Applications are now open for Nebraska’s Innovation Fund Prototype Grant (opportunity.nebraska.gov), which provides up to $150,000 in matching funds to help early-stage companies develop and test new products. However, reduced funding may shorten the program’s availability this year.
The Prototype Grant is a key initiative of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, designed to boost innovation by reimbursing up to 66% of eligible product development costs. The program has helped startups bring products to market without the need for early-stage debt or equity dilution.
This year, the number of available grants could decrease following a $3.7 million reduction to the Business Innovation Act, which funds the Prototype Grant along with several other entrepreneurship programs. The act’s budget dropped from $14.7 million to just over $11 million for the current fiscal year, which began July 1.
The grant is administered by Invest Nebraska, a nonprofit that supports high-growth startups statewide.
To learn more or apply, visit: opportunity.nebraska.gov