A New Path Forward: Changes to Project Grants

July 25, 2025

For many years, Snow-Redfern Foundation has opened our Project Grant cycle each July 1, welcoming applications from organizations committed to uplifting and supporting youth across Nebraska. These grants have helped launch and sustain vital programs in communities large and small, and we are deeply proud of what has been accomplished through this funding.

This year, however, you may have noticed something different. We did not open our traditional Project Grant cycle on July 1, and we want to take a moment to explain why.

We are in the midst of an intentional shift toward participatory grantmaking—an approach that centers the voices, leadership, and wisdom of those most affected by the issues we aim to address. Instead of making decisions behind closed doors, participatory grantmaking invites youth, community members, and nonprofit partners to share power and shape where and how our resources are directed.

As part of this transition, our 2025 Rural Mini Grants (previously called Project Grants) were awarded through a short-term altered process: we used an allocation formula to fund organizations that have consistently received these grants over the past several years. While this approach was more targeted and less open than in years past, it allowed us to provide stable, continued support to trusted partners as we build capacity for more inclusive funding practices.

We know this change may be unexpected for organizations who were preparing to apply this summer, and we want to assure you: this is not the end of our grant opportunities—it’s a reimagining of what they can be.

Later this summer or early fall, we will be launching a new Capacity Grant that will be open for applications. These grants are designed to support organizations in strengthening their internal infrastructure, sustainability, and impact, by creating mechanisms for integrating youth voice into their organizational structure. Details will be announced soon via our website and social media channels.

We are excited about this journey—and we’re learning every step of the way. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that our grantmaking practices reflect our values: Youth Voice. Community Wisdom. Meaningful Engagement. Collaborative Learning. Trust through Transparency.

Thank you for walking this path with us and thank you for all you do to empower Nebraska youth.

About Snow-Redfern Foundation
The Snow-Redfern Foundation believes that all young people deserve the chance to grow, lead, and thrive. We work across Nebraska to support youth through partnerships, grantmaking, and programs that lift up youth voice, community wisdom, and shared leadership. By building strong relationships and investing in youth-led change, we help create a better future for everyone.

To learn more or make a donation, visit www.snowredfern.org.