Advancing Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant Program

The Fund for Omaha is administered by the Omaha Community Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to strengthening communities through strategic grantmaking and partnerships. The foundation focuses on improving quality of life by supporting nonprofit organizations that deliver essential services, promote economic stability, and foster overall community well-being. Through this fund, the foundation aims to address gaps in funding for organizations that are deeply embedded in and responsive to the needs of their local communities within the Omaha metropolitan area. The primary purpose of the Fund for Omaha is to provide general operating support to nonprofit organizations that are working to broaden access to resources and opportunities. The fund emphasizes strengthening grassroots nonprofit capacity, improving community systems and services, increasing connections among individuals and organizations, and expanding access to essential resources. By focusing on these goals, the program seeks to enhance the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of nonprofit organizations serving the region. Funding is available for a range of priority areas that contribute to community development and well-being. These include economic opportunity initiatives such as workforce development and education pathways, housing and neighborhood improvements including affordable housing and community spaces, maternal health and birth outcomes, mental and behavioral health services, and arts and culture programs that promote community identity and economic vitality. Within these areas, the fund places particular emphasis on addressing childcare as a critical factor in workforce participation and economic stability. The grant provides general operating support, allowing organizations flexibility in how funds are used to meet their mission-driven objectives. Eligibility for the Fund for Omaha is limited to organizations that are recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and that provide services within the Omaha metropolitan area, specifically Douglas, Sarpy, and Pottawattamie counties. Organizations may also apply through a fiscal sponsor that meets these requirements and can receive funds on their behalf. Additionally, eligible organizations must have an annual operating budget of five million dollars or less. Organizations that received funding in the previous year remain eligible to apply again in the current cycle, reinforcing the fund’s commitment to ongoing community partnerships. The application process is conducted through the Omaha Community Foundation’s online grant portal. Applicants must complete and submit their applications during the annual application window, which opens on July 1 and closes on August 1. While specific application components are not detailed, applicants are expected to provide information demonstrating community impact, cultural understanding, engagement with community members, and organizational capacity to expand reach and effectiveness. Funding decisions are guided by these evaluation criteria, ensuring that awarded organizations align closely with the fund’s mission and priorities. Awards are announced via email by October 31 following the application period. Each applicant may request up to twenty five thousand dollars in funding, and the grants are intended to support general operations rather than specific projects. The program operates on an annual cycle, with consistent application and award timelines each year. For additional support or inquiries, applicants may contact the Senior Program Manager at the Omaha Community Foundation via phone or email. This structured yet flexible grant opportunity provides critical funding to local nonprofits working to strengthen the Omaha community and improve quality of life for its residents.

Focus on demonstrating measurable community impact and strong community engagement aligned with priority areas