Cooper Foundation Grant

The Cooper Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Nebraska, especially in Lincoln and Lancaster County. It prioritizes innovative ideas and sustainable organizations across various sectors, including arts, education, and human services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) entities and public institutions. Funding is available for program support and capacity building, while the foundation does not support individuals, businesses, or operational deficits. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the foundation before applying.

NOTE:
Contact us with information about your proposal. Be prepared to discuss your organization, the purpose for which you want to apply, the difference it would make, your budget and funding plans, and how you will measure success.If your proposal is a good fit for our funding, we will send information about our online application system and specific deadlines. We have quarterly grant cycles, with decisions in March, June, September, and December. We recommend reaching out 1-2 cycles in advance as our waiting list fills up quickly.
The Foundation makes grants to non-profit organizations located in and working in Nebraska, primarily Lincoln and Lancaster County.
Program Areas
We fund organizations working in the arts, civic and community engagement, education, the environment, human services, and the humanities.

Eligibility

We accept applications only from non-profit organizations that have contacted us, been asked to apply, are located in Nebraska and classified as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) and public charities under section 509(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code. We also fund units of government, public universities, and K-12 schools.We accept applications for program and general operating support. We also give consideration to requests for technology, staff positions, advocacy, and capacity building.

Ineligibility

We do not fund: individuals; businesses; building construction or renovation; health organizations or issues; churches; religious organizations or issues; travel; memberships; endowments; non-501(c)(3) organizations; 509(a)(3) supporting organizations; fiscal agents; private foundations; operational deficits; general fund drives/annual appeals; event sponsorships.