The Nebraska Legislature adjourned its 2024 session on Thursday, April 18. While a combination of filibusters and only 60 working days limited the number of bills debated, the Center was pleased to see a much needed injection of state support for child care providers, health care affordability, and broadband development ..read more

A farm stand can be an excellent way to diversify your revenue, connect with your audience, and market your goods. Not only are these stands a convenient way to sell your products, but they’re also a great way to educate visitors about your farming practices and connect with your customers ..read more

The Center for Rural Affairs is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $62 million grant under the Solar for All program. With this grant, the Center will focus on ensuring that low-income and ..read more

In her previous role with the Center, Jessica frequently encountered individuals eager to launch or enhance their businesses. And as she referred them to the Center’s Lending Services staff, she couldn't shake the feeling of wanting to do more. Now as a loan specialist, Jessica is able to support small businesses and facilitate homeownership opportunities across the state ..read more

En su puesto anterior en el Centro, Jessica se encontraba con frecuencia con personas ansiosas por lanzar o mejorar sus negocios. Y cuando los envió al personal de Servicios de Préstamos del Centro, no pudo evitar la sensación de querer hacer más. Ahora como especialista de préstamos, Jessica apoya a las pequeñas empresas y facilita oportunidades de propiedad de vivienda en todo el estado ..read more

In the early morning hours on Saturday, April 20, the Iowa Legislature adjourned for the final time this session. As they moved toward a conclusion, lawmakers passed a series of budget bills and final ..read more

Michelle and Scott Herbolsheimer dreamed of reviving a once-bustling community hub when they bought the old derelict gas station at the edge of Oakland. Buying a gas station was more than a business opportunity for Michelle and Scott. The purchase offered them the chance to revive a piece of Michelle’s history ..read more

Michelle y Scott Herbolsheimer soñaban con revivir un centro comunitario que alguna vez fue ruidoso cuando compraron la antigua estación de servicio abandonada en las afueras de Oakland. Comprar una gasolinera fue más que una oportunidad de negocio para Michelle y Scott. La compra les ofreció la oportunidad de revivir un pedazo de la historia de Michelle ..read more

Renewable energy development, energy conservation, and energy efficiency improvements offer an opportunity for rural communities to save money, become more energy-resilient, and increase the reliability of the electric grid. While many Nebraska communities are interested in such improvements, the upfront costs associated with energy-related projects have often been initially prohibitive—until now ..read more

The end of the 2024 Iowa legislative session is near. Today, April 16, marks the 100th day of legislative work and is the last day legislators will receive per diem stipends for their time spent in ..read more