Nebraska is rapidly becoming a hub for innovation, and part of that growth is due to forward-thinking programs like the Nebraska Prototype Grant. This grant, offered through the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, is designed to assist startups and entrepreneurs in turning their ideas into marketable products. By providing funding for the development of prototypes, it helps businesses take the leap from concept to reality.

For companies like ShineForth, based in Omaha, Nebraska, this grant represents an exciting opportunity to partner with local innovators and provide the technical expertise required to build cutting-edge solutions.

What is the Nebraska Prototype Grant?

The Nebraska Prototype Grant offers up to $150,000 in matching funds for the development of a prototype, typically covering 50% of project costs. The goal is to support Nebraska-based entrepreneurs and startups in their early stages by de-risking the financial burden of creating a functional prototype. This allows businesses to refine their product before seeking additional investment or going to market.

By targeting the prototype phase, the grant fills a critical gap in funding that often limits the ability of new businesses to scale. Entrepreneurs who meet the requirements can use the grant to cover expenses related to product design, development, and testing.

How ShineForth Can Help

At ShineForth, we are passionate about fostering innovation and supporting Nebraska's thriving tech scene. With extensive experience in custom software development and web solutions, ShineForth can play a key role in helping grant recipients create functional, market-ready prototypes.

Here are a few ways we can help entrepreneurs and startups make the most of the Nebraska Prototype Grant:

1. Software Development Expertise: Whether you're building a mobile app, web application, or a complex software platform, ShineForth has the know-how to bring your vision to life. Our team specializes in creating scalable, user-friendly software solutions that meet your specific needs.

2. Website Optimization: In today’s market, having a polished, optimized online presence is crucial. ShineForth has worked with local businesses like Scooters Coffee and Omaha National, helping them boost online performance. We can ensure your prototype is backed by a robust digital strategy that supports your business growth.

3. Custom Solutions Tailored to Your Product: Every product is unique, and at ShineForth, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We will work closely with you to understand the intricacies of your project and tailor our development services to suit your goals.

ShineForth’s Experience Working with Grant Recipients

At ShineForth, we’ve had the privilege of partnering with several clients who have been awarded the Nebraska Prototype Grant. Our experience has shown that the grant not only provides vital financial support but also creates momentum for the projects we work on. Here’s how we’ve helped bring ideas to life:

1. Collaborative Development Process: We’ve worked with startups that come to us at different stages of their journey. One of our strengths is our ability to seamlessly integrate into their team, understanding their product vision, and building it from the ground up. In many cases, the funding from the Nebraska Prototype Grant enabled these clients to accelerate their development timelines while maintaining high quality.

2. Guidance Through Technical Challenges: Developing a prototype can be daunting, especially for entrepreneurs without a technical background. We’ve helped several grant recipients navigate technical hurdles such as selecting the right tech stack, integrating features, and ensuring scalability.

3. Long-Term Growth and Scalability: The ultimate goal of any prototype is to transition it into a market-ready product. Through our work with grant recipients, we ensure that prototypes are not only functional but also scalable for future growth. This forward-thinking approach has helped our clients secure additional rounds of funding and prepare for product launch.

4. Supporting Local Innovation: One of the most rewarding aspects of working with Nebraska Prototype Grant recipients is seeing how these projects impact the local community. By helping entrepreneurs turn their ideas into tangible products, we contribute to the growing innovation ecosystem in Nebraska.

Success Stories in Nebraska

Several Nebraska companies have already benefited from the Prototype Grant, using it as a springboard for future growth. From tech startups developing new software platforms to innovative manufacturers building next-gen hardware, the grant has been instrumental in turning ideas into viable products.

For example, local Omaha-based startup Navi Savi used the Prototype Grant to develop a cutting-edge travel app. With the help of ShineForth's software expertise, they successfully created a platform that was not only functional but also scalable, allowing them to secure additional funding and enter the market with confidence.

Why Nebraska Entrepreneurs Should Apply

The Nebraska Prototype Grant is a game-changer for entrepreneurs and startups who want to transform innovative ideas into tangible products. By alleviating some of the financial strain involved in the prototype phase, it empowers business owners to focus on refining their solutions and preparing for market launch.

If you’re a Nebraska entrepreneur looking to develop a new product or software solution, this grant is a great resource to consider. And with a trusted partner like ShineForth, you’ll have the technical expertise needed to create a prototype that’s not only functional but also ready for market success.

Ready to Get Started?

ShineForth is committed to supporting Nebraska’s growing innovation ecosystem. If you’re thinking about applying for the Nebraska Prototype Grant, reach out to us to see how we can help with your product development journey. From software development to website optimization, ShineForth has the expertise to ensure your prototype is ready for success.

Together, let’s turn your innovative ideas into reality. Contact us today to learn more!

References

“Nebraska Innovation Fund Prototype Grants.” Nebraska Department of Economic Development, 13 June 2024, opportunity.nebraska.gov/programs/business/nif-prototype-grants/.