What is the Nebraska Manufacturing Modernization Grant Program?

The program offers matching grants of up to $50,000 to eligible manufacturers in Nebraska. The grants support projects that modernize manufacturing processes, adopt smart technologies, and increase productivity.

What are the requirements to receive the grant?

In addition to proposing an eligible project, an applicant must:

• Be a manufacturer of goods located in Nebraska.
• Have a NAICS code between 31 and 33.
• Be in operation for at least 3 years prior to the application date.
• Derive at least 51% of gross revenue from the sale of manufactured goods.
• Employ a minimum of 3 full-time employees.
• Provide private matching financial support equal to the amount of the grant requested.
• Apply between October 1, 2025, and November 1, 2026.
• Ensure the eligible project does not result in layoffs, job displacement, or the elimination of existing positions.

What information will be requested on the application?

Applicants will be asked for the following:

• Description of your project
• Estimated cost and what will be funded
• Project metrics and success measures
• Documentation demonstrating matching funds
• Your EAN (Employer Account Number)
• Your company’s NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code
• Contact Information

What is the grant amount, and how many recipients will be selected?

The Department of Labor may award up to $250,000 in total grant funding. Each approved applicant may receive a grant equal to their private matching financial support, up to a maximum of $50,000.  Applicants may request less than $50,000. The number of grants awarded will depend on the number of eligible projects and amount of funds requested by each eligible applicant, but will not exceed $250,000 in total grant awards.

What does “private matching financial support” mean?

Private matching financial support refers to funding from sources other than the State of Nebraska or its political subdivisions. Applicants must demonstrate that this support equals or exceeds the amount of grant funds requested. The documentation does not need to name the specific funders.

When will the grant be paid?

Grants will be disbursed after the Department of Labor approves the application and confirms the required matching funds.

How can I apply for the grant?

An online application will be made available by the Department of Labor. beginning at 12 a.m. October 1, 2025 at dol.nebraska.gov/ne-mfg-grant.  Projects that began before the application date will not be considered. The application window closes November 1, 2026, or sooner if funding is exhausted.

What is the review process?

Applications are reviewed and considered in the order received but priority will be given to applicants who can demonstrate how automation will increase the workforce. 

What obligations do grant recipients have?

Recipients must complete their projects as described in their applications and submit a narrative report on project outcomes. Recipients must also ensure their projects do not results in layoffs, job displacement, or the elimination of existing positions. If the manufacturing operation no longer meets eligibility criteria, the grant must be repaid in full.

What are the project’s requirements?

Projects must lead to the adoption or integration of smart manufacturing technologies that improve productivity, efficiency, or competitiveness. Eligible investments include, but are not limited to:

• Job Training
• Specialized hardware
• Software
• Other qualifying equipment

Can a business apply more than once for different projects?

Each eligible manufacturing operation may submit one application for one qualifying project. Grants are limited to $50,000 per recipient and applications will be considered in the order received.

Is this a one-time grant or will there be future opportunities?

Future opportunities will depend on funding availability and program evaluation.

How do I find out if grant funds are still available before applying?

The Department of Labor will post a notification on the program website, https://dol.nebraska.gov/ne-mfg-grant, when funds are exhausted.

Who can I contact if I have questions about my eligibility or application?

Please contact the Nebraska Department of Labor at:

ndol.employerservices@nebraska.gov with questions about eligibility, matching funds, or the application process.

What happens if I use the funds incorrectly or don’t complete the project?

If the project is not completed as proposed or eligibility is lost during the grant period, the recipient must repay the full amount of the grant.