About the Event

Innovation After Hours is an invite-only, VIP focused networking event connected to the Nebraska Ag Expo Innovation Hub. The event brings together over 150 people from ag technology companies, producers, dealers, manufacturers, investors, and industry stakeholders for conversation, connection, and practical insight into the future of agriculture.

Event Details

Nebraska Innovation Campus
Conference Center
2021 Transformation Drive
Lincoln, NE 68508

Tuesday, December 8, 2026
5:00 p.m.

Innovation After Hours is an invite-only, VIP after-hours event serving innovation, conversation, dinner and networking at Nebraska Innovation Campus in Lincoln, NE.

Connect with start-ups, investors, and executives from innovative ag companies and partners from across the country and beyond.

Program:

  • 5:00 p.m. — Networking
  • 6:00 p.m. — Welcome
  • 6:15 p.m. — Dinner
  • 6:55 p.m. — “Start-up Showcase”
  • 8:00 p.m. — Networking

Attendees

This event is designed for anyone interested in agricultural innovation, including producers evaluating new technology, startups introducing new solutions, manufacturers expanding market reach, dealers supporting modern equipment and service needs, and partners looking to connect with forward-thinking companies.

Event Invitations will be sent directly to attendees.

More Information
A person speaks at a podium before an audience, at the Nebraska Ag Expo.

Startup Showcase

Innovation After Hours invites the best and brightest early-stage agtech entrepreneurs to participate in a pitch event at the VIP dinner after this year’s Nebraska Ag Expo.

One winner will receive a $5,000 award (by a judging panel) and the audience will vote for the winner of a $1,000 People’s Choice Award. This competition is designed to catapult small startups into the launch or growth phase of their business.

Apply to the Startup Showcase

Featured Conversations

Programming may include informal discussions, featured companies, producer perspectives, technology demonstrations, and networking around major innovation themes.

  • Icon of an agricultural drone spraying crops.
    An agricultural drone flies over a field, spraying crops.
    Producer Adoption

    Explore how growers and ranchers evaluate, test, and adopt new technology.

  • A minimalistic icon of three people.
    A man shakes hands with a woman at the Innovation After Hours event.
    Startup & Industry Connection

    Meet companies bringing new ag technology and services to market.

  • Icon of a tractor with a small dome emitting a single.
    A farmer uses a tablet while inspecting a cornfield at sunset.
    Future of AgTech

    Discuss robotics, automation, data, precision tools, and practical innovation.