Lincoln residents saw the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program commemorate its 15th anniversary on Thursday, highlighting the program’s growing impact on Nebraska’s economy and community. According to a report released by the program and covered by KLKN, businesses linked to the Engler program produced more than $83 million in gross revenue in 2025 and supported 213 jobs statewide.
The anniversary celebration featured alumni who have turned classroom concepts into thriving enterprises. Elijah Riley, founder of the nonprofit Big Gumdrop Outdoors, explained that his love of the outdoors inspired him to create an organization that gives underserved youth the chance to experience nature. Since its launch in 2024, Big Gumdrop Outdoors has served more than 15,000 children through hands‑on activities and outdoor education.
Another alumnus, Brody Benson, spoke about his company SandBox Media, which provides broadcasting and live‑production services for Western sporting events across the country. Benson noted that the business, which began as a student idea, now books events for “nearly every weekend during 11 months of 2027,” illustrating the program’s role in fostering sustainable, high‑growth ventures.
Program officials said the new report underscores how student entrepreneurship continues to generate new businesses, jobs, and economic opportunities throughout Nebraska. The data reflects a broader trend of agribusiness innovation that aligns with the state’s historic strengths in agriculture, technology, and rural development.
University leaders emphasized that the Engler program’s resources—mentorship, funding, and real‑world project experience—remain essential for students who wish to launch ventures that benefit both the local community and the wider state economy. The celebration also included a panel discussion on how future cohorts can build on the program’s success and expand its reach into additional sectors.
What’s next: The Engler program will host a series of workshops and networking events throughout 2025, aimed at connecting current students with alumni mentors and potential investors. A follow‑up report is scheduled for release in early 2026, which will track the continued economic contributions of program‑affiliated businesses.
Sources: klkntv.com
