In a year with deep spending cuts, we can celebrate keeping Business Innovation Act funding at $11M as a definite win.

The Nebraska startup community showed up and spoke up - you did that! Thank you very much.

Governor Pillen signed the budget bills with no line item vetos, keeping the Business Innovation Act funding at $11M. It was one of many wins for the startup and business communities.

This final week is all about tying up loose ends and getting ready for the work we’ll need to do this summer and fall to prepare for the Nebraska Legislature 2027 session.

On a related not, I enjoyed seeing state senators and lobbyists having some fun on the basketball court. Let’s hope this type of camaraderie carries over into the coming months.

Takeaway: Take a moment to celebrate!

Enjoy “The BIA Did That!” video series on our LinkedIn Page. Each one of this series shares the perspective of a Nebraska founder, investor, or community champion on why the Business Innovation Act matters.

Read this Silicon Prairie News guest editorial, which explains how bills become laws in Nebraska and how your voice shapes them.

LB100: Establish the Office of Entrepreneurship in the Department of Economic Development, encourage state agencies to contract with startups, and require the state pension fund to Invest in Nebraska startups.

LB847: Adopt the Nebraska Registered Apprenticeship Act and change provisions relating to the combined tax rate under the Employment Security Law - this becomes the main bill to which the BIA-related bills get attached as amendments.

LB999: Establish the Business Innovation and Startup Commission to help guide state government decisions.

LB1015: Create a Business Innovation Reserve Fund to provide long-term stable funding of the Business Innovation Act programs.

LB1044: Change provisions of the Business Innovation Act to create long-term stability of funding and establish a minimum amount awarded

LB1156: Adopt the Disinvested Community Development Incentive Tax Credit Act to help fund small business and startup support, accelerator programs, and workforce training in rural and urban communities.

LB1205: Require the Department of Economic Development to award microlending grants under the Business Innovation Act

Takeaway: You can watch each bill evolve and progress by clicking the links.

You are one of 151 people (and counting) who have stepped forward to speak up for Nebraska startups. Thank you!

Small actions, big impact
Many thanks to everyone who shared their stories below. The chorus continues to grow!

One message, many voices
In your communications, please consider using this message:

Helping Nebraska startups is a strategic investment that creates a more vibrant economy, more high paying jobs for Nebraska workers, and a greater diversity of future tax revenues. The grass is always greener where you water it!