Aspire

It would’ve been easier and sexier to say “dream,” but we didn’t. Aspire means to believe you can achieve something and to work relentlessly to make it happen. It’s backed by sweat, effort and determination in pursuit of a goal that becomes more than simply an idea, but a reality. Too many people today have small dreams and expectations for who they can become. Although obstacles and setbacks influence us, ultimately each person must decide for themselves who they will be.

There are no shortcuts. Students who Aspire never settle. They’re trailblazers who know what they want to achieve in life and in entrepreneurship.

Build

Engler students recognize problems and are inspired to design solutions. They construct, combine and reassemble opportunities into enterprises — they build. No matter where you are on your entrepreneurial journey, you’ve got to build a network, a company, a set of values and a solution that improves customers’ lives.

Builders possess a vision that extends beyond today, and the backbone to carry it out. This means undertaking a purpose-driven feat to benefit others by creating something bigger, whether it’s an idea, a product, a service or an organization. You don’t need to wait for all the answers. You just need to get started.

Passion

We’re not talking about unbridled enthusiasm. Paul Engler talked about having a “fire in your belly,” but he didn’t mean a spark that quickly fizzles out. Instead, the fire of entrepreneurship and the desire to create positive change is a slow-burning, continuous longing. Passion is the fuel that compels you to your purpose and helps you make decisions for the right reasons.

Engler students are motivated by potential. We strive to live with the same passion that propelled the explorers, pioneers and builders who have come before us to seek new opportunities. No matter the difficulties, challenges and hardships they faced, they pressed onward.

Grit

This is not something you can learn from a book — you’ve got to experience something difficult to truly understand what it means. Grit is an unflinching embrace of hard, worthwhile work. It means replacing excuses with relentless effort. When you get beat down, pushed around or knocked over, you stand up more determined than ever — even when nobody’s watching. When you’re tired, uncomfortable and worn down, grit keeps you going.

Grit is part of Nebraska; this same fierce persistence is the essence of our state. Our nation was built by pioneers and immigrants who didn’t sit around waiting for accolades. Today’s great farmers and entrepreneurs don’t either.

Courage

If you prefer playing it safe, entrepreneurship is probably not for you. The willingness to move past fear sets true entrepreneurs apart. Stepping beyond doubt requires the faith that, although an outcome may be unknown, the uncertainty is worth the risk.

Courage is a deliberate, necessary choice to overcome barriers and refuse to accept limits. It’s a decision we must make, not just once, but continuously. Courage does not mean taking a blind, uncalculated leap and hoping things will magically turn out for the best. Likewise, doing something you know will work (or worse, doing nothing at all) is not how Engler operates — Courage never stops, and neither do we.

Partner

Hollywood gets it wrong: entrepreneurship is not a lone wolf game. This mindset is missing the critical understanding and intention that we go farther together. Seasoned entrepreneurs understand that nothing gets accomplished without teamwork, and you simply can’t do it alone.

Partner means to conquer together. That’s why we’re committed to acting with integrity and bettering the Engler community through lifelong relationships and partnerships. The decision to work with others toward positive outcomes lies at the heart of being a Partner; co-founders and friends compliment your skill sets and extend your capacity to solve problems.

The Engler Entrepreneurship Program

DB+

Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship is a Powerful Force for Good.

If you’re looking for a collection of radically determined world-changers, you’ve come to the right place.

This community builds long-lasting entrepreneurship opportunities in Nebraska and the Midwest, and it’s all made possible by the commitment of our members.

Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship is a Powerful Force for Good.

If you’re looking for a collection of radically determined world-changers, you’ve come to the right place.

This community builds long lasting entrepreneurship opportunities in Nebraska and the Midwest, and it’s all made possible by the commitment our members.

How We Change the World

Engler Field Guide

– Aaron, Horticulture Alumnus

The Engler Pillars

These six pillars sum up the Engler mindset, what we stand for and what we value. Just like entrepreneurs need teamwork and collaboration to reach their goals, each pillar depends on the others. Click the icons to learn more!

Aspire

Build

Passion

Grit

Courage

Partner

Are you Engler material?

Do you want the opportunity to build something worthy and wonderful? Do you long for the chance to challenge yourself? Do you long to find a better way of doing something that challenges the status quo? Do you desire to work as your own boss?

You might just be Engler material.

Start Your Journey with the Engler Program

Get Started

Engler Entrepreneurship Program

LOCATION

DINSDALE LEARNING COMMONS
EAST CAMPUS
1625 N 38TH ST
Lincoln, NE 68583

engler@unl.edu

(402) 472-5643