Economic Development
Launch the media gallery 1 playerNeligh has a long-standing tradition of proactive community leadership and strategic planning. In 2010, local leaders launched the Grow Neligh program to evaluate community strengths, identify challenges, and develop a vision for Neligh’s future. Through a community visioning process, residents and stakeholders prioritized economic development as essential for maintaining the community’s vitality and supporting long-term growth.
As a result, voters approved the Local Option Municipal Economic Development Act (LB 840) in November 2011, creating a dedicated local funding source to support business growth, community investment, and economic projects.
Using funds from LB 840, the Neligh Economic Development Office (NEDO) was officially established in April 2013 in partnership with the City of Neligh. This office serves as the primary entity responsible for implementing local economic strategies and coordinating efforts to support business growth, workforce stability, and community well-being.
Today, NEDO works closely with local businesses, community groups, regional partners, and state agencies to meet the goals outlined in Neligh’s strategic plans. Through these collaborations, Neligh continues to build itself as a resilient and forward-looking rural community committed to sustainable economic growth and an improved quality of life.
Mission
Grow Neligh. Our mission is to support business retention, expansion, and entrepreneurship while encouraging investment in commercial districts and residential development that strengthen Neligh’s economy and improve community quality of life.
Purpose
The Neligh Economic Development Office (NEDO) works to make Neligh, Nebraska, a competitive and welcoming community to live, work, and invest in. The office offers professional economic development services that support local businesses, promote entrepreneurship, and attract new investment to the area.
NEDO acts as a resource and contact point for existing businesses, entrepreneurs, and companies looking to expand or relocate in Neligh. The office also works to coordinate local economic development initiatives with the community’s Comprehensive Plan, Strategic Plan, and regional economic efforts.
In addition to business development, NEDO assesses wider economic and community factors to help Neligh sustain a strong and lively local economy. Through strategic planning, community partnerships, and targeted investment initiatives, the office promotes sustainable growth and long-term community resilience.
Programs
Business Incentives
NEDO administers LB 840 economic development programs that support business recruitment, expansion, job creation, and private investment. These tools provide financial assistance that helps businesses grow while strengthening the local economy and tax base.
Business Retention and Expansion (BRE)
Maintaining strong relationships with existing businesses is a key priority. The Economic Development Director conducts Business Retention and Expansion visits to understand business needs, identify potential challenges, and connect employers with resources that support continued success.
Local Grant Programs
To encourage reinvestment and community growth, NEDO manages several local grant programs. These initiatives support projects that bolster Neligh’s long-term progress, including downtown revitalization, commercial building upgrades, and community development efforts.
Housing Incentives
To promote workforce stability and community growth, NEDO administers housing incentive programs that encourage residential development and reinvestment. Through the Rural Workforce Housing – Neligh Market Rate Housing Program, the community supports the construction and rehabilitation of market-rate housing to address local workforce housing needs.
Economic Development Board
- Randy Marcove - Chairperson
- Doug Bolling - Vice Chairperson
- Krista Schindler
- Andy Elder
Staff
- Lauren Sheridan - Director
Email: lauren@neligh.org
Phone: (402) 887-4447