For many young people, a first job is more than a paycheck. It is a place to learn how to show up, solve problems, meet people and begin to see what is possible.
That is the idea behind Step-Up Omaha, the Empowerment Network (empoweromaha.com) initiative that kicked off its 2026 summer program on June 2. The program connects youth and young adults ages 14 to 21 with paid work experience, career exploration, internships and entrepreneurship opportunities. Since 2008, Step-Up has helped more than 9,000 young people gain workforce experience. This year, more than 1,800 youth applied and according to a report by PPRP Innovations, nearly 100% of employers anticipate participating in the program this year.
Step-Up also creates early pathways to business ownership and helps to develop and retain local talent. Through Transformation 2030, the Empowerment Network has set goals to support 2,000 annual youth jobs and 500 youth entrepreneurs.
Devaute Nunn, owner of Haven Express, is one example. Recently featured by KMTV-TV (Channel 3 News), Nunn joined Step-Up at age 14. His first placement was at a bank, an experience that helped him better understand what he wanted to build. Today, Haven Express includes a food truck and a brick-and-mortar restaurant downtown. Nunn is giving back by opening doors for the next generation of Step-Up participants. Other alumni have also become entrepreneurs or successfully entered the workforce in Omaha.
Local employers can play a direct role by hosting or sponsoring interns. Learn more at stepupomaha.com/employers.