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Nebraska Innovation Fund (NIF) Prototype Grant is sponsored by Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED). A matching program providing financial assistance for new product development to businesses operating in Nebraska. Funds can be used for wages, prototype materials, and preapproved tooling or equipment.
Applicants must provide a budget and evidence of matching funds.
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Nebraska Innovation Fund Prototype Grants - Nebraska Department of Economic Development Nebraska Innovation Fund Prototype Grants The Nebraska Innovation Fund (NIF) Prototype Grant is a matching program that provides financial assistance for new product development to businesses operating in Nebraska. Prototype grants are highly competitive.
Applicants are encouraged to contact the Department of Economic Development (DED) for help understanding program requirements and expectations. DED can provide guidance to help prospective applicants submit the strongest possible application. 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 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. 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.
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. Applications for this grant are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.
Contact DED to determine the availability of funds. Applications for FY26-27 will open on or before July 1 , 2026. DED Prototype Grant Guidelines For more information on NIF Prototype Grants: Business Innovation Manager ben.
kuspa@nebraska. gov | 402-613-8119
According to the current listing, eligibility includes: Nebraska-based corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, registered limited partnerships, sole proprietorships, business trusts, or other entities with fewer than 500 employees, engaged in non-retail prim…. Confirm the full requirements in the official notice before applying.
The current listing shows up to $150,000. Verify award ceilings, matching requirements, and allowable costs in the official notice.
Nebraska Innovation Fund (NIF) Prototype Grant is funded by Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED). Verify program details on the funder's official page before applying.
This opportunity targets applicants in Nebraska. If your organization operates elsewhere, check the official notice for location requirements.
Start from the official opportunity page linked in this listing — it carries the sponsor's submission instructions.
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