About REAP
The Rural Enterprise Assistance Project (REAP) is a program of the Center for Rural Affairs focusing on small business development. REAP consists of four elements including: networking, business management training, credit (micro-loans) and technical assistance.
REAP Staff
Center for Rural Affairs' REAP staff are located across Nebraska to provide full service to Nebraska's rural micro entrepreneurs. Each Business Specialist serves one of 7 regions across the state. We also have 2 bilingual staff members.
Advisory Board
Advisory Board members are recruited for their special backgrounds and insight into our program areas. They meet quarterly with the Board of Directors and staff.
Mission & History
REAP was started by the Center for Rural Affairs in 1990 to meet the needs of the self-employed in the rural Midwest. Center studies in the late 1980’s showed a high rate of self-employment in rural areas, but no economic development strategies to help this sector.
FAQs
Find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about REAP.
Our Funding
REAP is funded through multiple sources, including: the Community Development Block Grant program through the Nebraska Department of Economic Development; Nebraska Enterprise Fund through the Nebraska Microenterprise Development Act; Small Business Administration Microloan & Women’s Business Center Programs; the United States Department of Agriculture; and many foundations and gracious donors.
