Nebraska for Small businesses Grants

This program provides financial support to Nebraska-based small businesses that have received federal funding for innovative research and development projects, helping them advance their technologies and products.

This grant provides financial support for Nebraska-based businesses to develop prototypes, with a focus on innovation in non-retail primary industries, including value-added agriculture.

Nebraska Innovation Fund (NIF) Prototype Grants offer financial support for new product development to businesses in Nebraska through a matching program. The grants are highly competitive, and applicants are advised to seek guidance from the Department of Economic Development (DED) to understand program requirements and expectations and to submit the strongest possible application. About Prototype Grants Prototype grants are awarded at up to $150,000 per project. Applicants must be businesses operating in Nebraska that can provide a minimum of 50% of the grant request as matching funds. Projects qualifying as value-added agriculture require a reduced match of 25%. Grant funds are accessed via reimbursement. DED reimburses project costs at a rate of 66%, or 80% for value-added agriculture projects. Eligible applicants must submit an application form and provide a business plan, plus evidence of matching funds. If approved, the project must be completed and all funds drawn down within 24 months. Eligible Businesses Eligible recipients include any Nebraska-based corporation, limited liability company, partnership, registered limited partnership, sole proprietorship, business trust or other entity with fewer than 500 employees that is engaged in non-retail primary industries and is adding value to products or processes in Nebraska. Eligible Use of Funds Prototype grant funds must be used towards the development of a product. Examples of eligible costs include wages for employees or contractors, prototype materials and limited preapproved tooling or equipment costs. Applicants must provide a budget at the time of application that outlines anticipated project costs. Eligible Matching Funds Includes any non-state source — e.g., private foundations, federal or local governments, quasi-governmental entities, commercial lending institutions, investors, etc. — provided they are not using funds appropriated by the Nebraska Legislature. Matching funds must be in the form of a cash match. Important Deadlines: Applications for this grant are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Contact DED to determine the availability of funds.

Grant Name: Nebraska Film Office Grant Funding Source: Nebraska Film Office Fund Purpose: The grant aims to promote the State of Nebraska through marketing efforts and contribute to job creation and economic development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and awards are made at the discretion of the Department of Economic Development (DED) to further the state's best interests. The application and guidelines can be accessed through the Nebraska Film Office Grant webpage or by contacting the program coordinator. Additional resources, including user guides for applying through DED's AmpliFund system, are available on their resource page.