The Hamilton Community Foundation (HCF) offers grant opportunities to support charitable needs within Hamilton County, Nebraska. The foundation was established to enhance the quality of life for local residents by funding projects that address unmet or emerging community needs. The grants are awarded on a quarterly basis and are designed to support non-profit organizations and community groups working to create a positive impact within the county. Applications are reviewed based on a set of general guidelines to ensure equitable distribution of funds, as the demand for funding typically exceeds the available resources.

The HCF Quarterly Grant is open to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations and community groups engaged in public benefit projects. Applicants must demonstrate a clear need for funding and illustrate how their project will directly benefit Hamilton County residents. Eligible organizations must have operated successfully for at least one year and demonstrate an ability to secure financial support from the public. Preference is given to projects for which funding is limited or unavailable from other sources.

Grants cannot be used for expenses incurred before grant approval, operating expenses, events, tax-supported school systems or municipalities, or organizations with outstanding prior grant funds. Additionally, HCF does not fund more than 50% of a single project, including multiple grant applications for the same initiative. Grant recipients are required to complete their projects within 12 months, and any organization that has received funding must submit reports and finalize prior grant obligations before applying for a new grant.

The application process is fully online, and applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the foundation before submitting their request. Only one grant may be awarded per organization per calendar year. The foundation emphasizes responsible budgeting, advising applicants to request only the necessary funds to complete their project.

Quarterly grant cycles open on specific dates: December 1 (deadline January 8), February 25 (deadline April 1), May 25 (deadline July 1), and August 25 (deadline October 1). Notifications of awards occur in the second week of the following months: February, May, August, and November.

In addition to the quarterly grants, HCF also administers the Women in Philanthropy Grant and the Youth Engaged in Philanthropy Grant, which are awarded annually. For additional inquiries, applicants can contact the Hamilton Community Foundation office at (402) 694-3200 or email lfleming@hcfne.org.