Discover a comprehensive directory of Nebraska-based manufacturing and business support resources—including workforce development programs, funding opportunities, startup incubators, and training initiatives—designed to help manufacturers and entrepreneurs grow, innovate, and compete.
Manufacturing Business Support
Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance
nemanufacturingalliance.com/about-us.html
The Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance formed in 2020 by five statewide groups, works to strengthen the state's manufacturing and STEM workforce. Focused on workforce development, supply chain growth, and Manufacturing 4.0 innovation, the Alliance aligns efforts across the industry. It also promotes high-tech careers, supports pro-manufacturing policies, and offers training and networking. In line with Blueprint Nebraska, the Alliance drives job growth, attracts talent, and boosts the state’s industrial competitiveness.
- Nebraska Manufacturing Advisory Council (NeMAC)
nemanufacturingalliance.com/nemac.html
The Nebraska Manufacturing Advisory Council (NeMAC) is an industry-led group that partners with state agencies to enhance Nebraska’s manufacturing competitiveness. Acting as a unified voice for manufacturers, NeMAC addresses challenges, supports workforce development, and advocates for policies that drive growth and strengthen the state’s second-largest economic sector.
- Nebraska Advanced Manufacturing Coalition (NAMC)/Dream It. Do It. Initiative
nemanufacturingalliance.com/namc---dream-it-do-it.html
The Dream It. Do It. Initiative (DIDI), led by the Nebraska Advanced Manufacturing Coalition, connects students, parents, and educators with hands-on experiences in modern manufacturing careers. By partnering with local businesses, DIDI promotes awareness of high-tech job opportunities and helps build a skilled workforce to meet Nebraska’s evolving industry needs.
- Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) - University of Nebraska Lincoln nemep.unl.edu/
The Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) offers personalized support to manufacturers, focusing on boosting profitability through workforce development, innovation, and market growth. As part of the national MEP Network™, it provides proven solutions to help Nebraska manufacturers succeed in today’s global economy.
- NE Chamber (Affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers)
nemanufacturingalliance.com/nebraska-chamber.html
The NE Chamber, in partnership with Blueprint Nebraska, is driving efforts to modernize the state’s manufacturing sector. Key priorities include investing in automation, expanding broadband, launching a venture capital fund, and growing internship and apprenticeship programs. Additional initiatives focus on workforce development, STEM education, creating an Industry 4.0 innovation center, and establishing an “inland port” to boost logistics and industrial efficiency.
- Women in Manufacturing - Nebraska Chapter
womeninmanufacturing.org/nebraska
The Women in Manufacturing (WiM) Nebraska Chapter offers a vibrant community for women in and around Nebraska’s manufacturing industry. The chapter provides valuable opportunities to expand local networks, build strong business connections, and participate in industry-focused events and programming.
The Heartland Robotics Cluster
Led by the Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership, the program includes developing an automation demo space for manufacturers, expanding robotics engineering curriculum at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Engineering, creating specialized fabrication and R&D labs at Northeast Community College and UNL, enhancing urban ag and robotics training at Metro Community College, growing the robotics makerspace at Nebraska Innovation Studio, and providing targeted technical assistance to AgTech startups through The Combine.
Nebraska Tech Collaborative
Aksarben’s Nebraska Tech Collaborative (NTC) is a statewide workforce initiative that unites leaders to attract, develop, and retain tech talent and entrepreneurs—driving greater economic prosperity for Nebraska. Recognizing the tech industry’s vital role in job creation, investment attraction, and statewide competitiveness, NTC addresses the critical challenge of tech workforce shortages. Launched by the Aksarben Foundation in 2019, NTC partners with Nebraska businesses to create a tech-friendly environment and stem the outflow of talent, ensuring Nebraska remains competitive in the fast-growing technology sector now and into the future.
Nebraska Department of Labor
The Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) offers a range of business services to help employers recruit talent, retain workers, and stay compliant. Through NEworks, businesses can post jobs, access labor market data, and connect with job seekers. NDOL also supports workforce development through programs like Registered Apprenticeships, On-the-Job Training, and the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). Employers can also receive assistance with unemployment insurance, workplace regulations, and customized solutions to meet their workforce needs.
United States Department of Labor
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) supports businesses by helping them navigate labor laws, promote safe and fair workplaces, and build a skilled workforce. Through compliance assistance, the DOL guides employers on regulations such as wages, overtime, workplace safety, and employee benefits. It also connects businesses to workforce development programs, including apprenticeships and training grants, to help recruit and retain qualified talent. Employers can access labor market data to inform hiring and wage decisions and may be eligible for hiring incentives like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit. The DOL also offers support for hiring veterans and individuals with disabilities, helping businesses build inclusive and effective teams.
Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC)
unomaha.edu/nebraska-business-development-center
The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) is a University of Nebraska at Omaha center that provides confidential consulting and business development services across Nebraska to entrepreneurs and business owners for the life cycle of their business. NBDC’s services are split across four different programs
- SourceLink Nebraska
A program that connects entrepreneurs and business owners to the hundreds of non-profit resource partners that support businesses in Nebraska. Consultants provide personalized plans to ensure business owners have the right resources at the right time.
- Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
unomaha.edu/nebraska-business-development-center/business-start-and-growth
SBDC offers confidential consulting services to entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to start or grow their enterprises, or to transition companies to the next generation of ownership.
- Business Plan Development
- Financial Forecasting & Loan Packaging
- Comprehensive Business Valuation & Succession Planning
- International Trade – Importing & Exporting
- APEX Accelerator (Government Contracting)
unomaha.edu/nebraska-business-development-center/government-contracting
APEX helps companies who are ready to take advantage of the billions of dollars the government has available through contracting opportunities. The APEX Accelerator provides step-by-step guidance and support through the process.
- Innovation & Technology
unomaha.edu/nebraska-business-development-center/technology-commercialization
The program offers confidential advisory services for researchers, entrepreneurs, and established businesses with technology they seek to commercialize. Some services include market research, business plan development, and applications for funding opportunities.
Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED)
Nebraska’s lead agency is responsible for growing and strengthening Nebraska’s economy. DED works to support business expansion, attract new investment, promote innovation, and enhance community vitality across the state.
- Business Expansion
opportunity.nebraska.gov/business/business-development/#expansion
The Nebraska Department of Economic Development offers a range of resources to help businesses grow, including access to property databases, early-stage funding, and capital for site improvements. Incentives through Enterprise and Opportunity Zones, along with local LB840 funds, support economic development. Workforce initiatives like customized training, youth talent programs, and internship grants further empower businesses at every stage—from startup to expansion.
- International Trade
opportunity.nebraska.gov/business/business-development/#international
The International Trade Team at the Nebraska Department of Economic Development supports businesses looking to expand into global markets. They offer personalized counseling, technical assistance, and access to a wide network of local, national, and international contacts. Services include market research, training workshops, trade show promotion, and participation in Governor-led trade missions. The team also connects businesses with trusted local export service providers to help navigate the complexities of international trade.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Nebraska District Office
The SBA Nebraska District Office in Omaha is the federal government’s local hub for supporting small businesses across the state. It provides access to SBA loans, expert counseling, and assistance with federal contracting. The office connects entrepreneurs with local partners to help businesses start, grow, and succeed.
- SCORE
SCORE is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping small businesses succeed through free, confidential mentoring and educational resources. With a network of experienced volunteer business mentors, many of whom are retired executives and entrepreneurs, SCORE provides one-on-one guidance, workshops, and webinars on everything from business planning and marketing to financing and management. Their mission is to empower entrepreneurs at every stage by sharing practical knowledge and real-world advice to help small businesses start, grow, and thrive.
Nebraska Enterprise Fund (NEF)
NEF is a statewide program dedicated to supporting micro-businesses, including self-employed individuals, startups, home-based, and other small businesses—that are vital to the health of local, state, and national economies. The program offers business development services and funding tailored to help these entrepreneurs start, sustain, and grow their ventures, fueling economic opportunity throughout Nebraska.
- Capital
nebbiz.org/get-started#capital
NEF offers flexible lending solutions to meet the capital needs of businesses and programs throughout Nebraska and Southwest Iowa. These loan products are designed to support a wide range of entrepreneurs, providing the financial resources necessary to start, expand, or strengthen their operations.
- Training
NEF offers a wide range of small business training programs designed to help entrepreneurs at every stage—from startup to growth and long-term success. Covering essential topics across business planning, marketing, finance, and more, these trainings equip business owners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to launch, grow, and sustain a thriving enterprise.
- Mentoring
nebbiz.org/get-started#mentoring
NEF provides one-on-one mentoring to entrepreneurs, offering personalized guidance in key areas such as business strategy, marketing, and financial planning and analysis. This hands-on support helps business owners make informed decisions and build a solid foundation for long-term success.
- Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC)
The Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) provides specialized support for transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses who are looking to start or grow a small business. Services include business training, one-on-one counseling, and referrals to trusted resource partners. Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, VBOC is committed to helping members of the military community successfully pursue entrepreneurship.
Center for Rural Affairs
As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), CFRA provides microloans, business coaching, training, and support—particularly to underserved rural, Latino, and Native communities often left out of traditional finance systems.
- Center for Rural Affairs Women’s Business Center
cfra.org/womens-business-center
Offers free services to entrepreneurs and small business owners across Nebraska, with a focus on helping individuals start, strengthen, and grow their businesses. Whether you are launching a new venture or looking to expand, the center provides personalized support, training, and resources to guide you every step of the way.
- Small Business Loan Products
For entrepreneurs starting or expanding a small business in Nebraska who need additional working capital, but have struggled to secure traditional bank loans, these small business loans offer a valuable alternative. With a flexible underwriting process, the program serves a diverse range of clients—including those with limited or no credit history, new businesses, and industries that are typically challenging for conventional lenders to finance.
University of Nebraska System
- Industry Relations
research.unl.edu/industryrelations/
Industry Relations serves as the vital gateway between the university and the private sector, fostering strategic partnerships that drive research, spark innovation, and contribute to the growth of Nebraska’s economy. By aligning academic expertise with real-world business needs, Industry Relations helps turn ideas into actionable outcomes. The office provides a single point of contact to simplify and accelerate connections between industry partners and the university’s talent, research capabilities, and specialized services. Whether a company is pursuing collaborative research, developing a new product, or seeking solutions to technical challenges, Industry Relations works to align university strengths with business goals.
- NUtech Ventures
NUtech Ventures is the nonprofit technology commercialization affiliate of the University of Nebraska, serving the Lincoln and Kearney campuses. It protects and markets university intellectual property, helping turn research into real-world solutions that improve quality of life and drive economic growth. Through licensing, entrepreneurship programs, and industry partnerships, NUtech supports innovation, attracts research funding, and returns revenue to inventors and their departments—strengthening Nebraska’s innovation ecosystem.
- University Technology Development Corporation (UTDC)
nebraska.edu/doing-leading-research/technology-developers
The University Technology Development Corporation (UTDC) connects university innovations with the business community to ensure ideas and inventions become real-world solutions. By promoting and supporting academic discovery, UTDC and its subsidiary companies partner with private and government sectors to develop research, build ventures, and foster entrepreneurship. The ultimate goal is to improve quality of life, drive economic growth, and bring Nebraska-born innovations to the world.
- Nebraska Innovation Campus - University of Nebraska Lincoln
Nebraska Innovation Campus (NIC) is a collaborative research campus designed to foster dynamic partnerships between the University of Nebraska and the private sector. It is a space where bold ideas take shape—combining innovation, talent, and resources to turn imagination into impact. NIC offers companies direct access to a vibrant culture of research and collaboration, making it the ideal environment to grow big ideas and drive meaningful results.
- Nebraska Innovation Studio
innovate.unl.edu/nebraska-innovation-studio/
Nebraska Innovation Studio (NIS), located at Nebraska Innovation Campus, is one of the nation’s premier makerspaces. Equipped with a full metal shop, wood shop, rapid prototyping tools, art studio, ceramics, textiles, and more, NIS provides hands-on resources for creators of all kinds. Open to university faculty, students, staff, and community members through a monthly membership, the studio also offers free training on all equipment—empowering innovation at every skill level.
- The Combine
The Combine is an AgTech incubator supporting Nebraska-based startups that are shaping the future of agriculture. Located at Nebraska Innovation Campus, it hosts a diverse range of companies—from row crop innovators to meat processing disruptors—all united by a mission to transform food and farming. Startups in The Combine participate in the Commercialization Program, benefit from investor office hours, and engage in monthly AgriFood Meetups and insights from producer networks. With private offices and flexible coworking options, The Combine is a hub for agricultural innovation and entrepreneurial growth.
- Biotech Connector
The BioTech Connector is a 7,700-square-foot wet-lab incubator located on Nebraska Innovation Campus, designed to support bioscience startups and high-growth biotech ventures. With state-of-the-art lab space and business support services, it provides a launchpad for research-driven companies. Positioned in a state that is home to over 1,000 bioscience firms and nearly 16,000 direct industry jobs, the BioTech Connector plays a vital role in strengthening Nebraska’s innovation economy—especially in small and mid-sized communities across the state.
- Food Innovation Center
innovate.unl.edu/food-innovation-center/
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Food Science and Technology Department, housed within the Food Innovation Center, leads in advancing safe, sustainable, and healthy food systems through cutting-edge research, teaching, and outreach. Committed to interdisciplinary collaboration, the department prepares future leaders in food industry, academia, and government. Students gain hands-on experience in research labs and pilot plants, supported by numerous scholarships. The department oversees key initiatives including FARRP (Food Allergy Research and Resource Program), the Gnotobiotic Mouse Program, the Food Processing Center, and the Food for Health Center—each driving innovation, safety, and health in food science.
- Food Processing Center
The Food Processing Center is a multidisciplinary resource supporting the food industry with consulting, education, technical expertise, and business development services. Offering customizable solutions, the center delivers confidential, competitively priced, and timely support tailored to meet the unique needs of food entrepreneurs and companies.
- Food for Health Center
The Nebraska Food for Health Center (NFHC) aims to improve human and animal health by linking agriculture and food production to wellness and disease prevention through microbiome research. Established in 2016, NFHC fosters collaboration between agricultural and biomedical scientists across the University of Nebraska system. The center expands traditional crop and biomedical research by focusing on plant breeding to enhance microbiome-active components in grains and legumes, creating foods that support gut health and overall wellness. Through specialized facilities, expert faculty, and cross-campus collaboration, NFHC drives innovation at the intersection of food, health, and science.
- Research Core Facilities
research.unl.edu/proposaldevelopment/core-facilities/
The University of Nebraska’s research core facilities provide advanced equipment, specialized services, and expert support to enhance research projects. These state-of-the-art resources are also available to industry partners for a fee, fostering collaboration and innovation between the university and the private sector.
- Design Studio
Design Studio acts as a vital bridge between academia and industry, giving partners direct access to some of the brightest minds at a Big Ten research institution. Each year, industry collaborators present complex challenges that student teams tackle using top-tier software engineering and business development practices. Students learn not only from expert faculty but also from industry leaders—CEOs, executives, and professionals who contribute guest lectures, coaching, and real-world insights. This unique ecosystem fosters daily innovation, with students actively developing new ideas, enriching partner organizations, and becoming true collaborators in solving real business problems.
- Nebraska Industrial Training and Assessment Center (NITAC)
The Nebraska Industrial Training and Assessment Center (NITAC) is a University of Nebraska–Lincoln initiative that provides free energy, productivity, and waste assessments to small and medium-sized manufacturers. By delivering detailed evaluations and actionable recommendations, NITAC helps businesses improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance environmental sustainability. As part of a national program, NITAC combines university expertise and hands-on student involvement to support Nebraska manufacturers in boosting competitiveness while promoting clean energy and sustainable practices.
- Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)
The Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) offers personalized support to manufacturers, focusing on boosting profitability through workforce development, innovation, and market growth. As part of the national MEP Network™, it provides proven solutions to help Nebraska manufacturers succeed in today’s global economy.
- Nebraska Manufacturing Sourcing Database
nemep.unl.edu/connect-nebraska/search/
Nebraska manufacturers are encouraged to be included in this free statewide database designed to boost visibility, support business growth, and strengthen supply chain connections. This no-cost opportunity helps position your company for new partnerships and increased exposure, making it easier for potential customers and collaborators to find and connect with your business.
- Nebraska MEP Supply Chain Services
For Nebraska manufacturers, the Nebraska MEP offers education and coaching on all aspects of end-to-end Integrated Supply Chain management. From foundational training to targeted deep dives, we help companies optimize performance across sourcing, manufacturing, risk management, and delivery. With a focus on continuous improvement, our support empowers manufacturers to lower costs, boost customer satisfaction, and drive long-term growth and profitability.
- Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS®)
The Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS®) is a proven, practical framework that helps business owners and leadership teams clarify their vision, gain traction, and achieve measurable results. Rooted in timeless principles and supported by straightforward tools, EOS is not a trendy fixit, is a complete system designed to reduce frustration, simplify operations, and drive performance. For organizations seeking lastingimpact and stronger alignment, EOS provides the structure needed to turn goals into reality.
- ISO 9001 Certification Assistance
nemep.unl.edu/operations-supply-chain/iso9001/
ISO 9001 is the internationally recognized standard for quality management systems, offering organizations a proven framework to document, administer, and continuously improve their processes. By emphasizing efficiency, customer focus, and stakeholder satisfaction, ISO 9001 helps businesses tailor quality practices to their unique goals while ensuring consistent delivery of products and services. Adoption of ISO 9001 not only enhances operational performance and credibility but also drives long‑term growth through a culture of continual improvement.
- Value Stream Mapping
Value Stream Mapping (VSM) is a Lean manufacturing technique that enables companies to visualize their entire production process, identify inefficiencies, and design improvements for greater efficiency and productivity. Ideal for company leadership, supervisors, quality team members, and key line personnel, VSM helps define workflows, streamline factory layouts, and optimize the use of labor and materials. Delivered through a hands-on, two-day collaborative session, production team members work together to map current processes, design a future state, and develop a practical implementation plan to reduce waste and improve overall performance
- UNeMed
UNeMed Corporation, established by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents in 1991, serves as the technology transfer and commercialization office for the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and now also supports innovators at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Nebraska Medicine. UNeMed specializes in building strategic partnerships with industry leaders to advance biomedical innovations from the lab to the marketplace.
- UNeTech Institute
UNeTech Institute is the university-supported startup incubator for the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Focused on advancing early-stage biomedical and tech-based innovations, UNeTech transforms promising university research into scalable startup companies. By connecting inventors with entrepreneurs, providing prototype development, business strategy support, and access to funding, UNeTech helps bridge the critical gap between discovery and commercialization.
- Research Instrumentation Facility (RIF) - Department of Chemistry - University of Nebraska - Lincoln
The Research Instrumentation Facility (RIF) supports university research by providing advanced chemical analysis services. Equipped with a broad range of instruments—including Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), optical spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and GC-MS—the facility offers expert sample analysis and data reporting to academic institutions, research labs, businesses, and individuals, helping to advance scientific discovery across disciplines.
Nebraska Community College System
Northeast Community College - Business & Industry
northeast.edu/continuing-ed-workforce/business-industry
Northeast Community College Business & Industry collaborates with businesses of all sizes to address workforce challenges, recruit talent, and foster long-term success. The college partners with companies to develop customized training programs that help fill critical positions and build a skilled workforce. Northeast offers a wide array of tailored solutions designed to support employee growth and adaptability. Its iHub facility in Norfolk serves as a fabrication lab, workforce development center, and youth STEM hub, providing a creative space for innovation and skill-building.
Southeast Community College – Business
southeast.edu/business-and-community/index.php
The Office of Work-Based Learning specializes in connecting education with industry to support workforce development. Offering apprenticeship programs that develop new talent alongside training initiatives for current employees, the office helps businesses strengthen their teams and thrive in today’s competitive environment.
Central Community College – Workforce Education
Central Community College’s (CCC) Community and Workforce Education department is dedicated to providing workforce training and support tailored to local business needs. Offering a range of courses in areas such as computers, environmental health and safety, advanced manufacturing, industrial technology, leadership, quality control, and welding, CCC also delivers customized training on-site to help businesses develop skilled employees and meet industry demands.
Mid-Plains Community College – Business Training
mpcc.edu/community-and-business/business-training.php
Mid-Plains Community College (MPCC) offers customized training solutions designed to help businesses achieve their goals across a wide range of areas. Their offerings include professional development, computer and technology courses like Microsoft Office 365 and COMPTIA certifications, PLC and electrical training at multiple levels, and comprehensive safety programs such as OSHA, grain bin rescue, forklift operation, and CDL preparation. MPCC also provides specialized programs in administrative assistance, fire science, and plumbing apprenticeship preparation, delivering tailored education that meets the specific needs of local industries.
Western Nebraska Community College – Workforce Training
wncc.edu/community/workforce-training
Western Nebraska Community College’s Workforce Training department helps businesses meet the ongoing challenge of training, updating, and retraining employees. Offering affordable, expert-led programs, the department ensures workforces stay current with today’s technologies and licensing requirements. Training is delivered by WNCC instructors as well as industry specialists, covering manufacturing, business technologies, leadership, computer skills, and regulatory compliance. Customized workplace training is also available to address each company’s unique needs.
Metro Community College – Workforce Education
mccneb.edu/community-business/workforce-education
Metropolitan Community College offers workforce education programs and services to meet Nebraska’s talent needs, including customized training for businesses and industries as well as open enrollment courses. The college supports workforce development, employee retention, and the cultivation of skilled and reliable workers. MCC is home to The Center for Advanced and Emerging Technology (CAET), a 63,400-square-foot regional hub that fosters technology, innovation, and economic growth. CAET features classrooms, a Prototype Design Lab, and Innovation Central—a versatile 12,000-square-foot space designed to accommodate a wide range of activities related to computers, automated machinery, and more.
State & Private Colleges
Wayne State College Center for Applied Technology (CAT)
wsc.edu/facilities/center-for-applied-technology
The Center for Applied Technology (CAT), opened in January 2019, prepares students for careers in industrial technology education, manufacturing, construction and safety management, drafting, engineering, and computer sciences. The facility features modern classrooms and advanced instructional labs in drafting and design, manufacturing, welding, power and energy, construction and woodworking, robotics, computing and networking, and mechatronics. These labs provide hands-on learning with industry-relevant equipment and technology. CAT also supports workforce development in Northeast Nebraska through management training, employee development, small business entrepreneurship, and applied research. Additionally, it serves as the career academy for local high schools, introducing students to careers in industrial technology.