Economic Development Assistance

Through the use of targeted business tax incentives, exemptions, and low taxes, the state offers a tax structure that is equitable to businesses and individuals. Nebraska’s solid financial position is guaranteed by a state constitution that prohibits deficit financing. Several performance- based incentives allow firms to earn a series of tax credits, refunds, and exemptions for investment and new job creation. The economy also benefits from solid population and labor force growth as well as a growing industry mix. To find out more information about relocating/expanding business operations to Bellevue, contact Megan A. Lucas at the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce at 402.898.3000 or www.BellevueNebraska.com.

The location of progressive industry in the region is no accident. Business and industry are drawn to the area by a strong pro-business climate, nationally recognized schools, outstanding medical facilities, one of the nation’s lowest cost of living, and a labor force with one of the nation’s best work ethic. Business leaders praise the region’s transportation assets , communication facilities, mild climate, high quality of life, recreational opportunities, and its natural scenic beauty. Bellevue’s largest employer is Offutt Air Force Base with more than 10,000 active duty personnel and a $2.4 billion economic impact. Offutt is the home of the 55th Wing, U.S. Strategic Command, the Air Force Weather Agency, and Air Combat Command’s Heartland of America Band. That’s why the city’s largest business sector is the defense industry. Hosting more than 50 defense contractors in the community with more than 3000 employees, Bellevue boasts a highly-trained and educated workforce. Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and McCallie Associates are Bellevue’s largest contractors concentrating on mission support contracts. “We are very fortunate to have a strong, community minded defense industry thriving in Bellevue. The contractors located in the City appreciate its business climate as well as the community culture,” explains Megan A. Lucas, President & CEO of the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce.

Bellevue broke ground recently on their newest industry -- the medical sector. The community is enjoying a newly completed $8 million Alegent medical clinic and looking forward to the opening of the Bellevue Medical Center in 2010. The Center is a $140 million capital investment in the community that will employ 500 people. The hospital will provide labor and delivery care, emergency care, inpatient and outpatient surgery, and intensive care. Facilities will feature state-of-the-art diagnostic services and equipment, including a cardiac catheterization lab, radiology, lab testing, and pharmacy on the premises. The result of the recent growth of the medical sector is increasing interest in more medical office buildings -- which are already in the planning stages. Bellevue’s location on the Nebraska/Iowa border and growing population are factors driving the current medical trend.

Bellevue University is partnering with the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and Creighton University to establish the Great Plains National Security Education Consortium sponsored by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. The consortium is part of the Intelligence Community Centers of Academic Excellence program and will provide academic, research, cultural immersion, and outreach activities focused on national security-related topics to students with diverse interests and backgrounds. One central goal of the consortium is to develop students who have the knowledge of international and cultural issues, proficiency in foreign languages and skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking required of professionals employed in the 16 federal agencies that make up the U.S. intelligence community. The university offers graduate and undergraduate Security Management degree programs - the nation’s largest. The degree programs are well-respected in the industry, preparing students to be competitive candidates in this growing field. Under the Career Avenues Initiative, the Career Coaching Center provides information on career-relevant internship and employment opportunities for students and alumni. Earlier this year, four Bellevue University alumni were chosen by The Department of Defense to participate in its Palace Acquire Internship Program.