UNL Engler Program Celebrates 15 Years

New report highlights alumni success and economic impact across Nebraska

Lincoln, Neb. (KLKN) — The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program is celebrating 15 years of helping students turn their ideas into businesses, with a new report highlighting the program’s economic impact and alumni success.

According to the report, businesses connected to the program generated more than $83 million in gross revenue in 2025 and supported 213 jobs.

For some graduates, the program provided the resources and confidence they needed to turn their passions into careers.

Elijah Riley, founder of Big Gumdrop Outdoors, said his love for the outdoors inspired him to create a nonprofit focused on giving underserved youth opportunities to experience nature.

Through hands-on activities and outdoor education, the organization works to introduce children to experiences they might not otherwise have access to.

Since launching in 2024, Big Gumdrop Outdoors has served more than 15,000 children.

Another Engler alumnus, Brody Benson, turned his passion for live production and Western sports into SandBox Media, a Nebraska-based company that provides broadcasting and live production services for Western sporting events across the country.

What started as an idea has grown into a busy production company, with events already booked for nearly every weekend during 11 months of 2027.

Both alumni say the program played an important role in helping them take their ideas beyond the classroom.

As the Engler program marks its 15th anniversary, its latest report highlights how student entrepreneurship continues to create businesses, jobs and economic opportunities in Nebraska.