The subject invention pertains to compositions and methods for promoting repair of damaged nerve tissue using nerve grafts and preparation of nerve grafts. The compositions and methods of the subject invention can be employed to restore the continuity of nerve interrupted by disease, traumatic events or surgical procedures. Compositions of the subject invention comprise one or more chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG)-degrading enzymes that promote axonal penetration into damaged nerve tissue and nerve graft. The invention also concerns methods for promoting repair of damaged nerve tissue using the present compositions and nerve tissue treated according to such methods. The invention also includes storage solutions for nerve tissue.