How ECHO Collective helps new Americans become entrepreneurs

What happens when immigrant and refugee women are given the tools, mentorship and confidence to build businesses of their own? In Lincoln, Nebraska, ECHO Collective’s “The Refinery” is helping women from around the world turn dreams into reality through entrepreneurship training, mentorship and community support. Over four months, participants learn branding, finance, networking, marketing and business planning while building lasting relationships with women who share similar journeys. Meet Ayat from Sudan, who hopes to open a bakery and one day a restaurant celebrating Sudanese culture. Meet Mo, who came to Nebraska from a refugee camp in Thailand and now dreams of launching her own interpretation business to help families feel connected and understood. Alongside women from Iraq, Libya and Myanmar, these entrepreneurs are building more than businesses — they’re building confidence, independence and community. This “What If…” story follows the journey from first class to graduation day, showing how ECHO Collective and founder Kelly Ross are helping create opportunities for New Americans while strengthening Nebraska’s economy and culture. #ImmigrantStories #WomenEntrepreneurs #RefugeeStories #Nebraska #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Community #WhatIfNebraska © 2026 Nebraska Public Media Foundation. All rights reserved. Learn more about the innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship across Nebraska by visiting https://NebraskaPublicMedia.org/WhatIf This video, “How ECHO Collective helps new Americans become entrepreneurs” is a part of the 7th season of “What If…Nebraska”. FOLLOW US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/NebraskaPublicMedia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaPublicMedia X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NebPublicMedia Instagram: https://instagram.com/NebraskaPublicMedia