eCommunities helps rural Nebraska towns grow stronger by building on what they already have. With hands-on guidance from Extension educators, local leaders increase their capacity to support entrepreneurs, create new opportunities, and diversify their economy. The result is a more resilient community with good jobs, local pride, and long-term prosperity.
ECOSYSTEM
Every rural community already has pieces of a strong business support system—local banks, experts, and trusted organizations. By connecting those pieces, communities can better support entrepreneurs, focus on what works best, and create an ecosystem where local businesses can start, grow, and succeed for years to come.
ENTREPRENEURS
Rural Nebraska is filled with talented entrepreneurs. When communities listen to entrepreneurs, support their ideas, and build on already-existing local strengths, everyone benefits. With help from Extension educators, towns can shape the entrepreneurial support that fits their unique needs—fueling local businesses, creating stronger connections, and sharing prosperity across the community.
EDUCATORS
Extension educators are trusted guides who walk alongside your community, not ahead of it. With real-world experience, they help you shape your community’s vision, connect you to helpful resources, and coach local leaders to support local businesses. Their long-term partnership builds confidence, strengthens entrepreneurship, and sets communities up for lasting success.
The Entrepreneurial Development System
START-UP
Your community organizes its ecosystem with local assessments, a “start-up” strategy, and groundwork conversations with entrepreneurs.
MATURATION
Your community collaborates with entrepreneurs, test-runs outreach, explores useful resources, and creates action plans on how to sustain and grow your initiative.
SOPHISTICATION
Your community makes a long-term commitment to entrepreneurship, connects with partners, creates a wide network, and witness impact from local entrepreneurs.
Contact
SHAWN KASKIE
RPN Extension Educator
308-872-6831
shawn.kaskie@unl.edu