Microenterprise Assistance Program
Forecasted
Microenterprise Assistance Program supports Nebraska nonprofit providers delivering micro-loans and business assistance to help microenterprises in distressed areas create jobs and strengthen entrepreneurial skills.
Funder: Nebraska Department of Economic Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): December 2026 (Microenterprise Lending) | December 2027 (Microenterprise Technical Assistance)
Funding Amounts: Lending: $200,000 minimum per project; technical assistance: up to $2,954,000 over two years; 35% non-state match required
Summary: Supports Nebraska nonprofit providers delivering micro-loans and technical assistance to microenterprises in distressed rural and urban areas.
Key Information: Applicants must demonstrate statewide service coverage; nonprofit status requirements differ by funding category.
Description
The Nebraska Department of Economic Development’s Microenterprise Assistance Program supports the transfer of Nebraska-based technology and innovation into high-growth, high-technology businesses, wealth creation, and quality jobs. Funding goes to nonprofit service providers supporting microenterprises in Nebraska’s distressed rural and urban areas.
The program has two components: Micro-Lending supports revolving loan funds and other approved financing mechanisms, while Micro-Technical Assistance supports providers’ operating costs for business assistance. Technical assistance aims to strengthen entrepreneurial skills, help microenterprises create jobs, increase low-income households’ capacity for self-sufficiency, and coordinate resources among Nebraska service providers. Services delivered through contracted organizations include business training, mentoring, financing, promotion, and marketing assistance.
