Across Central Nebraska, small businesses are launching in every corner—from rural towns to growing cities. But for many of these new ventures, visibility is one of the toughest early challenges.

To help bridge that gap, a monthly event based in Kearney is giving these startups a place to be seen, supported, and celebrated by their wider community.

It’s called the New Business Spotlight, and it’s offering a fresh approach to discovering local entrepreneurship in real-time.

A Platform for New Entrepreneurs

Held at Nest:Space in Downtown Kearney, the New Business Spotlight features one business each month that’s been operating for less than two years. It’s a chance for the founder to share their story, meet new people, and promote what they’re building—whether that’s a product, a service, or simply a fresh idea taking shape.

“Each event is designed to highlight one small business owner and allow them to tell their story, promote their brand, and engage with the community in a fun and casual environment,” said Nest:Space in a recent news article.

The event is completely free for both attendees and the featured entrepreneur, and participation isn’t limited to Kearney businesses—it’s open to entrepreneurs across Central Nebraska.

Why This Event Matters

When starting a business, early traction is difficult. Many entrepreneurs have limited marketing budgets and rely heavily on word-of-mouth. That’s where events like these play a crucial role—not just as networking opportunities, but as real chances to build connection and community support.

According to Nest:Space's Community Manager, the event series is designed to help “people discover and support local businesses in their earliest stages, when support and exposure is often most crucial”​.

This isn’t a sales pitch or an investor demo. It’s simply a welcoming space where people gather to hear what’s being built around them—often over food, music, and laid-back conversation.

What Attendees Can Expect

Each spotlight event typically takes place on a Friday evening and draws a casual, supportive crowd. Attendees can expect to:

• Hear directly from the featured business owner
• Learn the origin story behind the business
• Engage with interactive demos, free samples, or giveaways (depending on the business)
• Meet other community members who are interested in supporting local growth

Nest:Space promotes the event in advance through local email newsletters and social media, reaching over 1,000 locals and regularly drawing about 30 attendees. Want to stay notified on upcoming spotlight events? Subscribe Here! (takes 30 seconds)

Who can Be Spotlighted?

Any business owner in Central Nebraska whose venture is under two years old is eligible to apply. A Facebook page or some form of online presence is encouraged, simply to help with event promotion.

“We especially encourage applicants who are excited to connect with the community and who want to give attendees a taste of what they do—whether that’s through samples, small giveaways, or even just a fun setup,” Nest:Space noted in the news article​.

There’s no fee to be featured, and Nest:Space covers all the logistics—from the space to the promotion.

Building Stronger Communities

While the format is simple, the impact of the New Business Spotlight has ripple effects. The more people know about the businesses starting in their region, the more likely they are to support them—and keep those dollars circulating locally.

From solo-run service companies to storefront startups, every featured business offers a new perspective on what’s possible in Central Nebraska’s evolving entrepreneurial landscape.

If you're curious about what’s being built in your backyard, this is a great place to start.

📝 Learn more or apply to be featured: https://nestspace.co/new-business-spotlight

At Nest:Space, we believe entrepreneurship should be accessible to everyone — regardless of where they're starting from. That's why we offer all of our events, workshops, and community sessions completely free to attendees.

Whether it's a business spotlight, a Lunch & Learn, or a conversation with local experts, we're committed to creating opportunities for people to learn, grow, and connect. No paywalls. No exclusivity. Just an open door for anyone who's curious, ambitious, or building something of their own.

“Access shouldn’t be a barrier to growth. If you have the drive, we want to help open the door.”
— Chais Meyer (Co-Owner of Nest:Space™)

How We Make It Work

At Nest:Space, we believe everyone should have access to learning, connection, and the tools to grow — without cost being a barrier.

Thanks to generous support from local sponsors and partners, we're able to offer all of our events completely free. These organizations and individuals believe in the power of entrepreneurship to strengthen the Kearney community, and they help us turn that belief into action.

When you attend a Nest:Space event and enjoy free food, drinks, or hands-on learning, it’s because someone stepped in to make it possible — not for recognition, but because they care about helping others build something meaningful.

How You Can Contribute

If you're looking for a meaningful way to both gain exposure for our business while supporting entrepreneurship in the Kearney area, here are a few ways to get involved:

• Sponsor an Event: Help cover the cost of food or drinks for attendees. Your support keeps events welcoming and engaging. Event sponsors are included in event marketing materials & social media posts leading up to the event! You can join our sponsor list by clicking here.
• Support the Elevate Program: Our Entrepreneurship Scholarship helps Central Nebraska active & aspiring entrepreneurs access workspace, mentorship, and resources they need to grow.
• Host a Lunch & Learn: If you or your organization has knowledge to share, we'd love to collaborate on an educational session at Nest:Space. We are more than happy to donate our space for your event if it aligns with our mission of supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses, and community growth. Fill out an interest form by clicking here.

🌊 Rising Tide Lifts All Ships

Everything we do at Nest:Space is rooted in the idea that entrepreneurship grows stronger when it's nurtured in community. If you've ever learned something at one of our events, met someone new, or left inspired — that's what we're here for!

If you'd like to learn more about supporting our mission, feel free to reach out. Or just stop by — we'd love to chat. 🙂