Grantmaking and eligibility.
How does my organization apply for a grant?
For most grants, the Foundation accepts requests by invitation only. If invited, organizations will be provided a link begin the process. We also offer several open opportunities for eligible organizations, including the Omaha Award, the Jack Lewis Safety Fund and the Advancing Nebraska Communities grant.
What geographic areas does the Foundation serve?
Most of our grantmaking is focused is on Nebraska-based organizations — particularly those serving communities in the Omaha metro area and across the state through initiatives that strengthen education, leadership and community life.
What types of projects or organizations are not eligible for funding?
Specific requirements and restrictions may differ amongst grant opportunities. However, in general, the Foundation does not fund the following:
- Support to individuals
- Fundraising events, annual campaigns or endowment funds
- Programs that are the fundamental responsibility of government
- Social or fraternal organizations
- Elementary or secondary schools
- Churches or religious organizations (except faith-based organizations providing social services)
- Sponsorship of athletic teams
- Organizations whose core mission is advocacy or lobbying
- Organizations whose work conflicts with the principles of free enterprise that inspired the Foundation’s creation
How do I know if my organization is eligible to apply?
Eligible organizations must:
- Have tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or be a qualifying government entity under Section 170(c).
- Be in good standing with the IRS.
- Primarily serve the Omaha metropolitan area or the counties of Harrison, Mills and Pottawattamie in Iowa.
What information is required on a grant application?
If invited to apply, please review our funding page for what to expect during the application process. Typical information includes your organization’s mission, project summary, budget and financial documents, though additional information may be necessary.
Are there deadlines for applying for a grant?
Application timelines vary by program. However, applications — especially for capital projects — should be submitted 12 months before funds are needed. For other grant programs, refer to individual guidelines on the Omaha Award, Jack Lewis Safety Fund and Advancing Nebraska Communities pages.
Does the Foundation accept unsolicited grant requests?
No. With the exception of our open funding opportunities, the Foundation conducts its grantmaking by invitation only. We partner directly with organizations whose missions align with our strategic priorities. If you believe your work aligns with our focus areas, please review our funding page to learn more.
Application processes and communication.
How does the online application process work?
All grant applications must be submitted through the Foundation’s online grant portal. Emailed applications are not accepted. Here’s how to begin your application:
- Create an account: Click “Create an Account Now” in the lower right corner of the portal page.
- Confirm your access: You’ll receive two emails — one confirming your registration and another with a link to log in and begin your application (check your spam folder if you don’t see them).
- Complete your application: Log in to your dashboard, click “In Progress Requests,” and select “Edit” to enter your project details. You can save and return to your application anytime before submitting.
- Upload required materials: Be sure to attach all supporting documentation, such as budgets, financial documents or other necessary information.
- Submit your application: When complete, click “Submit” in the lower right corner. You’ll see your request move from In Progress to Submitted.
What should I do if I don’t receive a confirmation email?
If your confirmation email does not arrive, please check your spam or junk folders. Then, reach out using our contact form. Please do not resubmit your application unless instructed by Foundation staff.
Will I receive updates during the application process?
Yes. The Foundation communicates via email throughout the review process. If additional information is needed, a program officer may contact you directly. Please ensure you provide a valid email address during your application and check it regularly.
When will I receive a response to my application?
Funding decisions are typically shared following Board of Directors meetings. While timelines may vary by program, we make every effort to notify applicants as soon as possible after review.
Can I apply for multiple grants within the same year?
Organizations may only submit one request per calendar year across our foundations. However, separate requests for different projects may be considered by other family foundations.
How do I know if my online application was received?
Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive an automated confirmation email at the address provided in your application. If you don’t receive a confirmation, check your spam or junk folder.
General questions.
What are the Foundation’s areas of focus?
Our investments center on three focus areas:
- Education: expanding opportunity and achievement.
- Leadership: developing strong civic and community leaders.
- Community: strengthening Nebraska’s places and people.
How can I contact the Foundation for media or press inquiries?
For all media or press-related questions, please use our contact page. Please include your name, organization, deadline and a brief description of your request, and a member of our communications team will be in touch.
How can I learn more about the Foundation’s work or stay connected?
For information on our areas of focus or how we fund grants, please see our education, leadership or community pages or review our funding philosophy.
Does the Foundation have an annual report or list of grants awarded?
We periodically update information about past recipients on our ongoing awards pages, which includes the Omaha Award, the Jack Lewis Safety Fund and the Advancing Nebraska Communities grant. We also make our Form 990 filings and related disclosures available on our disclosures page.
What is the relationship between the Walter Scott Family Foundation and the other family foundations?
Each of the family foundations — which includes the Scott, Parker, Singer and Dixon families — are part of our philanthropic network. Each utilizes a shared set of staff and are organized as a public charity and supporting organization of the Omaha Community Foundation. Operationally, our foundations are independent entities, each with separate boards, focuses and missions. The Walter Scott Family Foundation helps coordinate larger philanthropic efforts amongst the foundations, providing support and resources to ensure the success of projects.
I’m interested in a career with the Foundation. Where can I apply?
We’re thrilled you’d like to join our team. You can explore our current openings via our jobs portal.
Where does the Foundation’s funding come from?
The Foundation’s grantmaking is supported by endowment funds established by Walter Scott and his family. These funds allow us to provide stable, ongoing support for organizations and projects that advance education, leadership and community well-being.
Where our family’s philanthropy began.
Walter and Suzanne Scott’s belief in community shaped the foundation of our family’s giving. Their early commitment to education, opportunity and civic leadership continues to guide every generation that follows. Our history page charts the people and places we’ve invested in.