Membership

Working Together
... makes us stronger 

If we, as a county, don't plan for economic development, who will? 
    Nemaha County's economic future is totally in the control of its residents. Outside forces may act upon us to some degree, but we are truly the only real masters of our destiny. While many individuals and groups have done some excellent work, area economic development has often become a many-headed monster - biting and scratching for the same pieces of pie with little progress. By planning and working together, the county's best hands and minds can shape a brighter future for its citizens.

Without one, we cannot compete. 
    Let's face it, almost every county wants to preserve and improve their existing industries, bring more business into the area and do all the things necessary to improve their county's economic situation. Research shows that county-wide economic development groups like ours can vastly improve economic stability and growth. Our neighbor to the north, Otoe County, has already had many successes because of their group's efforts. In order to compete successfully in a changing, worldwide marketplace, we must continue to implement our county-wide efforts.

Why a county-wide group?

• More assets
      Nemaha County brings more economic assets to the table than any one of us, as a city or other entity, does alone: a rich agricultural economy, Peru State College, Cooper Nuclear Station, Brownville tourist attractions, Steamboat Trace plus a larger population and work force.
• Larger financial base
      As a county economic development organization, we have a larger financial base than a single city program does, sharing the costs among government, businesses and individuals.
• Grant Applications
      It's easier for a county organization to obtain state and federal grants plus private foundation support. Grantors encourage multi-community efforts, because the grants benefit more people and are easier to administer than grants to individual communities.
• Benefits for all
      The benefits of economic development cross political boundaries. The effects of a new industry or available housing in one community spread to the entire county in the form of an expanded tax base, more jobs, higher per capita incomes, local business expansions and a higher quality of life.

Who are we?

• The NCDA represents a public/private partnership of businesses, individuals and government dedicated to the economic growth of Nemaha County. 
• This non-profit corporation (501 C 3) is supported by every community in the county on a per-capita basis.
• The NCDA has a board of directors representing the seven communities and their rural surrounds within Nemaha County. 
• The NCDA employs a full-time executive director to coordinate and manage the organization's efforts.
• The NCDA welcomes visitors to its office in the Nemaha County Courthouse.
• Members gather for an annual membership meeting and are kept informed through periodic newsletters.
• Five volunteer-based task forces have been formed to accomplish the goals identified by NCDA members. 

Why should you become a member? 

• When you join the NCDA, you are affiliated with those who want Nemaha County to prosper and grow.
• The NCDA provides a structure for you to accomplish goals you might find difficult to achieve alone.
• By becoming a member, you will have the opportunity to make your ideas for county economic development heard. - Without funding through memberships, we cannot support our economic development efforts.