Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Nebraska

With a mission to strengthen communities, US Bancorp Foundation provides Nebraska small nonprofits with funding for economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, and community arts and culture initiatives. 501(c)(3) organizations, especially those led by people of color and addressing multiple “work, home, and play” pillars, can submit a letter of interest.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Nebraska 501(c)(3) nonprofits and equivalent charities can seek funding for health and welfare, education, or community initiatives that expand equitable care and education. Labcorp Charitable Foundation provides support for programs such as food pantries, healthcare for underserved populations, STEM education, and healthy lifestyle initiatives; requests are reviewed in March and September.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

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 General Application

Funding Priorities

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

The General Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

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 Program Application

Funding Priorities

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

The Program Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

Small nonprofits and social enterprises in Nebraska working on education, children’s health, or family economic stability for urban low-income youth can seek more than US $50,000 for project support or scaling. With a mission to expand opportunity, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides funding in the U.S., India, and South Africa for organizations aligned with its values.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities in Nebraska can seek funding for food, shelter, daily living support, arts, education, healthcare, and services for veterans and first responders. Roy and Gloria Dinsdale Foundation provides more than US $10,000, with a preference for rural and small-town communities connected to Pinnacle Bank and Bank of Colorado service areas.

Nebraska small nonprofits focused on health, education, or humanitarian services can access funding through the Semnani Family Foundation, which supports marginalized communities worldwide. Organizations working on healthcare access, child and women’s health, disaster relief, literacy, or human and social services may be eligible if they align with the foundation’s global mission and U.S. focus areas.

Nebraska 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in charitable, educational, scientific, or medical fields can access funding through the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust for programs serving people in the U.S. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under federal law, with funds used domestically, and should demonstrate strong management and substantial impact on their target populations.

Nebraska 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for community development, basic needs, workforce education, arts, or environmental initiatives can apply for regional sponsorships that advance economic mobility and social progress. Grants from Bank of America Charitable Foundation help small nonprofits, including those in Nebraska, preserve neighborhoods, address hunger and shelter, and promote diversity and inclusion.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on human services such as poverty relief, children and families, education, health, animal welfare, or disaster relief can apply for Robinson Foundation support; organizations must serve the Southern region below the Mason-Dixon line. Focus is on fiscally responsible groups where single-year grants create tangible, meaningful impact with visible results.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for community programs, education, arts, health, or environmental initiatives can apply for US $1,000 - US $20,000 from the Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation. Nebraska small nonprofits may be eligible for projects such as museums, youth and senior services, disability programs, clinics, and wildlife or environmental activities.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Nebraska small nonprofits serving agricultural education, hunger and nutrition, or rural disaster relief and essential services can apply for Working Here Fund grants up to US $25,000. Focused on strengthening rural communities, Farm Credit Services of America prioritizes 501(c)(3) organizations whose projects benefit communities within its Nebraska service area.

Nonprofits, tribes, and higher education institutions in Nebraska that serve rural microenterprises can receive USDA loans and grants to run revolving microloan funds and provide training and technical assistance, with awards up to US $500,000. This program can help small-business support nonprofits expand capital access, coaching, and services for very small rural businesses.

Grants from Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy help Nebraska small nonprofits, government subunits, and educational institutions fund small projects addressing nonpoint source water pollution, with awards up to US $15,000. Eligible activities include local demonstrations, events, or pilot projects that support the state’s Nonpoint Source Management Plan within a one-year timeframe.

U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven causes can receive funding from Ameriprise Financial to support hunger relief, housing, adult self-sufficiency, and community development programs. Nebraska small nonprofits may be competitive if they show strong Ameriprise volunteer engagement, measurable outcomes, financial stability, and alignment with these focus areas.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

Nebraska small nonprofits working in education, social services, health care, civic or cultural programs, or environmental initiatives can access funding through the Dr Scholl Foundation; awards range from US $5,000 - US $25,000 for one year of project support. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations with at least three years of financial activity.

Nebraska nonprofit organizations planning AmeriCorps service programs can receive up to US $75,000 for program design and capacity-building expenses. ServeNebraska’s AmeriCorps Planning Grant supports evidence-based interventions addressing education, health, housing, economic opportunity, disaster response, and other community needs, and includes training and technical assistance to prepare applicants for future operational AmeriCorps grants.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

With a mission to empower community legacies, Greater Grand Island Community Foundation provides Nebraska small nonprofits with up to US $10,000 for capacity-building projects in Hall County. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can seek support for board and staff training, strategic planning, technology upgrades, critical equipment, and other efforts to strengthen organizational effectiveness.

About

Greater Grand Island Community Foundation is a growing legacy, not of a single person, but of the entire community. It is, in a very real sense, the community's foundation. Under one organizational roof, it unites donors, large and small who want to make our community a better place for all.

Like the wind powers a pinwheel the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation powers individual legacies to make communities better places to live, work and play. When you give through the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation, making your gift is simple.

Our Mission

Empowering people to turn their passion into purpose by creating legacies that strengthen the future of the communities we serve. 

Our History

E.J. Wolbach passed away in 1959, leaving a bequest in his will to establish a community foundation. The Grand Island Foundation was formed on September 12, 1960, with Helen Connell serving as the first president. In 1985, Richard E. Spelts, Jr. began volunteering his time, talents, and resources to serve as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Spelts recognized the need for a full-time director and hired the Foundation's first paid executive director on May 1, 1997. "Community" has been added to the Foundation's name as it continues to serve Grand Island and the greater Hall County area. In 2020 “Greater” was added to the Foundations name to reflect the wide range of communities in Central Nebraska that we touch.

Doniphan Community Foundation Grant

The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation grant program is designed to help address unmet charitable needs and unique program opportunities for essential and emerging issues in the Hall County area.

Grant amounts vary based on the project and availability of funds, but generally do not exceed $10,000.