Great Idea Grants

Great Idea grants respond to unexpected needs or special funding opportunities where a small investment could make a big difference to nonprofits and their constituents in Grand Island/Hall County. Grants will range from $50 - $500, and will not exceed $500.

Great Idea grants are not meant to cover a deficit in fund raising or take the place of proper planning. These funds are meant to respond to opportunities that arise and require quick action. Programs in any of the following fields of interest are encouraged to apply:

• Arts and Culture: Visual art, literature, dance, theater and music can bind people through shared experience and understanding. Stimulate thought, communication and creativity through programs in the arts and humanities that enhance or develop the common aesthetic spirit through education, creation or performance.

• Children and Youth: Children are the most valuable resource we have. Help them grow - physically, socially, and intellectually - into healthy, mature, and productive adults through programs that ensure all children are supported, nurtured, and protected in their homes and communities. Support programs that focus on childhood development and reduce at-risk behavior through prevention programs.

• Civic Enrichment: A community must consistently nurture its development to sustain or increase its vitality. Address the challenges that face our community through programs that promote economic development, improve community services, and encourage residents to get involved in community improvement projects by providing the training, tools and resources they need to revitalize the community.

• Community Health: Individuals and families in our community must have the resources they need to remain self-sufficient and provide safe, secure homes. Encourage everyone to make healthy lifestyle choices for themselves or those entrusted to their care through programs that promote healthy behaviors and provide access to the resources they need to build stronger, safer homes, schools and neighborhoods.

• Education: Today, more than ever education touches the lives of people of all ages. Focus on supplementing the traditional educational system to ensure children have access to the tools they need to build a foundation for lifelong learning. Help people learn to deal with life's challenges, gain skills to better take care of their families, and ensure access to academic and technological opportunities, thus allowing individuals to develop their personal, social and professional skills.

Great Idea Grant Application Procedures

The Foundation will review requests quarterly, with deadlines for grant submission on March 1, June 1, September 1 and December 1. When the 1st falls on a Saturday or Sunday, grant applications will be due the Monday immediately following. Agencies are encouraged to contact the Grand Island Community Foundation prior to submitting a proposal to discuss the appropriateness of the request. Grant requests must be received by 4:00 p.m. on the date of the application deadline. (Applications postmarked on this date, but received on a later date will not be accepted.) Organizations wishing to apply must submit the following information to the Grand Island Community Foundation:

• Application Cover Sheet
• One-page proposal outlining
  • Community need to be addressed
  • Activities to be accomplished
  • Target audience
  • Proposed outcomes or results
• IRS determination (501©(3)) letter