About IdeaThon

Why It Matters

Do you know a local nonprofit that could use a boost to get the word out and raise funds but doesn’t have the resources to make it happen? The amazing work produced during IdeaThon helps local nonprofit recipients thrive!

By combining our creative skills and passions to share the messages of these nonprofits, we can make a powerful impact in the communities where we work and live.

How It Works

1. Nonprofits apply

A Central Nebraska nonprofit will be selected to receive a grant for up to $24,000 in marketing and creative services. Applications are due June 11, 2021. Complete the application form here.

2. Grant awarded

IdeaBank selects and announces the nonprofit recipient(s). Recipients will be selected based on need, scope of work desired, and ability to fit the IdeaThon timeline.

3. Preliminary meetings and kickoff event

IdeaBank connects with the nonprofit partner to discuss projects. Teams and nonprofits meet in person at a kickoff event two to three weeks before the main event.

4. Thursday, July 22: IdeaThon begins!

The IdeaBank team gets started and will work for 24 consecutive hours to come up with solutions for their nonprofit.

5. Friday, July 23: Work is presented

The nonprofit representatives are wowed on Friday morning.

Who Can Apply?

The guidelines below reflect our application review process. The first three items are required.

• Only 501(c)(3) nonprofits can apply.
• Organizations must operate in Nebraska or be a local branch of a national/international organization, serving one or more of the following counties:
  • Adams
  • Clay
  • Hall
  • Hamilton
  • Howard
  • Merrick
  • Nuckolls
  • Webster
• Someone from the executive leadership, board, or management must be available for the event (July 22-23, 2021).
• Organizations must have at least one full-time staff member.
• Organizations must have been in operation for at least one year.
• Organizations would benefit from a campaign (versus just one logo or one brochure).

How Will the Nonprofit Participate in the Event?

• Representative(s) from the organization should be able to attend preliminary meetings, attend review sessions during the event, be available by phone to answer questions during the overnight portion of IdeaThon, and attend the presentation on Friday morning to receive the work.
• The nonprofit should be able to thoroughly communicate their needs and provide as much background information on the organization and project objectives as possible.
• The nonprofit will need to review and sign off on the creative brief the IdeaThon team lead puts together prior to the event.