A Monthly Update from YCDC

A Monthly Update from YCDC

Lisa Hurley, Executive Director

Economic development is often most visible when there is a ribbon cutting, a new business opening, or a project announcement. Much of the work that makes those moments possible happens earlier, through conversations, planning, partnerships, and follow-up.

Over the past month, York County Development Corporation has continued moving work forward across business development, small business support, housing, workforce, leadership, and regional storytelling. These efforts may not all be public yet, but they are helping keep York County ready for the next opportunity.

Business Activity and Opportunity

YCDC continues to see steady engagement from entrepreneurs, existing businesses, and companies evaluating opportunities in York County. Over the past month, we have been involved in conversations with individuals exploring potential startup ventures, including retail and entertainment concepts. Additional businesses have also been evaluating available sites and buildings across the county as they consider expansion or location options.

These discussions have included meetings with local and regional partners focused on site readiness, infrastructure needs, and future development opportunities.

Not every conversation leads to an immediate announcement. However, each one matters. These early discussions help build relationships, identify needs, answer questions, and keep York County competitive in an active business environment. They also reinforce the importance of having local partners and stakeholders who help position our communities for these opportunities.

Supporting Small Business with Data

One encouraging trend is increased use of YCDC’s Small Business Analytics tool, powered by SizeUp. This free resource allows local businesses and entrepreneurs to access data that supports decision-making around marketing, operations, customers, competitors, revenue potential, and market conditions.

Over the past year, users have generated more than 4,100 reports, including 843 reports in just the last 30 days. This growth reflects strong engagement from local businesses using data to better understand their markets and identify opportunities.

YCDC also continues to provide demonstrations and support to ensure businesses are aware of the tool and comfortable using it.

Housing and Infrastructure Progress

Housing availability continues to affect nearly every part of York County’s growth, from helping employers recruit workers to giving families more options to live in the communities where they live and work. Simply put, when employers are trying to grow, housing matters. When families are deciding whether to move here or stay here, housing matters.

That is why YCDC continues to treat housing as a core part of economic development.

Over the past month, YCDC has been engaged in conversations and partnerships focused on both housing and infrastructure development. These efforts have included exploring infrastructure options connected to employment areas, as well as participating in broader discussions focused on affordable housing solutions and partnerships across Nebraska.

By continuing to prioritize housing alongside business attraction and workforce development, YCDC is working to support practical, balanced growth across York County communities.

Investing in Leadership Development

Strong communities depend on strong leaders. YCDC is proud to support leadership development opportunities that benefit individuals, employers, and the broader region.

Programs such as 17-County Leadership and the Dale Carnegie Leadership Course provide opportunities for current and emerging leaders to strengthen communication skills, expand their networks, and grow their ability to lead within businesses, nonprofits, schools, local governments, and community organizations.

We encourage area employers and individuals to take advantage of these opportunities to invest in leadership growth right here in our region.

Telling Our Story Across the Region

YCDC continues to invest in promoting York County and the broader region through storytelling and outreach.

The 17-County Podcast continues to gain traction, reaching more than 38,400 all-time listens. Interestingly, only about 25.56% of podcast listens over the past two years have come from Nebraska. 

This tells us the stories being shared are resonating well beyond our state, reaching people who are interested in the Midwest lifestyle and the opportunities our region offers.

We have also enhanced the podcast experience by adding professional headshots for interviewees, providing additional visibility and value for those who share their stories.

Looking Ahead

Economic development is a long-term effort built on relationships, planning, and consistent activity. The work happening today across business recruitment, entrepreneurship, housing, infrastructure, leadership, and storytelling is helping prepare York County for future opportunities.

Whether you are exploring a business idea, looking for a site, thinking about housing solutions, developing leaders, or interested in supporting economic development efforts, we invite you to connect with us.

The work of economic development is strongest when more people are at the table.