In for 2026: Going for your dreams...and we're here to help! Funding, workshops, + networking
Explore impact-driven innovation and entrepreneurship at the Build for Good Workshop on Feb. 6
Last chance! Explore impact-driven entrepreneurship at the Build for Good Workshop this Friday
The Build for Good Workshop is a hands-on experience where students explore social entrepreneurship and begin turning big social, environmental, or community challenges into meaningful ideas. Whether you’re curious about impact-driven innovation, considering the Nebraska Hult Prize Qualifier, or simply want to learn how entrepreneurs approach real-world problems, this workshop is designed for you.
Participants will learn the basics of social entrepreneurship, practice rapid idea development, and walk through simple frameworks for identifying problems and designing solutions. No prior experience, team, or polished idea is required. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of impact entrepreneurship, an early-stage idea you can continue to develop, and tools you can apply to future projects, competitions, or ventures. Lunch is provided.
The workshop will take place on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Elevator Co-Warehousing, located at 1200 N St. in Lincoln. Attendees will also have the opportunity to experience and tour Elevator’s newest location, a space supporting small businesses, creators, and e-commerce brands in the capital city.
The workshop will be led by Dr. Sam Nelson, Director of the Nebraska Center for Entrepreneurship and Associate Professor of Practice in Management, and Dr. Timothy Turnquist, Director of the Social Entrepreneurship Certificate and Assistant Professor of Practice in Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs.
The Build for Good Workshop is open to any student interested in meaningful, impact-driven innovation. Participation is not limited to students planning to enter the Nebraska Hult Prize Qualifier, though the workshop is a great way to explore ideas that could continue into future competitions. The Nebraska Center for Entrepreneurship will host the Nebraska Hult Prize Qualifier on February 20, 2026, with the winning team earning a guaranteed spot at the National Competition and travel expenses covered.
Open Pitch Night returns on Tuesday, February 3, and you are invited. This year, Open Pitch Nights will be led by students and provides a low-barrier, no prep needed environment to share ideas, get and give feedback and connect with other student entrepreneurs. Continue reading…
Design Your Life is a hands-on workshop built to help you apply design thinking to clarify values, explore purpose, and build a practical five-year plan for your life and career. Led by Dr. Andrew Hanna and Mike Smith, founder of The Bay. Breakfast and lunch provided. Open to all UNL students. Continue reading…
Have a for-profit solution to a social, environmental, or community problem? Bring it to life at the UNL Qualifier of the Hult Prize Competition on Feb. 20. First place at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Qualifier guarantees a spot at Nationals in April/May 2026 and a pathway to $1 million. Continue reading…
Connect with seasoned entrepreneurs and experienced mentors at the Mentorship Roundtable on March 11 from 5–7 p.m. Gain real advice, expand your network, and get perspective on career and entrepreneurial paths. Register by Feb. 27. Open to all UNL students. Continue reading…
The 39th annual New Venture Competition, hosted by the Nebraska Center for Entrepreneurship, will be held April 10 and 14, 2026. No matter the stage of your idea or venture, this competition is your chance to gain valuable feedback, secure funding, and take your venture to the next level. Continue reading…
A minor in Entrepreneurship or the Entrepreneurship & Innovation track in the Management major helps you stand out and gives you the tools to bring your ideas to life. Declare today to make entrepreneurship your advantage. Continue reading…
