NIFA Announces its First Cohort in the New Communities for Housing (C4H) Initiative

LINCOLN, NE – The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) is pleased to announce the launch of Communities for Housing (C4H), a new initiative designed to help Nebraska communities identify, prepare for, and advance local housing solutions.

C4H combines peer networking, technical assistance, and dedicated grant funding to help communities move from planning to action. Recognizing that every community faces unique challenges, the program offers flexible support to meet locally identified housing needs rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Through C4H, participating communities receive up to $10,000 per year for up to three years, along with hands-on technical assistance and access to a statewide peer network. Success will be measured not only by the number of housing units ultimately created, but also by the long-term collaboration and knowledge-sharing that result from this statewide partnership.

“Communities for Housing is about more than funding—it’s about helping Nebraska communities build capacity, share ideas, and make lasting progress,” said Shannon Harner, Executive Director of NIFA. “By connecting local leaders and providing the tools they need to take action, we’re investing in stronger, more resilient communities across the state.”

C4H communities commit to developing detailed housing project plans, attending peer learning sessions, participating in monthly technical assistance meetings, and reporting progress toward agreed-upon milestones.

The first cohort of Communities for Housing includes:

• City of Bridgeport
• Economic Development Council of Buffalo County
• City of Plattsmouth
• Seward County Housing Corporation
• Southwest Nebraska Community Betterment Corp.
• City of Superior

This cohort reflects a microcosm of the challenges that communities face across Nebraska. High development cost, driven by skilled workforce constraints, shortages of development-ready land, infrastructure expenses, and financing gaps, limits creation of housing. Lack of housing supply directly impacts families, employers, and local economies, highlighting the need for early-stage investment and technical support—which is addressed through the C4H program.

Each awarded community will form a core team led by an eligible local organization—such as a nonprofit, housing authority, planning commission, or municipality—to guide planning and pre-development efforts.

For more information about the Communities for Housing (C4H) initiative, visit nifa.org/community-collaboration/c4h.

About NIFA
The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) grows Nebraska communities through affordable housing and agribusiness. NIFA partners with lenders, developers, nonprofits, and local leaders to provide financing, resources, and expertise to support and sustain vibrant communities with affordable housing available for all Nebraskans.

Media Contact:

Elizabeth Fimbres
Communication Lead
402.441.4642
elizabeth.fimbres@nifa.org