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Best Nebraska Grants for Nonprofits

Find nonprofit grants in Nebraska, including opportunities in Omaha, Lincoln, and Bellevue. Updated listings for 501(c)(3) organizations statewide.

9,000+

Available grants

$2.68B

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

9,000+ grants
$2.68B total
$5K median

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9,390 Results based on applied filters

RRF: Research Grants

Retirement Research Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The RRF Foundation for Aging offers research grants aimed at improving the well-being of older adults and their caregivers. Established in 1950, the foundation has awarded over $239 million to support innovative projects nationwide. Grants are targeted at nonprofit organizations proposing research with immediate implications for adults aged 60 and older, with a focus on practical knowledge and dissemination to impact policy and practice.
Aging / Gerontology Senior Services Caregiver Support / Respite Care

Peter G. Peterson Foundation Grant

Peter G. Peterson Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Peter G. Peterson Foundation Grant aims to address America's long-term fiscal challenges by promoting awareness and encouraging action. The Foundation supports innovative projects that align with its mission, particularly those by U.S.-based 501(c)(3) non-profits capable of national impact. Eligible applicants should have a minimum two-year existence and an annual budget of at least $1 million. The Foundation avoids funding organizations outside the U.S. or those involved in political activities.
Economics

Private Higher Education Grant

Arthur Vining Davis Foundations
Private
United States
US $25,000 - US $300,000
The Private Higher Education Grant, offered by the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, supports colleges and universities dedicated to undergraduate education and the liberal arts. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $300,000, encouraging projects that enhance student outcomes and faculty leadership. Proposals promoting advocacy for liberal arts, civil discourse, and purpose-oriented education are especially welcomed, fostering an environment of respectful dialogue and a strong sense of purpose among students.
Education - Higher Education

Interfaith Leadership & Religious Literacy Grant

Arthur Vining Davis Foundations
Private
United States
US $100,000 - US $300,000
The Interfaith Leadership & Religious Literacy Grant aims to enhance religious literacy by fostering multi-faith dialogues and collaborations. It targets 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. that educate leaders across various sectors, promoting mutual respect for diverse beliefs. Funding ranges from $100,000 to $300,000, supporting initiatives like digital media projects and campus collaborations that bridge differences. The grant encourages innovative proposals while excluding scholarships and individual grants.
Interfaith Cooperation / Religious Freedom

Peterson Foundation Grant

Hal And Charlie Peterson Foundation And Fd Mgmt Trust
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Peterson Foundation Grant, established in 1944 by Hal and Charlie Peterson, supports charitable organizations within Kerr, Bandera, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kimble, and Real Counties. The Foundation primarily funds health care and education initiatives, and applications are accepted year-round from §501(c)(3) organizations in the service area. Notably, grants are not available for religious purposes, political actions, or individuals, ensuring a focus on community enrichment.
Health Care Access & Delivery Education

Defending Basic Freedoms Grant

Herb Block Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Herb Block Foundation's Defending Basic Freedoms Grant aims to uphold the essential freedoms outlined in the Bill of Rights. This initiative focuses on combating discrimination and prejudice while enhancing the lives of the underprivileged. It provides funding for charitable and educational programs that align with these values. Open to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations nationwide, the grant encourages accountability among government agencies and supports relevant contemporary societal issues.
Government Accountability & Transparency Civil Rights

Encouraging Citizen Involvement Grant

Herb Block Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Herb Block Foundation offers the Encouraging Citizen Involvement Grant to promote civic engagement and voter participation in a nonpartisan manner. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 are available for nonprofit organizations classified as 501(c)(3). This initiative aims to strengthen democracy by fostering responsible citizen involvement without supporting partisan activities or lobbying efforts.
Voting & Elections Civic Engagement & Education

Kazanjian Economics Foundation Grant

Calvin K. Kazanjian Economics Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The Kazanjian Economics Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing economic literacy across various educational settings. With a history of over 70 years, the foundation supports projects that deliver economic education to youth, particularly in non-school environments. It emphasizes teacher training and initiatives for underserved communities, while also promoting behavioral economics and entrepreneurship. The foundation welcomes letters of interest year-round, with recommended deadlines of March 10th and September 10th for grant cycles.
Economics Financial Literacy

Ben May Charitable Trust Grant

Ben May Charitable Trust
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Ben May Charitable Trust, established in 1971 by Mr. Ben May, supports charitable, scientific, and educational initiatives. Notably, it has funded the Ben May Laboratory for Cancer Research at the University of Chicago, contributing to significant medical advancements. The Trust accepts funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. Mr. May's legacy includes support for renowned researchers and institutions, ensuring ongoing contributions to the field of medical science and education.
Health & Medicine Science Education +1 more

Cyrus M. Quigley Foundation Grant

Cyrus M. Quigley Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $7,500
The Cyrus M. Quigley Foundation Grant supports tax-exempt organizations that empower young people through initiatives focusing on courage, self-reliance, and service. Since its inception in 1993, the foundation has awarded over $300,000 in grants, with amounts ranging from $1,000 to $7,500. The foundation emphasizes physical challenges and community service to help develop essential life skills. Grant proposals are accepted annually until the third Friday in April, with decisions communicated by May 31.
Wellness & Healthy Living Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Civic Leadership Development +3 more

Kathleen Patton Westby Foundation Grant

Kathleen Patton Westby Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Kathleen Patton Westby Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life by supporting the arts, arts education, and culture. Applicants must submit a letter of inquiry as the first step, as proposals are accepted only upon request. The foundation primarily funds tax-exempt organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and does not support deficit financing, individual grants, or research projects unless integral to broader programs.
Art Education Art & Culture

Goldman Fund: Education & Literacy

Lisa & Douglas Goldman Fund
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Lisa and Douglas Goldman Fund, established in 1992, focuses on enhancing education and literacy in the San Francisco community. It supports organizations classified as public charities with 501(c)(3) status, prioritizing projects that strengthen public education and promote civic education for grades K-12. Grant requests are by invitation only and are considered quarterly. The fund seeks to make informed, flexible grants that align with its mission to support impactful charitable projects.
Education - K through 12 Civic Engagement & Education Teacher Development & Training

James McKeen Cattell Sabbatical Grant

James Mckeen Cattell Fund
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $40,000
The James McKeen Cattell Sabbatical Grant, provided by the James McKeen Cattell Fund, offers supplementary financial support for psychologists' sabbaticals. This grant is designed for faculty members at U.S. and Canadian institutions who meet specific eligibility criteria, including tenure status and recent leave history. The maximum award is capped at $40,000 or half the recipient's salary, ensuring that recipients can extend their research time effectively.
Psychology

Covey Foundation: Bookmobile Grant

Lois Lenski Covey Foundation
Private
United States
US $500 - US $3,000
The Lois Lenski Covey Foundation offers the Bookmobile Grant to promote literacy among underserved children. Grants range from $500 to $3,000 specifically for purchasing books for youth from preschool to grade 8. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public libraries that operate lending bookmobiles. The Foundation aims to ensure access to quality literature, fostering a love of reading in disadvantaged communities while addressing their limited book budgets.
Education - Elementary School Education - Middle School Education - Preschool / Early Learning +1 more

Lingnan W.T. Chan Fellowship Program

Lingnan Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Lingnan W.T. Chan Fellowship Program provides transformative educational experiences for Chinese students in the U.S. through service learning and intercultural exchange. Inspired by Professor Wing-Tsit Chan, this program emphasizes a commitment to service, personal growth, and leadership development. Fellows engage with non-profit organizations, gaining practical experience while living with American families and participating in seminars and reflection meetings, fostering intercultural understanding and professional skills.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges

Academic Enrichment Grants

McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $20,000
The McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation offers Academic Enrichment Grants to support innovative educational programs that enhance student learning for low-income children. These grants, up to $10,000 per year for two years, aim to foster creativity and critical thinking in K-12 education. Applications are accepted from educators at nonprofit organizations who engage with students directly. The initiative emphasizes collaboration and seeks projects that enrich academic experiences and inspire student curiosity.
Academic Success & Enrichment After School / Summer Educational Programs Curriculum Development

Teacher Development Grants

McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $30,000
The McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation offers Teacher Development Grants to support K-12 educators in enhancing their classroom instruction. With grants up to $10,000 per year, individuals or small teams can implement innovative teaching strategies that foster critical inquiry and improve student engagement. This initiative aims to boost educational experiences for diverse learners, encouraging teachers to document and share their methods, ultimately promoting a culture of continuous professional growth.
Teacher Development & Training Education - K through 12

Student Teaching Scholarships/Mentoring Grants

McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation
Private
United States
US $6,000

About Us

Our mission is to serve as a catalyst in maximizing the skills and creativity of educators at the K-12 levels and in cultivating pioneering approaches to teaching that result in dynamic student learning.

The McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation sponsors proposals that enhance student learning and educational quality, paying particular attention to those that best serve the at-risk and under-funded, including:

  • Curriculum that excites and challenges
  • Inquiry projects that promote reflection and growth
  • After-school programs that enrich and inspire

The Foundation partners with individuals to expand educational opportunities for America’s youth that inspire students by nurturing their curiosity about the world and their place in it. Funding includes scholarships that provide far more than just tuition and books; grants that benefit the lives of more than just those who receive them; and results that reach far beyond the classroom in which the projects are introduced.

Student Teaching Scholarships/Mentoring

Designed to instill a lifelong, passionate commitment to education and learning at the highest level, McCarthey Dressman scholarships offer financial and mentoring support to educators who will be student teaching in their final year of a qualified teacher education program. Foundation mentors offer one-on-one guidance and attention to nurture the next generation of teachers. Scholarship recipients acquire and strengthen exemplary teaching practices that promote learning by their own students.

The Foundation awards one-year scholarships in the amount of $6,000 each to college students enrolled in teacher education programs at New Mexico State University; the University of California, Santa Cruz; The University of Texas at Austin; and Stephen F. Austin State University.

Consider applying for this scholarship if... 

  • you are interested in maximizing your student teaching experience
  • you believe that working with a mentor would add to your training experience
  • you can provide documentation of financial need for the year in which you will be student teaching
Education - K through 12

United States-Japan Foundation Grant Program

United States-Japan Foundation
Private
Japan, United States
Unspecified amount
The Pre-College Education Grant from the United States-Japan Foundation aims to foster mutual understanding between young Americans and Japanese through innovative educational projects. The Foundation supports K-12 initiatives that enhance teacher training, develop curriculum materials, and promote Japanese language instruction. With a focus on engaging underserved regions and utilizing technology, this grant encourages collaborative efforts to build networks among educators and students, ensuring a rich exchange of cultural knowledge and experiences.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Teacher Development & Training

Americana Foundation: American Heritage Grant

Americana Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Americana Foundation's American Heritage Grant aims to support projects that broaden inclusivity in early American art and narratives, especially for underrepresented groups. Recognizing the historical significance of Americana, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote understanding and appreciation of America's diverse heritage. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and municipal entities. The foundation encourages innovative projects that reinterpret early American material culture, fostering a deeper connection to the past for future generations.
Art Conservation Historic Preservation

Studebaker National Foundation Scholarship

Studebaker National Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $2,000
The Studebaker National Foundation Scholarship supports students pursuing careers in automotive studies. With over $20,000 awarded for technical and trade education in auto restoration, this scholarship encourages applicants to maintain the legacy of Studebaker. Eligible candidates include those studying automotive fields or those engaged with Studebaker as hobbyists. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required, and preference is given to members of Studebaker clubs or their relatives. Reapplications from previous recipients are allowed.
Vehicle Restoration Vocational & Trade Education

Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation Grant

Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000 - US $20,000
The Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation provides financial support to non-profit organizations that promote American Indian self-sufficiency and culture. Grants are awarded quarterly, and applications must be submitted at least 30 days before meeting dates. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant, focusing on entrepreneurship, education, and cultural preservation. The Foundation, established in 1997, has funded various projects, ensuring that grant funds are utilized effectively for their intended purposes.
Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights Native American Culture & Heritage Native American Services

RFC Granting Programs

Rosenberg Fund for Children
Private
United States
Up to US $7,500
The Rosenberg Fund for Children supports the educational and emotional needs of children and youth up to age 24 who are linked to targeted progressive activists. Grants can cover tuition, counseling, and other essential services to help beneficiaries thrive despite the challenges faced by their families. The fund emphasizes direct support to programs and providers, ensuring that assistance reaches those most affected by activism-related adversities.
Social Justice / Human Rights

Gilchrist Foundation: Capital Campaign Grant

Gilchrist Foundation
Private
Antelope County, Nebraska, Audubon County, Iowa +60 more
Up to US $200,000
The Gilchrist Foundation offers capital campaign grants to pre-selected non-profit organizations, particularly those enhancing arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. While the Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications, eligible organizations can request an invitation to apply. Grants typically support significant renovation or expansion projects, aiming to foster long-term viability and special initiatives. Preference is given to projects in the Sioux City area, with a focus on stimulating matching funds.
Environmental Conservation Radio Television +5 more

Fred J. Brunner Foundation Grant

Fred J. Brunner Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Fred J. Brunner Foundation Grant supports organizations that aid vulnerable populations, particularly the young and elderly, through education, shelter, and hunger initiatives. Established in 1956 by Fred J., the foundation distributes grants annually in the fall, focusing primarily on recipients in the greater Chicago area, although exceptions are made. The foundation operates without regard to race, creed, or ethnicity, allowing all recipients to reapply each year.
Education Youth Services Senior Services +2 more

Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize

Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Research Alliance (PSSCRA)
Association/Society
United States
US $750,000
The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize is awarded to early-career scientists in the New York area who are pursuing innovative cancer research. Established by the Pershing Square Foundation in partnership with The Sohn Conference Foundation, the prize offers $250,000 annually for up to three years. With a commitment of over $49 million since 2013, the Alliance aims to accelerate cancer cures by fostering collaborations between academia and industry, providing a unique network and access to vital resources for groundbreaking research.
Cancer / Oncology

DAV Charitable Service Trust Grants

Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The DAV Charitable Service Trust provides essential support to empower veterans in leading dignified lives. This private funder focuses on rehabilitation programs, mobility enhancements for veterans with disabilities, and assistance for aging and homeless veterans. Additionally, it addresses the needs of veterans affected by recent conflicts and supports their caregivers and families. Grants are available to eligible organizations recognized by the IRS as tax-exempt, ensuring that the trust's mission effectively reaches those who have served.
Military & Veterans Services

Nebraska Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Nebraska grants for nonprofits provide funding to support agriculture, education, rural development, and public health initiatives. The following grants empower organizations to address community needs, promote sustainability, and foster growth across Nebraska.


Search Instrumentl's Nebraska Grants Database


Find 123 funding opportunities for nonprofits in Nebraska, with $49M available. Instrumentl helps organizations access funding with deadline tracking, refined search tools, and insights to advance statewide development and well-being.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Nebraska Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Uncommon — grants in this category are less prevalent than in others.

100+ Nebraska grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

33 Nebraska grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

27 Nebraska grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

29 Nebraska grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

100+ Nebraska grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Human & Social Services

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Nebraska grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
35.4%
Q2
20.0%
Q3
24.2%
Q4
20.4%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Nebraska Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $12,500.

$500 $500 Min.
$12,500 $12.5 K Median
$670,647 $670.6 K Average
$40,331,313 $40.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nebraska nonprofits have access to a wide range of funding opportunities. With over 100+ unique grants available, organizations can tap into a total of $48,957,212 in funding. If your nonprofit is seeking grant funding, the median grant award in Nebraska is $12,500. For nonprofits in need of larger financial assistance, more than 33 grants exceed $25,000. Most funding opportunities for Nebraska support program and project-based initiatives. However, 29 grants specifically help cover general operating expenses.

Nebraska nonprofits receive funding from a variety of sources, including government agencies, private foundations, and associations. Here’s a list of sources offering the most grant funding:

  • Private funders: Private foundations offer substantial funding for nonprofits in Nebraska. Currently, over 55 private foundation grants are available, with a strong emphasis on youth services and education.
  • State and Local Governments: Nebraska’s state and local governments provide funding for key initiatives, particularly in arts and culture.
  • Corporate Funders: Corporate funders contribute significantly to Nebraska’s nonprofit sector, with a primary focus on community services, economic development, and affordable housing.

Whether you go after government grants or foundation grants depends on your grant readiness. Keep in mind that government grants often have large awards but equally large compliance requirements.

Timing is key when applying for grants in Nebraska. Based on the latest data, the best time to apply for grants is in Q1, with 35.4% of grant deadlines falling during this quarter. Q3 is the second-best time to apply, accounting for 24.2% of grant deadlines. Q4 and Q2 are the slowest periods, with only 20.4% and 20.0% of grant deadlines, respectively. To improve your chances of success, keep this data in mind when planning your grants strategy.

Grant funding in Nebraska has seen slow growth over the last few years. Based on the most recent IRS funding reports, total grant funding reached $1.9 billion in 2021 and increased slightly to $2 billion in 2022, representing a 5.7% increase. The key focus areas for grants in Nebraska included single-organization support, private grantmaking foundations, and professional societies/associations. Moreover, the counties receiving the most funding were Douglas County, Lancaster County, and Washington County.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for grants for nonprofits in Nebraska by offering an intuitive platform that makes finding and managing grants easy. Instrumentl's curated grant database simplifies the search process. Additionally, the platform allows users to track multiple grants at once and send email alerts when deadlines are approaching. Instrumentl is the one-stop shop to help nonprofits prioritize funding opportunities and streamline grant management. See how Instrumentl works.

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