Best Transportation Grants in Nebraska

Public transit agencies, local governments, and private nonprofits in Nebraska can seek funding for rural public transportation operations, vehicles, and facilities. With a mission to promote safe, affordable, and efficient transit, Nebraska Department of Transportation provides multi-year support that may help sustain or launch rural transportation services and improve community mobility.

Nebraska public agencies and other eligible transportation entities can seek funding for major surface transportation infrastructure projects that have significant local or regional impact. Nebraska transportation organizations can access funding through US Department of Transportation’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) program, with awards up to US $25,000,000 for multi-modal, multi-jurisdictional projects.

Emergency and medical workers in Nebraska needing help affording behavioral health prescriptions, counseling, psychotherapy, or transportation may be eligible for up to US $2,000 in copay assistance. Focused on behavioral health access, HealthWell Foundation supports underinsured workers receiving treatment in the U.S., which can include transportation needs related to care.

The Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.

Individuals in the U.S. receiving cancer-related behavioral health treatment can receive up to US $2,000 to offset prescription copays, counseling, psychotherapy, and transportation costs. Healthwell Foundation provides this support to underinsured patients, which may benefit Nebraska residents who need help affording travel to behavioral health appointments related to cancer care.

Tyson Foods invites sponsorship proposals that reflect its core values and contribute to community welfare, particularly in Springdale, Arkansas, and Dakota Dunes, South Dakota. Proposals should demonstrate clear community benefits, visibility of the event, and outline how funds will be utilized effectively. Organizations are encouraged to apply if they align with Tyson's mission of integrity and stewardship, ensuring that funding can support primary objectives while considering tax-deductible options.

Elderly professional blues musicians in Nebraska facing emergency medical, transportation, or basic living expenses can receive small grants for critical needs such as doctor visits, dialysis or chemo trips, home care, utilities, or burial costs. Pinetop Perkins Foundation provides US $500 payments directly to creditors, which may include transportation providers or related services.

Nebraska transportation and history-focused 501(c)(3) organizations, nonprofit academic institutions, and government entities can access funding through the William G Pomeroy Foundation to install historic transportation markers. Eligible projects commemorate pre-1945 canals, bridges, tunnels, railroads, or aircraft, with publicly accessible existing structures and marker text supported by primary source documentation.

Grants from Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund help Nebraska transportation and mobility-focused nonprofits with projects that improve public transit, reduce congestion and traffic-related accidents, and expand access to transportation. U.S.-based organizations may also seek support for environmental conservation, community safety, education access, and healthier communities. Awards range from US $5,000 - US $10,000.

Students majoring in transportation technology and enrolling in the following semester in Nebraska can access funding for higher education costs through the Eugene Frank Sommerlatte Endowment Fund. Awards of US $3,000 from Austin Community Foundation support individuals with financial need, strong academic achievement, and demonstrated leadership and community involvement, including those preparing for careers in public transportation and mass transit.

Research institutions and policy organizations in Nebraska working on public transportation and infrastructure policy can seek up to US $200,000 from Arnold Ventures for transportation research, data, and policy development. With a mission to improve U.S. infrastructure systems, Arnold Ventures provides support for studies and reforms that enhance project delivery, access, and accountability nationwide.

Transportation and public safety agencies in Nebraska can seek funding for planning, demonstration, or implementation projects that improve roadway safety for all users. Oregon Department of Forestry connects applicants to the U.S. DOT Safe Streets and Roads for All program, offering US $100,000 - US $5,000,000 for action plans and safety initiatives.

Local governments and other eligible entities seeking to improve road safety and transportation infrastructure in Nebraska and nationwide can apply for the Safe Streets and Roads for All Implementation Grants, awarding US $2,500,000 - US $25,000,000. Oregon Department of Forestry administers this U.S. Department of Transportation program supporting projects for public transit, pedestrian, bicycle, and automotive safety.

Public agencies and transportation entities in Nebraska seeking to deploy advanced transportation technologies can apply for up to US $12,000,000 to improve safety, mobility, and system performance. DOT Federal Highway Administration’s ATTAIN program supports projects that enhance public transit, congestion management, intermodal connectivity, and overall infrastructure efficiency and return on investment.

The FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity offers up to $10 million for innovative projects aimed at enhancing bus safety and accessibility. Administered by the Federal Transit Administration, this competitive grant invites applications for the development of concepts that improve safety for operators and vulnerable road users, ensuring that public transportation is safer and more accessible for all passengers.

The PROTECT Competitive Grant Program aims to enhance the resilience of surface transportation systems, including highways and public transit, through innovative projects. With up to $787 million available from FYs 2024-2026, the program focuses on protecting transportation assets and communities, ensuring they can withstand challenges and recover quickly. This initiative also emphasizes the importance of coastal and natural infrastructure in safeguarding transportation networks. More details can be found in the full NOFO on Grants.gov.

AARP Foundation

AARP Foundation strengthens financial resilience for and with older adults by empowering individuals and improving systems.

AARP empowers people to choose how they live as they age. There are 125 million Americans who are 50 or older, and people want their money, health and happiness to last as long as they do. We are a wise friend and fierce defender, focusing on the priorities of older Americans.

Purpose Prize® from AARP

Honoring extraordinary people 50-plus who put their purpose into action.

Purpose is a powerful force for good. The Purpose Prize from AARP honors extraordinary older Americans who put their purpose into action to support AARP’s mission of empowering people to choose how they live as they age. Winners receive $75,000 and a year of organizational support from AARP to grow the impact of their nonprofits. Examples of organizational support include data and evaluation, governance and succession planning, fundraising strategy, and prospectus development.

The Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Mini-Grant supports events that honor civil rights activist Ruby Bridges by encouraging students to walk to school and engage in discussions about activism, anti-racism, and anti-bullying. Grants of $500 or $1000 are available based on the number of students reached. This initiative aims to inspire positive changes within communities and promote meaningful dialogue among young people about social justice issues.

The Banfield Foundation's Disaster Relief Grants support nonprofit animal welfare organizations and government agencies affected by natural disasters. Since 2015, the foundation has provided resources to help pets in crisis, including medical supplies, food, and temporary shelter. Grants are also available for organizations assisting those impacted by disasters. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and directly help animals and their owners in the U.S., ensuring that pets receive the care they need during emergencies.

The PEDIGREE Foundation offers Program Development Grants aimed at enhancing dog adoption rates by supporting shelters and rescues across the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives such as transport, matching, and foster programs. Funding is available to 501(c)(3) designated organizations committed to improving the quality of care for dogs and ultimately increasing their chances of adoption, ensuring that every dog finds a loving home.

The Petco Foundation offers grants aimed at animal welfare organizations, focusing on enhancing adoption and medical care initiatives. With a commitment to lifesaving programs, they invest in organizations that demonstrate accountability and significant impact in their communities. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, municipal agencies, and SPCA/humane societies that provide sheltering services. The grant cycle allows for one proposal submission per year, ensuring support for those dedicated to improving the welfare of companion animals.

The Jason Debus Heigl Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to animal welfare in the U.S. It aims to maximize the benefit to animals through education, spay and neuter initiatives, and positive advocacy. The foundation focuses on impactful programs, encouraging grants that align with their mission to end animal overpopulation and cruelty. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while individuals and political lobbying efforts are excluded from funding.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services offers financial support for various community projects through its Company Giving program. Focused on four key areas—Health Care, Veterans' Support, Education, and Crisis Management—this initiative aims to enhance the well-being of local communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and civic groups, while organizations that primarily benefit their members or have high management overhead may be excluded. The program underscores J.B. Hunt's commitment to corporate social responsibility.

The STEM Innovation Grant by Colocation America supports innovative STEM programs for K-12 students, offering up to $7,500 in funding. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and schools with STEM-specific programming. The grant aims to inspire youth through unique learning approaches and real-world applications of STEM knowledge. Interested parties must attend a mandatory informational call, with funding available for tools, curriculum development, and professional training.

PetSmart Charities offers Natural Disaster Response Grants to support organizations addressing the urgent needs of pets affected by major disasters. Grant funds can be utilized for shelter supplies, veterinary care, structural repairs, and supplemental staff expenses within 30 to 45 days post-disaster. In special cases, funding may extend up to 60 days. Eligible applicants include authorized disaster responders and nonprofit organizations directly impacted by the disaster, ensuring timely assistance to affected animals and their caretakers.