On May 7, community members, nonprofit leaders, and supporters gathered at Shelterbelt Theatre to celebrate the Omaha Venture Group’s 2026 grant recipients and the growing impact of venture philanthropy across the region.

This year, Omaha Venture Group awarded its largest total grant amount to date, providing $10,000 each to five organizations advancing new and emerging initiatives in Omaha. The event offered an opportunity not only to recognize these organizations but also to bring people together in support of ideas that are strengthening neighborhoods and expanding access to opportunity.

Attendees had the chance to connect directly with this year’s recipients and learn more about the work taking shape across the community. The five organizations represent a wide range of focus areas, reflecting OVG’s commitment to supporting innovative approaches across sectors:

“OVG is a venture philanthropy giving circle that has granted over $865,000 to 183 nonprofits since 2002,” said Chad Allen, OCF Donor Services Advisor and OVG Chair. “Together with a group of folks new to philanthropy and established funders, we pooled our resources, learned from community leaders, and invested in organizations with strong ideas and measurable potential for impact. Beyond the dollars, we aim to bring attention, connections, and sustained support that help recipients grow and deliver results for Omaha.”

Each organization is launching or expanding efforts that address critical community needs while testing new ideas and approaches. OVG’s venture philanthropy model is designed to support this type of early-stage work, providing flexible funding and visibility for initiatives still gaining traction.

The evening also highlighted the connections that form when nonprofit leaders, donors, and community partners come together in the same space. Conversations throughout the event reflected a shared interest in learning, collaboration, and long-term impact.

The setting itself carried special meaning. Shelterbelt Theatre, which hosted the celebration, is a past OVG grant recipient, and catering was provided by House of Bah, also an OVG alum. Their continued success offered a visible example of how early investments can grow into lasting contributions to the community.

In addition to celebrating this year’s grantees, OVG Chair Laura Contreras, OCF Senior Program Manager, marked the leadership transition within Omaha Venture Group. Chandler Green, who has served as Board Chair since 2024, was recognized for her leadership and steady guidance. As she steps down from the role, Vice Chair Joe Woster will assume the position of Board Chair and continue supporting OVG’s work, alongside his service on the Omaha Community Foundation Board.

“We could not have coordinated this year’s OVG grant cycle without the help of our giving circle’s dedicated members and Board,” Contreras said. “Thank you to all who made this a successful grant season.”

As the evening came to a close, the focus remained on what lies ahead. The ideas represented by this year’s grantees are still evolving, and the support they receive now will help shape their trajectory in the months and years to come.

Through its continued commitment to venture philanthropy, Omaha Venture Group is helping create space for new approaches to take root in Omaha, backed by a community willing to invest in what is possible. If you are interested in joining OVG for the next season, contact Chad Allen.