Our Approach

We believe careers are key to
impacting generational poverty.

We upskill and support Nebraskans who have a fire in their belly for a better life. Our model removes barriers, builds real-world skills, and connects people to employers who are ready to hire.

I'm a Candidate I'm an Employer
Mission
Lighting the way to life-changing careers.

Ignite Nebraska is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes a quality career is one of the most powerful forces for change in a person's life — and in their community. We exist to make that possible for Nebraskans who have the drive but haven't had access to the right doors.

Our model focuses on harnessing the strength of partnerships to eliminate employment barriers and create pathways to financial stability.

Vision
A more equitable world where high-demand occupations are accessible to all.

Many people in our community — especially people of color — work full-time yet remain unable to make ends meet due to systemic inequities that keep them out of high-demand, higher-paying careers. We're working to change that, one career at a time.

Headquartered in Omaha. Serving Nebraskans statewide.
All of our training happens right here in Nebraska. We work with local employers, community partners, and state organizations to open real doors to real opportunities.
Ignite Nebraska cohort graduation

"I love Ignite because it changed my life. They care about me."

— Barry D., Ignite Tech Graduate, Cohort 4

Our Four Pillars

How we deliver results.

Every program is built on four foundational pillars that work together. No single piece is enough on its own — it's the combination that creates lasting change.

Pillar 1
Upskilling

Fully-funded, hands-on curriculum building the real-world soft and technical skills needed for a modern workforce. Created in partnership with Bellevue University and aligned to actual employer hiring needs.

Always free to participants — funded through foundations, corporate sponsors, and individual donors.

Pillar 2
On-the-Job Training

Paid, practical experience working alongside real employers — available in Ignite Tech and Ignite Works. Reinforces classroom learning and prepares participants for the day-to-day realities of their role.

Ignite Tech participants earn a wage from day one of their apprenticeship.

Pillar 3
Navigator Support

The backbone of participant success. A dedicated Navigator provides wraparound services to help participants barrier bust — connecting them to resources, sending job leads, coaching them through interviews, and staying engaged after they start their new role.

Navigator support continues post-hire through the first months on the job.

Pillar 4
Employer Partnerships

Partnerships with corporate, educational, and governmental organizations ensure participants have access to real opportunities with employers who are actively hiring. Participants interview, show up, and earn the role — we make sure they're the most prepared person in the room.

The Process

From application to career.

Here's how the model works from start to finish — for participants and for the Nebraskans we serve.

  1. 1
    Talent Sourcing
    We work with local organizations, nonprofits, and community connections to reach untapped talent — Nebraskans who are ready and motivated but haven't had access to the right opportunities.
  2. 2
    Application & Fit Assessment
    Participants apply through a short general application. A phone screen and in-person interview follow — so we can understand their goals and match them to the right program. Your Navigator guides you to the best next step.
  3. 3
    Upskilling & Training
    Free training — always. Real-world soft and technical skills for a modern workforce, built in partnership with Bellevue University. Every program equips participants with the confidence and skills to succeed.
  4. 4
    Navigator Support & Barrier Busting
    Your Navigator provides wraparound services throughout the program — removing barriers, sending job leads from our employer network, and preparing you for every interview. They're not applying for you — they're making sure you can show up as your best self.
  5. 5
    Earn Your Role
    Participants interview, show up, and earn the role. Navigator support continues through the first months on the job — because success doesn't stop at the start date.

Our Impact

The outcomes speak
for themselves.

51%
Average income increase after completing a program
93%
Of graduates still employed with their employer partner at year one
100%
Of alumni on state assistance transitioned off within 12 months
8.2
Months for participant cost to be repaid through income taxes

Ignite Tech graduates earn an average starting salary of $54,000 · 258% average return on every dollar invested · 262% more earnings than minimum wage

Ignite Nebraska achievement ceremony

"Every graduate earns their moment."

Ignite Nebraska Achievement Ceremony · Omaha, NE

For Participants

Got a fire in your belly for a better life?

Apply in two minutes — always free. Someone from our team will be in touch within a few days to find the right program fit.

For Employers

Ready-to-work talent. 93% still employed at year one.

Partner with Ignite Nebraska to access a screened, trained talent pipeline with Navigator wraparound support through onboarding.