Entrepreneurs in Nebraska are served by REAP staff across the state. The staff is organized by region. We share a glimpse of activities from every part of Nebraska. You can see the 5 REAP service areas here.

Western Region
REAP direct lending to Western Nebraska small businesses was over $128,000, in addition to leveraged loan packaging of over $90,000, creating over 15 new jobs. Technical assistance and QuickBooks training had a huge increase.

Southwest/Central Region
Midwest Outdoors, LLP expanded to a storefront in Grand Island though REAP assistance. Two cousins who have been hunting and fishing together since their youth decided to expand their passion and knowledge to a retail location. Chandler Honey Bottling and Chandler Sandhills Honey was able to leverage dollars from REAP and others to grow their business.

Southeast Region
Beatrice Collision Center opened its doors in July 2010. Chuck McKay, a native of Nebraska, had been residing in California for 18 years before returning home in 2005. REAP provided business plan and loan packaging assistance. Geneva State Bank and REAP provided start-up financing.

Don Plager, with his brothers and sister, purchased “Hoke Lumber” after owner Jim Hoke suddenly passed away. The business had three lumberyard locations in Tecumseh, Humboldt and Elk Creek. Don had been long-time manager of the Humboldt location. REAP provided assistance with the business plan preparation and loan packaging. Now known as Right Angle Lumber, the Plager family continues to operate the lumber yards in Southeast Nebraska!

Northeast Region
The Hispanic Business Center: created a number of computer trainings in Spanish to educate Hispanic business owners on the use of the technology. Over 320 individuals participated in the trainings. And 320 participants took advantage of various other computer/technical classes in the area.

North Central Region
Valley Fire Pottery, a new business in Ord, will soon be open for business. Guy and Jennifer Lewis, owners, say the gallery will be a center for painted ceramics, pottery classes, art gallery, coffee shop and studio, and classes will be available. The Ord Revolving Loan Fund and REAP assisted.