The Nebraska Department of Transportation's Economic Opportunity Program provides local grants for strategic transportation improvements that enhance economic prosperity within the state. The program aims to attract or retain jobs and private capital investment in Nebraska. Eligible applicants include local public entities such as cities, counties, or MPOs, and NDOT encourages participation from private sector beneficiaries. Projects must demonstrate a clear need for transportation improvements and either lead to the creation or retention of high-quality jobs or result in new private capital investment. Applicants must provide matching funds equal to at least 25% of the total eligible transportation project costs. EOP funds may only cover transportation-related costs and cannot be used for certain population-serving or location-specific development. The program evaluates applications based on criteria such as the necessity of the grant for enabling business development, the impact on the local community, and the potential for future economic development opportunities. Applications can be submitted at any time, and successful applicants will enter into a contract with NDOT outlining the conditions for fund transfer. The program aims to make decisions within 30 days of receiving a completed application.