Ethanol Infrastructure Grant Program

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) offers the Ethanol Infrastructure Grant Program to encourage the adoption of higher ethanol blend fuels across the state. This initiative is focused on assisting Nebraska fuel retailers in adding or expanding mid- and high-level ethanol blends such as E15, E30, and E85. The overarching goal of this program is to enhance consumer access to cleaner, more cost-effective fuels while supporting Nebraska’s agricultural economy by driving demand for locally grown corn. This effort directly aligns with NCB’s mission to develop markets for Nebraska corn and support rural economies through value-added uses of agricultural products. The program is specifically structured to support the installation of fueling infrastructure at retail stations, with grant funds available for projects that install qualifying equipment. Retailers that plan to install blender pumps offering multiple ethanol blends, including E15, E30, and E85, may receive up to $50,000 per location. Retailers focusing solely on E15 infrastructure may qualify for up to $25,000. Grant funding may be applied toward the purchase and installation of fuel dispensers, tanks, piping, electrical systems related to dispenser installation, signage, and pumps, provided they meet the required UL 87A E25 Listing standards. This structure allows retailers to scale their ethanol offerings based on site-specific demand and capacity. To be eligible, retailers must be based in Nebraska and agree to offer the supported ethanol blends (E15, E30, E85) for at least two years following project completion. Additionally, retailers are required to provide visible roadside signage displaying prices for at least two ethanol blend options and comply with all applicable state and federal fuel labeling requirements. Preference during review is given to applicants located in underserved areas where access to higher ethanol blends is limited and where traffic flow indicates strong potential for ethanol use. The program is intentionally designed to reach both new adopters and those expanding their ethanol infrastructure footprint. All applications must be submitted and received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026. Applicants must receive approval from the Nebraska Corn Board before initiating any construction. Completed infrastructure work must be finalized by June 5, 2026. Bids must be included in the initial application to be considered for funding, and successful applicants will need to submit completion documentation, including invoices and photographs, before receiving reimbursement via ACH within 30 days of approval. The application process is managed by the Nebraska Corn Board’s Market Development Committee, which oversees review and selection. Questions and inquiries may be directed to Payton Schaneman at 402-471-2676. Additional program materials and guidance can be accessed through the official Nebraska Corn Board website at nebraskacorn.gov/corn-101/corn-uses/ethanol. Applications can also be submitted via email to [email protected]. This grant does not recur on a regular cycle, but the application materials imply a multi-year planning horizon, which may suggest potential future rounds depending on funding availability and program success. As currently structured, the 2025/2026 grant cycle represents the active phase of the program, and eligible parties are encouraged to apply promptly to take full advantage of the available funding and support for infrastructure expansion.