Boone County Foundation Fund (BCFF), an affiliated fund of the Nebraska Community Foundation, is now accepting grant applications from local non-profit organizations.

Applications supporting projects and programs that have a positive impact on quality of life in Boone County will be considered.

BCFF grant applications are due March 25, 2024. General criteria include:

• The project/initiative must support a purpose that is charitable in nature and has a positive impact on the quality of life in local communities.

• The organization requesting funds is: a 501(c)(3) corporation, state or local government entity, or other qualifying charitable institution.

• Organizations that do not meet the qualifying tax designation will not be considered.

• Applications cannot be accepted for general building maintenance or unrestricted operating expenses.

The BCFF has granted about $250,000 since the program’s inception. Grants have been awarded to support projects in Albion, Cedar Rapids, Petersburg, Primrose and St. Edward, representing more than 35 Boone County organizations.

Funds for this grant are presented through the BCFF and are made possible through a permanent unrestricted endowment.

The endowment exists because of ongoing support from Boone County residents and friends. As the endowment grows, the BCFF is able to provide additional funds to support impact projects across Boone County.

These broad impact projects include local grants, underwriting the Boone County Big Give, serving as a donor “hub” for the Albion Family Aquatics Center and the Boone County Trails project, and leading an initiative to help resolve the childcare shortage in the county, which includes the inception of the Cardinal Kids Club and Boone Beginnings.

Application forms are available in electronic format at https://bcfoundationfund. org/grants.

All applications must be submitted electronically. Approved grant applications will be awarded May, 2024.

Any organization having questions about this program can contact Jill Anding at jillanding@yahoo.com.