FAQs
The Rural Enterprise Assistance Project (REAP), a program of the Center for Rural Affairs, is a small business development program. REAP includes four components: business management training; a loan fund; networking; and technical assistance. REAP staff provide assistance to all members of a local REAP group or to individual “at-large” members on an ongoing basis as requested.
REAP is the largest full-service microenterprise development program in Nebraska and the only program that strives to serve all of the state’s rural areas.
Does REAP charge for services?
Yes, some REAP training events and other services are available for additional fees. Individual and Group membership options are available. Individual membership is $30 per year and Peer group membership varies by group. Contact your area REAP Business Specialist for availability of group membership in your area and fees for additional services.
Who is the REAP contact in my area?
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. Find the REAP contact in your area.
Who qualifies for REAP Services?
Startup or existing small businesses physically located in rural Nebraska qualify for REAP services. (REAP can provide services and place loans virtually everywhere in Nebraska with the exception of Lincoln or Omaha. Programs similar to REAP are available in Lincoln or Omaha.) REAP is a microenterprise development program and works with small business that have five or fewer employees.
How do I join?
Joining REAP is very simple. All you need to do is fill out our Business Profile (MS word file) and LMI Form (MS word file) and send to your area REAP Business Specialist.
Does REAP provide grants to small businesses?
The REAP program provides loans and not grants. Outside of special programs like the Women & Co.® Microenterprise Boost Program, REAP does not provide grants to small businesses.
How do I apply for a REAP loan?
A borrower has several options in applying for a REAP loan. In completing loan documentation for the REAP Rapid Loan and REAP Direct Loan Pre-Application, you can 1) Fill out the application online, 2) Download the documents, fill out and send to area Business Specialist, or 3) Call your area REAP Business Specialist and have them mail or email loan documents. The area REAP Business Specialist is available for one-on-one technical assistance help in completing the loan documentation.
