Programs
norfolk area chamber of commerce
THE AGRI-BUSINESS COUNCIL WORKS TO UNITE AGRICULTURE AND BUSINESS COMMUNITIES.
The Agri-Business Council serves as a bridge between Northeast Nebraska’s agricultural roots and its business community. Comprised of leaders, producers, and ag-related professionals, the Council works to elevate the role agriculture plays in our local economy while fostering understanding, education, and connection across industries.
Through signature initiatives like the Northeast Nebraska Ag Banquet, the Council celebrates agricultural achievement, leadership, and innovation. The Council also promotes awareness of the agri-business sector throughout the year, including recognition during National Ag Week each March, and supports opportunities that engage both adults and youth in agriculture-focused education and outreach.
By bringing people together around shared priorities, the Agri-Business Council helps ensure agriculture remains a strong, visible, and valued part of our region’s future.
Interested in supporting agri-business in Northeast Nebraska?
Explore sponsorship opportunities through the Ag Council.
For more information contact Georgette Sweeney at 402-371-4862 or gsweeney@norfolkareachamber.com.
CONNECTS AREA CONTRACTORS WITH CURRENT BID OPPORTUNITIES, PLANS, AND PROJECT INFORMATION—DELIVERED QUICKLY AND CONVENIENTLY BY EMAIL.
For many years, the Exchange housed physical blueprints onsite. Today, most architects, engineers, and project owners submit plans and RFPs digitally. Our office now distributes this information electronically to participating contractors as it becomes available.
Just $130 a year for Chamber members OR $180 for non-Chamber members (new members are pro-rated based on months). Renewal billing is done annually each April. All extra fees are due at this time, as well.
Fee includes:
- Bid notifications and plan documents sent by email
- (PDFs, links, or attachments provided directly from our office)
- Details on upcoming projects, including:
- Project name and scope
- Bid dates and deadlines
- Contact information for architects or project owners
- Addenda or updates as they become available
- Access to recent plans/RFPs on file
- Our team keeps copies of proposals and documents for a limited time for member reference.
- Support in locating specific project plans
- If there’s an opportunity you’re looking for and we don’t have it yet, we’ll make every effort to obtain it on your behalf at no extra cost.
How It Works Now
- All communication is handled via email
- Members may call or email to request copies, clarifications, or additional plans
- The Chamber serves as a central hub to collect, distribute, and help track bid opportunities for contractors and subcontractors in the area
If you have any questions regarding the Norfolk Builders Exchange, please contact the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce at 402-371-4862 or troberts@norfolkareachamber.com.
NORTHEAST NEBRASKA WORKFORCE PARTNERS IS A PROGRAM BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE NORFOLK AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND NORTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE.
This joint effort allows partnering businesses and organizations to select the programming that their employees will participate in throughout the year. Workforce Partners was developed to assist with employee retention by allowing companies to invest in their employees and provide them relevant, high-quality training close to home.
This membership-based program allows Norfolk area businesses and organizations to invest in a number of seats that can be utilized throughout the program. 2024 marks the eighth year that this program has been available to the Norfolk area. Companies from multiple industries participate in the program each year which provides a diverse training atmosphere. An average of 100 employees in the Norfolk area attend training in this program each year.
Local, state, and nationally recognized speakers have facilitated training on topics such as:
- Brainstorming and Problem Solving
- Conducting Productive and Effective Meetings
- Conflict Management
- Critical Thinking
- Customer Service Excellence
- Engaging and Motivating Others
- Generational Differences
- Goal Setting
- HR Basics for non-HR Professionals
- Positive Communication
- Team Building
- Time Management
Contact Jim McCarville at jamesam@northeast.edu for more information about this program!
THE AGRI-BUSINESS COUNCIL WORKS TO UNITE AGRICULTURE AND BUSINESS COMMUNITIES. YOUR VOICE. YOUR ADVOCATE. YOUR SEAT AT THE TABLE.
The Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce serves as the unified voice for businesses across Madison County—advocating for policies, partnerships, and progress that strengthen our local economy.
We work hand-in-hand with the City of Norfolk, Madison County leadership, and state and regional partners to ensure the business community is not only heard—but actively represented—when decisions are made. From local ordinances to statewide legislation, we champion issues that impact your bottom line, workforce, and long-term growth. Each year, the Chamber—alongside our Government Affairs Committee and Board of Directors—develops a focused Legislative Agenda. This agenda reflects the real needs of our business community and outlines practical ways government can support a thriving, competitive business environment
LOCAL, STATE, AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
Strong leadership at every level of government shapes the success of our region. We believe business leaders should feel informed, connected, and confident in engaging with those who represent them.
That’s why we provide access to key elected officials, contact information, and opportunities to build meaningful relationships that go beyond a ballot.
City of Norfolk
Madison County
Nebraska Legislature
U.S. Senate
U.S. Representatives
STAY INFORMED. STAY INVOLVED.
During the Nebraska Legislative Session, Chamber members have a direct line to what’s happening at the Capitol.
Weekly Legislative Briefings
Each Thursday at 8:00 a.m., our Government Affairs Committee hosts a live video call with our state representative at the Chamber. These sessions offer:
- Real-time updates on bills impacting businesses
- Insight into legislative priorities and timelines
- Opportunities to ask questions and share feedback
All Chamber members are welcome—because informed businesses are empowered businesses.
Do you have a business or policy issue that could impact the broader business community?
Submit a Request for Chamber Action Form for review by the Government Affairs Committee.
Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce
609 W. Norfolk Ave
Norfolk, NE 68701
For more information call Georgette at the Chamber at 402-371-4862
AN INFORMATIVE SPEAKER SERIES & LEARN ON TOPICS AND INFORMATION FOR THE BUSINESS LEADERS IN AND AROUND NORFOLK.
Are YOU reaching your Unlimited Potential?
Each quarter a presentation is given by various speaker about topics that are important to those in the business community. These events are open to any member of the Chamber. There is a fee of $25.00 to attend, however, some members receive free tickets to these luncheons as a part of their membership package.
For more information about UP Luncheons contact Kelle Tichota at 402-371-4862 or ktichota@norfolkareachamber.com.
NEBRASKA BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER, YOUR EXPERT BUSINESS CONSULTANTS.
The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) helps Nebraska businesses grow and create new jobs. We provide consulting and educational services to small and mid-sized businesses. Many services are free to the business owner or entrepreneur, and all are confidential and impartial. By helping build and grow successful businesses, NBDC contributes to Nebraska’s high quality of life.
Mission: The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) is committed to businesses operating in Nebraska. Our mission is to deliver guidance, support, objective management, and technical and procurement assistance. Our success is measured by business growth and viability. Click here to request client services with the NBDC.
The Norfolk SCORE Chapter 0160 wants to help you succeed. In addition to free face-to-face counseling, we offer low cost workshops and seminars for both start-up and in-business entrepreneurs. Workshops and seminars are open to all U.S. citizens over the age of 13. Workshop presenters are practicing professionals including accountants, lawyers, bankers , and business managers from diverse businesses and industries. Other facilitators are SCORE counselors who have years of industry and business experience. Workshops also offer an opportunity to interact with other local small business owners.
Presented twice a year, our “How To” workshop runs one night a week for up to three weeks. Training topics range from writing a business plan, to ecommerce, to marketing your business, depending on the current needs of our business community.
The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) helps Nebraska businesses grow and create new jobs. We provide consulting and educational services to small and mid-sized businesses. Many services are free to the business owner or entrepreneur, and all are confidential and impartial. By helping build and grow successful businesses, NBDC contributes to Nebraska’s high quality of life.
Mission: The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) is committed to businesses operating in Nebraska. Our mission is to deliver guidance, support, objective management, and technical and procurement assistance. Our success is measured by business growth and viability. To request client services with the NBDC, please click here. for more information.
Entrepreneurs and business owners can request an appointment with a SCORE Counselor please click here.
Download an SBA Form 641 or pick up one from the chamber.
If you have any questions please contact the Chamber at 402-371-4862 or info@norfolkareachamber.com.