Business Startup, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in Nebraska

Last updated: September 2025

Emergency help first

If your rent, utilities, childcare, or food situation is about to break, handle that first so you can keep moving on your business plan.

• Child Care Subsidy urgent questions: (402) 471-9152 or apply on iServe Child Care Subsidy. Income limits up to 185% FPL for initial eligibility and 200% FPL at review are in effect through September 30, 2026. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• SNAP Next Step job and training support: apply or message via iServe portal or call ACCESSNebraska (800) 383-4278 statewide, (402) 595-1258 Omaha, (402) 323-3900 Lincoln. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• SBA Nebraska live assistance: (402) 221-4691 at the SBA Nebraska District Office for capital programs and local lender referrals. (sba.gov)
• Nebraska SBDC free business advising near you: request help and find a consultant via NBDC SBDC directory. (unomaha.edu)
• Grants or state programs status checks: confirm current openings on the Nebraska Department of Economic Development programs list. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)

Quick help box

• Fastest step to open legally: file an LLC online for $100 with the Nebraska Secretary of State through eDelivery. Nebraska requires publishing a notice for three consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper and then filing proof. (sos.nebraska.gov, nebraskalegislature.gov)
• **Quick capital under $50,000\ast \ast \ast \ast :askaboutSBAMicroloansupto\ast \ast$50,000 through Nebraska intermediaries like Community Development Resources and Nebraska Enterprise Fund; expect interest set by the lender and terms up to seven years. (sba.gov, cdr-nebraska.org, nebbiz.org)
• State tax credit many microbusiness owners miss: the Nebraska Advantage Microenterprise Tax Credit offers a refundable 20% credit on increased investment or employment, with a $20,000 lifetime cap; applications are limited each year, so reserve early. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• Innovation and high‑growth path: Nebraska’s Business Innovation Act funds include Prototype Grants up to $150,000\ast \ast ,SBIR/STTRmatchingupto\ast \ast$150,000 for Phase I and $300,000\ast \ast forPhaseII,andSeedInvestmentsupto\ast \ast$500,000. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• Childcare while you build: Child Care Subsidy allows care while you work, train, attend school, or go to medical visits; copay is generally 7% of gross income if above 100% FPL; choose your provider, including license‑exempt with required checks. (dhhs.ne.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

What the top search results miss and how this guide fills the gaps

What we found: many high‑ranking pages talk about “grants for women” in general, list national private contests, or link you to long national directories without Nebraska specifics. They rarely show exact Nebraska dollar caps, eligibility definitions, phone numbers, or explain Nebraska‑only rules like the LLC three‑week newspaper notice. This guide plugs those holes with state‑verified amounts, timelines, and direct Nebraska contacts. For example, we cite Nebraska’s refundable microenterprise tax credit amounts and annual cap, current BIA grant and match limits, and the state’s LLC publication rule with statute and fees. (revenue.nebraska.gov, opportunity.nebraska.gov, nebraskalegislature.gov)

Start here in Nebraska

Step‑by‑step launch plan with exact costs

• Form your LLC online fast: pay $100\ast \ast onlineor\ast \ast$110 in office to file your Certificate of Organization. File through Corporate & Business eDelivery. (sos.nebraska.gov)
• Publish your notice: Nebraska law requires a “notice of organization” published three consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper near your designated office. After publication, file proof with the Secretary of State (proof online filing fee $25). See statute 21‑193 and the forms and fees list. (nebraskalegislature.gov, sos.nebraska.gov)
• Register for state taxes: register new businesses online with the Department of Revenue; use the online system or Form 20 if adding programs. State sales and use tax rate is 5.5%, plus any local city rate. Start at Register Your New Business Online and review Sales and Use Tax. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• Set up payroll correctly: if you hire, register for Nebraska income tax withholding and follow the 2025 Circular EN. New employers also open an unemployment insurance tax account; new‑employer UI rate is 1.25% for non‑construction with a $9,000\ast \ast taxablewagebase(Category20uses\ast \ast$24,000). Do this in NEworks. (revenue.nebraska.gov, dol.nebraska.gov)
• Get free advising: book the NBDC Small Business Development Center nearest you (Omaha 402‑554‑6633, Lincoln 402‑472‑4092, Kearney 308‑865‑8344, North Platte 308‑252‑2177, Chadron 308‑432‑6282, Wayne 402‑375‑7575). Use the SBDC directory. (unomaha.edu)
• Reality check for timing: online LLC approval usually takes a couple business days once filings are complete; publication adds roughly two to four weeks depending on newspaper cycles and your speed filing the proof. Publication is required by statute, and your acts are valid once publication is done and proof is filed. (nebraskalegislature.gov)

Quick cost table for common Nebraska filings

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If filings bounce back: call the Corporate Division (402) 471‑4079 for exact edits or to confirm name issues. Use the “New Business Information” page for guidance. (sos.nebraska.gov)
• If sales tax setup is confusing: call DOR Taxpayer Assistance (800) 742‑7474 or (402) 471‑5729 and ask for help with Form 20 and local rates. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• If payroll gets tricky: work with the SBDC to set up compliant payroll and UI accounts; they assist at no cost. (unomaha.edu)

Real Nebraska money for startups and small firms

Nebraska Advantage Microenterprise Tax Credit

• What it is: refundable income tax credit equal to 20% of increased investment or compensation over a two‑year window. Lifetime per‑applicant cap $20,000; microbusiness must be at or under five full‑time equivalent employees at application; E‑Verify required if hiring after application. Credits are limited each year; 2025 authorization is tracked on the public table. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• Why it matters: a refundable credit can put cash back into your household budget at tax time if your liability is low.
• How to apply: follow the guide and submit via the Department of Revenue’s secure system; contact DOR assistance (800) 742‑7474 or (402) 471‑5729 with questions. Start at the Microenterprise program page. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• Timeline reality: you must reserve credits before you grow; funds can run out. As of February 27, 2025, the 2025 table showed amounts available. Apply early in the calendar year. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your SBDC consultant to help you plan growth that qualifies in a future year while exploring city procurement or SBA financing. (unomaha.edu)

Nebraska Business Innovation Act funding

• Prototype Grants: up to $150,000 per project, 50% match (25% for value‑added ag); reimburses about two‑thirds of approved costs (80% for value‑added ag); projects must finish and draw funds within 24 months. Open until funds are exhausted each fiscal year. Contact DED’s consultant listed on the page. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• SBIR/STTR match: Nebraska matches your federal R&D award with up to $150,000\ast \ast forPhaseIand\ast \ast$300,000 for Phase II; Phase 0 offers up to $5,000 to prepare your federal proposal. Application windows run through June 30, 2026, or until funds run out. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• Seed Investment: equity investments up to $500,000 (1:1 match) placed and managed by Invest Nebraska for early‑stage companies. Coordinate with DED and Invest Nebraska. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• STEP export grants: reimburse a portion of export activities; participant match is 25% of eligible costs. Rolling application cycle. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: if you are too early or not a fit for innovation programs, consider Kiva’s 0% crowdfunded microloans ($1,000–$15,000) or SBA Microloans through CDR or NEF. (kiva.org, cdr-nebraska.org)

SSBCI capital in Nebraska

• Growth Loan Fund: second‑position loans to expand lending to eligible small businesses; each loan can include up to $5,000,000 in state participation with at least a 1:1 private match; administered through Nebraska Enterprise Fund and Omaha 100. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• Seed and Development Fund: equity co‑investment up to $5,000,000 with 1:1 private match, administered via Invest Nebraska. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: SSBCI programs work best when a bank or investor is already at the table. If you don’t have one yet, start with SBDC, NEF, or CDR to build finance‑ready plans. (unomaha.edu, nebbiz.org, cdr-nebraska.org)

Nebraska Small Business Assistance Act status

• Important status note: the Small Business Assistance Act provided grants up to $25,000\ast \ast fornewstartupsandupto\ast \ast$12,500 for young businesses, but the application cycle is closed until further notice; the contracted provider indicates the Legislature repealed the Act and the program is in closeout. Check DED’s program page and GROW Nebraska’s NSBAA updates for current status before spending time on an application. (opportunity.nebraska.gov, grownebraska.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: pivot to Prototype, SBIR/STTR, Seed Investment, Kiva, SBA Microloan, or local CDFIs listed below. (opportunity.nebraska.gov, kiva.org, cdr-nebraska.org)

Trusted capital and coaching partners in Nebraska

Local CDFIs and microlenders

• Community Development Resources (CDR): SBA Microloans $1,000–$50,000, typical terms one to six years; also operates Kiva Nebraska ($1,000–$15,000 at 0%). Phone (402) 436‑2387; see loan details and Kiva page. (cdr-nebraska.org)
• Nebraska Enterprise Fund (NEF): direct lending typically $1,000–$150,000, gap financing with banks, SSBCI participation; mentoring and training statewide; phone (402) 685‑5500. (nebbiz.org)
• Center for Rural Affairs: small business loans $1,000–$250,000 with pre‑qual in two days; bilingual services available; phone (402) 687‑2100. (cfra.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: ask the SBDC to review your plan and cash flow, then consider Kiva or a smaller starter loan to build repayment history. (unomaha.edu, kiva.org)

SBA Nebraska and resource partners

• SBA Nebraska District Office: Omaha office, (402) 221‑4691; connects you to lenders, SBA 7(a), 504, and microloan options, and to federal certifications. (sba.gov)
• America’s SBDC – Nebraska (NBDC): free one‑on‑one advising on business plans, cash flow, pricing, and funding strategy; statewide locations; request a session through the directory. (unomaha.edu)
• Nebraska APEX Accelerator (government contracting help): no‑cost help to sell to city, county, state, and federal buyers; run by NBDC with frequent workshops. (unomaha.edu)
• GROW Nebraska Women’s Business Center: training, B.A.I.L. office hours (banker, accountant, insurance, legal), and events aimed at women entrepreneurs. (members.grownebraska.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: if you cannot get an appointment quickly, call SBA Nebraska directly for a warm referral to a lender or partner with current availability. (sba.gov)

Supportive benefits that make business possible

Child Care Subsidy so you can work or train

• Who qualifies: working, in Employment First, in school or training, attending medical or therapy visits, or ill/injured with documentation; two‑parent households must meet activity rules for both parents. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• Income limits: initial eligibility up to 185% FPL and review/redetermination up to 200% FPL through September 30, 2026 under LB 485 pilot; families over 100% FPL pay a 7% family fee. Effective 10/01/2024, monthly income examples are listed on the DHHS page. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• Find care: you may choose licensed centers, licensed family homes, license‑exempt care, or in‑home care subject to training and background checks for the provider. Approval can take up to six weeks for new providers. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• 2025 provider rates: DHHS updated rates to align with the 75th percentile of the Market Rate Survey for 2025–2027. (dhhs.ne.gov)

A quick income snapshot for three common household sizes

Source is DHHS Child Care for Parents page (effective 10/01/2024 and pilot through 9/30/2026). (dhhs.ne.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your provider is not enrolled: ask DHHS to send a referral and point your provider to the required safety training, background checks, and enrollment steps. Call (402) 471‑9152. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• If child care waits stall your launch: schedule evening SBDC sessions and apply for Kiva or SBA Microloans that don’t require in‑person bank visits right away. (sba.gov, kiva.org)

Taxes, payroll, and rules that trip up founders

• Sales and use tax basics: Nebraska state rate is 5.5%; many cities add local rates. Use DOR’s notifications and rate finder before your first sale. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• UI tax for new employers: new non‑construction rate is 1.25%; taxable wage base is $9,000\ast \ast (Category20employersuse\ast \ast$24,000). Access your account and file through NEworks. (dol.nebraska.gov)
• Minimum wage: $13.50 effective January 1, 2025; confirm labor standards and posters with NDOL. (dol.nebraska.gov)
• Time off compliance: Nebraska Healthy Families and Workplaces Act paid leave requirements begin October 1, 2025; NDOL has model notices and posters. (dol.nebraska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If rates or rules are unclear: call NDOL UI Tax Help Line (402) 471‑9898 and DOR Taxpayer Assistance (800) 742‑7474 to avoid penalties. (dol.nebraska.gov, revenue.nebraska.gov)

Real‑world examples

• Prototype grant to proof: early‑stage makers have used the Prototype Grant (average awards around tens of thousands) to pay engineers and materials, then moved to seed investment with Invest Nebraska. The state reports 60–90 prototype awards per year with average around $75,000. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• Kiva bridge funding: borrowers across the U.S. use 0% Kiva loans up to $15,000 within roughly 30–45 days total (application, private invite, public fundraising) to buy first inventory and set up childcare coverage for evening shifts. (kiva.org)

Typical timeline from idea to first sale

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using the business name before the filing is approved: signage and domain buys before approval risk rework costs; confirm name first on the SOS search. (sos.nebraska.gov)
• Skipping the newspaper publication: Nebraska requires it for LLCs; not doing it causes delays and extra fees. (nebraskalegislature.gov)
• Waiting too long to reserve Microenterprise Tax Credits: the annual pot is limited; apply early in the year. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• Assuming grants are easy cash: most funds are reimbursements or tax credits needing match or proof. Read the match and reimbursement rules in the program links. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• Forgetting payroll registrations after first hire: set up withholding and UI accounts before the first paycheck. (revenue.nebraska.gov, dol.nebraska.gov)

Application checklist

• Business basics: short plan with problem, customer, pricing, and 12‑month cash flow.
• Entity docs: SOS approval PDF, operating agreement, EIN letter.
• Publication proof: newspaper affidavit and proof filing confirmation.
• Tax accounts: DOR registration confirmation and local city license if required for your industry.
• Funding packet: personal ID, last two years personal tax returns, business plan, quotes on equipment, bank statements, and—if applying to CDR or NEF—forms they list on their sites. (cdr-nebraska.org, nebbiz.org)

Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: inclusive advising and events are available statewide through SBDC and GROW Nebraska Women’s Business Center; confidentiality is standard and services are free or low cost. (unomaha.edu, members.grownebraska.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Child Care Subsidy can extend up to age 19 for children with special needs; copays and provider options are outlined by DHHS. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: SBA resource partners coordinate with the region’s Veterans Business Outreach services; NEF lists a VBOC director and provides veteran‑focused training calendars. Contact SBA Nebraska for a direct veteran referral. (sba.gov, nebbiz.org)
• Immigrant and refugee single mothers: Center for Rural Affairs offers bilingual lending and advising; SBDC has a statewide bilingual advisor. Child Care Subsidy eligibility considers immigration status rules—apply to confirm. (cfra.org, sourcelinknebraska.com)
• Tribal single mothers: Native entrepreneurs can access APEX support through Nebraska Indian Community College programs focused on Omaha and Santee Sioux areas; ask about certifications like 8(a) and HUBZone. (thenicc.edu)
• Rural single mothers with limited access: schedule phone or virtual SBDC sessions; CFRA, NEF, and CDR lend statewide, and DHHS accepts online applications via iServe even with low bandwidth. (unomaha.edu, cfra.org, nebbiz.org)
• Single fathers: every program listed is gender‑inclusive; the same steps and contacts apply.
• Language access: DHHS provides Spanish materials and many partners offer bilingual staff; request interpreters when scheduling. (dhhs.ne.gov)

Where to get help by region

Women‑focused and community programs worth checking

• GROW Nebraska Women’s Business Center: recurring B.A.I.L. office hours and training series. (members.grownebraska.org)
• Entrepreneurs Education Collaborative (EEC): multi‑partner education series in the Omaha area; practical sessions on insurance, finance, and more. (sourcelinknebraska.com)
• No More Empty Pots Entrepreneur Journey: cohort‑style support with mentoring in North Omaha. (sourcelinknebraska.com)
• SourceLink Nebraska: one‑stop to request a free Personal Action Plan linking you to statewide resources. (sourcelinknebraska.com)

State contracting and city opportunities

• Nebraska APEX Accelerator: get bid‑ready for city, county, state, and federal contracts; they help with SAM, certifications, and BidMatch. (unomaha.edu)
• City of Omaha Small and Emerging Business program: certification can help you compete for city work. Contact the SEB Administrator (402) 444‑5066. (humanrights.cityofomaha.org)
• NDOT and airport DBE programs: for transportation‑related work, explore Disadvantaged Business Enterprise opportunities and local airport DBE plans. (dot.nebraska.gov)

Federal SBA loans at a glance

• 7(a): up to $5,000,000 with SBA guarantees typically 75–85% depending on size; use for working capital, equipment, real estate, and more. (sba.gov)
• 504: up to $5,500,000 for long‑term fixed‑asset financing, through a Certified Development Company; 10‑, 20‑, and 25‑year terms. (sba.gov)
• Microloan: up to $50,000\ast \ast vianonprofitintermediarieslikeCDR;averagearound\ast \ast$13,000; up to seven‑year terms. (sba.gov)
• Note on fees and policy: SBA fee schedules and policies change; check SBA Nebraska or sba.gov for the current year’s fee notices and program guidance. (sba.gov)

If you sell or hire in Nebraska

• Sales tax: default 5.5% state rate plus local. Use DOR’s notices for city‑specific changes. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• Withholding and W‑2 filing deadlines: see the 2025 employer reminders and due dates on the DOR withholding page. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• Unemployment insurance: enroll through NEworks before you run payroll; find your new‑employer rate and file quarterly. (dol.nebraska.gov)

Frequently asked questions

• Where do I file my Nebraska LLC online: Secretary of State eDelivery. Filing fee is $100 online. (sos.nebraska.gov)
• Do I really have to publish a notice for my Nebraska LLC: yes; publish three consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper near your designated office, then file proof. (nebraskalegislature.gov)
• What is the fastest small‑dollar capital in Nebraska: SBA Microloan or Kiva 0% loan; CDR and NEF are common first stops. (sba.gov, cdr-nebraska.org, nebbiz.org)
• Is there a real state grant for brand‑new startups: the Small Business Assistance Act grants are closed and reported as discontinued; look to Prototype Grants, SBIR/STTR match, Seed Investment, or SSBCI‑backed loans instead. (opportunity.nebraska.gov, grownebraska.org)
• How much can the Microenterprise Tax Credit pay me: up to $20,000 lifetime per applicant at 20% of growth; apply early each year. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• What is the state sales tax rate: 5.5% statewide plus any city add‑on. (revenue.nebraska.gov)
• Who can help me export: Nebraska’s STEP team; you must match 25% of eligible costs. (opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• How do I get free help with government contracting: Nebraska APEX Accelerator at NBDC offers no‑cost advising and workshops. (unomaha.edu)
• Can childcare be covered while I start up: yes, if you are working, in approved training or education, or meeting other allowed activities; income up to 185% FPL initial and 200% review under the pilot through 2026; copay 7% above 100% FPL. (dhhs.ne.gov)
• What is the new‑employer UI rate: 1.25% for non‑construction in 2025, taxable wage base $9,000\ast \ast (Category20uses\ast \ast$24,000). (dol.nebraska.gov)

What to do when something stalls

• Bank says no: take your plan to CDR or NEF and the SBDC; ask about SBA Microloan or SSBCI Growth Loan Fund options that work alongside banks. (cdr-nebraska.org, nebbiz.org, opportunity.nebraska.gov)
• Grant not available this cycle: line up a Prototype application or SBIR/STTR match for the next window; meanwhile, use Kiva to test demand and build a track record. (opportunity.nebraska.gov, kiva.org)
• Childcare waitlist: switch to a license‑exempt provider who completes required checks; ask DHHS for a referral to start the approval. (dhhs.ne.gov)

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers focused on turning government program rules into plain‑English steps that work in real life.

Sources and approach: We use only official state and federal websites and established nonprofits, link to application portals, phone numbers, and program documents, and verify links at publication. See our Editorial Standards for our methodology and update cycle.

Last verified: September 2025, Next review: April 2026.

Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org within 48–72 hours we respond and fix verified errors.

Disclaimer

Program details change often: benefit limits, tax rates, grant cycles, and application forms update through the year. Always verify on the linked official pages or by calling the listed numbers before you apply or spend money.

No legal or tax advice: this guide is for general information. For legal, tax, licensing, or accounting decisions, consult a qualified professional.

Security reminder: when you apply online, use official .gov websites or established nonprofit portals linked above; avoid sharing personal data over public Wi‑Fi or through links you didn’t request.

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