Thinking About Applying?
Funding levels are responsive to each program’s needs, strengths, and capacity for innovation. Programs should showcase their strengths to bring their most impactful ideas into reality. Strong applications will align with Catalyst Funding goals; examples include applications that:
- Demonstrate use of continuous quality improvement tools and practices (e.g., NAQCIS; Whole Child, Whole Life).
- Show commitment to long-term sustainability through local partnerships and funding strategies.
- Engage in advocacy and awareness efforts that elevate ELO impact and build community support.
- Deliver youth-driven, hands-on programming that builds future-ready skills.
- Demonstrate willingness to actively participate in BSB’s statewide learning community to share and adopt best practices.
- Commit to ongoing, open, and timely communication with the BSB team to support a strong and responsive partnership
Funding Requirements
Those who are awarded funding will be expected to:
- Attend virtual quarterly network meetings
- Agree to timely and clear communication with BSB team
- Host a Lights on Afterschool event
- Attend Advocacy Day in Lincoln hosted by BSB (spring 2026)
- Submit 5-month and 11-month expenditure reports submitted via WebGrants
- Submit 5-month and 11-month progress reports submitted via Qualtrics
- Depending on the goal area applied for, additional requirements may be included, such as:
- Additional one-on-one coaching
- Development of a professional development, sustainability, and/or advocacy plan
- Hosting a youth brainstorming session
Learn More by Watching Our Catalyst Funding Webinar
Or
Application
Applications are due by Friday, August 15. Please submit via email to Stephanie Vadnais (svadnais@nebraskachildren.org) and Lauren Clark (lclark@nebraskachildren.org). For questions, contact any member of the BSB team.
