Nebraska Innovation Ecosystem
Nebraska fosters business innovation through various support systems. The innovation ecosystem provides mentoring, consulting, connections, and funding opportunities to help early-stage ventures thrive. Innovation support organizations nurturing homegrown talent by guiding young companies through the entrepreneurial process. This robust ecosystem cultivates the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation across Nebraska.
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The Nebraska Business Development Center’s Innovation and Technology program is a statewide, nonprofit program committed to advancement of science, technology, and innovative economic development.
Schedule a no-cost informational consulting session with an NBDC Innovation and Technology Consultant to learn more!
Innovation Support Organizations
Launching a successful venture requires more than just passion and ideas – it takes a robust support system. SourceLink Nebraska links entrepreneurs to the resources they need to transform innovative concepts into thriving businesses.
Startup Founder Assistance
Nebraska has a robust network of organizations that provide critical support to startup founders. While covering a range of industries, these organizations share a common goal of fostering an entrepreneurial spirit and promoting business growth in Nebraska.
Makerspaces
Makerspaces provide Nebraska entrepreneurs affordable access to advanced tools like 3D printers and laser cutters to prototype. These creative hubs empower innovators to turn ideas into products and start businesses across Nebraska.
Incubators & Accelerators
Early-stage startups can get a boost from incubators and accelerators that provide structured support to help them succeed. While incubators offer longer programs focused on nurturing ideas, teams, and prototypes, accelerators rapidly advance startups targeting major goals like funding and product-market fit.
SBIR/STTR Grant Programs
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant programs provide critical funding for small business innovation, while federal agencies guided by congressional mandates offer opportunities targeting key priority areas and make competitive awards to small businesses developing technologies with strong commercial potential.
Grants
Seeking grant funding can provide startups with capital infusion without creating debt or surrendering valuable equity. Grants are rare and can be difficult to attain. However, entrepreneurs who thoroughly research potential grant opportunities may discover funding sources aligned with their vision to help scale business operations.
Seed Investment, Venture Capital, & Angel Investors
Seeking capital to launch your startup? Search this section to connect with investor programs, venture capital firms, angel investors, and other sources of seed funding. Learn about different funding options to accelerate growth. Find resources to help secure the capital you need to realize your business ideas.
Loan Options
Traditional bank loans are one option, though startups often lack the operating history and collateral to qualify. However, there are alternative lending sources. Leveraging loans is one strategy entrepreneurs can use to access the capital they need to start their businesses.