"These awards represent an interesting example of wide-ranging and varied economic development opportunities that exist for communities thanks to the BECA program," said Richard Baier, DED director. "I'm referring specifically to the partnerships involving work with schools and youth, and recruiting residents."

Part of the Nebraska Advantage incentive package, the program is administered by the Nebraska Rural Development Commission. Projects receiving grants include:

•The Village of Chapman and City of Central City were awarded $15,681.75 to train Merrick County residents in entrepreneurial, and workplace and life planning skills. The training also will encompass the promotion of tourism, and historical and artistic activities. Merrick Foundation, Inc. will provide financial support for this project. Contact Chuck Griffith at 308-946-3707.

•The City of Kimball and Kimball Public School District were awarded $1,150 to host Huskerpreneur Camp, a three-day interactive, hands-on camp designed to cultivate and develop future entrepreneurs in rural western Nebraska. Financial support will be provided by Kimball-Banner County Chamber of Commerce, Forward Kimball Industries, City of Kimball Economic Development, Kimball School Foundation, Kimball Area Foundation, and partners including various businesses and organizations. Contact Kent Worker at 308-235-3639.

•The Communities of Cedar Rapids, Albion, Petersburg, and St. Edward were awarded $15,500 to implement an initiative that fosters economic revitalization and wealth generation in economically distressed Boone County, using strategies that build effective and sustainable community economic development capacity. The grant funds will go toward employing an intern who conducts alumni research, and develops a database and social networking site. The funds also will help develop of Leadership/Capacity Building and Volunteer Training. Financial support will be provided by Boone County Development Agency, Boone County Area Foundation, Albion Economic Development, Cedar Valley Area Foundation, Petersburg Industrial Development Corporation, and St. Edward Development Corporation. Contact Shannon Landauer at 402-395-3356.

•The City of Wayne and Wayne County were awarded $42,400 to assist with implementation of a comprehensive workforce/people recruitment campaign and leadership program. The project's financial partners include the City of Wayne, Wayne County, Wayne Community School District and Wayne Area Economic Development. Contact David Simonsen at 402-375-2240.

•Thayer County, Butler County, David City, and Seward County were awarded $21,600 to link community leaders and youth in the pursuit of entrepreneurship education. The program's objectives include establishing new youth-run community businesses and a program for developing future local enterprises. Financial support will be provided by Thayer County Economic Development Alliance, Butler County Chamber of Commerce, Seward County Bridges, Inc., Krieger Family Foundation, and Nebraska Farm Bureau Services, Inc. Contact Phyllis Schoenholz at 402-768-7212.

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