Every year, advocacy and public policy plays a major role in the placemaking efforts of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce. And this past year was no exception!
In 2022, Omaha, along with so many other cities and states, was the recipient of unprecedented funding from the American Recovery Plan Act. Thankfully, the Chamber had a seat at the table to not only identify some of Omaha’s biggest challenges, but also help shape how those critical funds were invested.
So, we focused heavily on two priorities: our local workforce and underserved communities. In the end, our diligence and hard work paid off because the Nebraska Unicameral voted to direct funds towards internships and economic development in important areas of Omaha.
Fast forward to today.
With a sound strategic plan in place and necessary policy initiatives to support economic growth, we’re proud to announce that Omaha is poised to pursue some very lofty goals. How lofty you ask? Over the next two decades our mission is to add 30,000 new residents to our great city along with 30,000 new jobs.
Yes, it’s ambitious. Yes, it’s challenging. And yes, it will require a sustained momentum and focus from our city’s policy makers. But your Omaha Chamber has rolled up its proverbial sleeves and is ready to get to work. In the end, our mission is to turn our region into one of the most inspirational communities in the country.
Let’s take a look at the bills we supported:
LB 873
The proposal slashed the state’s top corporate and individual income tax rates over five years, expanded income tax credits offered to property taxpayers, and phased out income taxes on Social Security benefits. Under this proposal, by 2027 Nebraska’s top personal income tax rate will be reduced from 6.84% to 5.84% and the top corporate income tax rate will be reduced from 7.5% to 5.84%.
LB 1014
This proposal will massively scale up Nebraska’s successful internship, apprenticeship, and workforce training programs using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Additionally, it will spur re-entry and reskilling opportunities for existing talent and help students secure Nebraska careers.
LB 1024
This proposal awarded grants to the North Omaha-based Omaha Economic Development Corp. and to an affiliate of the Greater Omaha Chamber to create plans for a $60 million business park development in North Omaha. The proposed business park stands to be a major employment center that could attract manufacturers, warehouses, and distributors alike.
LB 1013
This proposal earmarked $30 million to be used to enhance the infrastructure and amenities of Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue. This measure demonstrates a continued commitment from the city to help the Air Force base grow over the next few years. More importantly, this commitment could play an important role in encouraging Air Force personnel to stay in Nebraska, which could lead to a $75 million economic impact on the state.
Save These Dates:
April 12: Annual Small Business Day
Small Business Day in Lincoln.Â
April 12: CODE: Data-driven Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Building a Measurement StrategyÂ
April 14: CODE Centering BIPOCS Folks by Building Intentional Community and Connectivity Retreat
April 18: Coffee & Contacts: Floor & Decor
April 20: Meet The Buyers ConferenceÂ
April 21: CODE Education Series Retreat- Beyond the 3 P’s – Policy, Practices, and Procedures
April 25: Sales Workshop with Jeff BealsÂ
April 27: Leadership Lab
Two-day, intensive workshop.Â
CHAMBER EVENTSÂ
The Greater Omaha Chamber focuses on growing business. One significant way is by offering educational sessions. Whether it’s sales, marketing, operational, financial or other day-to-day issues, there are events to help grow your business.
There were 70 Chamber events during the first quarter of 2023 that provided opportunities to connect and grow. An investment of time to learn and connect with others can pay big dividends.
During this next quarter there are single sessions on topics such as small business lending options or unique hiring and retention tools; to more in-depth workshops on DEI practices, leadership development and sales/marketing. Make it a habit to check the Chamber’s events calendar regularly to see what potential sessions make sense for you or your employees.
At an upcoming Chamber Sales Workshop on April 25th at the Jewish Community Center, Jeff Beals will show you how to provide outstanding solutions for your clients while growing your revenue. Jeff is an international award-winning business author, sought-after national keynote speaker, and accomplished sales consultant who helps companies find better prospects, close more deals, and capture greater market share.
This half-day business development workshop will teach you the best ways to contact new prospects, how to build trust with them, and then determine exactly what they value. Jeff will also reveal the latest best practices for prospecting, how to approach senior decision makers and work around their gatekeepers.
Plus, you’ll also develop effective prospecting language you can use that same day to engage new clients. The workshop will finish by exploring the best ways to overcome objections and close more sales. It is designed to leave you feeling energized, educated, and eager to improve your success immediately.
For more information on this professional development workshop, or other sessions please visit www.OmahaChamber.org/events. Invest in yourself and your employees to grow your business.
Address: 808 ConAgra Drive, Ste 400, Omaha, NE 68102
Contact Us: (402) 570-9955
Website: www.omahachamber.org
Social Media: twitter.com/omahachamber
