Open Range Released Book Profiling Nebraska Startups
The Omaha-based nonprofit launched a new publication highlighting forty local companies across nine communities.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Startups
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Omaha nonprofit Open Range has published Open Book, a new volume documenting the milestones and stories of 40 startups across Nebraska. The initiative aims to increase the visibility of the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Why it matters
By consolidating regional success stories, the project highlights the diversity of the startup scene in Nebraska and connects local founders with policymakers and business partners.
The publication features 40 startups, with 40% of those companies established by repeat entrepreneurs. Silicon Prairie News contributed six original articles to the project, which highlights ventures from across nine different Nebraska communities.
The players
Open Range
Open Range is an Omaha-based nonprofit organization focused on increasing the visibility and growth of the Nebraska startup scene.
Silicon Prairie News
Silicon Prairie News is a regional media outlet that provides coverage of technology, innovation, and business news across the Midwestern United States.
The details
The project gathered stories and development milestones from companies located in cities including Omaha, Lincoln, Papillion, La Vista, Roca, Kearney, Oxford, Wellfleet, and Hemingford. Open Range hosted a launch celebration at Millwork Commons to mark the release of the physical publication.
Timeline
Interviews for the book occurred throughout the spring and summer of 2026.
Open Range hosted a book celebration event on October 5, 2026.
Startup Week is scheduled to occur in November 2026.
A promotional campaign for featured founders is planned for 2027.
Market Landscape
This effort builds upon the Startup Nebraska advocacy initiative by providing a centralized resource for the state's growing tech sector. It positions regional startups to better compete for attention against national hubs by clearly mapping the local entrepreneurial landscape.
The publication provides local business leaders and community partners with a directory of emerging ventures, potentially influencing future investment and mentorship opportunities. Residents interested in the local economy can gain insight into the state's startup growth trends through this project.
The takeaway
This project highlights how physical media can still serve as a bridge to increase the visibility of emerging businesses within a diverse geographic region. Entrepreneurs looking to gain exposure should look for similar collaborative opportunities that combine editorial storytelling with industry promotion.
What happens next
Featured founders are expected to participate in Startup Week in November 2026, followed by a broader promotional campaign scheduled for 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the local innovation economy by visiting the Nebraska startups section.
More information
To explore the featured startups, read the online edition of Open Book.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Silicon Prairie News.
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