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Economic Development Team Takes First Road Trip into Big 10 Territory

A recruiting team led by Nebraska Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy headed to Illinois the week of Aug. 22 to inform Illinois business leaders about twelve reasons why Omaha is a smart move when they consider expanding or locating a branch of their business. The team also included Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle, Nebraska Tax Commissioner Doug Ewald, business leaders from Greater Omaha, and Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership staff.

In addition to one-on-one meetings, a trip highlight was a Chicago Cubs rooftop event on Thursday, Aug. 25. At a briefing prior to the baseball game, the Lt. Gov. told attendees about Nebraska’s pro-business atmosphere and went over the benefits of the Talent and Innovation Act passed during the 2011 legislative session. He also talked about our fair state regulatory environment, debt-free government and lowest per capita debt burden – all things that set us apart.

Mayor Suttle was proud to talk about the great partnership the city and Chamber have. He explained how we work together to attract and retain business and create jobs. He also mentioned the $2 billion investment in downtown Omaha during the last decade, the city of Omaha’s AAA bond rating, and the recent Kiplinger ranking that named Omaha the #1 Best Value City for 2011.

After hearing specifics about the advantages of doing business in Omaha, Nebraska Tax Commissioner Doug Ewald discussed the Nebraska Advantage business incentives and provided more information about our pro-business environment.

Meetings with about 89 business representatives were held during the trip.

Hear Jeff Beals and Mayor Suttle discuss the recruiting trip (recorded during KFAB’s Good Morning Show on Aug. 24.)

During the Aug. 27 broadcast of Grow Omaha, hosts Jeff Beals and Trenton Magid discussed the Illinois trip. Access the "Grow Omaha 8-27-11" podcast. Advance to the 4:50 mark of the program to hear their remarks.

View the news release.