REAP

Our Rural Enterprise Assistance Project is committed to strengthening rural communities through small, self-employed business development. We offer four essential services: financing (micro loans), business training, technical assistance, and networking.

Call on REAP when you are thinking of starting a small business or if you already operate a small business in Nebraska.

Through REAP you can create a business plan, research potential markets and marketing ideas, discuss management issues with experienced business specialists, and apply for a small business loan.

Started in 1990, REAP has provided services to numerous micro/small businesses throughout Nebraska. (A micro business is defined as one with 10 or fewer employees.) We've placed over $8 million in loans and leveraged over $14 million in additional funds from other sources.

REAP Notes

 

REAP Newsletter Spring 2013

Energy Efficiency for Small Business
Small businesses typically spend 30% more of their operating costs on utility bills than large firms in the same industrial classification. Energy is seen as “the cost of doing business.” But those “fixed” costs can be reduced. Energy efficiency projects help improve your businesses’ cash flow and bottom line.

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Minden’s Cornerstone Grill Takes Off

Overwhelmed and astonished is how Cornerstone Grill owner Dan Pittner feels after nearly two months of operating his new business on the square in downtown Minden, Nebraska. Pittner and his wife, Jennifer, purchased Mookies Restaurant from Alec Geist in December. It reopened for business on January 2, and things have taken off for the Minden natives.

Perfect Turning Machine Turns Out Wonderfully

Kathy and Sonny Porter have been involved in the Perfect Turning Machine business for 15 years. Sonny used his hands-on know-how to develop his own components. They are used in land surveying instruments, firearms, and aerospace, along with manufacturing items for other businesses.

Sonny began his business journey in Greeley, Colorado, and then moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Several years ago he purchased a building and moved his machine shop to Kimball, Nebraska.

Women Entrepreneurs Conference Abuzz with Networking

What do you get when you have an event targeting entrepreneurial women? Lots of sharing of ideas, inspiration, and information! That’s what took place at the Women Entrepreneurs Conference held at the YWCA of Grand Island on March 20, 2013.

Marketing tips and advice came from Ann Martin of idea bank marketing in Hastings. Ann shared great information about customer service. You know how important first impressions are, right? Think of the voice that answers the phone at your business. Then carry that enthusiasm and service to your online and social media marketing.