NEW: Power On Afterschool Funding Opportunity
Beyond School Bells is excited to announce a new funding opportunity designed to keep the Lights on Afterschool momentum going all year, with special focus on April. This mid-year moment is a powerful time to keep afterschool visible, strengthen advocacy efforts, and build energy toward October’s celebration. Programs are encouraged to host simple awareness events that highlight data, share stories, engage community partners, elevate youth and family voices, and recognize afterschool professionals as essential to student success. Reimbursement-style funding is available to support these efforts.
Please review the handout for full details and submit your application by Friday, February 20, 2026. For more information or questions, please email Patricia at psanchezstewart@nebraskachildren.org
Apply Today!
Email your completed application to Patricia Sanchez-Stewart (psanchezstewart@nebraskachildren.org) by Friday, February 20, 2026.
Catalyst Funding Opportunity - CLOSED
Our Catalyst Funding builds on the legacy of our Partner and Leverage Grants, offering flexible support for established ELO programs that are committed to innovation, sustainability, and youth-centered learning. In addition to operational funding, Catalyst grantees join a statewide learning community with access to:
- Coaching and technical assistance
- Virtual and in-person gatherings
- Opportunities to share best practices
- Resources to support long-term sustainability and alignment with statewide priorities such as workforce development, literacy, and attendance
Funding Opportunity Goal Areas
Goal 1 - Quality: Facilitate continuous improvement processes to support high quality Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELOs) that engage relevant stakeholders.
Goal 2 - Sustainability: Increase and enhance efforts that promote local sustainability of partner ELOs.
Goal 3 - Local Advocacy and Policy: Enhance practices that build local stakeholder knowledge of ELO impact and contribute to supportive policy structures.
Goal 4 - Innovative Programming: Facilitate and enhance use of high-quality programming that reflects youth interests and builds life skills.
Dates & Deadlines
- Applications are now CLOSED
- Funding will run October 1, 2025 through August 31, 2026 (11 months)
