SPN covered a lot of ground in 2023 as we dove into Nebraska’s entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem. Founder profiles, award and funding announcements, feature stories and guest posts were among the most-read content SPN published in 2023. Below is a list of the 11 most popular stories from last year starting with the earliest publication date to the most recent. Enjoy!
Behind the scenes: startup life in Nebraska
What’s it really like to work for a startup in Nebraska? We talked to a startup advisor, a recent college grad, a director of software engineering and a former startup employee to find out. Collectively the group has more than 20 years of experience working in startups in roles ranging from entry level to executive.
This Omaha designer is 3D printing the future of eyewear
Omaha-based Alan Tipp was one of SPN’s first interviews way back in 2009 when he was designing performance eyewear for Under Armour. Since then he’s accumulated dozens of patents and launched an innovation consultancy to help other inventors turn their ideas into retail-ready products.
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Nebraska startup Geokey closes $2M seed round
In May Geokey closed a $2M round of seed funding that the company will use to expand its mobile access control platform to more apartment complexes around the U.S. over the next 18 months.
Move VC: Writing the first check for Nebraska founders
Early stage founders in Nebraska have a new resource for funding and education with the launch of MOVE Venture Capital in January 2023. SPN recently connected with managing partner Charlie Cuddy to learn more about the firm, its progress since launching in January and MOVE’s plans for the future.
This AgTech startup invented a robot to eliminate one deadly hazard from farming
Grain Weevil was named the 2022 NBDC Innovation Business of the Year in recognition of their efforts to eliminate grain bin deaths through the invention of an autonomous robot. The Grain Weevil robot is currently undergoing trials in grain bins in four states as part of its safety certification.
Two Nebraska startups take home top industry awards
Maxwell and Entry Envy both earned top honors in their respective industries at international conferences in June. Meet the founders and learn more about their road to recognition.
A “Superb” solution to nursing home staffing woes
Low wages and high burnout rates make it difficult for senior care facilities to attract and retain staff. An Omaha CNA-turned-healthcare administrator-turned startup founder realized an opportunity to address these challenges.
A sweet homecoming for Nebraska food scientist-turned-candymaker
After years as a food scientist for candy companies Hershey’s and Ferrara, Nebraska-native Tessa Porter returned home to start the state’s only candy supplier: Sprinkk. Now, Porter works with clients to develop formulas for candies and find accessible places to manufacture.
Three lessons learned after three years & $3.4M invested
NMotion Managing Principal Scott Henderson reflects on investing more than $3M in Nebraska startups over the last three years.
Omaha companies navigate hybrid work and invest in upgrading office spaces
The COVID-19 pandemic changed how and where Nebraskans work. Omaha companies are exploring ways to make their physical workspaces more appealing in a hybrid work environment.
Thank You Neverland
An open letter to the Nebraska startup community from Swishboom founder Kellee Mikuls reflecting on her decision to close her startup.
