Best Quality of Life Grants in Nebraska

The Roy and Doris Abood Scholarship, managed by the Kearney Area Community Foundation, aims to support first-generation college students attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney. This scholarship, valued at $1050, is awarded at the beginning of the first semester of higher education and encourages students from Nebraska high schools to pursue their academic goals. The foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of life in the Kearney area by promoting charitable giving and responding to community needs.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

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 Standard's Corporate Giving Program emphasizes community support and employee engagement, reflecting its foundational mission to enhance financial well-being. Established in 1906, the program focuses on Healthy Communities, Disability and Empowerment, Cultural Development, and Education. With a funding range of $500 to $25,000, it aims to make a substantial impact in the lives of individuals and families facing challenges. The Standard Charitable Foundation, launched in 2006, further extends this commitment by supporting organizations that align with its philanthropic goals.

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.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

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

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 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 Disaster Resilience Program, supported by Equal Justice Works, aims to provide free civil legal aid to communities affected by disasters in the Midwest. With funding for attorney and summer law student fellows, the program addresses the unique legal needs of low-income families, helping them recover from the impacts of disasters. This initiative not only stabilizes lives but also promotes resilience in communities by ensuring access to essential legal services.

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 SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

The NIDCD is offering funding to advance HIV/AIDS research, particularly focusing on areas related to communication disorders. This initiative supports low-risk clinical trials and encourages researchers to align their proposals with high priority topics identified by the NIH Office of AIDS Research. Applications must be submitted by the local deadline, with optional Letters of Intent due 30 days prior to the proposal deadline. This opportunity aims to enhance understanding and treatment in this crucial health area.

The Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

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.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The Supreme Basketball Player Scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to young athletes in Nebraska and surrounding states. This initiative by Supreme Basketball ensures that no child is turned away from basketball programs due to financial constraints. With a focus on player development, the scholarship supports youth from Pre-K to 12th grade, allowing them to participate in camps, clinics, and select club teams, fostering their skills and passion for the game.

The Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

The Nebraska Crime Commission is offering up to $5,498,000 for the Community-based Juvenile Services Aid Program. This funding will support initiatives for youth aged 12 to 18, allocated based on various factors including county demographics and poverty rates. Applicants must demonstrate effective grant management and compliance with funding requirements. The final awards may vary depending on legislative appropriations, and interested parties should refer to Appendix A for allocation specifics.

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is inviting proposals for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of specialty crops in Nebraska. With approximately $820,000 available, projects can include fruits, vegetables, and horticulture without a maximum grant limit or cost-sharing requirements. Funds will be available starting September 30, 2026, and must be used by September 29, 2029. For more information, visit the USDA website.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

Expedited Off Cycle Grant

Due to the passage of Legislative Bill 1071 in April of 2026, there is included in the appropriation for Nebraska Tourism Commission dba Visit Nebraska to this program FY2025-26 $175,000 Cash Funds for state aid, which shall only be used for a marketing grant related to international volleyball events at a city of the metropolitan class. There is included in the appropriation to this program for FY2025-26 $150,000 Cash Funds for state aid, which shall only be used for a tourism and visitor promotion grant to an organization that provides tourism and visitor promotion services in the state through exhibits and trails and that is located along the Missouri River and within five miles of a city of the first class.

When developing your grant application, be creative and innovative, tell us what marketing tools your community, event, destination, or region is lacking that will help you attract more visitors. Outline your needs in your application and include how, when, why, and where you plan to implement the tools. 

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

Community-based Juvenile Services Aid Program Enhancement

Pursuant to NRS §43-2404.02, the Community-based Juvenile Services Aid Program (CBA) shall be apportioned as aid in accordance with a formula based on the total number of residents per county and federally recognized or state-recognized Indian tribe who are twelve years of age through eighteen years of age and other relevant factors as determined by the Commission. Funds not awarded through the CBA Request for Application (CB RFA) will be distributed as the Enhancement (EB) grant.

Enhancement funding is distributed on a competitive basis to eligible counties and tribes with a demonstrated need in the Community-based Juvenile Services Aid funding areas. This announcement is an extension of the FY2026 CBA RFA released October 29, 2024. Please refer to the CBA RFA, found here, for detailed funding purpose, funding limitations, funding requirements, and application instructions. All CBA requirements and restrictions apply.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate additional need in the funding areas.

Community-based Juvenile Services Aid Program Purpose

The Juvenile Services Act (NRS 43-2401 to 43-2412) was created due to a Legislative finding that the incarceration of juveniles in adult jails, lockups, and correctional facilities is contrary to the best interests and well-being of juveniles and frequently inconsistent with state and federal law requiring intervention by the least restrictive method. The Legislature further found the lack of available alternatives within local communities is a significant factor in the incarceration of juveniles in such adult jails, lockups, and correctional facilities. To address such lack of available alternatives to the incarceration of juveniles, the Legislature declared it to be the policy of the State of Nebraska to aid in the establishment of programs or services for juveniles under the jurisdiction of the juvenile or criminal justice system and to finance such programs or services through the Community-based Juvenile Services Aid Program, the Juvenile Services Commission Grant Program, and funds acquired by participation in the federal act (Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974) (NRS 43-2403).

The Community-based Juvenile Services Aid Program shall be used in alignment with the Juvenile Services Act purpose' and to promote the development and implementation of community-based programs designed to prevent unlawful behavior and to effectively minimize the depth and duration of the juvenile's involvement in the juvenile justice system. Programs and services shall be designed to serve and target youth who are eleven through eighteen years of age. Programs focused on reducing excessive absenteeism may serve and target students in grades kindergarten - twelfth grade (ages five through eighteen). Aid recipients shall prioritize programs and services that will divert juveniles from the juvenile justice system, reduce the population of juveniles in juvenile detention and secure confinement, and assist in transitioning juveniles from out-of-home placements.

For purposes of the Community-based Juvenile Services Aid Program, the population of youth being served must be youth in the juvenile justice system or be at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. Youth at risk shall include youth who are identified as being at risk of violating the law, those whose behavior is such that they endanger themselves or others, youth with low protective factors,?youth with risk factors for delinquency, youth with criminogenic needs factors, and at-risk youth as defined by the federal act.

Programs and services targeting non-criminogenic risk factors alone (such as mental health, anxiety, low self-esteem, creative abilities, and medical needs) for a general population of youth that are not for the specific purpose of including in the programming of the at-risk population do not align with the purpose of this grant program. Low self-esteem is a prime example of a non-criminogenic factor. Although a youth's low self-esteem may suggest a need for counseling, it is not a risk factor for delinquency, and changing a youth's self-esteem level will not change the likelihood of reoffending®.

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.