Entrepreneurship and Innovation Flurishes in Greater Omaha
entrepreneurship and innovation flourishes in greater omaha |
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The Greater Omaha area continues to produce interesting and exciting entrepreneurial companies. Following the recent trend of success for software and web-based companies such as PhenomBlue, Hayneedle (formerly NetShops), Sojern and GamePlan Technologies, Omaha continues to see the next generation of information technology and software companies take root and flourish.
During the third quarter of 2009, three companies made significant strides toward solidifying there long-term success. First, RockDex merged with Kansas City-based LockerPartner to form a significant music analytics company. Second, BrightMix sponsored the creation of a new polling software company called, GoPollGo. Third, Skyvu, a local creative, film and animation company, produced a robust iphone application that has helped provide immediate positive results for the Nebraska Angels who funded the company in the spring of 2009. Each of these companies is indicative of the fertile information technology start-up community in the Greater Omaha region.
Funding also appears to be increasing in both the angel and venture capital categories in Omaha. Currently, two venture funds are in the process of fund raising in the community; with at least one expected to close in 2009. In addition, local angels and angel groups have been demonstrably more active during the first half of 2009.
Most recently, the University of Nebraska – Lincoln evolved its technology transfer division to form an independent entity called NuTech Ventures. This conversion is designed to help streamline the commercialization process across the entire University system, not just at the Lincoln campus. This successful transformation helps further the push for commercializing innovations. This is exemplified by the University system’s new innovation construction projects at its four primary campuses including significant investments at both the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus and the south campus of the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
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