About this programme
The Nebraska Growth Loan Fund (NGLF) is a loan participation program funded through the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), which Nebraska received under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to strengthen state programs that support private financing to small businesses. The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) runs it to help bankable, or near-bankable, small businesses and manufacturers get the financing they need to expand and create jobs, with a focus on underserved communities and SEDI (socially and economically disadvantaged individual) businesses.
NGLF works by combining a senior loan from a private lender with a second, smaller loan from DED. Nebraska Enterprise Fund and Omaha 100 administer the program on the ground, and Nebraska CDFIs handle sourcing and packaging the loans.
How it works
A private lender originates the primary loan, and DED provides secondary financing either to a qualified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) or directly to the small business. State participation typically runs at or below 25% of the total financing, and requires at least a 1:1 match from the private lender.
Who can apply
The program targets bankable or near-bankable small businesses and manufacturers, particularly those in underserved communities or owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, that need financing to expand and add jobs.
Frequently asked
How does the state's money fit alongside a bank loan?
A private lender originates the main loan, and DED adds a second loan on top, through a CDFI or directly to the business, typically at or below 25% of the total financing.
Is there a maximum loan size?
Yes, $5,000,000, with a required 1:1 match from the private lender.
Who should I contact to apply?
Nebraska Enterprise Fund or Omaha 100, the two organizations that administer NGLF, or Nora Furr at the Department of Economic Development.
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All 9 programmes in Nebraska →
Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.