Spark

Spark is a 501(c) nonprofit organization that brings a unique, collaborative and community-based approach to economic development in the omaha/council bluffs region. We recognize that philanthropic organizations, civic insitutions, and other equity partners have the resources to impact change while community residents, business owners and other stakeholders best understand the community's needs. Spark serves as a bridge between these various parties, leveraging our expertise, relationships and funding to transform neighborhoods through a process of holistic development. Holistic development applies rigorous real estate development methods while considering all the foundational assets: social, political, economic and physical, that are necessary for communities to thrive and prosper. Our role is to support and supplement the work of existing organizations, build upon existing community assets, provide funding, leverage resoures to close financing gaps and to help educate and minimize the risk for developers who would otherwise not invest in these communities. Moreover, we work hand in hand with the community to identify and train community leaders to effectively advocate for themselves both now and for future generations.