Governor Pete Ricketts announced new grant programs to continue growing Nebraska in the midst of the disruptions of the coronavirus pandemic.  As part of the Coronavirus Relief Fund, the State of Nebraska received $1.084 billion in federal assistance to address coronavirus-related needs across the state. The Governor announced targeted grant programs to support businesses in industries particularly hard-hit due to the pandemic.  These include direct-payment grants for the following categories of business:

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

Grant applications open October 21, 2020 and will close November 13, 2020.  To apply, visit coronavirus.nebraska.gov/Programs&Grants as of October 21st.  The grants will be issued by December 30, 2020.

A toll-free number will be released on the website (below) once the application period opens. The toll-free number will get you in contact with representatives who will be available to address your questions.

The Governor gave a status update on the funds utilized so far by the State’s existing grant programs.  He then announced that the State will award a second round of grants within the following programs:

• Community CARES Grant Program
  • 5 million of additional funds will be awarded to assist non-profits and care providers as they respond to needs arising from the coronavirus pandemic.
• Business and Livestock Producer Stabilization Grant Program
  • On a first come, first served basis, $25 million will go to fund a new round of grants to eligible businesses and ag producers who have not yet received assistance.

Additionally, the State is allocating up to $40 million to support hospital capacity across Nebraska.  These funds will be provided to General Acute Care Hospitals as they demonstrate the need and ability to increase capacity to care for COVID-19 patients.

The State is also earmarking an additional $100 million to reimburse State agencies for eligible coronavirus expenses.  Expanded financial support will also be available to local governments to cover payroll costs from March 1st through May 31st for workers on the frontline of coronavirus response such as dispatchers, corrections teammates, and public health staff.

Information on the grant programs can be found at: https://coronavirus.nebraska.gov/Programs&Grants.

Read the full “State of Nebraska: Coronavirus Relief Fund Programs” presentation here: https://files.constantcontact.com/31198439401/cb0e5ec5-9f28-4144-9c27-031f4796e82c.pdfSo