Hiya folks, Lev here.

It’s a sign of the times. Tech is now integral to all parts of our lives, from healthcare and transportation to HR and agriculture. That also means tech is at the heart of state and local policy and a big driver for Nebraska’s economy.

For Tech Nebraska, that means it’s the right moment to split off from the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry. On Sept. 1, the tech association and advocacy organization will be its own 501(c)(6) after three years being incubated under the chamber’s wing.

“One of the things I appreciate most is that Tech Nebraska had the opportunity to grow within that infrastructure while developing its own identity, membership, board leadership, programming and policy priorities,” said Emily Allen, Tech Nebraska’s executive director. “We’re taking those lessons and relationships with us as we move into this next stage.”

The split is amicable, and Tech Nebraska and the Nebraska Chamber will still work together on a host of overlapping issues. But independence will help Tech Nebraska pursue advocacy as it sees fit while expanding membership across the state.

Though started by corporations like Meta, Google, Werner Enterprises and Kiewit Corporation, Tech Nebraska is also working to bring on all manner of businesses and startups. Don’t Panic Labs, a stalwart of the state’s startup ecosystem, is on the advisory board, as are Nelnet and Invest Nebraska.

Read more in the story on SPN.