LINCOLN, NEB. (May 8, 2007)— Gov. Dave Heineman has signed a proclamation declaring May 7-11, 2007 as Business & Industry Week in the state as part of the upcoming Nebraska Diplomats Business and Industry Recognition Day, Friday, May 11, in Omaha, when the organization will celebrate the contributions of Nebraska businesses.

“In this increasingly global marketplace, growing business and industry is important to the economic health of our state,” Gov. Dave Heineman said. “We want to thank the many businesses that continue to do business in our state, and this week presents an excellent opportunity to recognize the achievements and outstanding contributions of several Nebraska companies during the past year.”
 
The week’s emphasis on the global economy ties into Nebraska’s significant growth in exports, which has earned it an enhanced berth within the global marketplace.

Nebraska exports increased nearly 21 percent in 2006 from the previous year, and 43 percent from 2002-2006, to $3.6 billion, providing one of many reasons to celebrate Business & Industry Week in the state.

From 2002-2006, the state’s exports increased to many of its top trading partners, including Canada (83 percent), Mexico (73 percent), China (139 percent), and Australia (94 percent). Nebraska exported products to 170 different countries in 2006, with the top ones being machinery and chemical manufactures, transportation equipment, and processed foods. To view the state’s top 25 export markets and top product exports, go to: http://www.neded.org/files/PIO/2006ExportsfromNebraskatoWorld.pdf

The week’s events will culminate on Friday when an estimated 200 Nebraska Diplomats and guests will gather in Omaha to celebrate and recognize business and industry leaders from across the state. The day’s events will include presentation of the Edgerton Quality Awards, ED Certified Community Awards, and Diplomats President’s Business Awards by Gov. Heineman and Diplomats President Roger Christianson. Attendees also will participate in industry and bus tours of Qwest, Gallup, the Mutual of Omaha Midtown Project, AkSarBen Development Project, and PKI.

With a membership of more than 475 business executives and community leaders, the Nebraska Diplomats Inc. is the largest economic development organization in Nebraska, promoting the state's productive business climate and its unique quality of life.

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Patty Wood at 800-426-6505, 402-471-1559, or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it