Jason Ball, President & CEO – Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
2025 was an extraordinary year for the Lincoln business community and for the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. Thanks to the support of our members and community partners, this year marked many significant achievements. Together, we advanced key initiatives of the Vitality Lincoln Strategic Plan, strengthened our local economy and continued building a vibrant future for the Lincoln community.
The Lincoln Chamber is honored to serve a strong community of businesses, supporters, partners and stakeholders. It is because of you that your Chamber team is positioned to advance meaningful programs, advocate for pro-business policy, lead efforts that drive economic growth and elevate local tourism. This is all thanks to Lincoln’s vibrant business community, for that, we are deeply grateful.
2025 delivered many notable successes, including:
• The Sandhills Global Youth Complex successfully completed its inaugural season, hosting over 3,200 games and positioning Lincoln as a top destination for youth sports
• Lincoln secured a 68% voter approval on the continuation of the ¼-cent sales tax for the Lincoln on the Move street improvements program, ensuring continued investment in our city’s infrastructure
• Visit Lincoln welcomed thousands of visitors from across the globe for major events including the AVCA First Serve volleyball tournament, the Science Olympiad National Tournament and Lauf Gravel Worlds, just to name a few
• The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development introduced the Family Friendly Workplace Certification program, in partnership with Lincoln Littles, celebrating employers who prioritize family well-being and support working parents
• The Lincoln Chamber proudly launched Latino Connect, a new program created to foster connection, professional development and business growth within Lincoln’s Latino business community
While challenges do exist, it remains an incredible time to call Lincoln home. Corporate investment is strong, while community amenities like parks and libraries continue to expand. The Lincoln Airport wrapped up the year with more nonstop flight destinations than it began with and Lancaster County is among the Nebraska counties experiencing sustained population growth – with more projected ahead.
Your Lincoln Chamber of Commerce also experienced a milestone year. We were honored to renew our U.S. Chamber 5-Star Accreditation status, the highest distinction awarded to chambers – a level held by only 154 other chambers among the thousands that span the nation. This achievement reflects not only our organizational excellence, but the strength and leadership of our business community.
Our communications efforts were also recognized on a national stage as we received the Excellence in Communications Award from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). We were also thrilled to celebrate Katie Bohlmeyer, Business Policy Advocate, who was named to ACCE’s 40 Under 40 list.
These accolades affirm the impact of our work, but they also underscore the power of our members and the Lincoln business community. For that, I am immensely grateful. As we close the chapter on a successful year, I want to thank Lincoln’s business and community leaders for your support, leadership and continued collaboration as we continue working to ensure Lincoln remains an incredible place to build a rewarding career.