Grants available for rural Nebraska programs
The long-standing tradition of rural Nebraskans helping one another is the foundation of the Rural Community Impact Grants, soon to be available to nonprofit organizations serving Hall, Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick Counties.
While resources and services are often concentrated in larger communities such as Grand Island, the Heartland United Way recognizes that hardship does not stop at city limits. In fact, rural families frequently face greater barriers to essential services, fewer support systems, and higher rates of poverty. Research from the USDA’s Economic Research Service confirms that poverty rates in rural areas exceed those in metropolitan communities.
To help address these challenges, the Heartland United Way is announcing the availability of at least $30,000 in grant funding for local nonprofit organizations in 2026. These funds are intended to strengthen vital services, expand access to support, and ensure that rural Nebraskans are not left behind.
Preference for funding will be given to organizations that provide programs or services that align with one of the following areas:
• Healthy Communities: Improving health and well-being for all
• Youth Opportunity: Helping young people realize their full potential
• Financial Security: Helping to build financial stability and strength
• Community Resiliency: Addressing urgent needs today for a better tomorrow
WHO CAN APPLY: Grantees must be qualified as public charities under IRS section 501(c)(3). Applications must be submitted through the grant application form available on the Heartland United Way website. Only one application will be accepted per organization. Applications will not be accepted for capital expenditures, buildings, fire departments, religious activities, conference or camp fees, scholarships or youth sports.
The application will be open from January 26, through February 27, 2026. The maximum grant awarded will be $1,500, which will be awarded in March. Applications can be found at www.heartlandunitedway.org/community-impact-grants beginning January 26.
All grant recipients will be required to complete a year-end report outlining program's results.
If you have questions, contact the Heartland United Way office at 308-382-2675 or Rylee Waters at [email protected].
Heartland United Way's mission is to improve lives and create possibilities for people living in Hall, Hamilton, Howard, and Merrick Counties. To learn more, visit heartlandunitedway.org.