Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

The Cultural Capital Fellowship offers $10,000 grants to Native artists and culture bearers dedicated to community outreach and cultural preservation. This fellowship strengthens the Collective Spirit of First Peoples artists, emphasizing the importance of passing on ancestral knowledge and maintaining cultural sharing. Eligible applicants must have strong ties to their Native community and be committed to sustaining cultural practices. The fellowship aims to support those who promote generosity, wisdom, and integrity within their communities.

The Jennifer Easton Community Spirit Award honors Native artists who have dedicated their lives to sharing cultural knowledge and ancestral gifts. With a grant of $50,000, this award supports artists deeply rooted in their communities, fostering healing and resilience. Nominations are open for practicing artists across various mediums, including music, dance, and storytelling, ensuring the continuation of Indigenous traditions and the enrichment of Native culture.

The Native Performing Arts Fellowship (NPA) supports Native artists in enhancing their craft through grants of up to $10,000. This fellowship prioritizes personal artistic development over project-based funding, encouraging applicants to focus on growth through classes, workshops, and professional mentorship. Eligible candidates must be U.S.-based, 18 years or older, and enrolled members of recognized tribes. The program emphasizes Indigenous values in performing arts, fostering resilience and cultural expression.

The Society of Toxicology offers the Supplemental Training for Education Program (STEP), which provides up to $1,000 to support graduate students in toxicology seeking additional training to address skill gaps. Eligible applicants must be PhD students who have completed coursework and passed comprehensive exams. The funding covers workshops or courses not available through their graduate program, enhancing career prospects in toxicology.

The Staff Sgt. Carl Enis Military Scholarship honors the legacy of Staff Sgt. Carl Enis, a dedicated Air Force Pararescueman who tragically lost his life in service. Established by the Elk County Community Foundation, this scholarship supports high school seniors and adult learners from McKean, Cameron, Potter, or Elk County. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic merit, community involvement, and enrollment in a post-secondary program, with an annual award amount of approximately $500.

The Maternal and Child Health Encounters Networks (MCHEK) program, funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration, aims to enhance maternal and infant health by preventing exposure to harmful substances throughout pregnancy. Through a national expert call center, it provides evidence-based guidance on medications, nutrition, and environmental factors. By translating complex scientific data into accessible information, MCHEK empowers families and healthcare providers to make informed choices that improve health outcomes.

The NIH StrokeNet initiative invites applications for clinical trials and biomarker studies aimed at stroke treatment, recovery, and prevention. This funding opportunity encourages collaborative projects that validate promising interventions and scientific aims within the NIH StrokeNet framework. Key deadlines for submissions span from February 2025 to November 2026, with support provided by the National Coordinating Center and Regional Coordinating Centers to ensure efficient study implementation and participant recruitment.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Ruth Westerman Oren Nursing Scholarship

• Recent graduate of an Ottawa County high school or technical school or Ottawa County adult resident making a career transition to nursing
• Pursuing a nursing degree to become a Registered Nurse (RN) through an accredited nursing program within the United States
• Priority given to past recipients who have a strong performance record in their nursing studies

George Sherman Scholarship

Applicants must be pursuing a two- or four- year degree or advanced education and/or training in the skilled trades and show evidence of involvement in co or extra-curricular activities or volunteerism related to the applicant’s field of interest. Transcripts and scores are requested, but not necessarily a determining factor.

This grant aims to enhance applied regulatory science research for the evaluation and treatment of cardiotoxicity associated with oncology therapeutics. The initiative will facilitate collaboration with the FDA to develop effective methodologies and solutions, ensuring that research outcomes are directly relevant to regulatory decision-making. Key activities include regular communication with funded investigators and a focus on improving detection and management of cardiotoxicity, ultimately leading to impactful publications and presentations.

Kari Hamaker Performing Arts Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to a student in Marshall, Olivet or the surrounding area, during school or upon graduation, seeking a degree in Performing Arts or for additional enrichment opportunities in performing arts. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. GPA is not a qualifying factor; however, transcripts and test scores are required. Students who receive this scholarship are encouraged to apply for further support in subsequent years.

The Austin Education Foundation Scholarship, established by a committee from the Austin School District, aims to support local high school seniors in their pursuit of post-secondary education. With an estimated total award of $3,500 over four years, the scholarship is designed to honor the legacy of Austin High School Alumni. To be eligible, applicants must belong to the Austin School District and submit an activity resume, facilitating a pathway for deserving students to achieve their educational dreams.

The Cooley, Dearing And Rinker Foundation Scholarship, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, supports graduates from public schools in Winchester, Frederick, Rappahannock, and Warren Counties. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and show commitment to their college education. Award amounts typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, helping students pursue their academic goals. The foundation has a strong history of addressing community needs since its establishment in 2000.

The Zachary Adam Giordan-Lascari Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, supports fathers pursuing physical therapy education at accredited institutes. This scholarship aims to assist students from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. With a focus on community impact, this fund exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering a thriving future for recipients in Southern New Mexico.

Marshall Bowling Council Smith/Dannenberg Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to an active, certified member of the Marshall Youth Bowling Association/United States Bowling Council (USBC) who plans to further his/her education in a college or vocational school. Applicants must be an amateur as defined by the USBC. Service in USBC state, local and league offices will be considered. Civic, curricular and co-curricular activities; grade point and hobbies outside of bowling may be determining factors. DO NOT submit a Marshall Community Foundation Scholarship Application.

LaVern Smith Scholarship

Scholarships awarded to members of a 4-H or a FFA chapter within Calhoun County. Applicants must be seniors in high school or enrolled in a technical school or college, and under the age of 19 at the time the application is submitted. GPA is not a determining factor.

Charlottesville Promise Scholarship

The Charlottesville Promise Scholarship is a multi-year award that can fund up to $13,000 of the cost of a two or four year undergraduate degree, or a vocational training/professional certificate program at an accredited technical school. Charlottesville Scholarship Program typically awards nine new scholarships each year to seniors attending Charlottesville High School, one potential new scholarship each year to a graduating high school senior residing in Charlottesville City and attending an alternative or non-traditional learning centers listed here, and one potential new scholarship each year to an eligible adult student currently attending or planning to enroll in a post-secondary undergraduate program or vocational training/professional certification program at an accredited technical school.   

The Updated National Dislocated Worker Grant Program Guidance informs workforce development systems about the policies and priorities for using National Dislocated Worker Grant funds. This guidance outlines grant types, funding approaches, performance periods, cost limitations, and application requirements. It emphasizes the critical role of DWGs in supporting economic recovery, community resilience, and equitable workforce development, ensuring that these funds effectively contribute to creating good jobs and enhancing local economies.

Health Services Research in Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (HSR-ADRD) Program

The HSR-ADRD program seeks to support research that strengthens dementia detection, diagnosis, and post-diagnostic care pathways along the care continuum. Projects may address a range of health services research questions, including, but not limited to, studies examining barriers and solutions to timely access, quality, and care coordination. By supporting rigorous and innovative research, this program aims to generate actionable evidence to improve person-centered, coordinated, and equitable brain health and dementia care.

Program overview

The program welcomes proposals that utilize rigorous methodologies to advance understanding and improvement of cognitive impairment, including MCI and Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) detection, diagnosis, and post-diagnostic care.

This award is structured as an individual research grant, with funding administered through the recipient’s institution. Proposals should address one or more Areas of Focus. Areas of Focus represent high-priority research topics for which this program is actively seeking proposals and include: 

• The Value of Early Detection and Diagnosis: Studies should investigate outcomes associated with early detection and diagnosis on at least two levels of the dementia care ecosystem (i.e., individual/families, providers/clinicians, health systems/payers, and policy/society).
• Care Pathways for Individuals with MCI or Dementia: Studies should consider comorbidities and investigate how people are being screened and diagnosed in different settings, and the post-diagnosis pathways for care and treatment, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions or combinations thereof.

Funding overview

• Each HSR-ADRD award is limited to a total of $250,000 U.S. (direct and indirect costs) for a duration of up to two years (awards should be a minimum one year).
• Indirect costs are capped at 10 percent of total direct costs and are inclusive of indirect costs for the implementing institution as well as for any subcontracts.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Liesel M. Hiemenz Scholarship

This permanent scholarship was established in memory of Ms. Hiemenz, a nurse from Germany. Preference is given to applicants interested in public health.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

George Byelich Student Athletic Scholarship Fund

Participation in and enjoyment of sports and athletics were a big part of George's life. Growing up in Lansing, Michigan as the fifth child in a family of eight of immigrant parents, George somehow managed to learn how to play golf at an early age. Golf and the friendships he made in the sport were a very important and enjoyable part of his life. George also ran on the Track and Cross country teams at Lansing Eastern High School and ran Cross Country at Michigan State University. The Lakeview School District, its students and staff were also a very important part of George's life. By living across the street from Lakeview High School, having two sons graduate from there and by participating in many school-related activities over the course of thirty years, George made many cherished friends and acquaintances with the students, staff and coaches. Through his efforts over twenty years as a volunteer timer and referee for LHS, Kellogg Community College and Battle Creek Swim Club swim meets, George got to know several generations of swimmers and their families. George also volunteered as a timer for Cross Country meets, and for a number of years was a volunteer assistant tot he Boys' and Girls' Golf Teams. In these and other sports, George especially enjoyed seeing the development and progression of the athletes, both in sports and as individuals. As sports and athletics were so important to his development and enjoyment, George was always glad to see a child's interest in any type of sport of physical activity and did his best to encourage it. Accordingly, his family is very appreciative and proud that this Fund has been established in recognition of George, and may in some way assist in the growth and development of students through their participation in sports or athletics. 

The McKnight Clinical Translational Research Scholarship supports young investigators focusing on cognitive aging and age-related memory loss. Funded by the McKnight Brain Research Foundation, this scholarship offers $65,000 annually for two years, plus an education stipend. Eligible applicants should have completed their PhD or residency within the last five years and conduct their research in accredited U.S. institutions. The award emphasizes rigorous training and aims to foster careers in human cognitive aging research.

The Ben J. Lipps Research Fellowship Program supports nephrology fellows in conducting original research on kidney biology and disease. Each fellow receives $50,000 annually for up to two years, with a limit of two applications per sponsor per cycle. Candidates must hold an MD, DO, PhD, or equivalent and commit to 75% research time. The program encourages applications from underrepresented minorities in medicine, fostering diversity in nephrology research.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Bi-Annual Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations in their efforts to enhance the lives of individuals impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Each grant, valued at $6,000, is awarded twice a year, focusing on innovative programs and services. AFA emphasizes partnership and collaboration, enabling grantees to manage their own policies and programs while adhering to specific funding guidelines. This initiative underscores AFA's commitment to compassionate care and ethical standards.

The RFA: Biology to Prevention Award (CRUK) aims to foster innovative translational research that enhances understanding of cancer biology, ultimately leading to effective prevention strategies. Joint applications from UK and US research teams are encouraged, with a focus on equal partnerships and complementary expertise. The funding provides up to £600,000 for UK costs and up to $946,000 for US costs, supporting projects of 1 to 5 years duration that address critical research questions in cancer prevention.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Kellogg Company-Tony McGee Scholarship Fund

The Kellogg Company - Tony McGee Scholarship was specifically established for the purpose of providing scholarships to minority graduates/graduating seniors from the greater Battle Creek area seeking educational opportunities beyond high school. Scholarship awards will support associate and bachelor’s degree programs, as well as certificate and apprenticeship programs.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Suicide Prevention and Awareness of Calhoun County Scholarship Fund

The Suicide Prevention and Awareness of Calhoun County Scholarship was established for the purpose of providing scholarships to adult graduates of high schools located within the Calhoun Intermediate School District, pursuing post-secondary educational opportunities leading to careers that support mental health.