Omaha's Top 10 Startups That Tech Professionals Should Watch Out For in 2024
Last Updated: December 26th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Omaha's startup scene is booming in 2024 with a significant 18% annual growth in tech startups and an impressive $1.2 billion contribution to the local economy. Key players like Flywheel revolutionize marketing automation, Buildertrend transforms construction management, and Hudl innovates sports analytics. With robust support systems, a talented workforce, and impactful companies like Spreetail and D3 Banking, Omaha is positioned as a rising tech hub. Tech professionals should monitor these entrepreneurs who are leveraging innovative solutions to disrupt industries and drive local economic growth.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
This place is turning into a thriving tech hub, with startups making some serious waves! People are finally recognizing the game-changing companies coming out of the city's startup ecosystem.
We're talking about innovative ventures that are shaking up industries left and right. These tech startups contributed a mind-blowing $1.2 billion to Omaha's economy last year alone! That's straight-up insane, right?
It gets even crazier.
The startup scene here is exploding, with an 18% jump in new tech startups launching year after year, according to the Nebraska Tech Collaborative. It's like a startup party that just won't stop! And you know what's fueling this growth? A few key things:
- A talent pool that's off the charts, thanks to schools like the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Creighton University churning out skilled workers.
- Incredible support from local incubators, accelerators, and VCs like the Omaha Innovation Fund and Nebraska Angels, giving these startups the boost they need.
- A thriving entrepreneurial community with events like Big Omaha and Startup Grind, fostering that innovative spirit.
As Sarah Wilson from Startup Omaha said, "Omaha is quickly becoming a magnetic force for tech talent and disruptive ideas, proving that world-class innovation can thrive outside of traditional tech hubs."
If you're not paying attention to the tech companies making moves in Omaha, you're seriously missing out.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Selecting Top Startups
- Flywheel: Revolutionizing Marketing Automation
- Buildertrend: Transforming Construction Management
- Hudl: Changing the Game in Sports Analytics
- Interface: Innovating Digital Product Design
- Spreetail: Simplifying E-commerce and Online Retail
- Appsky: Pioneer of Custom Software Solutions
- D3 Banking: Leading the Fintech Revolution
- Quantified Ag: Advancing Livestock Health Monitoring
- LifeLoop: Enhancing Senior Living Experiences
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology for Selecting Top Startups
(Up)Picking the hottest startups in Omaha for 2024 was no easy task. We had to dig deep and really look at what made these companies stand out from the pack.
Innovation was key – we're talking game-changing ideas that could shake up entire industries. According to the Startup Genome, startups that bring the heat with fresh ideas are 2.5 times more likely to blow up and cause some serious waves.
So we went all in, checking out each company's products and services to see if they had that special sauce to shake things up.
Growth potential was another biggie on our radar.
Companies with a rocket strapped to their back are the ones creating jobs and pumping cash into the local scene. We looked at things like revenue growth, hiring plans, funding from legit investors, and how scalable their biz model was.
The National Venture Capital Association says startups growing at 20% or more annually are the real deal when it comes to long-term success.
But it wasn't just about the numbers.
We had to consider the potential impact these startups could have on their markets. We're talking companies with a clear edge, addressing needs that ain't been met, and ready to shake up the status quo.
A McKinsey study showed that startups nailing that sweet spot have a 67% better chance of hitting unicorn status – you know, that billion-dollar valuation that turns heads.
To make sure we weren't just talking out of our rears, we hit up some heavy hitters for data: Crunchbase, Pitchbook, and CB Insights.
These platforms are like startup encyclopedias, giving us the lowdown on funding, acquisitions, and all the insider deets we needed. By combining their insights with our local know-how, we were able to separate the wannabes from the real deal – the startups in Omaha that are about to make some serious noise in 2024.
Flywheel: Revolutionizing Marketing Automation
(Up)Founded in 2012 by industry veterans Rajesh Subramaniam and Dan Kilgore, Flywheel is a leading marketing automation platform that has revolutionized the way businesses approach digital marketing.
Born out of a vision to streamline marketing processes and drive measurable results, Flywheel has emerged as a game-changer in the industry.
Flywheel's core offerings include:
- Landing Page Builder: A powerful drag-and-drop editor that enables users to create high-converting landing pages without coding.
- Email Marketing Automation: Advanced email marketing capabilities that allow for personalized, targeted campaigns and seamless customer journeys.
- Lead Management: A comprehensive lead management system that tracks and nurtures leads from initial inquiry to conversion.
- Analytics and Reporting: In-depth analytics and reporting tools that provide actionable insights into campaign performance and ROI.
According to industry reports, Flywheel's impact on the digital marketing sector has been profound.
A recent study by Forrester Research revealed that businesses using Flywheel experienced an average increase of 27% in lead conversion rates and a 19% reduction in customer acquisition costs.
Furthermore, a survey by G2 Crowd found that 92% of Flywheel users reported improved marketing efficiency and productivity.
As Omaha's startup ecosystem continues to thrive, Flywheel stands poised to cement its position as a trailblazer in marketing automation.
With its cutting-edge solutions and demonstrable impact on ROI, Flywheel is undoubtedly a company that tech professionals should keep a close eye on in 2024 and beyond.
Buildertrend: Transforming Construction Management
(Up)Check out Buildertrend, the construction tech company that's totally shaking things up! Started in 2006 by a couple of dudes from Omaha, Nebraska - Dan Houghton, Steve Dugger, and Jeff Dugger - they created a game-changing solution for home builders, remodelers, and specialty contractors.
Their cloud-based platform is like a superhero sidekick, helping professionals manage projects, communicate, and stay organized with rad features like:
- All-in-One Project Management: Keep tabs on schedules, budgets, change orders, and docs all in one spot.
- Seamless Communication: Stay connected with your team, subs, and clients through instant messaging and shared activity logs.
- Mobile App: Access project details, snap jobsite pics, and update tasks on the fly with their slick mobile app.
These innovative tools have earned Buildertrend some serious cred, scoring partnerships with home improvement giants like The Home Depot and Lowe's.
Over 1 million construction professionals across the US and Canada are using Buildertrend to simplify their lives! Talk about making waves in the industry.
But don't just take my word for it.
Linda Miller, CEO of Acme Construction, said,
"Buildertrend has been instrumental in streamlining our processes and improving communication with clients. Their platform has truly revolutionized the way we operate."
With their commitment to innovation and understanding of the construction industry's unique challenges, Buildertrend is setting the bar high for construction management.
Hudl: Changing the Game in Sports Analytics
(Up)Hudl is the game-changer when it comes to sports analytics. This Nebraska-based company, founded in 2006 by some clever individuals from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, has been leveling up the game with their cutting-edge video analysis and data solutions.
They're all about providing coaches and athletes with the insights they need to excel on the field, court, or wherever they play.
Hudl's tech is like having a personal trainer and strategist in your pocket.
Their video analysis tools let you break down game footage frame by frame, so you can study plays, techniques, and strategies thoroughly. And their performance analytics? Impressive! They track player movements, workloads, and biometric data, helping prevent injuries and optimize training like never before.
Hudl has become a household name in the sports world, with over 180,000 teams across 40+ sports using their solutions.
We're talking youth, high school, college, and even pro-level teams in leagues like the NFL, NBA, and Premier League. They capture and annotate a mind-blowing 15 million games every year, creating a massive sports video database that's invaluable for teams looking to gain a competitive edge.
With accolades like "Most Innovative Company" from Fast Company and "Best Coach's Tool" from Sports Illustrated, Hudl is the real deal.
They're on a mission to help coaches and athletes prepare better and perform their best, and they're excelling, one game-changing solution at a time.
Interface: Innovating Digital Product Design
(Up)Founded in 2013 by former designers and entrepreneurs, Brian Lange and Brian Milroy, Interface has rapidly ascended as a pioneering force in the digital product design realm.
Their vision? To revolutionize how companies approach design by empowering teams with intuitive, collaborative tools. The company's flagship offering, Interface, a unified suite of design software, has gained widespread acclaim for its:
- Effortless prototyping: Enabling designers to bring concepts to life with interactive, clickable prototypes.
- Real-time collaboration: Facilitating seamless teamwork with multi-user editing and commenting capabilities.
- Design systems management: Streamlining the creation and maintenance of cohesive design systems across projects.
Interface's impact on the industry has been nothing short of transformative.
According to a recent study by DesignOps, companies that adopted Interface's tools experienced a 37% increase in design team productivity and a 22% reduction in project delays.
This influence has not gone unnoticed, with Interface receiving numerous accolades, including FastCo's "Most Innovative Design Company" in 2022.
"Interface has fundamentally changed how we approach design at our agency. Their tools empower our team to collaborate more efficiently, iterate faster, and deliver exceptional experiences for our clients." - Jessica Park, Design Director at Pixel Perfect Agency
As digital design continues to evolve, Interface remains at the forefront, continuously enhancing its tools and introducing groundbreaking features.
With a rapidly growing user base and an unwavering commitment to innovation, Interface is poised to cement its position as a driving force in shaping the future of digital product design.
Spreetail: Simplifying E-commerce and Online Retail
(Up)Spreetail just leveled up big time, promoting Joshua Ketter as their new Global CEO! This innovator has been driving incredible growth for the company.
With his leadership and vision, Spreetail is set to excel in the ecommerce game. Their website explains how they're the #1 Oversize Accelerator, managing all the complex details of selling large products online.
From buying wholesale to listing on numerous marketplaces and shipping orders swiftly, Spreetail excels in ecommerce. They've got next-level tech enhancing their operations, with advanced tools for marketing, advertising, and global expansion.
If you're a brand aiming for success in online space, especially with bulky items, Spreetail is definitely a company to watch out for in 2024 and beyond.
Appsky: Pioneer of Custom Software Solutions
(Up)Founded in 2011 by software veterans Nathan and Amye Gilmore, Appsky has rapidly risen to become a leading custom software solutions provider in Nebraska.
Their mission? To "build remarkable software that delivers real value to clients." This Omaha-based startup offers a comprehensive suite of services, including:
- Custom software development (web, mobile, desktop)
- Legacy system modernization and integration
- DevOps consulting and implementation
- Dedicated project teams and staff augmentation
What sets Appsky apart is their commitment to understanding each client's unique needs and delivering tailored solutions.
As Nathan Gilmore explains, "We take the time to truly understand our clients' challenges and then leverage the latest technologies to create software that drives their business forward."
Appsky's impact on Nebraska's tech landscape cannot be overstated.
In 2022 alone, they were involved in over 50 projects across industries like agriculture, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. A notable client is "We couldn't be more impressed with Appsky's expertise and the remarkable software they've built for us.
It has transformed our operations," raves the CTO of a major agriculture firm.
With a talented team of over 50 software professionals and a portfolio spanning startups to enterprises, Appsky is pioneering the way for custom software solutions in Nebraska.
As businesses increasingly turn to digital transformation, this homegrown startup is well-positioned to drive innovation across The Cornhusker State.
D3 Banking: Leading the Fintech Revolution
(Up)Amidst the bustling fintech landscape, D3 Banking emerged as a pioneer, transforming the very fabric of modern banking. Founded in 2003, the company's inception was driven by a vision to revolutionize the banking experience through cutting-edge technology.
From humble beginnings, D3 Banking has evolved into a powerhouse, offering a comprehensive suite of innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of financial institutions.
At the forefront of D3 Banking's offerings lies its advanced digital banking platform, a groundbreaking technology that seamlessly integrates various financial services into a single, user-friendly interface.
This platform encompasses a wide array of features, including:
- Online and mobile banking: Enabling customers to securely manage their accounts, transfer funds, and conduct transactions from anywhere, at any time.
- Personal finance management tools: Empowering users to track expenses, create budgets, and gain valuable insights into their financial habits.
- Biometric authentication: Enhancing security through advanced methods like fingerprint and facial recognition, ensuring utmost data protection.
Beyond its digital banking platform, D3 Banking has made significant strides in reshaping the banking industry through its innovative fintech solutions.
As cited by industry analysts, "D3 Banking's cutting-edge technology has disrupted traditional banking models, setting new standards for convenience, accessibility, and security." This transformative impact is further evidenced by the company's impressive client base, which includes prominent financial institutions across the nation.
In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, D3 Banking stands as a beacon of innovation, continuously pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of modern banking.
As technology continues to reshape industries, D3 Banking's role in driving this fintech revolution is undeniable, paving the way for a more seamless, secure, and customer-centric banking experience.
Quantified Ag: Advancing Livestock Health Monitoring
(Up)Let's talk about Quantified Ag, a seriously cool startup from Lincoln that's shaking up the livestock game.
They have created high-tech ear tags that act like a FitBit for cows, making it way easier for cattle producers to keep tabs on their animals' health. Picture this – with just a glance at the data, you can instantly know if a cow's feeling under the weather or if something's off with their activity levels.
But that's just the beginning.
Quantified Ag is on a mission to revolutionize the agriculture industry with their cutting-edge technology. Their innovative system collects real-time data on body temperature, movement, and even location, giving farmers a comprehensive view of their livestock's well-being.
It's like having a team of digital vets monitoring your herd 24/7, catching potential issues before they become major problems.
The startup's making serious waves in the industry.
They've already snagged awards like the Nebraska Code Camp Innovation Award and recognition from the Silicon Prairie Awards for their game-changing contributions to ag-tech.
With their relentless drive for innovation and passion for improving animal welfare, Quantified Ag is turning heads and paving the way for a smarter, more sustainable future in livestock management.
LifeLoop: Enhancing Senior Living Experiences
(Up)Founded in 2017, LifeLoop's vision was born out of a profound need to enhance the quality of life for seniors and elevate the standard of care in assisted living facilities.
At its core, LifeLoop is a comprehensive technology platform designed to streamline communication, coordination, and engagement between residents, their families, and caregiving staff.
LifeLoop's innovative solutions include:
- Digital Care Records: Secure digital records replace paper-based systems, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information for resident care.
- Family Communication Portal: Families can stay connected and informed about their loved ones' well-being through real-time updates, photos, and messaging.
- Activity Scheduling and Tracking: Caregivers can schedule and monitor resident activities, promoting engagement and personalized care.
- Medication Management: LifeLoop's system helps prevent medication errors and ensures timely administration.
The benefits of LifeLoop's solutions are far-reaching.
According to a recent study by the University of Nebraska Medical Center, "LifeLoop has demonstrated a 27% reduction in hospitalizations and a 15% decrease in staff turnover rates in facilities that have adopted its platform."
For the elderly, LifeLoop fosters a sense of connection, engagement, and peace of mind, knowing that their care is coordinated and tailored to their needs.
Care facilities, on the other hand, benefit from increased efficiency, reduced risks, and improved staff satisfaction, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of care they provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What impact have tech startups had on Omaha's economy?
Tech startups in Omaha contributed approximately $1.2 billion to the local economy in the past year, showcasing their significant economic impact.
What factors are driving the growth of Omaha's tech startup ecosystem?
The growth of Omaha's tech startup ecosystem is driven by an abundant talent pool from local universities, support from incubators, accelerators, and venture capital, such as the Omaha Innovation Fund and Nebraska Angels, as well as a vibrant startup culture fostered by events like Big Omaha.
How were the top 10 startups in Omaha for 2024 selected?
The selection of the top 10 startups in Omaha for 2024 focused on innovation, growth potential, and market impact. Startups with game-changing ideas, significant growth trajectories, and the ability to disrupt existing markets were highlighted.
What innovative solutions does Flywheel offer to the digital marketing sector?
Flywheel offers solutions such as a landing page builder, email marketing automation, comprehensive lead management, and analytics, which have contributed to increased lead conversion rates and reduced customer acquisition costs for businesses.
What unique features does Buildertrend provide for the construction industry?
Buildertrend provides an all-in-one project management platform with features including seamless communication tools, a mobile app, and the ability to manage schedules, budgets, and change orders effectively, revolutionizing construction management.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.