Advancing Nebraska Communities
The Advancing Nebraska Communities (ANC) grant helps communities across Nebraska develop or enhance spaces that serve as gathering places, strengthen connection and expand access to vital services. By supporting projects that improve local infrastructure — from libraries and community centers to multipurpose hubs — the Foundation aims to foster collaboration, inclusivity and long-term community growth.
First-time applicants will need to create an organization profile before applying.
Funding priorities.
The ANC grant supports projects that improve Nebraska’s social infrastructure and strengthen community connection. Funding will prioritize projects that align with the following themes:
Shared spaces such as libraries, parks, trails and community centers — that encourage engagement and make towns more vibrant places to live, work and gather.
Innovative ideas and forward-thinking approaches that engage multiple generations, introduce new ideas or bring fresh energy into existing community spaces.
Community-led efforts, including partnerships among public, private and nonprofit sectors, with priority given to initiatives that demonstrate collaboration, local investment and community-driven vision.
Sustainable, ready-to-launch projects that have secured at least 60% of their total funding and show clear plans for long-term maintenance, sustainability and measurable community benefit.
All ANC grant applications must be submitted through the Foundation’s online grant portal. Grant applications will be considered for general operations or program support to meet community needs across Nebraska. Please reach out to our staff via the contact page with any questions.
Application process:
- Review eligibility, restrictions and funding priorities.
- Complete the online application through the Foundation’s grant portal.
- Include details on project scope, community engagement and secured funding.
Grant amounts:
Applicants may request up to $250,000.
Deadlines:
Applications for this program can be submitted at any time.
Restrictions:
The following will not be considered for funding:
- Educational institutions or schools
- Museums and performing arts organizations
- Religious organizations or churches
- Golf courses
- Fundraising events
- Support to individuals
For information on requirements, notification processes and more, see our how we fund page.
Eligibility
To be considered for funding, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- The project must be owned or managed by a municipality or nonprofit organization.
- Projects should be independent of school systems, colleges or universities.
- Support may be requested for capital funding of new projects or improvements to existing spaces.
Priority will be given to projects that:
- Have met a minimum of 60% of total funding needed
- Demonstrate strong local support from citizens and businesses
- Involve public/private partnerships
- Show innovation or creative benefit to the community
- Engage the next generation of community members
Advancing Nebraska Communities
Supporting innovative ideas with lasting impact.
In 2024, the Foundation launched a pilot phase of the program, awarding 11 grants statewide. Each of the past ANC grant recipients demonstrate how shared spaces can foster accessibility, connection and belonging.
Past winner spotlights.
2025 | Hamilton County Inclusive Playground | Aurora, NE
Supported creation of the county’s first accessible outdoor play space with a Community Heroes theme, featuring structures honoring firefighters, police, teachers, doctors and more to engage everyone in the joy of play.
2024 | Rock County Community Center | Basset, NE
Helped to fund the construction of a multi-use facility in Rock County that is utilized for events including weddings, community meetings, business expos and more.
Apply for the ANC grant.
Have questions about eligibility, application steps or reporting? Reach out to us through our contact page and a member of our team will be in touch.
FAQs
Who is eligible to apply for the Advancing Nebraska Communities grant?
Eligible applicants include municipalities and nonprofit organizations within Nebraska that own or manage community-serving facilities.
What types of projects are eligible?
The ANC Grant funds capital projects that create or enhance public gathering spaces, such as parks, trails, libraries, or community centers.
Can I apply for other grants from other family foundations in the same year?
The same project or request will not be considered by another Scott family foundation within the same calendar year. However, organizations are welcome to apply for different projects or funding needs.
When will I know if my project will be funded?
Funding announcements are made throughout the year. Foundation staff will advise on this process.
