Lincoln continues on an economic path to prosperity. Job growth, a new entertainment district, and a continued push for technology start-up companies are fueling the income growth.
In September, the Lincoln Chamber was part of a trade mission to Japan that resulted in a new company coming to Lincoln. Japanese manufacturer Morio Denki, one of Kawasaki’s leading suppliers, chose our community for the site of its first expansion project outside of Japan. The company operates four business segments. One is a railway division that manufactures controllers, power distribution boards, switch boxes, and other parts. A second is an automotive division that makes various vehicle-mounted indicators and road information systems for highway companies. A third division makes explosion-proof lights and other tools for the shipping industry, and the fourth is a real estate division that leases apartments. Kawasaki purchases train component parts from Denki’s railway division. The railcar division at Kawasaki has landed several large, high-profile contracts in recent years to supply New York and Washington D.C. with new railcars for their subway systems. Japan is Nebraska’s 3rd largest trade partner and the growth at Kawasaki is something that will only strengthen the country’s presence in our state.
Outside of our efforts to recruit companies like Morio Denki to locate in Lincoln, we also know the best way to grow jobs in a community is by nurturing and supporting existing local businesses. In today’s information age, technology start-ups are one of the fastest growing segments of business. Lincoln is no exception. To better capitalize on the booming industry, we’ve added an additional member to our Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development staff just to work with start-ups and provide them with the knowledge and resources needed to grow their business. We’ve also begun a yearly celebration of their success. Dubbed “Start-up Week”, the program offers a week-long focus on the start-up culture in Lincoln. It features roundtable discussions with other entrepreneurs who have grown their companies from the ground up, information sessions on different funding programs, and networking opportunities so that these companies have a sense of community appreciation for their work. Check out www.lincolnstartupweek.com for a sample of what is offered and be sure to mark your calendar for next year’s event.
Lincoln has the momentum to succeed in the coming decade, but one of our remaining challenges will be to retain the talented individuals we invest in so heavily. Part of our strategy for making Lincoln a great place to live, work, and play is to have top-notch entertainment and recreational opportunities. The construction of the Pinnacle Bank Arena and the West Haymarket Development are already making head-way in that department. Big name artists like Bon Jovi, Elton John, and P!nk have signed-on to play the venue and new retail shops and restaurants continue to occupy the adjacent development. Hotel operators in the area tell me they are completely booked for many of the opening events. I can honestly say there is no better time to be in Lincoln.
by Wendy Birdsall, President Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
402-436-2350
The Chamber’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. Networking opportunities, business advocacy, and creating economic viability are critical to our success. We encourage you to become a member and help us achieve these goals for Lincoln. For more information, please contact Paul 402-436-2350.