Celebrating Partnership Power with the Nebraska Opportunity Exchange and the Urban League of Nebraska

Jun 20

When you’re surrounded by people who believe in you, there’s a different kind of magic in the air.

On June 12, the Nebraska Opportunity Exchange (NOE) hosted its first-ever Partnership Appreciation Dinner, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of extraordinary. Held at the warm and welcoming Ooh De Lally in Omaha’s Dundee neighborhood, the evening brought together 50-plus funders, advocates, collaborators, and small business owners who’ve been driving economic inclusion across the state.

Lozafina was deeply honored to be a NOE participant, invited and included. This gathering was a declaration: We are building something transformational. Together.

From the moment guests walked in, the space was filled with energy, purpose, and genuine connection. The culinary team at Ooh De Lally served up an incredible buffet and drinks, creating a cozy backdrop for reflection and reconnection.

And the stories shared? Powerful. Real. Full of grit and grace.

We heard from some of the bold entrepreneurs shaping Nebraska’s small business landscape, including Victoria Mbachu of Parking Area Maintenance, Andrew Moore of A&E Caulking Solutions, Mariem Sanoe of Let Us Talk About It Coaching, Jay Overton of Southern Spoon, Antonio Parr of Parr Realty, and yes, yours truly, Josefina Loza of Lozafina.

These voices reminded us that NOE isn’t just a program. It’s a movement in the right direction with small businesses and alliances to help them grow.

A Look at the Impact

$450,000+ in confirmed financial support
$200,000 in microloans (set to double by August thanks to NEF matching)
300+ small businesses supported
25+ contract-readiness trainings delivered
Contracts won by NOE-backed businesses
2025 NOE Conference: 100+ attendees, 75+ leads

Deep Gratitude to the Backbone of This Work

To the Urban League of Nebraska, Inc., Wayne Brown, Harold Sargus, and April Hibbler, JD, MBA, thank you for your unwavering belief in the power of small businesses like Lozafina and the possibility of equity through action. April, your leadership is lighting the way for so many.