Nebraska Launches Economic Growth Working Group to Boost Business Development

On September 29, 2026, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen signed Executive Order 26-22, establishing a statewide Economic Growth Working Group designed to coordinate business recruitment and site selection efforts across the state. This initiative represents a significant step towards strengthening Nebraska’s economic framework and ensuring the state remains competitive on both national and global fronts. In his announcement, Gov. Pillen emphasized that Nebraska aims to create an environment conducive to business, stating, "We are taking a major step forward to ensure Nebraska competes – and wins – on the national and global stage."

The new working group will operate under the auspices of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED), which will oversee the implementation of a collaborative approach involving multiple stakeholders. This includes local chambers of commerce and regional economic developers, which highlights a move away from a fragmented regional strategy to a more unified approach. The Working Group, chaired by DED Director Maureen Larsen, is tasked with developing a comprehensive inventory of sites and infrastructure that could accommodate future economic initiatives. The group's first report, outlining an initial framework, is expected to be delivered by December 31, 2026, with a detailed multi-year economic plan to follow by June 30, 2027.

With Nebraska ranked as the fifth best state for business by U.S. News & World Report, and noted for its superior infrastructure and affordability regarding energy, this initiative may facilitate further capital investment within the state. Nebraska prides itself on having a 100% public power system and achieving top-tier AAA credit ratings, which reflect its long-term fiscal stability. These factors are likely to draw more businesses to the state, helping it maintain an aggressive stance in attracting corporate expansions.

The establishment of the Working Group comes at a pivotal moment when many economies are adapting to the post-pandemic landscape. The creation of this group underscores the need for cohesive strategies at the state level to engage local business leaders and effectively utilize regional resources. Gov. Pillen pointed out that through partnerships and shared resources, the state can create more business opportunities, stating, "When we share resources, align our efforts, and work as one economic development community, we can create more opportunities for businesses and communities in all 93 counties."

There are actionable implications for contractors and economic development firms looking to engage with the state’s initiatives. Given the group's focus on developing an infrastructure and site inventory, businesses with the capability to offer site readiness or infrastructure solutions should look for opportunities to collaborate with the DED during regional roundtables and planning activities. However, at this stage, there has been no announcement regarding specific funding allocations, contract values, or concrete procurement requirements, which means interested parties must remain vigilant for future updates as the framework for the initiative develops.

Overall, the Economic Growth Working Group represents an ambitious strategy that not only addresses the immediate needs of businesses but also lays the groundwork for long-term economic stability and growth in Nebraska. The forthcoming reports and regional engagements will likely shape the procurement landscape in the state, creating new opportunities for those in the economic development sphere.

• Governor Jim Pillen signed Executive Order 26-22 on September 29, 2026.
• The Economic Growth Working Group will focus on business recruitment, site selection, and regional engagement.
• The working group will produce an initial framework by December 31, 2026.
• A detailed multi-year plan is expected by June 30, 2027.
• Collaboration with local chambers of commerce is a key feature of the initiative.
• Nebraska is recognized for having the nation's #1 infrastructure and is the fifth best state for business.
• No specific funding or procurement details have been released yet, requiring firms to monitor developments closely.