been privileged to be part of many wonderful legacies by connecting donor generosity to local needs. LCF serves as a faithful steward for many types of philanthropic gifts and helps donors create lasting legacies of giving. With gifts of all sizes from thousands of donors over the years, the assets of LCF have grown to more than $270 million.

Scholarships

Generous donors to Lincoln Community Foundation have established 90 scholarship funds that benefit students in Lancaster County and across the state of Nebraska. For 2025, there were 299 scholarship recipients who received awards that totaled over $606,000. 

Glenn and Dorothy Schnieber Scholarship

The Glenn and Dorothy Schnieber Scholarship was established in 2021 by their family. Glenn and Dorothy graduated from Lincoln High School in 1946. Neither of them was able to afford college. They bought a small business from Glenn’s dad and over the next 30 years they grew it into a successful wholesale food distributor, Schnieber Fine Foods. Education was always important to them. In their memory, the donors hope this scholarship will help recipients in Nebraska achieve their educational goals.

Recipients of this scholarship may renew the scholarship for the following year if they maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or above, for a total of two years.

The Donald W. and Glennis A. Kaufman Research Award supports ecological research in the Great Plains and Canada Prairie Provinces, focusing on native mammals, especially rodents and shrews. Offered by the American Society of Mammalogists, this annual $2,500 award is available to graduate students (master's or Ph.D.) from any nationality. Applications are open to those enrolled in relevant programs, promoting vital research in these unique ecosystems.