 LINCOLN, Nebraska – October 22, 2025 – The NE Chamber and University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business today announced the 2026 inductees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame. They are:
These leaders will officially be inducted at the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Banquet Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. “These three honorees embody what it means to be in the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame,” said NE Chamber President and CEO Todd Bingham. “They've strengthened the state’s business climate, invested in their communities and fueled statewide economic growth for years. Our 2026 inductees are incredibly deserving of this elite, statewide honor." These individuals join a distinguished group of more than 140 business leaders whose work to grow their businesses in Nebraska has made a significant impact on Nebraska’s economy, overall job opportunities and quality of life in their communities. Candidates are nominated by individuals from the business community, business associations and academia. The program was established in 1992 by the NE Chamber and UNL College of Business. “We’re honored to recognize these exceptional leaders for the impact they’ve made across Nebraska,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean of the UNL College of Business. "Their success and generosity have inspired others, opened doors for the next generation and left a lasting mark on their community.” To join in honoring these individuals and their families at the NE Chamber’s Hall of Fame Banquet, register here. For companies interested in sponsoring the event, contact Ryan Querry at [email protected]. *Awarded posthumously. ###
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LINCOLN, Nebraska – October 14, 2025 – The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry has named Kelly Bartling of Kearney as its first executive vice president of marketing and strategic communications. Nebraska Chamber President and CEO Todd Bingham made the announcement today.
Bartling, a York native, is currently vice chancellor of enrollment management and marketing at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, with two decades of experience at the University of Nebraska and prior roles at Nebraska daily newspapers. “As a lifelong Nebraskan, Kelly understands Nebraska’s unique attributes and has a network of leadership partners across the state, including Greater Nebraska,” Bingham said. “She has demonstrated marketing and communication success and is committed to working collaboratively to serve our members and enhance the Nebraska Chamber’s communication strategies to be an even stronger voice for business in Nebraska.” In this new role created by Bingham, Bartling will lead strategic marketing and communications efforts—managing the Chamber’s voice, strengthening engagement, and expanding its impact across communication platforms, events, and key initiatives including the Nebraska Chamber Foundation, Leadership Nebraska, the Manufacturing Alliance, and Tech Nebraska. With the Nebraska Chamber leadership team, she will help execute member relations and legislation and policy initiatives, including member and grassroots messaging and materials. Bartling’s background includes work in journalism, public/community relations, marketing strategy and content development, digital media and multi-media storytelling, branding and visual identity, strategic planning, and data and budget management. Prior to joining UNK, she was the news director in the Office of University Communications at UNL and an adjunct professor in UNL’s College of Journalism and Mass Communications, where she earned her Master of Arts in Marketing, Communication and Advertising. ###  LINCOLN, Nebraska – October 14, 2025 – Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools across Nebraska are invited to apply for the 2026 National Civics Bee, a nonpartisan competition created and organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Students begin by submitting a four-paragraph essay proposing ideas to improve their communities, and the top scoring essay finalists will be invited to a live quiz competition in their state.
Finalists who advance to live quiz competitions at the regional, state, and national levels have the chance to win prizes and represent their communities. They also strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and form friendships with other young leaders along the way. The first-place winner of the Nebraska State Finals in June will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in Fall 2026. Finalists who advance to the National Championship will compete for cash prizes, national recognition and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution. Thanks to the generous support of the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school. Educators, youth leaders, and parents are encouraged to share this opportunity with their middle school students. Educator and student resources are available to help students craft and submit their essays. Access these resources here. The application portal is open now through February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. Students can apply here. Students without access to the internet or a computer may submit their applications by mail. “Every middle school student in Nebraska — whether attending public or parochial school — should apply to compete in the National Civics Bee,” said NE Chamber Foundation President, Tera Norris. “As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, there’s no better time to empower the next generation with a deeper understanding of the rights, responsibilities, and values that shape our democracy. This competition not only sharpens students’ civic knowledge but gives them the opportunity to proudly represent their communities and the great state of Nebraska on a national stage.” “Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. The National Civics Bee provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation. For Nebraska companies interested in sponsorship opportunities for the Nebraska State Finals competition, please contact Tera Norris, NE Chamber Foundation President, at [email protected]. For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org. For interview requests or additional information, please contact Tera Norris, NE Chamber Foundation President, at [email protected]. ###  LINCOLN, Nebraska – October 7, 2025 – Lindsay Corporation has been named Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year by the NE Chamber. The award recognizes a Nebraska manufacturer that implements innovative ways to conduct business using products, processes, technologies and other strategies.
“The Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year award celebrates a company that pushes boundaries in manufacturing and enhances Nebraska’s competitiveness,” said Todd Bingham, NE Chamber President & CEO. “Being a global company, Lindsay Corporation still prioritizes its Nebraska roots, truly embodying what it means to be a Manufacturer in Nebraska. It’s an honor to celebrate Lindsay as the 2025 Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year.” Lindsay Corporation began as a farm equipment business in Lindsay, Nebraska in 1955 and has since grown to be a worldwide force in irrigation and infrastructure. Lindsay’s global network of dealers, distributors and facilities provide solutions that enable smarter, safer and more sustainable operations. From agriculture to road safety to industrial technology, Lindsay meets customers where they are on a global scale. "We're honored to be recognized by Nebraskans and fellow manufacturers as the Nebraska Manufacturer of the Year," said Rich Harold, Senior Vice President of Global Operations. "Since our founding in 1955, Lindsay has grown from a local manufacturer into a global leader in irrigation and infrastructure solutions. Yet through all that growth, we’ve remained deeply rooted in Nebraska—committed to our people, our communities, and our values. Whether it’s helping farmers conserve water through smart irrigation or protecting lives on the road with our infrastructure products, Lindsay is proud to make a positive impact here in Nebraska and globally.” Lindsay was recognized on October 6 by Governor Jim Pillen at the annual NE Chamber Manufacturing Summit, presented by RSM US LLP. RSM is a leading provider of audit, tax and consulting services to manufacturing and wholesale distribution industries. ###  LINCOLN, Nebraska - October 6, 2025 - CNH Industrial’s AF Series Combine has been named the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska. Throughout all three rounds of the competition, more than 40,000 votes were cast.
The AF Series is the most powerful combine series offered by CNH. The combines boast the industry's largest grain tank and a fuel-efficient engine, covering more acres in less time with the power and efficiency to handle any crop conditions. Designed, engineered and built by farmers, the AF Series combines are packed with the latest in automation, connectivity and harvesting technology. CNH was announced as the champion on October 6 at the NE Chamber’s Manufacturing Summit in La Vista by Pinnacle Bank Market President Chris Conrad. Pinnacle Bank was the Coolest Thing Presenting Sponsor. “Winning the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska is an incredible honor. This recognition highlights the innovation, hard work, and pride that go into everything we do at CNH. We are proud to represent Nebraska’s manufacturing community and grateful for the support from the public and the organizers of this great event,” said CNH Grand Island Plant Manager Dustin Alexander. “The Case IH AF Series Combine Harvester is a cutting-edge lineup of high-capacity harvesting machines built for maximum productivity, efficiency, and precision. Engineered for global performance, these combines can handle more than 180 crop types—making them a trusted solution for farmers in diverse agricultural landscapes around the world.” Manufacturers, students and all Nebraskans were invited to vote in a head-to-head, bracket-style matchup of 16 finalists to determine the winner of the fourth annual competition. Learn about each of the finalists at nemanufacturingalliance.com. “As a community bank operating over 60 locations serving communities all throughout Nebraska, at Pinnacle Bank we understand that manufacturing isn’t just about making things— it’s about driving innovation, supporting growth and employing over 100,000 Nebraskans who do the work every day. That’s why Pinnacle Bank is proud to partner with the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance in recognizing the people and products that make this industry thrive,” said Chris Conrad, Pinnacle Bank Market President. The contest – hosted by the NE Manufacturing Alliance and the NE Chamber and presented by Pinnacle Bank – celebrates the state’s thriving manufacturing industry with Nebraska residents, students, educators, community leaders, manufacturers and especially, the vast number of Nebraskans working in manufacturing every day. The popular contest takes place during October, when NE Manufacturing Month is celebrated each year. ### LINCOLN, Nebraska – October 8, 2025 – The Nebraska Chamber Foundation is proud to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring the National Civics Bee to Nebraska for the 2025-2026 program year. This annual initiative – now expanding to all 50 states in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 – invites middle school students to showcase their civics knowledge, engage in their communities, and build trust in others and institutions through a nonpartisan, multi-round competition.
The National Civics Bee begins with a written essay and culminates in live events at the regional, state, and national levels. Finalists who advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C., will compete for cash prizes, national recognition, and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution. Thanks to the generous support of the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school. The essay application portal is until February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (HST). All students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to apply. More information can be found here. “We’re excited to bring the National Civics Bee to Nebraska and provide middle school students across the state with a unique opportunity to engage in their communities and demonstrate their civic knowledge,” said Tera Norris, NE Chamber Foundation President. “It will be inspiring to see young Nebraskans step up as future leaders, and we can’t wait to welcome them to Lincoln next spring for the Nebraska State Finals!” “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity – and responsibility – to reignite civic learning across the country. Our hope is that the National Civics Bee inspires more schools to prioritize civics education, equipping young people with a deeper understanding of how our government and democracy work – and the essential role they play in strengthening their communities and our nation,” said Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation. For Nebraska companies interested in sponsorship opportunities for the Nebraska State Finals competition, please contact Tera Norris, NE Chamber Foundation President, at [email protected]. For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee.org. For interview requests or additional information, please contact Tera Norris at [email protected]. ### LINCOLN, Nebraska — September 17, 2025 — Nearly 40,000 individual votes were cast in the first two rounds of the Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition, presented by Pinnacle Bank. With round three now open, the field is down to the last four products.
The following Nebraska manufacturers and their products are the top four contenders:
Voting for the top four products is open now through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, September 28. This is the last round of voting before the 2025 Coolest Thing is chosen. Nebraskans and supporters nationwide can cast their votes for their favorite product at nemanufacturingalliance.com. The competition, hosted by the NE Chamber and NE Manufacturing Alliance, and presented by Pinnacle Bank, celebrates Nebraska’s dynamic manufacturing industry, home to more than 100,000 Nebraskans working in manufacturing every day. The tournament will help launch NE Manufacturing Month this October. The 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska will be announced October 6 at the NE Chamber’s Manufacturing Summit in La Vista, where finalists will be invited to display their products. Registration is open to the public and available here. ### OMAHA, NE – September 16, 2025 – Tech Nebraska, in partnership with the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, has announced the full agenda for its 2025 Tech Nebraska Summit, set for Thursday, October 30, 2025 at the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District.
Now in its third year, the Summit will bring together founders, innovators, technologists, executives, and policymakers for a full day of conversations on the future of Nebraska’s tech sector. Attendees can expect keynote talks, panel discussions, fireside chats, and networking opportunities focused on modernization, innovation, and growth. Featured keynotes and conversations include:
Tickets are on sale now. To view the full agenda and register, visit technologynebraska.com. Members of the media may request complimentary passes by contacting Emily Allen at [email protected]. The Tech Nebraska Summit is made possible with the support of sponsors including Google, Kiewit, Great Plains Communications, FMNE Insurance, JE Dunn Construction, Olsson, Behlen MFG, Cox Communications, Hamilton Business Technologies, McGrath North, IP Pathways, Valmont, Aksarben Foundation, Cline Williams, CyncHealth, ECC, Lincoln Electric Systems, and Palo Alto Networks. ### LINCOLN, Nebraska — September 10, 2025 — Tens of thousands of votes were cast in the first round of the Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition, presented by Pinnacle Bank, narrowing the field from 16 products to eight.
The following Nebraska manufacturers and their products are among the top eight contenders:
The competition, hosted by the NE Chamber and NE Manufacturing Alliance, and presented by Pinnacle Bank, celebrates Nebraska’s dynamic manufacturing industry, home to more than 100,000 Nebraskans working in manufacturing every day. The tournament will help launch NE Manufacturing Month this October. The 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska will be announced October 6 at the NE Chamber’s Manufacturing Summit in La Vista, where finalists will also be invited to display their products. Registration is open to the public and available here. ### LINCOLN, Nebraska — August 27, 2025 — The fourth annual Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition has officially unveiled its Top 16 products. From farm equipment to iconic foods, Nebraskans now have the chance to decide which product will claim the 2025 title.
Voting is open for the first round of the bracket-style competition and will continue through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, September 7. Advanced rounds will follow throughout September. Manufacturers, students and all Nebraskans are invited to cast their votes for their favorite product each week at www.nemanufacturingalliance.com. The competition, hosted by the NE Chamber and NE Manufacturing Alliance, and presented by Pinnacle Bank, celebrates Nebraska’s dynamic manufacturing industry, home to more than 100,000 Nebraskans working in manufacturing every day. Top 16 Finalists:
“Manufacturing is a pillar of Nebraska’s economy, and this competition is a chance to celebrate the companies and people making a difference every day,” said Todd Bingham, NE Chamber President. “These 16 products represent just a fraction of the innovation happening across our state, and we’re excited to showcase them as we discover the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska.” The tournament will help launch NE Manufacturing Month this October. The 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska will be announced October 6 at the NE Chamber’s Manufacturing Summit in La Vista, where finalists will also be invited to display their products. Registration is open to the public and available here. ### |
Media Contacts:Please email Meg Hatfield at [email protected] with your media requests or call 531-278-1262 Archives
October 2025
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