The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development (LPED) proudly announces the commencement of the application process for the 2024 LaunchLNK grants. The application window is now open and will continue through Monday, January 8.
LaunchLNK grants are specifically tailored for high-growth companies seeking to start or expand their operations in Lincoln. This year, a total of six distinguished LaunchLNK recipients will each receive $20,000 in non-dilutive funding, accompanied by $2,500 in additional services. Moreover, successful applicants will gain access to invaluable connections with mentors and potential sources of early-stage capital and fundraising.
Given how the LaunchLNK grant is structured, grant recipients are well-positioned to leverage these funds in conjunction with other programs and financial resources in the ecosystem. For example, the Business Innovation Act programs through the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and various other sources of capital require matching funds.
“We are excited to lean into the strengths of this grant program. The LaunchLNK grant provides very early-stage funds in a way that yields dividends for the Lincoln community far beyond the initial investment,” stated Kathy Andersen, the Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at LPED.
Now entering its sixth year, the LaunchLNK grants have provided essential seed funding for 24 diverse startups in Lincoln. Notably, companies nurtured by this program have subsequently employed numerous individuals and raised over $92 million in additional capital, significantly contributing to the robust startup ecosystem and economic growth in Lincoln. The 2023 cohort of LaunchLNK recipients boasted impressive companies including BovEye, Curbside, Nave Analytics, Inc., InforMedic, and Cattle Kettle, LLC.
This is the first year that six grants will be awarded. Five grants were awarded from 2021-2023, four grants from 2019-2020, and only one grant in the first year 2018. Companies will be prioritized that could contribute to economic impact in the city of Lincoln, as the goal of the grant is to spur revenue and job creation and attraction additional capital investment.
More information on the program can be found at www.launchlnk.com. To stay informed about LaunchLNK announcements, including updates about the next round of applications, follow @StartupLNK on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
For more information, contact Kathy I. Andersen, Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development, at (402) 436-2374 or kandersen@selectlincoln.org.
The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is Lincoln’s leading business organization, providing advocacy and connections to help businesses grow and thrive in Lincoln. Learn more at www.lcoc.com.