Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Nebraska

The Watchable Wildlife Grants (NE) program, funded by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, aims to enhance wildlife-viewing experiences throughout Nebraska. Offering up to $6,000 per project, this initiative requires a 25% match and supports various wildlife observation projects, including infrastructure, events, and interpretive signage. Ideal for nonprofits and governmental entities, these grants foster public appreciation and stewardship for local natural resources while ensuring positive impacts on wildlife and their habitats.

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 NorthWestern Energy Impact Analysis Grant Program offers funding for cities, counties, economic development organizations, and non-profits in Montana, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Grant applications are simple, requiring a one-page form, with decisions made within 48 hours. The program aims to assess the economic impacts of local businesses and development projects. Circle Analytics will provide detailed reports on the economic footprint, including job creation and community benefits, to support informed decision-making.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Nebraska support communities in crisis, providing essential funding to restore access to safe drinking water. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and tribes facing emergencies like droughts, floods, or chemical spills. Grants can fund waterline construction and treatment facilities, with amounts up to $1 million available. This initiative aims to enhance public health and environmental sustainability, fostering resilience in rural areas affected by disasters.

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.

The Community College Gap Assistance Program in Nebraska provides financial aid to low-income students enrolled in non-credit or under-credited programs that are not eligible for Pell Grants. This initiative aims to help students gain skills in high-demand fields like healthcare, technology, and trades, ultimately enhancing employability. Grants can be used for tuition, training costs, and necessary materials, supporting those who fall through the cracks of traditional funding sources.

The NE Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) aims to protect agricultural viability by limiting nonagricultural land uses and enhancing conservation values. It includes Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) to safeguard croplands and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) for wetland restoration. Through partnerships, USDA's ACEP facilitates high-priority wetland protection and wildlife habitat improvement. Applications are accepted year-round, with automatic consideration for future funding cycles after ranking dates.

The Safeway Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations in Denver, focusing on health, hunger, education, veterans, and diversity. Grants typically range from $500 to $5,000 for first-time applicants, with higher amounts available for established organizations. Eligibility requires a valid 501(c)(3) designation and a commitment to serving the local community. The Foundation does not fund individuals, political or religious organizations, or fundraising events. Applications are reviewed quarterly, with an 8-week response time.

The Door to College (DTC) Scholarship Program in Nebraska offers up to $5,000 annually to support undergraduate students from Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Centers or accredited high schools. This scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of postsecondary education for eligible students. Applications are accepted year-round, requiring submission to the financial aid office and completion of the FAFSA. Awards are based on institutional recommendations and can be prorated for part-time students.

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 CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

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 Beatrice Noon Kiwanis Club Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides three $1000 scholarships annually to graduating seniors from Beatrice High School. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and meet ACT score requirements. Selection criteria include financial need, academic goals, achievements, and participation in high school activities, including Key Club. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing higher education at Nebraska colleges.

The XENO PRIZE for Performance Arts, awarded by Franklin Furnace, supports early-career LGBTQ+-identifying performance artists creating new work in 26 states with restrictive gender-affirming laws. This annual prize, established in 2023, offers $5000 to a selected recipient from proposals submitted for the Franklin Furnace FUND for Performance Art. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2025, encouraging innovative voices in the contemporary performance art landscape.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

The Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants created this scholarship fund to award to a qualified individual majoring in an agricultural field.

The Beatrice Masonic Lodge #26 Lee and Elsie Donovan Scholarship offers $2,500 annually to graduating seniors from Beatrice High School. Established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, this scholarship is renewable for up to three years, contingent on continued academic progress. It aims to support students who demonstrate financial need, allowing them to pursue higher education at any accredited institution. Recipients must submit a FAFSA Student Aid Report as part of the application process.

The Dick and Chris Draper Scholarship, established by the Draper family, supports young individuals from Elgin, Nebraska. This scholarship honors the legacy of Dick and Chris Draper, emphasizing the family’s commitment to education. Applicants must be graduating seniors from Elgin Public High School or Elgin Pope John XXIII Central Catholic High School. This initiative exemplifies the foundation’s dedication to fostering educational opportunities and building strong community ties.

The Beatrice Gun Club, INC. Scholarship, funded by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $250 scholarship to a deserving high school graduate who is a member of the Beatrice Trap Team or related to a member. Eligible students must pursue higher education at an accredited institution and demonstrate commitment through extracurricular activities. Economic need is not a factor in the selection process, ensuring support for dedicated individuals aiming to further their education.

The Dale E. Siefkes Memorial Scholarship, established in 1996 by the Lincoln Community Foundation, supports Nebraska college students passionate about education. Eligible applicants must be juniors or seniors, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.8, and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship honors Dale E. Siefkes, an advocate for education, providing vital support to future educators while fostering a lasting legacy of giving in Nebraska.

The Cary R. and Lynn A. Spencer Scholarship, established in 2018 by Lincoln Community Foundation, supports students majoring in Physics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, graduates of Nebraska high schools, and maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA. Preference may be given to those demonstrating financial need. This scholarship can be renewed with satisfactory academic performance and requires a full reapplication, reflecting LCF's commitment to fostering education and philanthropic legacies.

The Beatrice Education Association offers a $250 scholarship to a deserving senior planning to attend Southeast Community College full-time. Established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation in 1987, this initiative supports students in need of financial assistance for higher education. With over $55,000 awarded annually in scholarships, the Foundation aims to enrich learning opportunities within the Beatrice School District. Selection criteria include financial need and academic achievement, ensuring support reaches those who will benefit most.

The Beatrice Education Association Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $500 scholarship to a deserving senior planning to pursue a career in education. Established in 1987, the Foundation manages a $3.8 million Endowment Fund, awarding over $55,000 annually in scholarships. Applicants must rank in the upper one-fourth of their class and may use the scholarship for tuition, room and board, or books at any accredited institution of higher learning.

The Beatrice Country Club, Ladies Golf League Scholarship offers a $500 award to a female member of the Beatrice High girls golf team. Applicants must have participated in golf during their junior and senior years and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Selection criteria include active involvement in school and community activities. This scholarship is part of the Beatrice Educational Foundation's commitment to support local students in their pursuit of higher education.

The Beatrice Area Retired School Personnel Scholarship, established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers two scholarships of $700 each for students pursuing a teaching career. Founded in 1987, the Foundation supports educational opportunities in the Beatrice School District with a $3.8 million Endowment Fund, awarding over $55,000 annually. Scholarships are available for undergraduate studies and may be held for five years if other funding is received.

The Baumfalk, Mayme and Steve Severa and Irene M. and Robert D. Scholarship, provided by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, supports Beatrice graduates from St. Joseph Catholic School or Paddock Lane Elementary attending any University of Nebraska campus. Established in 1987, the Foundation offers over $55,000 in scholarships annually, aiding students in pursuing higher education. Recipients can access funds for tuition, room, board, or books within five years of receiving the scholarship, ensuring ongoing educational support.