LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The state of Nebraska has received nearly $4.5 million to help businesses grow and create jobs.

The U.S. Treasury Department recently awarded the money to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development.

The money will be used to help companies in the early stages of their development grow. The money will be used for loans and investments in businesses.

This is the third installment of money the state has received from the Treasury Department. Altogether, Nebraska has received $13.17 million since October 2011.