USDA Rural Development State Director Maxine Moul has announced that Nebraska is seeking project proposals for the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) Program to support rural businesses. 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. Eligible applicants include towns, communities, state agencies, non-profit corporations, Federally-recognized Tribes, and institutions of higher learning.
“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.
Through the use of the RBDG program, the Twin Cities Development Association (TCD) in Scottsbluff, NE received funding to create a community commercial kitchen and to provide technical assistance to food-based business entrepreneurs. The availability of a commercial kitchen will allow local food businesses space to develop their products and access to targeted technical assistance. These businesses will be able to expand beyond the local Farmers Markets by being able to introduce their products into larger markets such as grocery stores, restaurants and other retail outlets.
Project proposals submitted for review for state allocated RBDG funds are due by close of business, 4:30 pm, Friday, February 26, 2016. All project proposals are to be sent to Brant Richardson at brant.richardson@ne.usda.gov .
To discuss applicant and project eligibility or to request a project proposal form, 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