Omaha’s entrepreneurial landscape is thriving, thanks to a variety of programs and resources dedicated to supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth. Aspiring entrepreneurs and established business owners alike can tap into these initiatives to enhance their ventures.
University of Nebraska Omaha’s Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Franchising (CIEF)
The CIEF serves as a bridge between future entrepreneurs and Omaha’s diverse business community. It offers scholarships, educational opportunities, and experiential learning programs. Notably, the Maverick Venture Fund provides students with hands-on experience in venture capital by allowing them to invest seed capital into startups founded by UNO students and alumni. Additionally, the Entrepreneurial Living Learning Community (ELLC) offers mentorship opportunities, pairing students with experienced entrepreneurs to discuss professional development and the challenges of business ownership. Learn more about CIEF’s programs.
Catholic Charities of Omaha’s Microbusiness & Asset Development Program
For nearly 30 years, this program has been empowering entrepreneurs to realize their dreams of business ownership. It provides a comprehensive business center that assists entrepreneurs and small business owners in developing sustainable business models. Services include a 40-hour, 16-class business training course offered in both English and Spanish, covering topics such as business planning, branding, target markets, taxes, accounting, insurance, and human resources. Scholarships are available to ensure accessibility. Discover more about the Microbusiness & Asset Development Program.
Empowerment Network’s Entrepreneurship Initiatives
The Empowerment Network collaborates with Revive Omaha! and other local organizations to expand the number of thriving businesses in North Omaha and throughout the city. Their focus is on connecting African-American and minority entrepreneurs to resources, training, and supportive networks that drive economic growth. Initiatives include monthly luncheons, workshops, business summits, and meetings on key topics like business planning, access to capital, marketing, and growth. Explore Empowerment Network’s entrepreneurship programs.
Greater Omaha Chamber’s REACH Program
REACH is the Greater Omaha Chamber’s flagship program for strengthening small and emerging businesses, especially in the construction sector. It delivers education, technical assistance, mentoring, and networking that help firms grow revenues, expand their workforce, and secure contracts. Since 2015, REACH has supported more than 500 businesses by building capacity and promoting inclusion in contracting and procurement. Learn more about the REACH program.
SourceLink Nebraska
SourceLink Nebraska is a one-stop shop for Nebraska entrepreneurs, existing business owners, and resource partners to find the right resource at the right time. It connects entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders to solutions by curating resources in one online platform, providing a tangible strategy to create, implement, and sustain a statewide system for ready and easy access to business and community development resources. Access SourceLink Nebraska.
These programs and resources exemplify Omaha’s commitment to nurturing its entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing the tools and support necessary for local businesses to thrive and contribute to the city’s economic vitality.