binarypublishHere’s a look at the most read stories published on SPN in 2023. Check it out and see if your favorite story made the list.
- Behind the scenes: startup life in Nebraska
- This Omaha designer is 3D printing the future of eyewear
- Nebraska startup Geokey closes $2M seed round
- Move VC: Writing the first check for Nebraska founders
- This AgTech startup invented a robot to eliminate one deadly hazard from farming
- Two Nebraska startups take home top industry awards
- A “Superb” solution to nursing home staffing woes
- A sweet homecoming for Nebraska food scientist-turned-candymaker
- Three lessons learned after three years & $3.4M invested
- Omaha companies navigate hybrid work and invest in upgrading office spaces
- Thank You Neverland
In 2023, Silicon Prairie News covered a variety of topics related to Nebraska’s entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem. From founder profiles to award and funding announcements, the publication provided valuable insights into the local startup community. Below are some of the most popular stories from the year:
1. Behind the scenes: startup life in Nebraska
This article explores what it’s really like to work for a startup in Nebraska. Interviews with startup advisors, recent college grads, directors of software engineering, and former startup employees provide a comprehensive view of the startup experience in the state.
2. This Omaha designer is 3D printing the future of eyewear
Alan Tipp, an Omaha-based designer, has been using 3D printing technology to revolutionize the eyewear industry. With numerous patents to his name, Tipp’s innovation consultancy helps other inventors bring their ideas to market.
3. Nebraska startup Geokey closes $2M seed round
Geokey, a Nebraska-based startup, secured $2 million in seed funding to expand its mobile access control platform to more apartment complexes across the US. The company aims to improve security and convenience for residents.
4. Move VC: Writing the first check for Nebraska founders
MOVE Venture Capital, a new resource for early stage founders in Nebraska, was launched in January 2023. The firm provides funding and education to help startups thrive. Managing partner Charlie Cuddy discusses the firm’s progress and future plans.
5. This AgTech startup invented a robot to eliminate one deadly hazard from farming
Grain Weevil, an AgTech startup, was recognized as the 2022 NBDC Innovation Business of the Year for its invention of an autonomous robot that eliminates grain bin deaths. The robot is currently undergoing trials in four states.
6. Two Nebraska startups take home top industry awards
Maxwell and Entry Envy, two Nebraska-based startups, received top honors in their respective industries at international conferences. The article highlights the founders’ journeys and their success stories.
7. A “Superb” solution to nursing home staffing woes
This article addresses the challenges faced by senior care facilities in attracting and retaining staff due to low wages and high burnout rates. An Omaha CNA-turned-healthcare administrator-founded startup offers a solution to these issues.
8. A sweet homecoming for Nebraska food scientist-turned-candymaker
Tessa Porter, a Nebraska-native and former food scientist for Hershey’s and Ferrara, returned home to start Sprinkk, the state’s only candy supplier. Porter works with clients to develop candy formulas and find suitable manufacturing locations.
9. Three lessons learned after three years & $3.4M invested
Scott Henderson, the managing principal of NMotion, reflects on investing over $3 million in Nebraska startups over the past three years. He shares valuable lessons learned from his experiences.
10. Omaha companies navigate hybrid work and invest in upgrading office spaces
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Omaha companies are adapting to hybrid work environments. The article explores how these companies are upgrading their office spaces to accommodate this new way of working.
11. Thank You Neverland
In a heartfelt letter, Swishboom founder Kellee Mikuls expresses gratitude to the Nebraska startup community while reflecting on her decision to close her startup. The letter serves as a testament to the support and camaraderie within the local ecosystem.
These 11 stories from 2023 highlight the diversity and innovation within Nebraska’s entrepreneurship and innovation scene. From technological advancements in industries like eyewear and agriculture to the challenges faced by healthcare and senior care sectors, Silicon Prairie News showcased the inspiring stories of founders, startups, and industry disruptors. The publication’s coverage serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the growth and development of Nebraska’s startup community.
