Lincoln, Nebraska: A Thriving Hub for Startups and Entrepreneurs

by Jason Ball, President & CEO

Lincoln Chamber of Commerce & Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development 

It is a great time to be a part of Lincoln’s business community, and for entrepreneurs on the verge of something big, Lincoln is an incredible place to call home. With responsive business leaders, a robust ecosystem of resources and an innovative community spirit, Lincoln provides a dynamic environment for both seasoned entrepreneurs and those just beginning their journey to start or scale their business. 

A Wealth of Resources for Startups 

A key advantage of launching a business in Lincoln is the wealth of resources available to entrepreneurs. At the heart of this support is StartupLNK.com, a comprehensive hub that serves as a roadmap for early-stage companies. From connecting startups to local incubators and accelerators to offering guidance on securing funding, overcoming challenges and accessing coworking spaces, it is a one-stop destination for any startup looking to gain momentum. For those seeking to grow and succeed in Lincoln, StartupLNK.com is an essential tool to unlock opportunities and drive success.

The LaunchLNK Grant Program, led by the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, is another game-changing resource for early-stage companies, playing a pivotal role in driving their growth. Each year, six startups are awarded a $20,000 grant, along with invaluable connections to investors and other important resources. With an incredible track record of success with program alumni such as Basic Block, Pawlytics, and Senior Care Finder, LaunchLNK has become a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth. Since its inception in 2018, LaunchLNK has been a steady force behind Lincoln’s startup ecosystem, with alumni collectively securing nearly $100 million in follow-on funding and grants. By helping startups scale rapidly, the program boosts innovation, productivity and a positive impact on Lincoln’s economy. To learn more about the LaunchLNK Grant Program, visit LaunchLNK.com. 

The Power of Community Support 

Community support plays a vital role in nurturing Lincoln’s startup ecosystem, providing not just resources but a thriving environment where collaboration and innovation flourish. Coworking spaces like Turbine Flats and FUSE Coworking Space exemplify this power. Turbine Flats has grown to over 40,000 square feet, becoming an “idea community” for over 30 companies, fostering connections among startups, freelancers and small businesses. Similarly, FUSE Coworking Space provides entrepreneurs a network of innovation, offering a diverse environment for idea sharing and connection building. Together, coworking spaces in Lincoln provide both the physical and social infrastructure to empower startups to grow and succeed.

Startup Ecosystem Elevation

Another indicator of Lincoln’s burgeoning startup ecosystem is the growth of the city’s annual Startup Week. Originally branded as Lincoln Startup Week, the week-long celebration of entrepreneurship evolved into the Silicon Prairie Startup Week in 2024. Reflecting the interconnected nature of the region’s entrepreneurial communities, this expansion now includes Omaha, Ashland and Council Bluffs, fostering inclusivity and a regional dialogue among entrepreneurs. The Silicon Prairie Startup Week unites founders, investors and innovators to share insights, highlight emerging technologies and build lasting relationships. The expansion of the event to include multiple cities in the Silicon Prairie demonstrates the area’s growth as a hub for entrepreneurial activity. For Lincoln startups, this means greater exposure, access to more resources and the ability to tap into a broader network that extends beyond the city’s borders.

Why Lincoln?

Lincoln offers a unique blend of resources, affordability and quality of life that makes it an incredible place to start and grow a business. The city boasts a relatively low cost of living compared to larger tech hubs, allowing entrepreneurs to stretch their budgets further. Additionally, Lincoln’s growing network of investors and local mentors provides crucial support for startups at all stages. Our strong education system, including Lincoln Public Schools and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, also contributes to a steady pipeline of talent right here in Lincoln. 

With a growing pool of resources and unwavering community support, Lincoln is proving itself to be more than just a great place to live — it’s becoming a premier destination for innovation and business growth in the Midwest. For anyone looking to launch or scale a business, Lincoln is the place to be.