Governor Of Nebraska Announces Several Grant Programs To Aid In Recovery

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was passed in March of this year to help mitigate some of the damage caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. It was the largest economic relief package in modern history, at over $2 trillion, with money awarded directly to state governments so that they could use the funds to best help their residents. This week, the Governor of Nebraska, Pete Ricketts announced that two grant programs will open up to help the community recover from the still ongoing pandemic, which is important at a time where we’re seeing businesses close, nonprofits having budgetary issues due to the lack of fundraising income, and individuals and families faced with incredibly tough circumstances.

So let’s talk a bit about these grant programs:

$48.5M in additional funding will be allocated to assist nonprofits and care providers, as they respond to needs that have arisen as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This would mean that any disruption or gap would need to be directly related to the pandemic, and not some other cause.

A second grant program of $25 million is open to businesses and livestock producers who have not yet received any assistance. In addition to these grant programs that have received additional rounds of funding, other grant funds for businesses will be also be allocated through targeted grant program including:

• Movie Theaters – $3.2M
• Zoos – $6.05M
• Ethanol Producers – $15M
• Hotels and Convention Centers – $34M
• Event Centers and Sports Arenas – $20M
• Cosmetic, Massage, and Body Art Services – $22M
• Restaurants and Bars – $20M

And in addition to all of that Nebraska is opening up 40M in additional funds to go to hospitals in the state. This will support hospital capacity as the state continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Featured Grants

Grants to USA agricultural and livestock producers to mitigate the negative financial impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) health crisis. Funding is intended for applicants whose operations have been directly affected by the pandemic. Grants funds may be used for the purchase of materials and facilities required in connection with the production and marketing of agricultural commodities.

Grants of up to $60,000 to Nebraska nonprofit and for-profit economic and housing development agencies for studies that stimulate community, neighborhood, and regional planning. Plans should encompass community, housing, place-based, and economic development activities within the State.