CQuence Health, UNeMed and the UNeTech Institute are partnering on the 16-week curriculum to prep Nebraska startups to navigate the complex world of health care. As part of the program, companies will hone their business plans and apply for federal SBIR funding.

The Omaha-based nonprofit organization launched in 2023 to connect and educate the Nebraska startup ecosystem. It has since expanded to offer a range of programs and services to support entrepreneurs across the Midwest.

The 10-week pre-accelerator convenes early-stage founders from around the world. Participants gain access to curated curriculum and expert-led coaching to help them scale their startup. Applications close Feb. 13. Local founders from the inaugural Fall 2025 cohort will participate in a showcase event Jan. 21.

The Werner Exchange is a new initiative and partnership between Werner and the Nebraska Startup Academy. The 12-week program offers enterprise validation and mentorship opportunities for logistics founders. Applications are open now and reviewed on a rolling basis.

Bartholomew, who started Jan. 5, is an entrepreneur and business owner hoping to support all parts of the entrepreneurship ecosystem. Top of mind: making sure all businesses know about and can access the founder community for help.

Early bird tickets are on sale now for IO2026: The Art & Science of Innovation. The innovation conference, held every two years, is happening at Sheldon Museum of Art in Lincoln on April 13. Keep reading to see what’s in store for this year’s event.

The program, run by the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, aims to grow Lincoln’s economy by offering seed funding and the equivalent of $15,000 in business support to six companies.

See which stories were the most popular on SPN in 2025 in this year-end roundup.

An EDC is a common model in Nebraska to provide gap financing for small businesses while also supporting such workforce development needs as housing and business attraction. Learning lessons from its previous dependence on one employer, an EDC could anchor Sidney’s efforts to diversify its economy.

Pitch Black is a flagship event for the Midlands African Chamber, held during its conference of the same name. The competition will take place on May 2, 2026, with a grand prize of up to $15,000.