Small Business Grants in Nebraska (NE)

Securing a small business grant in Nebraska involves several steps and requires attention to detail, as well as an understanding of the specific opportunities available within the state. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating the grant landscape in Nebraska:

Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) Grants
The Nebraska DED offers a variety of grant programs tailored to support businesses in the state. One such program is the Nebraska Innovation Fund Prototype Grants, which provides financial assistance for product development. This is a competitive matching grant, meaning applicants must provide some level of matching funds.

The DED also administers the Small Business Assistance Act (SBAA), which provides grants up to $25,000 for individuals starting a small business and up to $12,500 for qualified small businesses less than five years old. To be eligible, individuals must meet certain income and net worth criteria, and businesses must have five or fewer full-time equivalent employees.

Nebraska Small Business Assistance Act
Under the Nebraska Small Business Assistance Act, applicants must be for-profit businesses based in Nebraska, with the individual applicant being at least 19 years old and a United States resident. The applicant cannot have ownership of another business defined as 51% or more ownership. The program will be open until March 2025 or until grant dollars run out.

DHHS Grants and Contract Opportunities
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in Nebraska awards contracts and grants to businesses and nonprofits each year. Prospective applicants should register as a vendor with the State of Nebraska and keep an eye on current opportunities for grants that may align with their business activities.

Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC)
The NBDC provides assistance with business planning, market analysis, and loan guarantees through the federal Small Business Administration. They partner with various organizations that specialize in small business assistance, which can be a valuable resource for guidance and financing options.

Federal Small Business Grants
While the federal government does not provide grants for starting and expanding a business directly, there are federal small business grants available in Nebraska that may offer grants to businesses, particularly those that contribute to the community’s economic development or create jobs.

Rural Business Development Grants
The Rural Business Development Grants program provides grant money to assist with economic development planning and/or the financing or expansion of rural businesses. To apply, businesses should contact the Nebraska State Office – Business & Cooperative Programs.

Nebraska Enterprise Fund
Provides training, mentoring, direct micro-lending, and loan guarantees.

Community Development Resources (CDR)
Offers capital, technical assistance, and training opportunities for small businesses in Nebraska.

Grow Nebraska
Provides business training, technical assistance, promotion, and marketing opportunities.

Invest Nebraska
Offers technical assistance, microloans, and early-stage investment.

When applying for a grant, review the eligibility criteria thoroughly to ensure your business qualifies. Prepare a detailed business plan and financial statements, as these are often required as part of the application. Gather all necessary documentation, which may include tax returns, proof of residency, and employee information. Follow the application instructions carefully, providing all requested information and materials and consider reaching out to the organization offering the grant for guidance or clarification on the application process.