Nebraska led the nation this year for funding in the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) Program, according to USDA Rural Development State Director Maxine Moul. The funding assists five Native American rural businesses totaling $736,109.
Our investments through the RBDG program will help to create jobs and business opportunities in Nebraska’s Native American communities. This year a total of five projects were funded that will help create 84 jobs and support an additional 39 jobs for Native American residents of Nebraska,” said Moul. “These grants will strengthen the economic fabric of rural Nebraska by providing capital investment to support small and emerging businesses and entrepreneurs.”
Eligible applicants include towns, communities, state agencies, non-profit corporations, Federally-recognized Tribes, and institutions of higher learning. For example, through the use of the RBDG program, the Center for Rural Affairs (CfRA), which is a non-profit in Lyons, NE, received funding to increase economic opportunities in Native American communities. Since 2011, CfRA has been awarded nearly $600,000 through five different awards. Funds were used to develop a series of Garden to Market educational programs and to create jobs and encourage new businesses for the Omaha and Santee Sioux Tribes. These Garden to Market programs have developed farmers markets and other direct-sales markets in tribal communities.
Omaha Tribal member Melanie Parker is an example of a businesswoman taking advantage of these new opportunities. In addition to her business of sewing and beading traditional regalia, she sells her produce at the weekly farmers market. One on one business consultation and project workshops supported her in planting and harvesting her first garden in 2016.
"There are few jobs on this reservation," said Parker. "This program is extremely important for me and others to earn some money. At the same time, I am able to teach my grandchildren about our culture of preparing food and sharing with each other."
RBDG funds may be used for targeted technical assistance; training and training facilities, including commercial kitchens; to conduct economic development planning; and for the establishment of revolving loan funds.
“The many uses of RBDG funds and their ability to reach a large number of potential and existing entrepreneurs offer significant opportunities to support the development of small private business enterprises in rural Nebraska,” said Moul.
To discuss applicant and project eligibility or to inquire on how to apply for next year’s RBDG funding, please contact one of the following Business Programs Specialists.
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Brant Richardson, brant.richardson@ne.usda.gov or (402) 437-5568
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Deborah Drbal, deborah.drbal@ne.usda.gov or (402) 437-5558
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities. USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values.