small business & community opportunity forum
March 12, 2026 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Connecting Entrepreneurs to Capital, Contracting, and Workforce Pathways
This forum helps small business owners understand how economic development decisions, public investment, and policy choices shape their opportunities. This event connects entrepreneurs with organizations and leaders working to strengthen local business ownership and long-term community stability
the run of show
Small Business & Community Opportunity Forum
Hosted by Nebraska For Us
With participation from ecosystem partners supporting small business growth, capital access, and community development
March 12, 2026 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
5:30 – 5:55 PM | Arrival, Networking & Dinner
Guests arrive and check in for an evening focused on connection, opportunity, and community.
• Informal networking among small business owners, community partners, and ecosystem organizations
• Dinner and networking as participants begin connecting with potential partners and collaborators
6:00 – 6:05 PM | Welcome & Purpose
Nebraska For Us
Brief framing of the forum and the importance of strengthening opportunity pathways for entrepreneurs.
Topics include:
• Why the forum was convened
• The importance of connecting small businesses to opportunity pathways
• Overview of the evening program
6:05 – 6:10 PM | From Recognition to Opportunity
April Hibbler
A short transition connecting the evening’s purpose to the broader ecosystem that supports business growth.
Topics include:
• Why access to capital, contracting, and workforce pipelines matters
• The role of ecosystem collaboration in helping businesses scale
• Setting the stage for the evening’s panel discussion
6:10 – 6:12 PM | Quick Break
Food refill / restroom break
Guests refresh plates, grab drinks, and settle in for the panel discussion.
6:12 – 6:50 PM | Panel Discussion
Accessing Opportunity: Capital, Contracts, and Workforce Pathways for Small Businesses
Moderator: April Hibbler
Co-Moderator: Angie Lauritsen, Nebraska For Us
April Hibbler will introduce each panelist and provide brief context before the discussion.
Each panelist will respond to moderated questions focused on practical insights for small businesses navigating capital access, contracting opportunities, and workforce development.
The discussion will conclude with audience questions.
Panelists
Victoria Mbachu
President, Parking Area Maintenance
Jamel Hamilton
Underwriter, AltCap
Nicholas Murray
Federal Contracting Officer
U.S. Department of the Interior
David Vaughn
Business Services Liaison
Heartland Workforce Solutions
Structure
• Moderated discussion
• Audience Q&A
Focus: Practical insights on how small businesses can move from early recognition to sustainable growth.
6:50 – 6:53 PM | Brief Stretch Break
Food refill / restroom break
Short reset before the closing portion of the evening.
6:53 – 6:58 PM | Legislative Perspective
Statement from Senator Terrell McKinney
Read by April Hibbler
Since Senator McKinney is unable to attend, a brief written statement will be shared acknowledging:
• The importance of supporting small business growth
• The role of community and policy in expanding economic opportunity
• Appreciation for the entrepreneurs and ecosystem partners participating in the forum
6:58 – 7:25 PM | Micro-Grant Celebration
Hosted by Emily Kutler, Nebraska For Us
Celebrating the entrepreneurs who are building businesses and strengthening the community.
Emily Kutler will introduce the segment and recognize each micro-grant recipient.
Each small business will be invited to the stage for recognition.
Micro-Grant Recognition Format
• Brief introduction of each small business
• Optional brief remarks from recipients (approximately 1 minute)
• Presentation of the ceremonial check
• Photo with April Hibbler and Angie Lauritsen
At the conclusion of the individual recognitions, all micro-grant recipients will be invited to the stage for a group photo celebrating the entrepreneurs recognized this evening.
Focus: Celebrating entrepreneurship, resilience, and local ownership.
7:25 – 7:30 PM | Closing Remarks
Nebraska For Us
Closing remarks highlighting key takeaways from the evening, appreciation for participants and partners, and encouragement for continued connection beyond the program.
MEET THE SMALL BUSINESS GRANT HONOREES
Our special thanks to April Hibbler for her leadership on this event.
We would also like to thank Big Mama’s Kitchen & Catering for providing an unforgettable meal and the Venue at the Highlander Accelerator for allowing us to utilize their vibrant space.
Finally, our thanks go to the community for attending and supporting Nebraska For Us.