UNO Breakthrough Weekend — Startup Competition

About This Opportunity

Breakthrough Weekend is a free, intensive startup competition hosted by UNO's Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Franchising (CIEF). Teams form around a business concept, build a Lean Canvas (one-page business plan), prototype an idea, and pitch to local entrepreneurs for cash prizes — all over a single weekend. Open to UNO and UNMC students AND community members with no prior business experience required. Mentors from Omaha's startup and business community coach teams throughout. The 2025 event took place September 20–22 and was sponsored by Aviture, Fiserv, and Husch Blackwell.

Who Can Apply

Open to UNO/UNMC students and Omaha community members. No prior entrepreneurship experience required. Teams of 2–5 participants.