A new organization, Open Range, launched to serve as a regional coordinating entity for the Greater Omaha–Lincoln startup ecosystem. The effort aims to address long-standing challenges in the metro’s innovation economy—namely fragmentation, uneven access, and limited visibility for entrepreneurs. The roots of Open Range were laid through two years of research into the regional economy and inspired by lessons from both local success stories and national best practices.
Nebraska ranks 49th in the nation for startup survival, according to the 2024 Silicon Prairie Rising report. More than 40 entrepreneurial support organizations operate across Omaha and Lincoln, but without a central hub to align efforts, many founders struggle to find a clear path from idea to impact.
“The data is clear, too many founders are navigating a fragmented system without a clear path forward. Open Range was built to change that,” CEO Joe Petsick explains.
Open Range’s mission is to grow the Greater Omaha and Lincoln startup ecosystem—and support the local founders and builders who are shaping what’s next. The organization connects founders, creatives, funders, and institutions to reduce friction, close gaps, and turn shared ideas into action. Its work spans three focus areas: expanding access to capital and mentorship, and other key resources, activating momentum through programs, partnerships, and community-driven support, and amplifying the region’s innovation stories to boost visibility and investment.
“There’s no shortage of talent or drive here. What we’re missing is the infrastructure to connect it all—and that’s what Open Range is here to help build, together,” said Laurel Oetken, Vice President of Operations.
To learn more about Open Range, contact Laurel Oetken at laurel.oetken@openrange.org.