The History and Mission of GROW Nebraska
History
In 1998, Central Plains Foundation developed their state wide out reach program, GROW Nebraska™, a 501(c) 3 non-profit Entrepreneurial Service Organization* for Nebraska entrepreneurial businesses. Headquartered in the Central Plains Development Center in Holbrook, Nebraska, this statewide program focuses on building successful Nebraska businesses one at a time. In 1995, Central Plains Foundation, Inc. received a USDA Rural Development Grant to create a business plan and solidify objectives. After significant research into similar state based programs, and hosting a showcase event in November 1996, the GROW Nebraska™ Program officially began accepting members in 1998 and created the first annual GROW Nebraska™ Market. The initial membership included 61 businesses and five services.
GROW Nebraska™ has received support from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development to expand its services aimed at helping entrepreneurs boost their profits. A statewide board to govern the program was also created in 2003.
Mission
GROW Nebraska™ creates sustainable economic development by supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses through promotion, market access and education.
Vision
GROW Nebraska’s™ Vision is supporting Nebraska entrepreneurs and small businesses that produce a product or service through education, mentoring and marketing.
Theme
Connecting Nebraska entrepreneurs and businesses to the global marketplace.
GROW Nebraska™ is an Entrepreneurial Service Organization, which is membership-based and driven. GROW provides "entrepreneurial coaching" and market access opportunities to its members. Entrepreneurial coaching includes initial consultations, counseling, product evaluation and market access assistance. GROW Nebraska’s™ goal is to connect entrepreneurs and small businesses to the world marketplace.
