Lincoln awards nearly $5 million in tourism grants to 15 local nonprofits

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – A total of 15 local nonprofits were awarded nearly $5 million in tourism grants on Thursday.

City officials have allocated $4.9 million in tourism grants to local nonprofits that were each impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Funding was made available by the American Rescue Plan Act and state and local fiscal recovery funds, according to city officials.

“We recognize that nonprofit tourism organizations add value to the local economy and provide our residents and visitors with shared experiences and cherished memories that make Lincoln an even stronger community and more attractive destination,” Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird said. “This funding will enable these organizations to recover some of their pandemic losses and be in a stronger position to hire staff and stage the shows, festivals, exhibits, sporting events, and educational programs that make our community a vibrant one for residents and visitors alike.”

The following nonprofits will receive a part of the funds:

• Camp Creek Antique Machinery and Threshing Association, Inc. – $25,000
• Flatwater Shakespeare Company – $91,000
• Friends of Woods Tennis, Inc. – $100,000
• History Nebraska/History Nebraska Foundation – $875,000
• Lancaster County Agricultural Society, Inc. – $650,000
• Lied Center for Performing Arts (UNL Board of Regents) – $300,000
• Lincoln Arts Council – $130,000
• Lincoln Calling – $125,000
• Lincoln Children’s Museum – $705,000
• Lincoln Children’s Zoo – $900,000
• Lincoln Sports Foundation – $220,000
• LUX Center for the Arts – $200,000
• Midwest Racers Organization, Inc. – $45,000
• Museum of American Speed – $450,000
• Nebraska Repertory Theatre (UNL Board of Regents) – $150,000

More information on how ARP funds are being used in the community can be found at lincoln.ne.gov/ARP.