Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(1)/(2) organizations can seek McGraw Foundation support for education, human services, conservation, health, and cultural programs, with typical awards of US $2,000 - US $10,000. Although grants generally favor the greater Chicago area, Nebraska nonprofits with relevant work may be eligible to apply when invited.

Graduate students conducting research in drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 to advance work with practical benefits for the water industry. Focused on water-related environmental challenges, the American Water Works Association invites applicants whose projects may interest Nebraska nonprofits partnering with academic researchers.

Nebraska nonprofit organizations seeking support for community events, general operations, or arts and culture seasons can apply for community sponsorships that advance housing, small business, education, health, environment, and community cohesion. Focused on broad community impact, First National Bank of Omaha reviews requests monthly and supports work in its Nebraska communities and other service areas.

Agricultural producers, non-industrial private forest landowners, and Tribes in Nebraska can receive financial and technical assistance to implement conservation practices that improve operations and environmental outcomes. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service supports projects that enhance soil health, water and air quality, wildlife habitat, climate resilience, and on-farm energy efficiency through its Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

Nebraska nonprofit organizations planning capital campaigns or major facility projects can apply for First National Bank of Omaha’s capital or major donations to support specific community projects. Funding can back construction, renovation, or other large initiatives that advance areas like affordable housing, environmental stability, entrepreneurship, education, community health, arts access, or community cohesion.

Nebraska 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, or community arts and culture may be eligible for Community Possible funding; grants support work, home, and play initiatives. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation help organizations in designated U.S. Bank communities, with priority for those led by people of color and advancing equity.

Agricultural producers and private forest landowners in Nebraska can apply for the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Conservation Stewardship Program to receive technical and financial assistance for conservation on working lands. This national USDA program supports cropland, grassland, pasture, rangeland, and nonindustrial private forest projects that improve soil, water, wildlife habitat, and overall environmental stewardship.

Nebraska 501(c)(3) nonprofits with programs in safety, workforce development, community vitality, or environmental sustainability can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation for specific projects and capacity-building efforts. Grants of US $5,000 - US $30,000 support initiatives serving Nebraska communities on the Union Pacific network, with an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion for underrepresented populations.

Nonprofit organizations and local government units serving Wakefield, Nebraska can seek funding for community projects in arts, culture, civic improvement, education, environment, health, and human services. Siouxland Community Foundation’s Wakefield Community Foundation Grant offers up to US $1,000 with a required 50% match for initiatives that enhance quality of life and address local needs.

Nonprofit organizations in Nebraska working to build women’s and children’s self-sufficiency can seek funding for programs such as adult education, employment assistance, homelessness services, child welfare, and humanitarian aid. The Father's Table Foundation provides highly selective grants, up to US $750,000, for projects that expand proven services and create sustainable impact, including in emergent circumstances.

Nebraska nonprofit and community organizations developing AmeriCorps programs can receive up to US $75,000 for planning and capacity-building costs only. ServeNebraska supports evidence-based service initiatives across areas like education, health, housing, and economic development, providing training and technical assistance to help grantees design, manage, and later implement a compliant AmeriCorps program.

Nebraska nonprofits and eligible educational or religious organizations can request monetary or in-kind support for community programs, including small initiatives. Nebraska organizations working on education, social equity, food security, climate action, housing, workforce development, mental health, or related human services can access funding through The Caesars Foundation, provided funded programs operate within the U.S. and retain financial control of the grant.

Nonprofit, faith-based, Tribal, and community partnerships in Nebraska can apply for AmeriCorps funding to engage members in evidence-based service projects addressing educational, economic, environmental, health, veterans, and disaster response needs. Focused on poverty alleviation, equity, and community improvement, AmeriCorps supports programs that strengthen local communities through national service and volunteering.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions in Nebraska conducting biomedical research can receive up to US $375,000 to support small-scale projects and student research experiences. The National Institutes of Health funds institutions that award baccalaureate science degrees and have limited prior NIH support; eligible Nebraska colleges and universities may benefit from this opportunity.

Recent graduates in conservation-related fields in Nebraska can apply for The Nature Conservancy’s Claire M. Hubbard Young Leaders in Conservation Fellowship, offering up to US $27,300 for a one-year, hands-on training experience. Fellows live and work at the Platte River Prairies Preserve, gaining skills in ecological land management, fire ecology, and habitat restoration.

Early-career research scientists at academic or research institutions in low- or middle-income countries, including Nebraska-affiliated LMIC partners, can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award to support mentored health research careers. Grants from the National Institutes of Health help fund approximately US $140,000 for three to five years of protected research time leading toward independent funding.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charities and government entities in Nebraska’s Greater Omaha area that benefit Iowa residents can apply for Iowa West Foundation’s program, operating, capital, or launch grants. Funding supports community projects advancing belonging, financial stability, opportunity, and well-being, including efforts in education, housing, workforce readiness, mental health, arts, and local economic development.

About CommonSpirit

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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.

Early-career research scientists at academic or research institutions in eligible low- and middle-income countries can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award to support mentored health-related research and career development. This National Institutes of Health program may benefit Nebraska-based nonprofits collaborating with LMIC investigators on global health priorities. Approximately US $140,000 is available.

Education-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Nebraska and other U.S. regions can seek John Ben Snow Memorial Trust grants to expand scholarships, tutoring, literacy, journalism, arts education, youth programs, or community initiatives. Awards of US $5,000 - US $20,000 typically support new or enhanced programs, short-term bridge funding, matching opportunities, or final capital campaign dollars.

Nebraska nonprofits and institutions hosting neurology or related medical congresses, events, or initiatives can seek sponsorship that provides Biogen Foundation with reasonable marketing or recognition benefits. Funding supports disease-area events such as Alzheimer’s, ALS, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, stroke, and other neurological conditions, with decisions based on alignment, event details, and location.

The Clif Family Foundation Open Call invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for grants supporting general operating costs or specific projects. With a focus on regenerative farming, food worker health, climate justice, and food access, the foundation aims to empower grassroots initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with applications reviewed twice a year. Deadlines are March 1 and August 1, and announcements occur about four months post-deadline.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

The Data Center Community Grants Program (US-CBF) supports nonprofit organizations that enhance their local communities surrounding Google data centers. Funding is available for projects focused on education, economic opportunity, bridging the digital divide, sustainability, health, and arts. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $50,000, prioritizing measurable community benefits and innovative approaches. Eligible projects must demonstrate long-term impact, while operational expenses are generally ineligible. This initiative aims to empower underserved groups and foster collaboration within local ecosystems.

The FNBO Impact Grant Program aims to empower nonprofit organizations that eliminate barriers to economic and social opportunities. Focusing on Affordable Housing, Workforce Development, and Financial Literacy, this initiative supports projects that enhance community well-being and promote personal economic self-sufficiency. While the 2025 grant cycle is closed, interested applicants should check back in early 2026 for updates on future funding opportunities.

The Waste Reduction and Recycling Incentive Grants Fund supports innovative waste management projects in Nebraska. By funding recycling systems, market development for recyclable materials, and composting initiatives, it aims to enhance sustainability and reduce waste. This program also oversees the Scrap Tire Management Grant, promoting environmentally sound practices. With a focus on integrated solutions, these grants empower communities to implement effective waste reduction strategies and foster a circular economy.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund

The NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund supports the launch or expansion of clinical programs and new service areas that increase access to care for underserved patients. This funding is designed to help NAFC members introduce new services or grow existing programs that address unmet community health needs and improve access to comprehensive, patient-centered care.