Cooperation among government and citizens' groups, coupled with hard work, produces an economy that grows at a healthy pace.

Partnerships are the key factor in maintaining a strong economy. The Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce sees its mission as working with other entities to position the Kearney area for the future. Chamber members have worked with local, state and federal government officials to develop such entities as Buffalo County Community Health Partners, The Development Council, Kearney Industrial Park, Kearney Area Ag Producers Alliance, Kearney Area Community Foundation, Kearney Visitors Bureau, Nebraska Cattlemen's Classic, Wellness Works, Gateway Farm Expo and Leadership Kearney.

Services provided by the Chamber include referrals, publicity and exposure, as well as professional development and business services. You know that the right business tools can make the difference

Kearney has a population of more than 28,000 providing the amenities of urban life while remaining rooted in strong agricultural traditions. The city is home to a university, major hospital, regional shopping and services, numerous corporate headquarters and other major employers. Businesses may choose from a number of excellent commercial, industrial and office sites with assistance available from The Development Council and the Chamber of Commerce.

The majority of residents work in the trade, retail, wholesale and services areas, though several thousand are employed in manufacturing and construction. Major employers include Baldwin Filters, Eaton Corporation, Coleman Powermate, Morris Press, Marshall Engines, West Company and Chief Industries Inc. Companies continually praise the efforts of the local work force.

Manufacturing employment in Nebraska has grown at a significantly faster pace than for the U.S. as a whole, as well as the neighboring states of Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, and

Forward thinking and focusing on economic diversity, the council has fostered partnerships that promote communications and information technology, transportation initiatives, housing development, infrastructure development and innovative business retention/recruitment strategies. The Council also manages a local Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program income loan portfolio designed to assist qualifying projects.

The Development Council works closely with other organizations such as Nebraska Department of economic Development, City of Kearney, County of Buffalo, Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, Nebraska Public Power District and others to ease the transition of new or relocating businesses.

Approximately 2,000 acres of land near Kearney are zoned for manufacturing or industrial uses; about 350 acres are located on land controlled by the Kearney Airport Authority and may be available for appropriate industrial use.