LIBA Foundation
The Lincoln Independent Business Association Foundation was incorporated in 1996 for the purpose of providing financial assistance to students pursuing business-related education, support of youth activities and education of the community on business and the free enterprise system.
In or about 1999, the Foundation began providing scholarships to winners of the Junior Achievement Stock Market Challenge. The Foundation subsequently began providing one year scholarships to graduating seniors who were attending a trade school or two-year or four-year accredited post-secondary Nebraska institution.
For at least the last 10 years the Foundation has granted between eight (8) and twelve (12) $1,000 scholarships.
2025 Scholarship Winners
Sawyer Benne
Lincoln Lutheran High School
Tatum Truax
Lincoln Southeast High School
Sophie Westburg
Lincoln East High School
Titus Sander
Homeschooled
Norah Schmidt
Lincoln Southeast High School
Morgan Sobotka
Norris High School
Ellerie Elizabeth White
Raymond Central High School
Coby Mach Memorial Scholarship
For 15 years, Coby Mach led LIBA with a strong commitment to Lincoln’s business community. He was a consistent voice for small businesses—advocating at City Hall, the State Legislature, and with Nebraska’s Congressional Delegation. Under his leadership, LIBA grew in membership, reputation, and influence among local leaders and policymakers. Coby also hosted a popular local radio talk show for many years, further extending his reach and impact in Lincoln. Through both LIBA and his radio career, he became a respected figure in the city. After his sudden passing in April 2019, the LIBA Foundation Board of Directors, together with Coby’s family, established a scholarship in his memory to support local students pursuing higher education. The scholarship is awarded annually and presented at a LIBA luncheon in recognition of Coby’s lasting contributions.
2025 WINNER
Nolan Severance
Lincoln Southwest High School
Previous Winners
2024: Megan Waters, Lincoln East
2023: Trevor Spence, Lincoln East
2022: Kenton Brass, Pius X
2021: Keagan Callahan, Pius X