Local Leaders
Networking Reception
February 23 | 6–8 p.m.
Henry Doorly Zoo Scott Aquarium
Launch Forum
February 24 | 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Embasssy Suites La Vista
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Networking Reception
February 23 | 6–8 p.m.
Henry Doorly Zoo Scott Aquarium
Hors d’oeuvres and cocktails included.
Launch Forum
Febraury 24 | 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Embassy Suites La Vista Hotel & Conference Center
Breakfast & lunch included.
About the Event
The Go Big Future Launch Forum is the inaugural showcase of the Nebraska Chamber Foundation’s Signature Local Leaders Series, setting the tone for a yearlong exploration of Nebraska’s future through three defining themes: diversified energy, workforce, and technology innovation. This event serves as both a celebration and a call to action, blending data and storytelling to reveal how Nebraska can seize its role as a leader on the national stage while honoring the state’s legacy of resilience and powerful leadership.
This event will affirm that by aligning innovation, community vitality, and long-term investment, Nebraska can assert its competitive edge nationally. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how affordable energy, technology innovations, and workforce intersect to define Nebraska’s competitive advantage—and will be empowered to become champions of this transformative vision for Nebraska’s success.
Go Big Future Launch Forum will begin with a networking reception on the evening of February 23rd from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Henry Doorly Zoo Scott Aquarium. The event will include hors d’oeuvres and cocktails along with brief remarks from Omaha Mayor John Ewing & Valentine Mayor Kyle Arganbright.
The Forum will take place the following day at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. A breakfast will be included before the event and lunch will be included at the end.
More information will be provided prior to the event.
About the Event
The Go Big Future Launch Forum is the inaugural showcase of the Nebraska Chamber Foundation’s Signature Local Leaders Series, setting the tone for a yearlong exploration of Nebraska’s future through three defining themes: diversified energy, workforce, and technology innovation. This event serves as both a celebration and a call to action, blending data and storytelling to reveal how Nebraska can seize its role as a leader on the national stage while honoring the state’s legacy of resilience and powerful leadership.
This event will affirm that by aligning innovation, community vitality, and long-term investment, Nebraska can assert its competitive edge nationally. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how affordable energy, technology innovations, and workforce intersect to define Nebraska’s competitive advantage—and will be empowered to become champions of this transformative vision for Nebraska’s success.
Go Big Future Launch Forum will begin with a networking reception on the evening of February 23rd from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Henry Doorly Zoo Scott Aquarium. The event will include hors d’oeuvres and cocktails along with brief remarks from Omaha Mayor John Ewing & Valentine Mayor Kyle Arganbright.
The Forum will take place the following day at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. A breakfast will be included before the event and lunch will be included at the end.
More information will be provided prior to the event.
Agenda
This event will feature a series of conversations, panels, and keynote discussions. Below is a preview of the topics you can expect.
Why A Long Term Strategy Matters
What The Foundation's Data Tells Us
The Challenge of Silos & Alignment
Ideas for a Competitive Workforce
Harnessing Nebraska's Home-Grown Energy
Technology & Innovation in Our State
Speakers
Full lineup coming soon. Check back for updates!

Owen Palm
President and CEO
21st Century Holdings

Lance Fritz
Former CEO
Union Pacific

Hunter Traynor
Executive Vice President - Legislation & Policy
NE Chamber of Commerce & Industry

K.C. Belitz
Former Nebraska Economic Development Director

Heath Mello
President and CEO
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce

Dana Bradford
CEO
C3 Brands

Josh Moenning
New Power Nebraska,
Former Mayor of Norfolk

Sarah Pillen
Pillen Family Farms,
DNA Swine Genetics

Emily Allen
Executive Director
Tech Nebraska

Jim Sutfin
Former Superintendent
Millard Public Schools

Dan Hoffman
CEO
Invest Nebraska