Founders

At Nebraska Innovation Labs, we encourage startup founders to leverage the Nebraska Innovation Fund (NIF) Prototype Grants to fund the development of their software or app projects. These grants provide a unique opportunity for founders to access the resources they need to bring their ideas to life while working with our experienced team.

 

 

What is the NIF Prototype Grant?

The Nebraska Innovation Fund Prototype Grant, offered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, is designed to support early-stage businesses in developing market-ready prototypes.

• Grant Amount: Up to $150,000 in matching funds.

• Purpose: To assist startups in creating prototypes that can lead to scalable, market-ready products.

• Location Requirement: Funds must be used for projects conducted within Nebraska.

• Eligibility:

  • Applicants must be businesses operating in Nebraska that can provide a minimum of 50% of the grant request as matching funds.

  • Eligible applicants must submit an application form, provide a business plan, and include evidence of matching funds.

  • Matching funds must be in the form of a cash match and can include 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.

• Reimbursement Structure: Grant funds are accessed via reimbursement, with the Department of Economic Development (DED) reimbursing project costs at a rate of 66%.

• Project Timeline: If approved, the project must be completed and all funds drawn down within 24 months.

 

 

Eligible Use of Funds

Prototype grant funds must be used for product development within the state. Examples of eligible costs include:

• Wages for employees or contractors.

• Prototype materials.

• Limited, pre-approved tooling or equipment costs.

 

 

How Nebraska Innovation Labs Can Help

1. Grant Application Support

   • We guide founders through the grant application process, ensuring they meet eligibility requirements and present a compelling case for funding.

2. Low-Cost Development

   • With the grant funding, founders can work with our team to develop their software or app at a low cost, leveraging our unique model of pairing junior developers with seasoned professionals.

3. Prototype Creation

   • Our team specializes in creating scalable, market-ready prototypes, ensuring your product is ready for launch and future growth.

4. Talent and Continuity

   • Founders have the option to hire the team that built their product, ensuring seamless continuity and ongoing success.

 

 

Join Us

At Nebraska Innovation Labs, we’re committed to helping founders access the resources they need to succeed. By combining the NIF Prototype Grant with our expertise, we can help you bring your vision to life and drive innovation in Nebraska.

Let’s build the future—together.

 

Application Preview: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ilDnmwiQwovBXJLrV9MwcxugD_224R_B/view?usp=sharing