Big funding opportunity pours in to boost Nebraska startups

A dozen startups and entrepreneurs in Nebraska have received early seed funding in a move that is sure to provide a boost to the state’s growing startup culture. The growth capital investments are coming from The Startup Collaborative, which is part of the Greater Omaha Chamber in Nebraska and identifies itself as an “on-demand startup accelerator.” Investments will come in collaboration with Murphy Vision Funds as both organizations will look to make sizeable contributions to recently created tech companies. Also involved in funding are Chris and Betsy Murphy of locally-owned First Westroads Bank, who have provided $300,000, which will be matched by the venture development firm Invest Nebraska that is set up by the state. That amount of $600,000 will look to catalyze The Startup Collaborative’s fellowship program. “Our family is honored to celebrate innovation by supporting Nebraska’s startup entrepreneurs, and our team at First Westroads Bank is excited to assist these entrepreneurs on their journey to starting a successful business,” said Chris Murphy, the CEO of First Westroads Bank. First Westroads Bank officials and spokespeople from the state of Nebraska said that the investment is specifically intended to boost Nebraska’s startup economy and attract more outside investors from across the country.