In partnership with the State of Nebraska Department of Economic Development
For active investors and prospective investors interested in venture-backed companies, as well as a select group of startup founders
Warren Buffett swam against the stream
Early investors reaped the greatest reward
Now, you can find other mavericks building right here
Learn from leading venture investors actively investing in the best and brightest of this region.
This won’t be a bunch of talking heads. We’ll gather shoulder-to-shoulder for highly interactive and insightful roundtable conversations about practical topics:
Why investing in startups matters to your portfolio and the region
Data-driven insights from the past decade and emerging trends
How to conduct due diligence in the early stages
Summit Schedule
Thursday, April 30
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Kickoff Cocktail Party
The Gr8er Plains Summit officially begins with tasty food, refreshing drinks, and lively conversations bringing together investors, founders, corporate leaders, and community partners.
Friday, May 1
8:00am - 9:00am
Welcome and Opening Keynote sponsored by Omaha 100
Featuring Paul G. Smith, Tenaska and PGSA
The big day begins with opening remarks outlining the vision of the Gr8er Plains Summit and its role in bridging regional investment networks with the region’s high-growth startup ecosystem. Paul G. Smith will share insights on leadership, capital strategy, and long-term value creation, setting the stage for a day focused on connection, opportunity, and economic growth.
9:00am - Noon
[Investor Track]
Roundtable Discussions
This ain’t just a bunch of talking heads. Buckle up and get ready for the Conversation Gauntlet format. Each one will put a new set of featured speakers into the hot seat to explore regional trends, due diligence best practices, sector-specific investment opportunities (AgTech, MedTech FinTech, InsureTech, and AI), and the advantages of deploying capital in emerging markets. The theatre-in-round setup and townhall Q+A portion ensures you will be part of the conversation.
[Startup Track]
Guided Tour of Omaha Startup Ecosystem
Founders get the red carpet tour of Omaha’s innovation hubs, including Millwork Commons and Elevator Spaces. At each stop, you will meet local founders, support organizations, and regional investors. Designed for both local and visiting startups, this experience highlights why the region is gaining national attention as a place to build and scale.
Noon - 1:00pm
Investor and Startup Joint Lunch
Both morning tracks converge to refuel their body and minds with food, drink, and informal conversations. Learn more about the folks at your table and compare notes from what you learned in the morning.
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Curated 1:1 Investor+Startup Meetings
A definite highlight of the Gr8er Plains Summit is the pre-scheduled, high-value meetings between active investors and startups actively raising funds. Each meeting is thoughtfully matched based on investment thesis, sector alignment, and stage (Seed to Growth). This structured format maximizes efficiency for investors while giving founders direct access to decision-makers in an intentional setting.
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Tour of Scott Data Center (Optional Tour)
Get an exclusive tour of the Scott Data Center, a key asset supporting the region’s growing data, AI, and technology sectors. Learn about the digital infrastructure that underpins innovation across industries and hear directly from a high-growth company that recently chose Omaha as its home.
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Closing Reception sponsored by the Consulate General of Canada
The grand finale in a relaxed setting! You can deepen relationships formed throughout the event with investors, founders, and international partners. Continue conversations, explore cross-border opportunities, and build lasting partnerships beyond the Gr8er Plains Summit.
Pre-Summit Options
Wednesday, April 29
4:00pm - 7:00pm
Vital Connections: Progress through Collaboration
Join an evening dedicated to the partners who have helped RespirAI find its footing in the U.S. and establish its headquarters in Nebraska. Learn more and register directly here.
Thursday, April 30
1:00pm - 2:45pm
Idea Pub: Startup Showcase
Featuring University of Nebraska innovations, Idea Pub is where investors and community movers mix, mingle, and connect directly with the brilliant minds turning campus breakthroughs into tomorrow's startups. Open to the public, no registration required.
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Collegiate Connections
Aspiring students get a seat at the table with those working at the region’s top venture funds. This high energy, highly interactive session will make sure you make key connections regardless if you are an introvert or extrovert. Learn more and register directly here.