Earlier last month, Norfolk, Nebraska had the privilege to host the annual Nebraska Economic Development Association (NEDA) conference at Divots Conference Center & Norfolk Lodge & Suites.
NEDA is Nebraska’s leading association of professional economic developers dedicated to fostering economic growth and improving the business climate. NEDA’s purpose is to foster economic development in Nebraska, encourage the advancement of the expertise of its members, foster cooperation among economic development professionals, and to afford professional economic developers a vehicle for assembly and collective expression.
The theme for the 2024 NEDA Conference was ‘Why Placemaking Matters’. Norfolk’s Mayor Josh Moenning emphasized the importance of the community building, stating, “If you’re not doing the work to build a community that people want to live in, (affordable housing and workforce training) won’t actually matter.
Professionals from around the state came together to take advantage of leading education programs, to share ideas, and network. This year’s conference was a record attendance of over 200 attendees. This three-day event highlighted developments at various developments in Norfolk, including Riverpoint Square and the Intersect co-working space, the city’s cooperative housing program with Wayne State College, and the newly opened North Fork Whitewater Park. City economic development director Candice Adler noted that the tours provided NEDA members to see a return on their investments made recently in Norfolk.
Candice Alder, Economic Development Director for the City of Norfolk and Norfolk Area Economic Development Council, was named the 2024 NEDA Local Professional of the Year. This award acknowledges her dedication and efforts of the last several years. Her efforts contributed to the development of 1,000 housing units, comprehensive downtown revitalization and stellar retail development track record.
Ron Tillery presented Candice Adler with the “Local Professional of the Year” Award”
In Adler’s acceptance speech, she stated, “it’s all due to people working together in our community.” She thanked the Nebraska Department of Economic Development for its grant funding and the city’s business community and her family for their support.
Governor Pillen also spoke at the conference, advocating for the aggressive economic development. He stated, “I’m a believer that we should be creating a lot of dust in Nebraska, so that other states around us can eat it.”
The 2025 Annual NEDA conference will be held in LaVista, Nebraska. To become a NEDA member, you can complete the application located on the NEDA website – www.neda1.org.