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newsletter, May 20 – prototype

Prototyping is an important step in bringing a product or invention to life.

One inventor at the Hot Shops shared his prototyping journey in pursuit of creating eyewear that stays put without using your ears. His invention is particularly suited for surgeons and dentists, and for children with unique facial features.

The MCC Prototype Design Lab was an essential resource for inventor and founder James Hermsen. The lab is based at the Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha Campus and is open to the public.

Learn more about how inventors are leveraging the prototype lab in the story on SPN.

Upcoming Events

  • RSVP for the 2nd Techstars Founder Catalyst Showcase, Wednesday, May 27, 5-7:30 p.m., at the Ashton in Millwork Commons. 
  • Check out the next AI Omaha Meetup: Creative AI Across Music, Video, Art & Education, Thursday, June 4, 5:30-7 p.m., at Catalyst in the EDGE District.
  • Save your spot at the Tech Omaha Summer Party Thursday, June 25, 5-9:30 p.m., at Slowdown. 
  • Get your ticket to the OMA x AI Conference, Tuesday, June 30, on the University of Nebraska at Omaha campus.
  • Registration is open for AgTech Connect 2026, Wednesday, July 15, at Nebraska Innovation Campus Conference Center in Lincoln.

See more events on SPN »

ICYMI: Updates from around the ecosystem

  • More than a hackathon: Open Range and Techstars bring startup weekend to Omaha June 5-7
  • All-women cohort of entrepreneurs competed for over $91k worth of prizes at Pitch Black 2026
  • Meet serial entrepreneur Thanh Nguyen in the latest Prairie Portrait
  • On 15th anniversary, the Business Innovation Act is a showcase for Nebraska government policy gone right

Have an announcement or event you’d like to share in an upcoming newsletter? Send it to tips@siliconprairienews.com.

Until next week!

Sincerely,

Stefanie Monge, SPN Editor

Stefanie Monge, Executive Editor

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