1. Providing and enhancing connectivity in the ecosystem – Rich Claussen is providing connections for start-ups to existing successful businesses, connecting traditional successful businesses to those who can help them infuse innovation into their organizations and connecting policy makers to those who need an assist in growing their business.
2. Connecting students to internships and jobs in the ecosystem – On January 12, 2017, a Reverse Pitch event was held, connecting nine tech-driven businesses (representing 75 internships and 92 jobs) to over 200 University of Nebraska students in the computer science and engineering field. Four follow-up State of the Practice events are also being held this semester. These meet-ups allow students to dig deeper into the work being done in the Lincoln tech scene and secure internships/jobs.
3. Using a valuable tool to discover youth innovators and builders – Partnering with local businesses, K-12 educators and the higher education field, we are working to initiate the Gallup BP10 program to identify, nurture and empower future builders and innovators.