Grant Application
Grant Applications Open: January 21, 2026
Grant Applications Close: March 19, 2026
The Nebraska Department of Education is pleased to announce the 2026 competition for the Nebraska 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant program, and the Expanded Learning Opportunity (ELO) Grant Program Act. This competitive grant program, funded with federal and state dollars, supports the establishment of community learning centers offering expanded learning opportunities in out-of-school time. Nebraska’s 21st CCLCs create an afterschool environment focused on three overarching goals, 1) improving overall student academic success, 2) increasing positive behavior and social interactions, and 3) increasing active and meaningful family and community engagement. For a school to be eligible for 21st CCLC funding, at least 40.00% of students must have participated in free or reduced-cost meals in 2024-25. To be eligible for the ELO Grant, applicants must meet all 21st CCLC eligibility requirements, plus a partnership contributing a 1:1 match of the grant award must be established. Sites who are not able to provide a 1:1 match will remain eligible for only 21st CCLC funds and are still encouraged to apply. Being eligible for both grants does not guarantee additional or increased funding; however, it may increase the likelihood that an application receives an award.
The 2026 competition has $1.6 million in funds available to award First-Time/New grants. Sufficient funds are available to fund successful applications throughout the four-year grant period. Applications for this grant cycle are limited to three (3) school buildings.
The 2026 grant application submission deadline is March 19, 2026. All applications are required to be submitted digitally through GMS. Paper copies of required application forms are provided solely for your convenience in preparing your information for entry into the digital application unless noted otherwise in the Request for Applications (RFA). Paper applications will not be accepted and will not be considered for funding.
Proposed awardees will be submitted to the State Board of Education for approval at the May 2026 Business Meeting. Final award information will be posted to the NDE website on May 15, 2026. Funded projects are scheduled to begin July 1, 2026.
For grant application information or questions, contact Erika Wibbels at erika.wibbels@nebraska.gov or 402-219-3897.
2026 Grant Application Documents
2026 First-Time Scoring Rubric
Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program Non-Regulatory Guidance (09/2024)
CSI/TSI/ATSI Classification Verification
Nebraska 21st CCLC Renewability Criteria (Rev. 12/2025)
Technical Assistance Webinar (Slides Only)
Getting Started: 21st CCLC Program Resources