Matthew Brunken: Nebraska Entrepreneur Revolutionizing Innovation in Healthcare, AgTech, and Beyond

In the heart of Nebraska, where innovation meets Midwestern grit, Matthew Brunken stands out as a dynamic entrepreneur, venture analyst, and semi-professional endurance runner. With an MBA in Investment Science from the University of Nebraska and a proven track record in building and scaling startups, Brunken has carved a niche in commercialization strategy, operational growth, and customer-focused ventures across healthcare, AgTech, and service industries. His journey from founding grill cleaning services to advising biotech startups exemplifies a blend of analytical rigor and hands-on execution, all fueled by the discipline of a champion athlete.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur in Lincoln or Omaha, or simply curious about leaders shaping Nebraska's business landscape, Matthew Brunken's story offers invaluable insights into turning ideas into scalable successes.

Early Education and Foundations in Business

Matthew Brunken's academic path laid a strong foundation for his entrepreneurial pursuits. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Law from Liberty University in 2020, graduating Summa Cum Laude, which honed his understanding of legal frameworks essential for venture building. Building on this, he pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Investment Science at the University of Nebraska in 2022. This education equipped him with skills in financial modeling, market analysis, and strategic planning—tools he's applied across diverse industries.

His early career included hands-on roles that built practical expertise. Starting as an associate at Ace Hardware, he advanced to management, gaining insights into retail operations and customer service. He also worked as a nursery sales consultant at Lanoha Nurseries, developing client relationship management and consultative selling skills. These experiences underscore Brunken's grounded approach to business, emphasizing community impact and operational efficiency.

Building and Scaling Startups: From Grill Cleaning to Digital Platforms

Brunken's entrepreneurial spirit shines through his ventures. As Founder and Owner of Husker Grill Cleaning in Lincoln and Omaha, NE (2023–2025), he transformed a niche service into Nebraska's leading grill cleaning and repair company, serving over 500 households and high-end clients. Key achievements include justifying a 50% year-over-year price increase while adding new customers and maintaining a 90% return-client rate. He designed custom cleaning rigs, lye-bath systems, and steam solutions for efficiency, and launched Husker Reserve Grill Concierge for luxury outdoor kitchens. Growth was driven by SEO, Google My Business, direct mail, and brand positioning, culminating in a franchise-ready model for expansion beyond Nebraska.

In the digital space, Brunken founded and exited Pro Volleyball Club (2022–2024), a platform connecting professional volleyball athletes, fans, and sponsors. He built a fan-focused media hub, grew traffic via SEO and influencer partnerships, and developed revenue through brand deals and advertising, successfully selling the platform in 2024.

Brunken co-founded BuySBA as Chief of Product, creating a digital platform for small business ownership transfers to preserve jobs and community value. Similarly, CimShare supports business continuity by matching buyers and sellers. Early ventures like MTec Event Solutions and MTrack Race Tracking addressed gaps in event management and race tracking, showcasing his innovation across sectors.

Venture Analysis and Consulting in Healthcare and AgTech

Brunken's expertise extends to advising and analyzing ventures. As Senior Venture Analyst at UNeTech Institute (2019–2021), he supported university-affiliated startups in healthcare, biotech, and food innovation. He led customer discovery for projects like Suh Precision Syringe, Protein Primer, Cor-Line, and Microwash, conducting competitive analyses, financial modeling, and producing investor reports. Notable contributions include market analysis for Microwash to improve clinical sample preparation, usability validation for Precision Syringe, and commercialization assessments for Cor-Line, factoring in regulatory pathways and reimbursement.

At Knudson Ventures (2021–2022), as an Inside Consultant, he advised portfolio companies on strategy, market positioning, and operations, supporting business planning and go-to-market strategies.

In 2024–2025, as Administrator at URUS, Brunken stabilized operations by reviewing billing frameworks, digitizing records, and outlining AI adoption frameworks for modernization. His work at UNMC’s Microwash project during COVID-19 improved testing accessibility, highlighting his commitment to social impact.

Athletic Achievements and Personal Drive

Beyond business, Matthew Brunken is a semi-professional distance runner, embodying resilience and performance. He's a back-to-back-to-back BRIN Series Champion (2023-25), second overall at the 2025 Garmin Half Marathon, holder of the ECNC 5k Record, and part of Team ROGUE.

Despite battling Crohn's disease, he achieved a 2:44:56 finish at Grandma’s Marathon and actively coaches in Lincoln's running community, supporting events like the Good Life Halfsy.

He's authored a leading book on cultural development in championship cross-country programs and published a Google Scholar-cited review on hydrogen water for endurance athletes with Crohn’s. This athletic mindset—discipline, accountability, and empowerment—infuses his business philosophy.

Technical Skills and Thought Leadership

Brunken's toolkit includes advanced SEO, financial modeling, CRM systems, process design, venture analysis, and digital marketing. His blog on matthewbrunken.me shares insights on customer discovery frameworks, business strategies, and professional development. Follow him on X at @matthew_brunken for updates on entrepreneurship and running.

Why Matthew Brunken Inspires Nebraska Entrepreneurs

Matthew Brunken's career demonstrates how blending education, hands-on experience, and personal passion can drive innovation. From optimizing grill cleaning operations to commercializing medical devices, he's a testament to Nebraska's entrepreneurial spirit. For those in healthcare, AgTech, or service industries, his story offers lessons in scaling ventures while creating social value.

Contact him at MaBrunken@proton.me for collaborations or insights. Stay tuned for more on rising leaders like Brunken shaping the future.