The statewide tech association and lobbying organization was started in partnership with the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Now, it will pursue growth in tech advocacy and membership with an independent voice while still working with the chamber on common causes.

Nebraska Journalism Trust announces new ownership of Silicon Prairie News and Silicon Prairie Startup Week.

The Nebraska startup ecosystem hosts a variety of events to bring entrepreneurs, experts, community members and resources together in one space. To stay up to date on current offerings, here is an updated list of free weekly and monthly gatherings open to the public that encourage collaboration and innovation around the state.

In 2011, Young helped pass the Business Innovation Act, the cornerstone state program helping startups. He also has worked across the Nebraska business community on policy issues. Young takes the helm of the NE Chamber as the state wrestles with brain drain and job growth issues.

Techstars is a global startup accelerator and professional network. The Nebraska-based nonprofit Open Range helps lead the local reach of the 10-week program, connecting founders across Omaha, Lincoln and the wider state to the mentorship and connection-building opportunity. The deadline to apply is Aug. 21.

After a six-month lapse, these federal grants are available again — with new rules on foreign ties, proposal limits and opportunities for additional money.

The four-month program is meant to help pre-seed companies prepare their go-to-market strategies for the complex world of healthcare. Prospective companies are invited to apply by July 3.

OMA x AI is the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s way of setting a citywide agenda for AI use at local companies and organizations. The conference will include speakers from Nebraska companies like Buildertrend and Pedal Works, with sessions ranging from how founders can use AI to the way local hospitals are deploying AI tools.