Nonprofit organizations located in and serving the state of Nebraska are eligible to apply for Cooper Foundation grants. We have four grant cycles per year.
We do not accept unsolicited applications, but welcome inquiries to determine if the organization and programming are a good fit for Cooper Foundation funding. Interested organizations should be familiar with our funding priorities and be prepared to discuss their programs, operations, budget, and governance.
We fund: Nebraska nonprofit organizations 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 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.
We fund organizations working in the arts, civic and community engagement, education, the environment, human services, and the humanities.
We accept applications for program and general operating support. We also give consideration to requests for technology, staff positions, advocacy, and capacity building.
The highest priority is for organizations based in and serving Lincoln and Lancaster County. Requests from outside this area must serve a regional or statewide area and meet the foundation’s funding priorities.
Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review the Eligibility & Funding Priorities, the Application Process, Grant Management and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). Once you are familiar with our process, the next step is to contact us at 402-476-7571 or info@cooperfoundation.org.
