Recycling Grants Available to Nebraska Communities

The Nebraska Recycling Council and Nebraska Environmental Trust offer funding to create, expand, or enhance local recycling programs.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Nebraska Recycling Council has grant funds of up to $25,000 available for the purchase of recycling equipment. Any Nebraska organization, including schools, municipalities, and other government entities, nonprofit organizations, and recycling companies are eligible to apply. Funding for these grants is provided by the Nebraska Environmental Trust. Additionally, the NexTrex Recycling Challenge is partnering with communities, counties, schools, and civic groups to increase plastic bag and film recycling.

Why it matters

These grant opportunities provide much-needed funding to help close the gap in recycling access, especially in rural Nebraska communities where the biggest barrier is often a lack of resources. The Nebraska Recycling Council and Nebraska Environmental Trust have been instrumental in supporting the growth of recycling programs across the state.

The details

The Recycling Equipment Grant program provides funding for the purchase of recycling equipment such as balers, skid steers, and storage trailers. The grants have helped jumpstart and sustain recycling programs in communities like Stuart, Nebraska. The NexTrex Recycling Challenge also supports local recycling initiatives by providing collection, education, and incentives for increasing plastic bag and film recycling.

  • The Recycling Equipment Grant program funding has not been approved beyond June 2026, making now an important time to apply.
  • Applications for the Recycling Equipment Grants are continuing to be accepted and reviewed on a monthly basis.

The players

Nebraska Recycling Council

A nonprofit organization that provides resources and support to help create, expand, and enhance recycling programs across Nebraska.

Nebraska Environmental Trust

A state-funded grant program that provides funding for the Recycling Equipment Grants.

Mark Stracke

The Stuart Village Clerk, who has worked with the Nebraska Recycling Council and Nebraska Environmental Trust to establish and maintain the recycling program in Stuart.

Trex Company

A company that is partnering with various organizations through the NexTrex Recycling Challenge to increase plastic bag and film recycling.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Nebraska Recycling Council and Nebraska Environmental Trust have been great partners and resources for not only jump-starting, but ensuring the success of our program.”

— Mark Stracke, Stuart Village Clerk

What’s next

Interested organizations can find more information and apply for the Recycling Equipment Grants at the Nebraska Recycling Council's website, nrcne.org, or by contacting the organization directly at 402-436-2384. Details on the NexTrex Recycling Challenge can be found at the Trex company's website, nextrex.com.

The takeaway

These grant programs provide critical funding and support to help Nebraska communities overcome the financial barriers to creating, expanding, and enhancing their local recycling initiatives. By investing in recycling infrastructure and education, these programs are helping to increase recycling access and divert more materials from landfills across the state.