Tourism is the third largest industry and revenue source in Nebraska. Each year, the state brings in over $3.3 billion in tourism dollars. Not only is it a revenue generator, tourism also provides a showcase for our first class restaurants, athletic facilities, and entertainment options. Years of hard work to improve Lincoln’s marketability has made it a top draw in the Midwest region and by hosting large events like the 2010 Special Olympics National Games; we have raised our profile nation-wide.
In fact, we’ve done so well raising our profile that Lincoln was chosen as the host for 2015 State Games of America.
The State Games of America is much like the Cornhusker State Games, but on a national level. Under the State Games of America format all residents of the host state are eligible to participate, along with State Games participants from any other state who have earned a medal in the past two years.
We expect the competition to attract 12,000 Nebraska participants and 6,000 qualifiers from other states, making the 2015 championships the largest in history. Combine the athletes with 5,000 volunteers and 24,000 additional spectators and Lincoln is looking to generate an estimated $20 million in economic impact. Other metro areas to host the games in the past include St. Louis, Hartford, Colorado Springs, and Hersey-Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Organizers for the games hope to host more than 30,000 people in Memorial Stadium for opening ceremonies.
I can’t say enough about the hard work put into this project by the Convention & Visitors Bureau staff. They do an excellent job showcasing what Lincoln has to offer. The final results speak for themselves. I also want to say thanks to our partners at the Nebraska Sports Council. They do a wonderful job of putting on the Cornhusker State Games every year and they are the main reason behind landing this prestigious event.
Along the way we beat out a number of other cities, including the other finalist – San Diego.
How you ask?
The answer is easier than you might imagine. Yes, San Diego may be an ideal host due to its size, climate, and beauty, but Lincoln provides something much more valuable to the State Games athletes. In Lincoln, we care that you are here. We make sure our visitors enjoy their time in Lincoln and we also try to find special ways to say “thanks for choosing us as your home.” Sometimes in cities like San Diego, participants can lose that vibe of community support among all the other activities going on in the city.
This is what makes Lincoln truly special and gives us a “leg-up” on the competition.
Now we need your help. Thousands of volunteers will be needed, along with a number of corporate and individual sponsors, to make the games successful. The financial benchmark is close to $1 million in funds raised in the next two years. Be sure to contact the Convention and Visitors Bureau office or the Cornhusker State Games council to find out how you can contribute. I know we can exceed the goal and give the State Games of America participants an experience to remember. If we can succeed at that, who knows what competitions and championships are in our future.
For more information please call 402-436-2350 or visit www.lcoc.com.
The Chamber’s mission is to improve the lives of Lincoln residents by providing increased economic opportunity and can only be accomplished together. Networking opportunities, business advocacy, and creating economic viability are critical to our success. We encourage you to become a member and help us achieve these goals for Lincoln. For more information, please contact Paul 436-2350.