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Gov. Pillen Signs Executive Order Establishing Coordinated Statewide Economic Strategy
KEARNEY, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen signed Executive Order 26-22 during the Governor’s Summit at the Younes Conference Center, establishing a unified statewide strategy for business recruitment, site selection, and economic expansion.
“We are taking a major step forward to ensure Nebraska competes – and wins – on the national and global stage,” said Gov. Pillen. “Since taking office, my vision has been clear: run state government like a business, cut taxes, eliminate red tape, and partner directly with our job creators. To win corporate expansions, attract major capital investment and keep our best talent here, we must fire on all cylinders as one team across all 93 counties and all six regions of Nebraska.”
At the news conference, Gov. Pillen highlighted how the state is the premier place to do business, raise a family, and build a high-quality life. Nebraska ranks as the fifth best state overall by U.S. News & World Report and the #1 state in infrastructure. Additionally, Nebraska stands as the nation’s third most affordable energy state for business, fueled by 100% public power, and its top-tier AAA credit ratings reflect long-term fiscal stability.
The executive order officially establishes the Governor’s Economic Growth Working Group, chaired by the Director of the Department of Economic Development (DED). Instead of state officials, local chambers, and regional developers working independently or competing against each other, it will bring these key leaders together to align strategy for economic development.
Chaired by DED Director Maureen Larsen, the Working Group will also include members from the Governor’s Policy Research Office, DED, the Nebraska Economic Developers Association (NEDA), the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Omaha and Lincoln chambers, and regional economic development leaders from all six regions.
“Today is about one thing: Nebraska working together to compete and grow. NEDA is proud to have helped shape this framework alongside the Governor’s office, DED, our chambers, and economic development partners across the state,” said NEDA President Luke Peltz. “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. We’re ready to get to work and make it happen.”
One of the key aspects of the Working Group is to create more collaboration with local leaders, making sure their needs are met. The Working Group will co-design a multi-year economic plan and DED will lead the charge to host recurring business roundtables in every region, maintaining a continuous feedback loop with employers.
“This year, through the Nebraska Chamber Foundation’s Go Big Future initiative, and nearly two dozen community visits, we’ve heard from business and community leaders across the state,” said Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry President & CEO Joseph Young. “They are optimistic about Nebraska’s potential. We have no shortage of opportunities. Our task is to get ambitious and organized. Faced with countless chances to grow, Nebraska needs to speak with one voice and move as one team.”
The Working Group will also establish an annual, prioritized statewide site selection and corporate recruitment plan by evaluating national site-selector conferences, trade missions, corporate headquarters visits, and industry expos, ensuring Nebraska is represented and pitching one cohesive message. Further, the initiative will build a synchronized statewide inventory of available industrial sites, commercial properties, and infrastructure assets to maximize speed-to-market for expanding businesses.
“Nebraska is strongest when we can present a clear, coordinated approach and demonstrate that our state and global partners are working together for the same goals,” said Heath Mello, president & CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber. “That is why the Greater Omaha Chamber welcomes this effort to strengthen coordination across the state of Nebraska. A shared strategy can help us improve site readiness, align business recruitment efforts, better coordinate our engagement efforts with existing companies and site collectors and ensure we are making the most of our assets and opportunities that exist in every region across the state. Greater Omaha success is closely connected to the success across communities in Nebraska.”
The Working Group is expected to submit an initial strategic framework to the Governor by December 31, 2026, with a full multi-year strategic plan scheduled for publication by June 30, 2027.
