The foundation supports efforts primarily in the Omaha metro area and across the state of Nebraska. We also make grants in that portion of Western Iowa within 100 miles of Omaha, as well as other geographies of interest to Mr. Kiewit.
We award grants to nonprofit organizations with a valid 501(c)(3) status and to units of government. We do not provide funding to individuals, for-profit businesses, other private foundations, individual K-12 schools, or churches.
We give primary consideration to proposals that are most closely aligned to the foundation’s Impact Areas. We invest in proven and promising programs, systemic solutions, capital projects, general operations, planning and capacity building, and policy development. The Foundation does not provide funding to support debt retirement, operational deficits, endowments, general fund drives/annual appeals, event sponsorship, or routine public works projects.
– Non-profit organizations may apply for a maximum of 50% of the total project cost
– Units of government (tax-supported entities) may apply for a maximum of 25% of the total project cost
It is to an applicant’s advantage to have developed at least a portion of the matching funds needed before submitting a request.
Most grants are approved or declined per our stated deadlines, but occasionally action is deferred in cases where the Trustees would like additional information prior to making a decision. In such cases, foundation staff will contact the applicant to develop the additional information or arrange a meeting if needed. Previously awarded grants are listed on our website, but should not be viewed as established precedent for future decisions.
There are many factors that determine the size and duration of a grant. Considerations include, but are not limited to, the amount of the request, the nature and scope of the project, the foundation’s history with the organization, the level of community and organizational support, and past foundation grants for similar projects.
Each grant contains specific disbursement terms and conditions that are detailed in documents the grantee must sign to activate the grant. Payment of grant funds for programs or capital construction is usually conditioned upon the grantee developing the balance of funds needed to complete the project. When capital construction grants are approved, foundation funds are paid only after the construction has been completed and the facility is available for its intended use.
Grant documents specify the reports the grantee is required to submit to the foundation and when the reports are due. Requirements are unique to each grant, but typically cover fundraising, project status, outcomes and impact.