Opportunity Zones & Regional Growth 

In July, Governor Pillen nominated 28 new census tracts for designation as federal Opportunity Zones, and if approved by the U.S. Treasury Department, will become effective on Jan. 1, 2027. Operating under updated framework, these expanded zones will offer enhanced incentives to drive private investment across both rural and urban Nebraska. Together, they serve as a vital catalyst for regional economic growth and expanding workforce housing statewide.

Water Quality & Quantity Task Force Final Report

Nebraska’s proactive commitment to water quality and quantity requires continuous oversight and innovation. This panel delivers the Task Force’s final recommendations, demonstrating how advanced conservation technology and intentional stewardship ensure state water resources effectively drive economic growth, bio-manufacturing, and global agriculture.

Growing the Good Life 

Nebraska is open for business! Featuring 2026 legislative advancements like the Grow the Good Life Act, this panel explores expanded state incentives that keep high-value jobs in Nebraska, spark business expansion, and create lasting opportunities for the next generation.

Why Nebraskans Stay in Nebraska

Winning the competition for talent starts at home. Explore how Nebraska is achieving brain gain through high-impact workforce initiatives and registered apprenticeships. Panelists will showcase career growth pathways and competitive opportunities across greater Nebraska that position young professionals for long-term success.

Clean Energy & Feeding the World

From global food production to revolutionary low-carbon fuels and value-added bioproducts, Nebraska agriculture dominates on all fronts. This session explores how state-of-the-art carbon pipeline infrastructure, low carbon intensity scoring, and first-in-the-nation digital producer rights laws position Nebraska as an undisputed powerhouse in energy, technology, and policy.

Powering Nebraska: Data Centers, Energy Infrastructure & Ratepayer Protections

Balancing technological growth with responsible resource management requires proactive state leadership. Featuring insights from the Data Center Task Force, this educational panel examines grid power capacity, landmark behind-the-meter legislation, and strategic solutions to expand high-tech infrastructure while protecting public power ratepayers.

Nebraska is rewriting the playbook on talent retention. This main session combines powerful demographic insights with authentic personal journeys from young professionals across the state, illustrating how expanding career pathways empower the next generation to stay, thrive, and lead in the Good Life.

Building Nebraska’s Talent Pipeline 

Nebraska’s community colleges serve as a driving force for workforce development. Featuring all six community college presidents, this panel highlights strategic campus-to-career pathways, industry partnerships, and state-wide tools designed to equip the next generation of skilled talent.

Exporting Nebraska Products Globally 

From world-class irrigation systems and grain storage to advanced powersports and ag-technology, Nebraska-made products power economies across the globe. Featuring industry experts, this panel explores how global market demand, international trade missions, and state-wide innovation drive billions in global exports.

Rural Health Transformation Panel

Securing more than $200 million in federal funding, Nebraska has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernize rural health care. This session explores how transformation funds will strengthen local care delivery and ensure long-term healthcare sustainability statewide. This session will discuss how efforts at the federal level support rural healthcare and how multiple agencies in Health and Human Services partner with states to invest in the health of the next generation.