The Mayor Stothert’s Neighborhood Grants Program, for the year 2025, is a funding initiative that focuses on projects developed by resident-led neighborhood associations in Omaha. The funding aims to enhance the public safety and overall quality of life in Omaha’s neighborhoods. Projects that help prevent crime and improve safety are prioritized. The average grant award is $2,500, with a maximum award of $5,000. The grants are designed to have a sustained positive impact on the neighborhood, focusing on public safety and community well-being.
To be eligible for the grant, organizations must meet several criteria. First, they must be registered in the City of Omaha’s Neighborhood Directory by February 28, 2025. Additionally, they must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and they must submit an IRS W-9 form with their application. If the organization is using a fiscal agent, the fiscal agent must also submit a W-9 form. Applicants must not have any outstanding grants or unfinished projects. The project must directly benefit neighborhood residents, and businesses are not eligible to apply.
The program outlines several requirements for applicants. All funds must be spent by December 31, 2025, and a final report must be submitted by January 31, 2026. There are also restrictions on how the grant funds can be used. Unallowable costs include weapons, high-tech alarms, recording equipment, decorative and way-finding signs, bounce houses, personnel salaries (including volunteer and staff salaries), tablets or iPads, food and beverages, and gift cards or stipends. This ensures the funding is directed toward tangible improvements that enhance the community's safety and quality of life.
The application process will open on January 17, 2025, with the submission deadline on March 3, 2025, by 4:00 PM. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. The grants will be reviewed by the Neighborhood Grants Review Committee, which will evaluate applications based on their connection to identified needs, impact on the neighborhood, and creativity. Priority will be given to new applicants and projects that have not been previously submitted. The review committee will submit final award recommendations to Mayor Stothert.
The successful applicants will be notified in May 2025, and the funds will be disbursed in June 2025, after the execution of the award agreement. All grant funds must be expended by December 31, 2025. A final report on the project and its expenditures is due by January 31, 2026. For additional assistance, applicants can contact the Neighborhood Grants Program through email or phone.
