Applications are being accepted for the next cohort of the Nebraska Innovation Fellowship. Since the establishment of the program, eight fellows have participated in the initiative, which empowers innovators to develop their ideas into tangible projects. The fellowship will launch its third cohort in spring 2027.
The Nebraska Innovation Fellowship is a 20-week initiative based out of Nebraska Innovation Studio designed to empower the next generation of innovators, artists, builders and problem-solvers.
Fellows receive complimentary Nebraska Innovation Studio membership for the duration of the program; extended access to advanced equipment, facilities, laptops and specialized software; and a $2,500 materials allowance to develop an idea or prototype. Additional benefits include equipment training, project support, media exposure and networking opportunities with industry leaders and mentors.
Ideal fellows are self-motivated; have a maker mentality; and have a concrete vision, interest or project to pursue. They can articulate how the fellowship will advance their career and/or project and demonstrate strong communication skills, adaptability and resilience. Applicants of all experience levels, skill sets, backgrounds and project types are encouraged to apply.
The program is accepting applications through Nov. 30. Applications require a resume or curriculum vitae, a brief personal statement and a short project description. Finalists will be chosen in December, and the program will officially kick off in January, running through May 2027.
Michael Burton, director of Nebraska Innovation Studio is overseeing the program and said it is open to any Nebraskan over the age of 18 — “Anyone with an idea to create and the energy to build it should apply.”
Experts who are serving as program mentors include the following:
- Nick Alder, entrepreneurship catalyst for NUtech Ventures.
- Kathy Andersen, co-founder and CEO of Brint Tech.
- Brian Ardinger, director of innovation at Nelnet, founder of NXXT and host of the "InsideOutside" podcast.
- Chafik Barbar, founder and CEO of Marble Technologies.
- Nate Benes, director of operational tech and engineering for the University of Nebraska system.
- Bill Berzonsky, founder of AgSolaire.
- Michael Dixon, president and CEO of UNeMed.
- Dan Duncan, executive director emeritus of Nebraska Innovation Campus Development Corporation.
- Santosh Pitla, professor of biological systems engineering and associate head of research and innovation in the College of Engineering.
- Rachael Wagner, assistant professor of practice of mechanical and materials engineering in the College of Engineering.
Nebraska Innovation Studio plans to offer the fellowship program to a new cohort of fellows each spring. For more information and to apply, visit the Nebraska Innovation Fellowship Program website.Applications are being accepted for the next cohort of the Nebraska Innovation Fellowship. Since the establishment of the program, eight fellows have participated in the initiative, which empowers innovators to develop their ideas into tangible projects. The fellowship will launch its third cohort in spring 2027.
The Nebraska Innovation Fellowship is a 20-week initiative based out of Nebraska Innovation Studio designed to empower the next generation of innovators, artists, builders and problem-solvers.
Fellows receive complimentary Nebraska Innovation Studio membership for the duration of the program; extended access to advanced equipment, facilities, laptops and specialized software; and a $2,500 materials allowance to develop an idea or prototype. Additional benefits include equipment training, project support, media exposure and networking opportunities with industry leaders and mentors.
Ideal fellows are self-motivated; have a maker mentality; and have a concrete vision, interest or project to pursue. They can articulate how the fellowship will advance their career and/or project and demonstrate strong communication skills, adaptability and resilience. Applicants of all experience levels, skill sets, backgrounds and project types are encouraged to apply.
The program is accepting applications through Nov. 30. Applications require a resume or curriculum vitae, a brief personal statement and a short project description. Finalists will be chosen in December, and the program will officially kick off in January, running through May 2027.
Michael Burton, director of Nebraska Innovation Studio is overseeing the program and said it is open to any Nebraskan over the age of 18 — “Anyone with an idea to create and the energy to build it should apply.”
Experts who are serving as program mentors include the following:
- Nick Alder, entrepreneurship catalyst for NUtech Ventures.
- Kathy Andersen, co-founder and CEO of Brint Tech.
- Brian Ardinger, director of innovation at Nelnet, founder of NXXT and host of the "InsideOutside" podcast.
- Chafik Barbar, founder and CEO of Marble Technologies.
- Nate Benes, director of operational tech and engineering for the University of Nebraska system.
- Bill Berzonsky, founder of AgSolaire.
- Michael Dixon, president and CEO of UNeMed.
- Dan Duncan, executive director emeritus of Nebraska Innovation Campus Development Corporation.
- Santosh Pitla, professor of biological systems engineering and associate head of research and innovation in the College of Engineering.
- Rachael Wagner, assistant professor of practice of mechanical and materials engineering in the College of Engineering.
Nebraska Innovation Studio plans to offer the fellowship program to a new cohort of fellows each spring. For more information and to apply, visit the Nebraska Innovation Fellowship Program website.
