Nebraska Rural Workforce Housing Fund (RWHF)
Funds nonprofit organizations in rural Nebraska with matching support for workforce and housing-focused developments.
The Nebraska Rural Workforce Housing Fund is a competitive state housing program created under LB518 in 2017. It sits under the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and targets affordable housing in smaller counties, excluding Douglas, Lancaster, and Sarpy. The fund provides matching grants to nonprofit development organizations, with a 2024 allocation of $12.5 million. The 2024 cycle ran from October 17, 2024 to January 15, 2025, and it supported new owner-occupied housing up to $325,000, new rental units up to $250,000, substantial rehab, upper-story housing, and conversions. Applicants need at least 25% match from private, local, or nonprofit sources. Evaluation turns on workforce housing need, employment pressure, community commitment, the likelihood of occupancy within 24 months, and the applicant's ability to manage the fund. The strongest proposals are rooted in a local housing gap and show that the organization can move quickly from award to construction with a capable local sponsor.
No upcoming rounds verified. Cadence: Annual.