Get Nebraska Growing

Economic Development Grant Programs

On May 27, 2020, Governor Pete Ricketts announced four new economic development grant programs that will help stimulate the Nebraska economy as we recover together from the COVID-19 pandemic. The programs are being funded by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. They are designed to aid Nebraska small businesses by providing working capital; provide retraining for the un- and underemployed; provide new training for business leaders; and increase rural broadband access.

Please read the program descriptions below for detailed information on these four grants and how to apply.

Small Business Stabilization Grant

Small businesses and livestock producers across the state have been impacted by COVID-19, with many experiencing closures, occupancy restrictions, the loss of consumer traffic and decreased demand. This has translated into dramatic reductions in revenue. Small businesses and ag are the lifeblood of the Nebraska economy, and their continued survival and growth are paramount. The Nebraska Small Business Stabilization (SBS) Grant allocates $330 million in working capital to help cover operating expenses for Nebraska small businesses and livestock producers.

Learn more about Small Businesses & Livestock Producers.

Please note: The application submission deadline for this program has passed. DED is no longer accepting applications.

Workforce Retraining Initiative

The key to a thriving economy is a skilled workforce with ample opportunities to succeed. The Workforce Retraining Initiative allocates $16 million to help unemployed and underemployed Nebraskans acquire new or improved skillsets and obtain rewarding careers. DED will employ the state’s community college system, with its training infrastructure and connections to the business sector, to enable this workforce program to assist individuals whose livelihoods have been impacted by COVID-19.

Learn more about Individual Scholarships and College Programs

Please note: Community Colleges are now accepting applications for Individual Scholarships.

Rural Broadband Remote Access Grant

Rural broadband access is essential to attracting, supporting and maintaining quality job creators throughout the state of Nebraska. But apart from being an indispensable business commodity for the 21 st century, high speed internet enables important opportunities such as remote work, telehealth and education, entertainment, telecommunications and other quality of life amenities that create thriving communities. The Broadband Grant allocates $40 million to provide broadband to unserved and underserved communities in Nebraska, supporting the mission to increase the state’s overall connectivity.

Learn more

Please note: The application submission deadline for this program has passed. DED is no longer accepting applications.

Please note: this application is now open to RDOF areas

Gallup Business Leadership Training Grant

The Gallup Business Leadership Training Grant program is designed to provide Nebraska business leaders with the training to achieve organizational goals and drive organic growth through human development. Management teams will participate in a 30-week online course to learn techniques for leading teams through unprecedented challenges while preparing for a strong future. The program allocates $1 million to enable senior managers to complete a comprehensive training program offered by Gallup.

Learn more