The Kearney Area Community Foundation (KACF) administers the Building for Tomorrow (BFT) Fund Grant Program to support nonprofit charitable organizations serving the Kearney area and surrounding communities. As a community foundation, KACF collects and manages charitable funds under Section 509(a)(1) of the IRS tax code and distributes grants from its unrestricted assets to enhance the quality of life for residents. These unrestricted funds are allocated at the discretion of the KACF Board of Directors, providing flexible financial assistance to eligible programs and projects.
Grants are available for nonprofit, federally tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations or entities delivering projects that qualify as charitable activities. Single-mission organizations can apply once every 24 months after receiving a BFT grant, whereas multi-mission organizations can apply annually but are limited to two requests per year by different sub-groups. If a sub-group receives a grant, it must wait two years before reapplying. Projects must serve the Kearney area to be considered for funding.
The application process requires organizations to submit an online application form available on the KACF website. Applications must include supporting documents such as a federal tax exemption letter, leadership details, financial statements, a project budget, and an IRS Form 990. Applications must be submitted by February 1 or August 1 by 11:59 PM. No late submissions or deadline extensions are permitted. Organizations may contact KACF at (308) 237-3114 to discuss proposals before applying.
Grant funds are not typically awarded for entire projects; organizations must demonstrate additional funding sources. Eligible projects should involve beneficiaries, foster community partnerships, and demonstrate sustainability beyond the initial funding period. Proposals are evaluated on financial stability, volunteer involvement, innovative approaches, and the potential impact on the community. KACF also prioritizes projects that provide matching funds or leverage additional support.
KACF does not fund organizations outside its service area, annual fund drives, capital campaigns, debt reduction, dissertations, endowments, administrative costs, politically affiliated activities, private schools, for-profit enterprises, travel, and umbrella organizations that redistribute funds. Grants are awarded in eight areas: arts and culture, community and civic engagement, economic development, education, health, human services, recreation, and non-denominational religious activities.
Approved grants must be used within 12 months. Recipients are responsible for publicity, progress reports, and financial documentation. KACF reserves the right to monitor projects, request information, or conduct site visits. Misuse of grant funds may result in repayment demands and ineligibility for future funding. The grant office is located at 412 W. 48th Street, Suite 12, Kearney, NE 68845, and can be reached at kacf@kearneyfoundation.org.
