Nebraska Economic Development Conference underway in Sidney

SIDNEY, NE — Over 100 Economic Development professionals are in the panhandle for an annual state conference.

The Nebraska Economic Development Association (NEDA) conference is in Sidney. Wednesday, some took a tour of Sidney businesses, seeing what the town has to offer.

Attendees visited Agri-plastics, Freedom Yurt Cabins and Nexgen Outfitters.

Sidney Economic Development Director Kim Matthews says it was exciting to show off the town.

"I think one of the most amazing things is they're surprised by the innovation that has really picked up in the vacuum of the changes the community experienced in 2017."

Those on the tour had the chance to talk with business owners and look through their facilities.

Those business owners talked of their growth into new markets, expansions and search for more employees to meet demand.

Matthews says local business success shows the perseverance of Sidney and its people.

"No matter what, a community can rebound and have resiliency," Matthews said. "I think it's just really great for them to see how entrepreneurship has just filled in and kept this community going."

The conference continues through Friday.