Strong communities don’t happen by accident. They are built through collaboration, shared knowledge, and professionals who are willing to invest their time and energy into something bigger than their individual business. Across Lincoln, organizations play a vital role in bringing industries together, providing education and resources, and creating partnerships that drive meaningful progress throughout our local economy.
Behind every organization is a network of dedicated individuals who are passionate about strengthening our business environment, supporting cultural growth, and improving quality of life across our community. For many professionals, joining an organization opens the door to new relationships, new opportunities, and long-term personal and professional growth. In a city filled with talented and driven professionals, those connections often become the foundation for long-term success.
Twice each year, in March and September, Strictly Business highlights organizations across our community through our Joining Organizations feature. This feature gives local groups a dedicated space to share who they are, what they’re working toward, and how others can get involved. From membership benefits and partnership opportunities to upcoming initiatives and community impact efforts, our goal is to help these organizations expand their reach and connect with the people and businesses they serve.
At Strictly Business, we are proud to support the organizations that continuously invest in making Lincoln stronger. One way we do this is by offering discounted advertising opportunities, allowing organizations to highlight their events, meetings, milestones, member achievements, staff recognition, and volunteer opportunities. Lincoln is home to organizations representing nearly every industry and profession, many of which are connected to regional, state, or national networks, all working toward the shared goal of supporting their members and strengthening our local business community.
Visibility matters, especially in a market as competitive and talent-rich as Lincoln. One of the most effective ways to build recognition and credibility is through active involvement. Finding an organization that aligns with your professional goals, interests, and values not only strengthens your network but also reinforces your commitment to the community you serve. In Lincoln, businesses that stay engaged, build relationships, and show up consistently are the ones that continue to grow and stand out.
ABLE (Able-NE.com), the Association of Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs marks its 25th anniversary in 2026. Building on record membership and attendance in 2025, ABLE’s mission is as relevant now as ever; to cultivate an informed community of business leaders and entrepreneurs who positively impact Lincoln.
Founded in 2001, ABLE brings together passionate professionals through a monthly speaker series featuring diverse, influential voices and timely discussions on local issues. Each event provides essential updates from community leaders and in-depth presentations from guest speakers on topics ranging from education and public policy to sports and business.
Meetings are held the first Friday of each month m. Membership is open to anyone who values the importance of promoting positive civic engagement and getting connected to the people and conversations shaping our city.
More information, including details on membership, sponsorship and speakers, can be found on our website: able-ne.com
Better Business Bureau (BBB) (BBB.org) has been assisting U.S. consumers and businesses since 1912. It is a private, nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Nearly 400,000 BBB Accredited Businesses support BBB’s mission of advancing marketplace trust, and their dues and contributions allow the BBB to offer its information and services to consumers at no charge. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, over 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts and educational information on topics affecting the marketplace.
People today are overwhelmed with choices—and often unsure about where to find verified, unbiased information. There are more than 32 million businesses in North America alone, and hundreds of thousands sites around the world where people shop online. Also, thousands of free and subscription websites offer a range of information, including: reviews, reports, directories, listings and gripe sites. BBB is the resource where you can find trusted, verified information. Go to BBB.org/nebraska, call (800) 649-6814 and follow on social media @BBBMidwestPlains.
The Elite Referral Network (EliteReferralNetwork.com) elevates business networking in Lincoln
Elite Referral Network is changing the way professionals connect, grow, and give back to their community. As Lincoln’s only network of referral groups dedicated to both member business growth and community impact, we offer a fresh, results-driven approach to networking.
Our members enjoy month-to-month flexibility and see their membership dollars reinvested directly into the group they are a member of. These group funds can support a nonprofit member, creating a tangible difference in our community while fostering meaningful connections among business professionals and nonprofit organizations.
Our friendly, professional environments focus on high-quality referrals, valuable leads, and educational opportunities designed to help members build lasting relationships and become better business owners.
In our network Presidents are paid for their leadership, ensuring engaged, motivated group guidance, and members benefit from an authentic, collaborative culture. You can find a list of our groups on our website: elitereferralnetwork.com/groups. Start your membership by contacting the group President of the meeting you want to attend. Then visit their meeting. Each President chooses the members in their group, so visiting their meeting is the first step toward membership in the fastest growing network in Lincoln. We have grown to over 320 members in our first 2 years in business and we are looking for quality professionals to join our network and help us expand into other cities.
The Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL) (HBAL.org) is celebrating 75 years of strengthening Lincoln’s housing industry. A visible, effective and respected trade association, HBAL promotes home building through professional education, member communication and civic participation, and represents builders and associated professionals in community, governmental and industry forums.
With more than 500 members, HBAL proudly produces the Nebraska Builders Home & Garden Show, Spring & Fall Parade of Homes and Tour of Remodeled Homes—signature events that benefit both industry professionals and the public. HBAL also offers valuable networking opportunities, education and training, while serving as a strong advocate for the industry at the local and state levels.
To learn more about joining the Home Builders Association of Lincoln, visit hbal.org for a membership application and to explore the many services of this 75-year-strong association.
If you’re a business owner in Lincoln, Nebraska, joining the Lincoln Independent Business Association (LIBA) (LIBA.org) is one of the smartest moves you can make. With more than 700 member businesses and 1,000 professionals, LIBA is a powerful network dedicated to promoting local enterprise, advocating for pro-growth policies and creating meaningful connections across the community.
LIBA offers more than just networking—they are Lincoln’s voice for small businesses – YOUR voice. You benefit from LIBA’s active involvement in public policy, ensuring that business-friendly decisions are made at city and county levels. Whether working against excessive government oversight, promoting transparency within government or supporting projects that drive growth, LIBA is there to represent your interests.
As a member, you gain access to exclusive events such as luncheons, ribbon cuttings, networking and educational webinars. You can also be involved with one of LIBA’s seven committees, giving you a direct role in shaping the organization’s priorities and actions.
LIBA’s tiered membership options—from individual to legacy levels—offer scalable benefits including advertising discounts, promotional opportunities and enhanced visibility in the LIBA directory. Plus, members receive weekly updates on local policies, events and opportunities to grow their business.
Joining LIBA means aligning with a legacy of leadership, advocacy and community impact. Yes, they are about growing your business, but they’re also focused on growing Lincoln. Become part of a dynamic organization that empowers entrepreneurs and strengthens the local economy. Join LIBA today—because it’s your business, your community and your future
Call 402-466-3419 or visit liba.org to learn more and join.
To be a Lincoln Chamber of Commerce (LCOC) (LCOC.com) member is to be a partner in growing the Lincoln community. The Chamber honors that partnership by creating opportunities for growth and development, while advocating for the best environment for Lincoln businesses to thrive in. They understand each member has unique ideas and ambitions in mind, and they are here to provide the best opportunities for you to get the most out of your membership. To find more about how to get your business engaged, contact Derek Feyerherm at (402) 434-5344 or via email at dfeyerherm@lincoln.org. For more information about the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, visit their website at lcoc.com.
The Lincoln Young Professionals Group (Lincoln YPG) (LincolnYPG.com) is dedicated to empowering young professionals with educational, leadership and networking opportunities. Lincoln keeps its young professionals here by fostering a collaborative community enriched with a bolstering economy, connectivity and endless opportunities. Lincoln YPG believes members can make the difference they want to see, develop a career that is pleasing to them and grow into the professional that they want to be.
To learn more about Lincoln YPG, please visit lincolnypg.com, email Mia Wilken at mwilken@lcoc.com or call (402) 436-2355.
The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NEChamber.com) is the voice for business in Nebraska. As the state’s largest, broad-based business association, they promote and protect Nebraska’s free enterprise system by ensuring a competitive business climate, economic growth and greater prosperity for all Nebraskans.
The NE Chamber is a trusted partner to their members, delivering practical solutions on workforce and market growth while addressing the tax, legislative and regulatory challenges of owning and growing a modern business. Through bold leadership, relentless advocacy and a statewide and national network of partners working on all aspects of business including technology and innovation and manufacturing, they help businesses succeed and communities thrive. Vision-led, data-driven and Nebraska-grown: That’s the NE Chamber promise.
If you’re ready to connect, amplify your voice and help shape Nebraska’s future, invest in the NE Chamber today by contacting rquerry@nechamber.com.
At Professional Networking Group (PNG) (PNGLincoln.com), relationships aren’t just important, they’re everything. Strong businesses are built on strong connections, and PNG exists to help professionals grow through meaningful, consistent networking.
With six thriving groups—five in Lincoln and one in Omaha—and more than 100 dedicated members, PNG brings together some of the best and brightest professionals in the region. Through bi-weekly meetings, bimonthly all-group socials, and ongoing community involvement, PNG creates real opportunities to build lasting business relationships.When you join PNG, you’re not just attending meetings, you’re gaining a team.
If you’ve been hesitant to expand your network, consider what PNG offers:
• Over one referral per member, per meeting on average, totaling more than 2,600 referrals annually
• Six figures in referred business per group, each year
• Instantly add 15–25 professionals serving as an extension of your sales team
• A strong commitment to community impact, including over $7,200 donated last year in time and resources
• An annual membership investment of $250—less than half the cost of many competing organizations
• A welcoming culture where business is productive, professional, and genuinely enjoyable, no stopwatch required
Professional Networking Group is more than networking, it’s a community built to help you grow your business while giving back.
To learn more or visit a meeting, go to pnglincoln.com.
Save Nebraska Local (SaveNebraskaLocal.com) is a community-driven organization focused on helping small businesses across Nebraska grow through connection, education and practical tools. Built on the belief that strong local businesses create strong communities, Save Nebraska Local brings owners together through both online and in-person spaces designed to foster real relationships.
The organization hosts the Save Lincoln Local community, an active group where business owners share resources, referrals and local insight. Through Save Nebraska Local University, members gain access to educational content, workshops and trainings centered on marketing, systems and sustainable growth. Save Nebraska Local also provides customized AI-powered automation and CRM tools to help businesses streamline communication, follow-up and operations without losing the personal touch that local businesses are known for.
In addition, Save Nebraska Local offers free networking events and free masterminds, creating accessible opportunities for collaboration, learning and support. At its core, Save Nebraska Local exists to keep local dollars local and help Nebraska businesses thrive together. For more information, visit savenebraskalocal.com.
In 1887, this group of men started a rich history of serving the people of Lincoln, Lancaster County and Nebraska. In the early 1930’s, they renamed themselves The Sowers Club of Lincoln after the bronze statue on Nebraska’s state capitol. For a group dedicated to sowing the seeds of economic development within Nebraska, the name fit.
Today, the Sowers Club (TheSowersClub.com) organization, comprised of its Club and Foundation, gives back to Nebraska communities through promoting philanthropy and good will in Lincoln and surrounding communities, issuing grants focused on children and family growth and safety, awarding scholarships for secondary and post-secondary education, participating in community projects like the Lincoln East house. The Sowers, with a goal of becoming one of Lincoln’s largest philanthropic organizations, has donated over $4 million since 1989 to over 300 non-profits.
Some past notable Sower Club members have included Nebraska State Senator John DeCamp, Coach Bob Devaney, Nebraska Attorney General Paul Douglas, Nebraska Governor Jim Exon, Cartoonist Paul Fell and Lancaster County Sheriff Merle Karnopp, as well as Lincoln businessmen Ollie Christensen (Christensen’s Appliance), Charles Lawlor (Lawlor’s Sporting Goods), Ray Masters (Molex), Bob Milton (Misty’s) and J.C. Seacrest (Lincoln Journal).
The Sowers building, which caters to Lincoln small businesses and other non-profits currently has available lease space, located at 1701 S. 17th street. They are currently seeking new tenants and members.
If you’d like to give back to a community that gives so much to you, consider joining the Sowers.
For more information, email them at info@thesowersclub.com, or call (402) 438-2244.
The organizations serving Lincoln today help create the foundation for tomorrow’s growth. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, they support the professionals and businesses that keep our local economy strong.
Lincoln continues to thrive because of the people who choose to stay involved, invest in relationships, and support local initiatives. These organizations help ensure Lincoln remains a place where businesses can grow, professionals can develop, and our community can continue to move forward together.