Best Cycling Grants in Nebraska

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, government units, public universities, and K–12 schools in Nebraska can seek funding for program or general operating support, plus technology, staff, advocacy, and capacity building. Cooper Foundation supports arts, education, environment, human services, and community engagement efforts; biking and cycling initiatives that fit these priorities may be eligible.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

Arts and culture nonprofits in Nebraska can seek major program, capital, or limited general support for impactful cultural initiatives serving U.S. communities. The William Randolph Hearst Foundation backs established 501(c)(3) institutions such as museums, theaters, symphonies, ballets, arts schools, and arts education or STEAM programs, with awards typically more than US $100,000.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Nebraska biking and cycling nonprofits can access funding through the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust for charitable, educational, scientific, or medical programs that serve U.S. communities. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, tax-exempt under federal (and where applicable, California) law, with all grant funds used within the U.S.

Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation

For more than 80 years, the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation has worked to ensure that Nebraska’s history isn’t just preserved—it’s actively shared, explored, and reimagined. Through private donations, the Foundation supports projects across the state that restore historic places, expand access to educational resources, and bring new life to local stories. Signature programs and experiences, like WanderNebraska and Walk to the Rock, invite people to connect with the state’s past in fresh, meaningful ways—whether by visiting a small-town museum, discovering a hidden landmark, or exploring a piece of forgotten heritage.

Grant Focus

The focus for the fall cycle is Education and Access and the main areas for grant distribution will be:

• School visits, field trips and transportation
• Youth and family engagement
• Festival or milestone event support
• Professional development and conference registrations

RoamNebraska (formerly the NSHSF Statewide Grants Program) was developed in July 2020, with the guidance of Michael J. Smith, former CEO of the Nebraska State Historical Society, to address a critical funding need for local historical and educational organizations across Nebraska.

Through this program, grants support museums, historical societies, libraries, and community partners in delivering core education, preservation, and interpretive programs that bring community history to life.

The Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation is committed to advancing efforts that build respect, dignity, fairness, equality, and self-esteem. We value diverse life experiences and are devoted to fostering inclusive and equitable environments where all Nebraskans can see their stories reflected and honored.

The Artistic Innovations Grant Program, supported by the Mid-America Arts Alliance, provides up to $15,000 to artists and arts organizations in the M-AAA six-state region. This initiative fosters creativity by funding the development and premiere of original works, encouraging innovative projects that engage local audiences. Eligible applicants include individual artists and nonprofit organizations, promoting a vibrant arts community through financial support for artistic exploration.

Mission

The Sherwood Foundation® promotes equity through social justice initiatives enhancing the quality of life in Nebraska.

Vision

We believe social justice is the proactive reinforcement of policies, practices, attitudes, and actions that all produce equitable power, access, opportunities, treatment, impacts, and outcomes for all.

Who We Fund

The Sherwood Foundation limits grants to organizations that are tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3), government entities, schools, or churches that are serving Nebraska. These organizations must be in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service. 

What We Fund

The Sherwood Foundation limits grants to nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations that predominately benefit those that are serving Nebraska and must address one of our categories:

Urban Community Partnerships

Our work in Nebraska’s urban communities focuses on family stability and child wellbeing with an overarching emphasis on community context. Using a two-generation approach, we are interested in the relationship between direct service provision and the greater systems that impact a community. Applicants are wise to cite specific research that influences a service model or approach to solving a community challenge.

Omaha Public Schools

Guidelines: 

• OPS employees must obtain approval from the District before submitting an application. 
• Applications lacking such documentation will not receive consideration.
• For assistance, please contact the OPS Grant Coordinator at 531.299.9653.

Greater Nebraska Initiatives

Through these grants, The Sherwood Foundation promotes equity and inclusion as pathways for creating the good life for all in Nebraska.  Core areas of work include child welfare, immigrant inclusion, housing, advocacy & civic engagement, leadership, and community infrastructure. Requests from communities outside of the Omaha and Lincoln metro areas are considered during standard grant cycles.

Early Childhood Education

The Sherwood Foundation supports early childhood education on a regional and national basis through The Buffett Early Childhood Fund.

What the Sherwood Foundation Values

 The Sherwood Foundation has strongly held values regarding civil liberties, equality and fairness with a particular focus on women and people oppressed because of their race, sexual orientation, and/or religion or lack-thereof.

• We respect that not all nonprofit organizations share the same values as the Foundation.
• We don’t ask nonprofits to change values for us or for funding.
• We do ask that nonprofits leaders respect our values and save everyone time and energy by not seeking funding if our organizational values aren’t aligned.

Equal rights.

We believe all humans are created equal. We work to eliminate government and social barriers to equality.

Access to civic life.

We are proud to live in a democracy and believe that the rights provided to individuals in the United States should be protected and the best way to protect those rights is to ensure equal access to the voting polls. 

Reproductive justice.

We support a woman’s right to self-determination about reproductive health choices. We expect our grantees serving women and girls to ensure access and education to all health care options, including abortion. 

Opportunity to thrive.

We believe a zip code should not determine the outcome of a life. We see how government institutions and laws have historically and do presently oppress and suppress opportunity, particularly for people of color but also other minority populations and women. We work with our community to undo systemic oppression and build systems that meet the needs of citizens and do not further oppress. We seek economic justice for our neighbors and the opportunity that lies therein.

Access to services.

We expect grantees to ensure that clients have access to services and that service providers work to remove barriers rather than create barriers to care and compassion. A service provider’s religious belief system should not be imposed upon those who seek their services, whether through proselytization, coercion, guilt, or an unspoken quid-pro-quo expectation to participate in faith-based classes or religious services.

Operating Grants

The Sherwood Foundation® believes that providing operating support can make all the difference to nonprofit organizations by providing flexible funding to cover the ongoing costs of day-to-day operations (administrative/overhead). This type of support can free nonprofits to become more strategic about how they address community issues, craft internal solutions to enhance effectiveness, and build organizational infrastructure.

Eligible rural Nebraska public transportation providers, including private nonprofits and local governments, can seek funding for operating assistance, vehicles, and transit facility projects. Focused on rural transit access, Nebraska Department of Transportation support may benefit organizations whose cycling or biking programs are integrated into broader public transportation services.

Nonprofit organizations serving agriculture education, hunger and nutrition, or rural disaster relief in Nebraska and nearby states can apply for Working Here Fund grants up to US $25,000. Focused on strengthening rural communities, Farm Credit Services of America prioritizes 501(c)(3) applicants; cycling or biking programs may be eligible when they advance these agricultural or food security goals.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Nebraska located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office can seek funding for basic needs, at-risk youth education, workforce readiness, and domestic violence safety programs. Grants from The Tjx Foundation help community-based groups whose missions support vulnerable families and children; cycling organizations with such services may be eligible.

Human services 501(c)(3) organizations in Lancaster and Platte Counties in Nebraska can apply for grants supporting programs and projects that strengthen their mission and community, especially for vulnerable populations and older adults. Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation provides Nebraska nonprofits with project support; cycling or biking programs that meet human service needs may be eligible.

PCUSA congregations and PCUSA-related organizations in Nebraska can seek funding for new or existing outreach projects that expand their ministry and mission in local communities. With a mission to strengthen church-based outreach, Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation provides tax-exempt applicants with one-year project support, which may include cycling-related community activities or programs.

Nebraska tourism and visitor promotion organizations in Nebraska can access funding through the Nebraska Tourism Commission to market destinations, events, and attractions, with awards up to US $25,000. Eligible projects include photography, websites, media advertising, travel guide ads, and social media campaigns that attract more nonlocal visitors, which may benefit communities promoting cycling-related tourism experiences.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Nebraska Blue Foundation

For more than 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has been a champion for the health and well-being of our members and the communities we serve. Founded in 2024, the Nebraska Blue Foundation now allows us to concentrate our efforts into pockets of our community that need to be uplifted the most.

In 2025, the Nebraska Blue Foundation launched two grant opportunities through its inaugural grant cycles. The foundation awarded 42 organizations with a total of $500,000 in grant funding to further their goals and missions, supporting organizations across Nebraska that:

• Provide quality preventive care
• Serve the aging population 
• Further economic vitality  
• Support the development of third places

Increasing Access to Preventive Healthcare Grant

Proactive measures to prevent illness, detect health issues early and reduce the risk of chronic disease.

The Nebraska Blue Foundation is particularly interested in supporting innovation and pilot projects. As a new foundation, our approach is to be catalytic with our grants – primarily investing in new ideas or programs that could meet a specific need with a one-time investment.

Nebraska Blue Foundation

For more than 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has been a champion for the health and well-being of our members and the communities we serve. Founded in 2024, the Nebraska Blue Foundation now allows us to concentrate our efforts into pockets of our community that need to be uplifted the most.

The foundation has four priority areas:

• Serving Seniors – Addressing the needs of Nebraska’s aging population
• Increasing Access to Preventive Healthcare – Proactive measures to prevent illness, detect health issues early and reduce the risk of chronic disease
• Economic Vitality – Investing in job creation and civic programs to promote a vibrant economy
• Third Places – Building and strengthening the social fabric of communities across the state

The Nebraska Blue Foundation is particularly interested in supporting innovation and pilot projects. As a new foundation, our approach is to be catalytic with our grants – primarily investing in new ideas or programs that could meet a specific need with a one-time investment.

Serving Seniors

The spring cycle focuses on Serving Seniors and Preventive Healthcare. 

This funding addresses the needs of Nebraska’s aging population.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations improving senior well-being or community health in Nebraska can access funding through Immanuel Community Vision Foundation, with awards up to US $75,000. Programs serving adults 65+, advancing community health, or supporting ELCA congregations may be competitive, especially those showing strong leadership, clear plans, and diversified project funding.

Nebraska nonprofits planning capital projects for education, human services, or social justice can apply for The Sherwood Foundation’s invitation-only Capital Grants, which fund land, construction, renovation, or major equipment purchases. Organizations submit an inquiry form first; those strongly aligned with priorities may be invited to a conversation and then a formal application.

Nebraska nonprofit organizations running specific programs in public education, human services, or social justice can seek program-restricted funding that supports children and families. With a mission to improve community welfare, The Sherwood Foundation provides Nebraska groups with invitation-only support; cycling-related initiatives that fit these priorities may be invited to apply after submitting an inquiry form.

Rural Nebraska municipalities and first responder departments, including rural fire districts and similar nonprofit or government entities, can apply for Walter Scott Family Foundation’s Jack Lewis Safety Fund grants of up to US $50,000 for safety equipment, training, and facility improvements. Departments serving small communities that support cycling events or trail systems may be eligible if requests enhance overall community and public safety.

Nebraska tourism and visitor promotion organizations can apply for Nebraska Tourism Commission’s Expedited Off Cycle Grant to fund creative marketing tools that attract more visitors. Funding supports promotion tied to international volleyball events in a metropolitan-class city and tourism exhibits and trails near the Missouri River, which may benefit communities with cycling-related tourism assets.

Nebraska Blue Foundation

Empower. Support. Uplift.

Nebraskans serving Nebraskans – It’s who we are and what we have done for more than 85 years at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE).

Our customers and employees have lived, worked and played here for generations, and we’re proud to be part of the Cornhusker State’s history. As a local business, we are also invested in the state’s next chapter because your communities are our communities. We share in the successes and challenges facing our state and are dedicated to helping Nebraskans thrive by serving as a champion for health and well-being.  

The Nebraska Blue Foundation, founded in 2024, powers BCBSNE’s philanthropic initiatives. Through the foundation, we support programs improving the health and well-being of Nebraskans and the economic vitality of our state.

The foundation builds on BCBSNE’s rich legacy of uplifting all who call Nebraska home.

Fall Grant Cycle

Overview

For more than 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has been a champion for the health and well-being of our members and the communities we serve. Founded in 2024, the Nebraska Blue Foundation now allows us to concentrate our efforts into pockets of our community that need to be uplifted the most.

The foundation has four priority areas:

The Nebraska Blue Foundation is particularly interested in supporting innovation and pilot projects. As a new foundation, our approach is to be catalytic with our grants – primarily investing in new ideas or programs that could meet a specific need with a one-time investment.

Nebraska Blue Foundation

For more than 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has been a champion for the health and well-being of our members and the communities we serve. Founded in 2024, the Nebraska Blue Foundation now allows us to concentrate our efforts into pockets of our community that need to be uplifted the most.

In 2025, the Nebraska Blue Foundation launched two grant opportunities through its inaugural grant cycles. The foundation awarded 42 organizations with a total of $500,000 in grant funding to further their goals and missions, supporting organizations across Nebraska that:

• Provide quality preventive care
• Serve the aging population 
• Further economic vitality  
• Support the development of third places

Third Places Grant

Building and strengthening the social fabric of communities across the state. For this program, we will fund:

• Parks, libraries, recreational centers and other outdoor public space
• Community gathering spaces
• Programs or projects that breathe new life into underused public spaces

The Nebraska Blue Foundation is particularly interested in supporting innovation and pilot projects. As a new foundation, our approach is to be catalytic with our grants – primarily investing in new ideas or programs that could meet a specific need with a one-time investment.

Nonprofit agencies working on poverty, racial equity, and community services in the Omaha metro area can access capacity-building support through the Weitz Family Foundation, with awards starting at More than US $21,000. Grants from Weitz Family Foundation help Nebraska organizations strengthen infrastructure for housing, arts, education, health, and related social change work; existing grantees are prioritized.