Applying for a Grant

Applications are currently being accepted for Competitive Grants and Quick Response Grants. The Lincoln Community Foundation awards competitive grants to organizations that contribute to the quality of life and welfare of the people of Lincoln and Lancaster County. Grants are awarded in areas that include, but are not limited to: Arts & Culture, Human Services, Children & Families, Older Adults, Animal Welfare, Environment, Youth Development and Education.

Grant requests are only accepted from qualified 501(c)(3) organizations and others recognized by the IRS as qualified recipients of tax-deductible gifts.  The Foundation does not consider grants for religious purposes, political activities, endowments, or programs that create an indefinite, long-term commitment by the Foundation. Grants to organizations that discriminate based on race, gender, sexual preference, age, disability, creed or ethnic group are not considered.

The Board of Directors use these additional criteria when reviewing grant requests
  • Located or doing business in Lincoln/Lancaster County
  • Evidence of sound financial management
  • Evidence of strong leadership and an engaged governing board
  • Accessibility to the underserved and underrepresented populations
  • Impact across a broad segment of the community
  • Plans for sustainability

Application Process – Competitive Grants

  1. Contact the Vice President for Community Outreach at 402-474-2345 to discuss the grant request.
  2. Submit a Letter of Inquiry if invited to do so by Foundation staff.
  3. Submit the Grant Application Form if invited to do so by Foundation staff.
  4. Grant recipients are required to submit an Evaluation Form.

Application Timetable

Letter of Inquiry Due

Application Due

Application Reviewed

November 1, 2011

December 1, 2011

February 22, 2012

Give to Lincoln Day – May 17, 2012

May 2, 2012

June 1, 2012

August 18, 2012

November 1, 2012

December 1, 2012

February 20, 2013

Quick Response Grants

Quick Response Grants are those where the traditional application timeline would result in a loss of an opportunity, or where other funding sources are not available. These requests are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Quick Response Grants are $1,000 or less.  Please call the Vice President for Community Outreach at 402-474-2345 with inquiries about Quick Response Grants.

Applying for a Grant Downloads

Letter of Inquiry
Application Form
Evaluation Form
Quick Response Grant Application

Competitive Grant Awards

 February 2012 Grant Awards
 November 2011 Grant Awards
 August 2011 Grant Awards
 May 2011 Grant Awards