January 19, 2017 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Judy Pederson, Pro Printing & Graphics
Maximize your marketing dollars when you use them strategically! Do you want your branding to sizzle in 2017? Join us for this FREE training featuring Judy Pederson from Pro Printing & Graphics to discover how you can make your digital and print marketing work for you. You'll learn how to increase awareness and drive sales by improving your branding. Start the new year right! This month's training was sponsored by Great Plains Communications, Cornerstone Bank, and GROW Nebraska.
Review the presentation here >>
February 16, 2017 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Michelle Brozek, Method Development
It's a digital world! Does your website accomplish what you want it to? Join GROW Nebraska for a FREE training featuring Michelle Weiss Brozek from Method Development. She'll discuss:
The trainings are free, open to the public, and you can participate from any location where you have phone service. This month's training was sponsored by Great Plains Communications, Cornerstone Bank, and GROW Nebraska.
February 21, 2017 | 10:30 am - Noon CST | One Box Convention Center, Broken Bow, NE
Work for Yourself@50+ is a program specifically designed to help people 50 and older learn about what it takes to be successfully self-employed in today's economy.Join us for an interactive workshop where you'lll learn to:March 2, 2017 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. CST | From your computer
Presenter: Kim Beer, Constant Contact
GROW Nebraska invites you to this exclusive FREE marketing webinar to Help You Grow Your Business and Marketing Results. GROW Nebraska wants to thank you for your membership and registering for the MarkeTech Conference on March 16t.
Kim Beer, Constant Contact Authorized Local Expert, will teach you how to optimize your marketing, get real results in real tim and nurture your customers with email marketing campaigns.
March 2, 2017 | 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. CST | From your computer
Presenter: Kim Beer, Constant Contact
"SuperSize and Optimize" your MarkeTech Conference results with social and email marketing campaigns with Kim Beer, Constant Contact Authorized Local Expert. Exclusive FREE gift to you from GROW Nebraska to thank you for your participation, partnership and sponsorship in MarkeTech on March 16, 2017.
March 16, 2017 | 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. CST | Younes Conference Center, Kearney, Nebraska
Keynote Presenter: Luria Petrucci
MarkeTech is more than a conference! It's cutting edge training, valuable networking, and a technology showcase. Be inspired, be engaged, and work hands-on with today's most innovative tools. MarkeTech provides orgnaizational tools and ideas, advancing their business through collaboration between marketing and technology.
Learn more about MarkeTech Conference
March 16, 2017 | 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. CST | Younes Conference Center, Kearney, Nebraska
Work for Yourself@50+ is a program specifically designed to help people 50 and older learn about what it takes to be successfully self-employed in today's economy.
Join us for an interactive workshop where you'll learn to:
- Explore your options
- Find your focus
- Make a plan
- Watch out for trouble
- Connect with resources in your community
Saturday, April 8, 2017 | 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CST
Kimmel Education and Research Center, 5985 G Road, Nebraska City, NE
Small Spaces, Big Potential. Explore a variety of topics for your small scale operation including New Regulations & Requirements, Cover Crops in your Garden or on your Acreage, Maximize Market Research with the Latest Web Tools, Micro Loans and Insurance, and more!
April 20, 2017
April Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Susan Sapp, Attorney from Cline Williams, Wright Johnson & Oldfather L.L.P.
How often do you get legal advice for your business for free? Susan Sapp, Attorney, will discuss:
- How and when federal and state discrimination laws apply
- How and when federal and state wage laws apply
- How and when federal hour laws apply
- How to avoid violations, including illegal retaliation
- How to manage leave requests for sick, injured and disabled employees
This month's training was sponsored by GROW Nebraska and the Nebraska Enterprise Fund.
Review the presentation here >>
May 18, 2017
May Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Tom Luke, Luke Direct Marketing
It's a digital world! Are you worried your Facebook page isn't doing anything for your business? With 15+ years of direct marketing experience, Tom Luke offers a depth of experience and knowledge. He will teach you how to:
- Get more followers
- Maximize your engagement
- Attract new customers
- Grow your business
This month's training was sponsored by GROW Nebraska and Constant Contact.
Review the presentation here >>
June 15, 2017
June Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Mike Bitter, Affordable Social Media
Do you want to work less and earn more? Harness the power of email marketing! Join GROW Nebraska for a FREE training on how to grow your business with email marketing, featuring Mike Bitter from Affordable Social Media.
Email marketing is a great way to market to prospects and clients alike. Mike’s done years of research, testing and retesting. He’s discovered and developed efficiencies and best practices that are well hidden amongst email marketers, but that's going to change. In this training, he'll teach you:
- How you can successfully use email marketing in your business
- The 5 Do’s and Don’ts of email marketing
- How to build relationships that build your business
- Grow your business
This month's training was sponsored by GROW Nebraska and ATC Communications.
Review the presentation here >>
December 15, 2016 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Heidi Garvin, GROW Nebraska
With over 500 million users, Instagram touts itself as one of the most powerful platforms for advertisers. Recently, Instagram has released new paid and organic tools for advertisers, including insights and video. But is your business using these effectively? Are you seeing return on investment? GROW Nebraska’s Heidi Garvin will show you how you can make this powerful platform work for you. Her 5 key takeaways will help drive sales, enhance relationships with your customers, and improve your branding.
November 17, 2016 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: The Nebraska Retail Federation
Do you have a storefront? Do you want more customers coming through your door? Join us for this FREE training from the Nebraska Retail Federation about why it's so important that we shop in stores and how we can bring more customers in.
This month's training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and the Nebraska Retail Federation.
October 20, 2016 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Christopher Steel, Sales Executive with FedEx Services
Do you understand e-Commerce and m-Commerce? Do you know how these relate to growth for your business in our current economy? Christopher Steel, Sales Executive with FedEx Services, will share his insights on these important elements during the October Third Thursday Training.
This month's training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska, FedEx, and funds provided by the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
September 15, 2016 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Ben Kuspa, Business Innovation Consultant with the Department of Economic Development
Did you know the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has a grant program to help fund prototypes? This call with Ben Kuspa, Business Innovation Consultant with the DED, shared highlights of grant and investment programs and talks about the recent and upcoming changes in the Innovation Fund program.
This month's training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska, The Nebraska Department of Economic Development, and funds provided by the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
August 18, 2016 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Aaron Thomas of U.S. Bank
Your business is growing and you are ready to accept credit cards - now what? You know you need a connection with a credit card but just what is a merchant processor? Do you know how to select the right merchant processor? Join Aaron Thomas, Payment Solutions Consultant from U.S. Bank as he talks about the importance of a relationship, shows you how to evaluate an offer and warns about the dangers of a contract. This was FREE call-in event.
This month's training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska, U.S. Bank and funds provided by the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
July 21, 2016 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Connie Hancock and Jenny Nixon from UNL Extension
Ever wish you had a better way to keep your customers engaged? Want to offer them something fun? Join Connie and Jenny in an interactive and lively discussion of Facebook contests - including the how-to of contests and hints for developing the right message for your customers. This was FREE call-in event.
This month's training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska, Source Gas and funds provided by the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
June 16, 2016 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Molly Burns and Paul Weiss, Food Export of the Midwest
With all the recent emphasis on technology and international small business opportunities, is this the time for you to think about exporting? Join Molly Burns and Paul Weiss from Food Export of the Midwest to learn more about why you should consider exporting. They will also discuss export education for small businesses and information on meeting qualified international buyers. Find out if their Branded Program is a fit for your business. This was FREE call-in event.
This month's training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and funds provided by the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
December 17, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Mike Bitter, Affordable Social Media
Mike Bitter, Founder and CEO of Affordable Social Media, specializes in helping businesses work less and earn more through successful email campaigns. Join him as he shares what email marketing “is and is not.” You will learn how to foster relationships that build your business and how to get your emails opened plus other tips Mike has learned from working with a variety of clients in a wide array of industries.
November 19, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Nisha Avey, Nebraska Department of Economic Development
Nisha Avey, Business Innovation Consultant for the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, will share the highights of The Talent and Innovation Initiative (T12). This initiative is designed to enhance momentum in Nebraska’s fastest growing industries, maintain and build on its world-class workforce, and leverage private sector innovation. Join her to learn how Nebraska’s businesses can participate in this state program.
Can good printing help your business be successful? What message do you share with your clients and potential customers? Do you use thank you gifts like calendars or send holiday greeting cards to promote your business? Are you ready for to announce upcoming products and services or send invitations to special events? Judy Pederson with Pro Printing will share tips on how these and other quality printed materials can enhance your image and help market your business. This month’s training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and BWTelcom from Benkelman.
October 8, 2015 | Wauneta Nebraska
This half-day workshop in Western Nebraska taught participants how to harness the latest technology and take marketing to the next level. They discovered how to reach new customers, increase awareness, and generate sales.
September 17, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: J'Nan Ensz, Accounting and Business Consulting Group, LLC
What are the benefits of keeping good records for your business? Which expenses are deductible on your tax return? What are the IRS substantiation requirements? Join J’Nan Ensz, CPA and Managing Member, Accounting and Business Consulting Group, LLC as she answers these and other questions about good recordkeeping. In addition to staying in compliance, good recordkeeping will help you determine the profitability of your business.
This training was sponsored by the Nebraska Lottery. Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
August 20, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Dorris Miller, Community Development Resources
The Alice’s Integrity Loan Fund created by Alice Dittman provides limited capital to start and grow a business. Join Dorris Miller, CDR Alice’s Integrity Loan Manager, at noon CST on Thursday August 20 to learn more about this unique loan program.
Alice’s Integrity Loan Fund does not require collateral and can assist those who may have damaged credit due to difficult life events.
Miller says, “There are people who are working to climb the ladder, to pull themselves up by their bootstraps. We’re here to help them. They’ve got enough stacked against them, and we want to help them make it.”
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
July 29, 2015 | 1415 17th Street, Columbus, NE 68601
Presenter: Heidi Garvin, GROW Nebraska
Columbus, Neb. – Marketing is the heart of a business' success. It is a process by which a product or service is introduced and promoted to potential customers. Without marketing, a business may offer the best products or services in their industry, but none of their potential customers would know about it. Without marketing, sales may struggle. Learn how to market your company’s brand, use hashtags and which ones to use. Should you focus more on your website or social media? What kind of content actually generates sales? How can you tell if it’s working or not? Discover the answer to these questions and more by attending the GROW Nebraska and CCC’s Entrepreneurship Center marketing workshop.
July 16, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Jim Crandall, UNL Nebraska Cooperative Development Center
Ever considered having a partner or investor in your business? Have you thought about pooling your resources with other similar companies to form a cooperative? Join Jim Crandall, Cooperative Development Business Specialist with UNL Nebraska Cooperative Development Center, as he explores these and other business options during the July Third Thursday Training.
Sponsored by GROW Nebraska and Dawson Public Power District.
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
June 18, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Angela White, Nebraska Tourism Commission
Public Information Officer, Angela White, with the Nebraska Tourism Commission shared ideas on how your business can partner with them for free, low-cost and paid advertising that can reach up to 500,000 visitors per year. She also discussed other possibilities through printed travel guides and media tours.
This Third Thursday Training (T3) was sponsored by Benkelman Telco.
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
May 21st, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Julie Diegel, WasteCap Nebraska
Julie Diegel, Director of Sustainability Programs for WasteCap Nebraska, will share tips on how to have a successful zero waste event. Her experience as a small business owner, nonprofit director, community volunteer and environmental champion contributes to her passion for helping Nebraska businesses improve their environmental and social performance
The call-in session is FREE and open to the public. Registration is required to receive connection information so register now and save the date on your calendar. This training is part of the monthly “Third Thursday Trainings” hosted by GROW Nebraska. Visit www.grownebraska.org for future training dates and topics. This month’s training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and Community Development Resources.
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
April 16, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Rick Wallace from Community Development Resources
Rick Wallace, Executive Director of Community Development Resources, has over 20 years of experience in business ownership and over 18 years as the director of a small business lending program. He will highlight why a business plan is so important throughout the life of your business, to sustain your business, access capital for your business, and to guide you when you get to a fork in the road.
The call-in session is FREE and open to the public. Registration is required to receive connection information so register now and save the date on your calendar. This training is part of the monthly “Third Thursday Trainings” hosted by GROW Nebraska. Visit www.grownebraska.org for future training dates and topics. This month’s training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and Community Development Resources.
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
March 19, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: John Heaston from The Reader
Google’s new Google My business combines Google Maps and Google Business Places with Google + to create a new interface for information. Join this month’s conversation to learn how you can improve your use of Google. Learn what upcoming changes mean for your future marketing. Presenter John Heaston from PioneerMedia.me, one of Omaha’s best local SEO teams, will provide insights on the changes to Google, what to use, what to test and what to expect next. Join GROW Nebraska to learn more about Google tools for your business.
The call-in session is free and open to the public. This training is part of the monthly “Third Thursday Trainings” hosted by GROW Nebraska. This month’s training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and US Bank.
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
February 19, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Laura Ladehoff from U.S. Bank Corporate Security
If you have ever shopped with a credit card or offer an online shopping cart on your website, you have probably worried about fraud. Even shopping locally or using an ATM poses risks. This month’s training will help you understand the risks and how to protect yourself. Laura Ladehoff is the Senior Investigator for U.S. Bank Corporate Security. She will share information about fraud statistics, ACH and wire fraud, internal fraud, and check fraud. Laura will be including tips on best fraud prevention practices.
The call-in session is free and open to the public. This training is part of the monthly “Third Thursday Trainings” hosted by GROW Nebraska. This month’s training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and US Bank.
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
January 15, 2015 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Christy Funcke from USPS
Christy Funcke with the United States Postal Service shared tips and suggestions on how to eliminate some of your shipping confusion. Take advantage of this opportunity to get your shipping questions answered and find better ways to meet your customer needs.
The call-in session is free and open to the public. This training is part of the monthly “Third Thursday Trainings” hosted by GROW Nebraska. Visit www.grownebraska.org for future training dates and topics. This month’s training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and NPPD.
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
December 18, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Michael Foutch from SBA
SBA offers a wide variety of loan programs. Could your business be the next loan approved? Listen in with GROW Nebraska Thursday, December 18 at noon (cst) for the next FREE monthly call-in Third Thursday Training.
Presenter Michael Foutch says his job is to build the bridge between great business ideas and the resources to make the business a reality. Michael shared "the best kept secret in the federal government."
The call-in session is free and open to the public. This training is part of the monthly “Third Thursday Trainings” hosted by GROW Nebraska. Visit www.grownebraska.org for future training dates and topics. This month’s training is sponsored by GROW Nebraska and the Rural Enterprise Assistance Program (REAP).
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
November 20, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Anthony May from Idea Bank Marketing
Is your brand well defined? If it isn't or if you are not sure, join GROW Nebraska for the next FREE monthly call-in Third Thursday Training.
If you asked a customer what they think about your business, how would they respond? Would they recognize your logo or be able to recite your slogan? Would they talk about the quality of your product? Maybe they'd talk about how much they love working with your employees.
These perceptions – both positive and negative – are what form your brand, your company image. A memorable brand will define your business, separate you from the pack, and create loyal customers. So how you do you build a effective brand?
This presentation will help you:
1. UNDERSTAND YOUR BRAND. We’ll learn what comprises your brand and how you already have one... whether you knew it or not!
2. BUILD YOUR BRAND. Your brand is far more than just your logo. We’ll discuss how to discover your brand and make a “brand promise.”
3. STICK WITH IT. The biggest branding challenge is getting enough exposure. You’ll learn why consistency – and patience – are key.
Date: November 20, 2014
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m. CST
Location: Call-in conference line (register to receive details)
Cost: FREE
Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
Sponsored in part by: 
October 16, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
Presenter: Brad Yoder from Hayes & Associates
Would you like to hear an experienced CPA share tips on year-end tax planning? Tax season is just around the corner so this is the perfect time to hear Brad Yoder’s suggestions. Join GROW Nebraska Thursday, October 16 at noon (cst) for the next FREE monthly call-in Third Thursday Training.
Brad Yoder, Partner and Director of Tax & Consulting Services with Hayes & Associates has more than 14 years of experience providing tax preparation, tax advice and accounting solutions to a variety of clients. Listen in as Brad talks about business entity selection, financial projections, deadlines and year-end tax planning.
Get answers. Join us for our next Third Thursday Training. As always, this is open to the public. Sponsored by REAP &Federal funds for this project were awarded under the Local Food Promotion Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service, US Department of Agriculture.
Date: October 16, 2014
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m. CST
Location: Call-in conference line (register to receive details)
Cost: FREE
Listen to the audio >>
Sept. 18, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
Do you want to learn why customers buy? Do you wonder if you can strengthen your brand using social proof? To learn the answers to these and other questions, join GROW Nebraska Thursday, September 18 at noon (cst) for the next FREE monthly call-in Third Thursday Training.
Presenter Jill Slupe, owner of Verde Martin, will help you understand how to map out the steps of the buy and gain tools for improving your customer relations. Every day from offices in Omaha, Nebraska and Chicago, Illinois, Verde Martin helps companies intentionally increase their sales through understanding the sales process. Jill will share some of her winning tips during this month’s call.
Get answers. Join us for our next Third Thursday Training. As always, this is open to the public.
Date: September 18, 2014
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m. CST
Location: Call-in conference line (register to receive details)
Cost: FREE
August 21, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
GROW Nebraska's Heidi Garvin, Whitnee Yager, and Rebecca Beisel worked with a small group of entrepreneurs to develop their online descriptions, SEO, and eCommerce listings to boost sales. Shipping and order inquiries were also addressed.
August 21, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
Are you looking for funding for your Nebraska business? You may have heard of Angel Investors. Before you go directly to them though, join us for this free training where Dan Hoffman, from Invest Nebraska, will teach you:
- Who are Angels?
- What are they looking for when they invest?
- Is your company ready for an angel round?
Get answers. Join us for our next Third Thursday Training. As always, this is open to the public.
Date: August 21, 2014
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m. CST
Location: Call-in conference line (register to receive details)
Cost: FREE
Third Thursday Training is sponsored in part by the Nebraska Enterprise Fund.
July 24, 2014 | McCook, Nebraska
At K-Lawn's annual Summer Roundup, GROW Nebraska Program Services Coordinator Heidi Garvin presented on tips for getting dealerships indexed online and tips for building relationships with customers via social media. If you're organization is looking for a presenter to do a training, please contact info@grownebraska.org.
Date: July 24, 2014
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 CST
Location: K-Lawn Summer Roundup
Cost: FREE for K-Lawn Lawn Care Specialists
July 17, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
Since the holiday season can make or break a business of any size, ramping up your efforts in the months before hand is crucial! It can also be a blast. In July's free Third Thursday Training, Linsey Knerl will cover topics that business owners with any level of tech skills can get started with right away. Learn about getting your business in the media for free, finding authentic fans/followers, and reaching your target market this holiday season.
Date: July 17, 2014
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m. CST
Location: Call-in conference line (register to receive details)
Cost: FREE
July 8, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
On July 8, GROW Nebraska Founder and CEO Janell Anderson Ehrke, presented for the Business in Motion Network in Holdrege.
Session Overview: Confirming Facebook is the right social media for your business, make your business come alive with Facebook, reach more of the people who matter, targeting and what works well – maximizing impact.
CEO Janell Anderson Ehrke founded the organization and remains its driving force. Ehrke has served as Executive Director of Central Plains Foundation, Inc. since January 1995 and the Executive Director of GROW Nebraska since 1998. A certified Business Retention and Expansion Consultant, she is a member of Craft Organization Directors Association, Steering Committee Member of the Craft Organizations Directors Association, Nebraska Diplomats, Nebraska Economic Developers Association and Nebraska Cooperative Development Center Board Member. She lives in on farm in Orleans, Nebraska with her husband Leon and children Haley and Parker.
June 19, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
Travel season is here and that means opportunities for new customers. Would you like to have some tips about turning tourists into customers? Want more information on how to participate in the Nebraska Tourism Commission Passport program? Like to learn how Nebraska By-way programs and events can help you grow your business? Call in to the FREE training OPEN TO THE PUBLIC on June 19 and participate in the Third Thursday Training.
Date: June 19, 2014
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m. CST
Location: Call-in conference line (register to receive details)
Cost: FREE
May 22, 2014 | Third Thursday Training
Not getting good responses from your marketing emails? Don't have an email marketing list? Need a great email subject line? Confused where to start?
These and other questions will be answered during GROW Nebraska's FREE May training. Everyone is welcome - members and non members alike. Join us to hear Michael Mitilier share how regularly communicating with your customers can generate referrals, repeat sales and encourage customer loyalty. Using High-Impact Email will show you how to start and build a strong permission-based customer list, get your audience to open, read and then act on your emails.
Michael Mitilier is the Founder of the Rule of Thumb for Business book series and author of "Rule of Thumb: A Guide to Small Business Basics." He is a certified Gallup Entrepreneur Acceleration System Guide and a Constant Contact Solution Provider.
Date: May 22, 2014
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m. CST
Location: Call-in conference line (register to receive details)
Cost: FREE
Third Thursday Training is sponsored in part by the Nebraska Enterprise Fund.
April 17, 2014 | Lunch & Learn Call
Having a online presence is an important part of your business. Today you need more than a website. Have you been told you need to engage customers using a interactive website, a blog, a newsletter, a video, or social media? Are you left feeling overwhelmed with limited time and not sure where to start? When you understand key strategies of an online presence, it is easier to develop an action plan for attracting new customers and growing your business. Join Becky Dietenbeck from Performance Tech Solutions as she helps us discover how to increase online presence.
Please note: you do not have to be a member to participate in the GROW Nebraska Lunch and Learn trainings, so spread the word! Although this educational webinar is free, you will need to register in order to receive the call-in and login information.
March 27, 2014 | Lunch & Learn Call
Are you an aspiring writer? Do you want to learn more about what it takes to succeed in the industry? Lisa Pelto, from Concierge Marketing, will be speaking on how you can navigate the process of getting your work out there.
In 2004, the name Concierge Marketing was chosen for Lisa Pelto’s company so she could focus services just like a concierge does – getting authors and small publishers into places they can’t get themselves. She helps develop books and create micro-publishing companies as she guides authors through the publishing process from setting up their company, to initial book concept, editing, designing, and setting up whatever hybrid distribution system is best for them. The company also guides publicity and marketing, rights deals, and events. Her clients participate in coop marketing activities and events; and CMI clients have received many prestigious international, national and regional awards in publishing, but also for outstanding products outside the publishing community. Lisa has worked in marketing and publishing for 32 years, and teaches writing and publishing classes, and speaks to groups across the nation.
February 20, 2014 | Lunch & Learn Call
Do you have questions about how to create labels for your products? This Lunch & Learn will walk through what you need to know to get professional looking and printed labels. Don't think you can afford it? Think again! Join us to learn more.
January 30, 2014 | Lunch & Learn Call
Want to make the most of your online presence? Heather Tweedy from Bright Sky Interactive will show you how.
Heather Tweedy is a California girl currently residing in the Heartland. When not cheering on the USC Trojans, she is the CEO & Founder of Bright Sky Interactive, a digital communications agency. Bright Sky Interactive works with clients in the Telecommunications, Food & Beverage and Housing spheres. Her roster or regional and national clients rely on Bright Sky to develop a holistic online presence that drives the bottom line.
Heather is the 2012 PRSA Nebraska Newcomer of the Year. She has also been recognized for her work in Search Engine Optimization by PRWeek Digital. She has spoken on the local, regional, and national level about the impact of mobile technology on public relations.
December 12, 2013 | Lunch & Learn Call
In this interactive lunch & learn, Brent Comstock discussed the essential ways to market your business on the web. We identified what constitutes as a marketable web site, effective ways to utilize your web site, and essential web site-updates that you can apply directly to your businesses’ online brand. This webinar also served as a kick-starter for those businesses looking to establish an online presence. Other topics that touched upon included: social media and your web site as well as engaging with your audience through your web site.
Download Presentation >>
November 21, 2013 | Omaha, NE
Take your marketing to the next step: go from marketing "no way" to marketing "know how." GROW Nebraska has partnered with Constant Contact to provide an in-depth training on how to effectively harness and balance the use of marketing tools.
November 14, 2013 | Lunch & Learn Call
Julie Geiger, owner of Prairie Point Junction, shared strategies that enabled her to expand a small-town Nebraska quilt shop to reach a nationwide audience. Learn easy, low-budget ways to market your business by capitalizing on your specific areas of expertise and networking with your target market.
October 24, 2013 | Lunch & Learn Call
Dan Goodwin from PayPal presented on how you can prepare for the holiday season by seizing all the opportunities created by eCommerce. He answered questions concerning PayPal tools for business.
Dan Goodwin Jr. is a PayPal account manager with over 11 years of experience consulting businesses that process a minimum of $50K to over $1 million dollars every month via PayPal. As a native Nebraskan, he is an entrepreneur and community volunteer. In his 30 years of business, Dan has received numerous awards in customer service and business. He graduated from UNO with a B.S. in Journalism.
September 19, 2013 | Lunch & Learn Call
Kimberly Beer from Constant Contact presented on the tricks of the trade for email marketing. Handouts from this workshop can be viewed here and here.
September 12, 2013 | Lexington, NE
GROW Nebraska partnered with Dawson Public Power and Dawson Area Development to provide an in-depth training on how to effectively harness and balance the use of marketing tools. Handouts from this workshop can be viewed here and here.
"These GROW Nebraska workshops rejuvenate me!"
- Brenda Johnson, Countryside Market
June 12, 2013 | Omaha, NE
GROW Nebraska's yearly conference MarkeTECH focuses on technology and marketing for entrepreneurs. This yearly conference is open to both members and non-members.
May 1, 2013 | Grand Island, NE
Do you want to learn more about how you can market your business? This workshop took businesses through some steps to make the most of your marketing time and resources.
February 21, 2013 | Mullen, NE
This workshop centered around how to market your business. We went through some steps to make the most of marketing time and resources.
December 11, 2012
Janell Anderson Ehrke spoke to the Gibbon Chamber of Commerce. The topic of training was the importance of a web site, getting a Google business page, and social media.
November 8, 2012
GROW Nebraska collaborated with the Nebraska Community Foundation to lead a session on using social media and the internet to promote non-profit stories.
August 22, September 20, October 3, October 12, October 17, October 18, 2012
GROW Nebraska, Constant Contact and SBAM/AIM Institute sponsored workshops in Grand Island on August 22, Lincoln on October 3, Omaha on October 12, Fremont on October 17, and Scottsbluff on October 18 of 2012.
This information-packed workshop reviewed the essential strategies and best practices a business or organization should understand to successfully get started with social media and e-mail marketing. Those who attended learned how to choose the best social media platform for their target audience, how e-mail marketing can help drive business success, and discovered how communicating with customers regularly can help small business. This workshop helped attendees stay connected, generate referrals, increase sales and create unwavering customer loyalty.
July 17, 2012The Grocery Store Initiative connects high growth potential Nebraska companies with large volume buyers. Companies learn the ins and outs of selling in pallets instead of cases.
In July of 2010, GROW Nebraska sponsored their first wholesale tasting with Russ's B&R Stores. Twenty-one GROW Nebraska members participated, showing their products to managers and buyers for Russ's and Super Saver. The goal was to increase awareness for grocery store buyers of Nebraska products while allowing Nebraska businesses a forum to showcase their products.
GROW Nebraska held a second event in July of 2011, in which nine members participated, a third in November of 2011 in which nine members participated and the most recent in July of 2012 with six participants.
June 28, 2012
Do you recognize the following: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+? Many of your customers do, and use these sites and services to find what they are looking for. Can they find you? South Central Coalition was proud to offer training in Social Media with the GROW Social Media Workshop on June 28th at the Cafe a’Moore in Red Cloud, NE from 4:00 to 5:30 pm.
April 18-19, 2012
On April 18 and 19, the annual GROW Nebraska MarkeTECH Conference was held in North Platte, NE. The annual pre-conference held on April 18 from 1:30-4:45 pm at Mid-Plains Community College featured information on eComm, social media, Pinterest, retail store fronts, and resources for small businesses.
The annual conference held on April 19 at the Holiday Inn Express from 9:00am to 4:30pm and featured sessions on branding, social media, and web sites.
March 14, 2012
Erin Malzer of GROW Nebraska presented on “Helping to GROW Entrepreneurship Statewide: The Story of GROW Nebraska” as part of a quarterly program organized by SERN in Milligan, NE. The presentation included information about the GROW Nebraska program, how they can help entrepreneurs throughout the state, and services offered. Erin answered questions about the program and general marketing information.
Pictured: Patt Lentfer of the Fillmore County Development Corporation (left), Jen Olds of the Southeast Nebraska Development District (center)and Erin Malzer of GROW Nebraska (right).
October 26, 2011
On October 26, 2011 GROW Nebraska offered a Marketplace Store at the National 4-H Extension Educators Conference in Omaha, NE. Over 1,000 participants from around the country attended the conference. This was a wonderful way for GROW Nebraska members to show their products to people from around the country. GROW Nebraska also assisted students from the 4-H ESI Program sell their products at the event.
July 29 and November 8, 2011The Grocery Store Initiative connects high growth potential Nebraska companies with large volume buyers. Companies learn the ins and outs of selling in pallets instead of cases.
In July of 2010, GROW Nebraska sponsored their first wholesale tasting with Russ's B&R Stores. Twenty-one GROW Nebraska members participated, showing their products to managers and buyers for Russ's and Super Saver. The goal was to increase awareness for grocery store buyers of Nebraska products while allowing Nebraska businesses a forum to showcase their products.
GROW Nebraska held a second event in July of 2011, in which nine members participated, and a third in November of 2011 in which nine members participated.
September 14, October 25, and November 18, 2011
GROW Nebraska offered workshops in 2011 on "Innovative Technology for Marketing to Greater Nebraska and the World."
GROW Nebraska presented at the Greater Omaha Chamber on September 14, 2011. You can view the highlights of the presentation here.
GROW Nebraska also presented a marketing workshop, brought to you by in partnership with the NBDC on October 25, 2011 in Omaha.
Our final marketing workshop, brought to you by GROW Nebraska, North Platte Chamber and Development, and the MPCC Center for Enterprise was on November 18, 2011 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mid Plains Community College North Campus (1101 Halligan Dr.), North Platte. This entrepreneurial training is being made possible in part due to support received by the Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation.
GROW Nebraska also had Marketing Workshops in 2009-2010. GROW Nebraska and the University of Nebraska—Extension Specialists covered social marketing business basics in their first round of marketing workshops. These workshops showed how Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and blogging can increase brand awareness and create relationships that produce repeat customers.
Previous marketing workshops were held in Bassett, Chadron, Fremont, Kearney, Lincoln, McCook, Nebraska City, Norfolk, North Platte, Omaha, Scottsbluff, Sidney, and Valentine. If you would like a workshop in your area, please e-mail us at info@grownebraska.org.
October 25 and November 18, 2011
GROWnections was an opportunity for current and potential members to meet GROW staff and learn more about the GROW Nebraska program. It was a great way to learn how to get the most value out of your membership, learn about membership, and network with other businesses. Events were held at Nebraska at the Market in Omaha on October 25, 2011 from 5:30 pm-7:00 pm and Da Buzz Coffee House in North Platte on November 18 from 2pm-4pm.
March 30, 2011
The 2011 MarkeTECH Pre-conference featured member David Hefley of Meridian Consulting. He spoke about Search Engine Optimization and Web Site ROI. The event took place on March 30 in Norfolk, NE at Northeast Community College.
David Hefley has been designing web sites for small businesses for over 5 years. As president and owner of Meridian Consulting, Inc., he has helped a broad variety of local businesses begin competing in the global online market place with great success.
Available to members only, the pre-conference is held every spring and changes locations yearly to accommodate members around the state.
March 31, 2011
The GROW Nebraska MarkeTECH Conference is a yearly conference held in the spring for GROW Nebraska members and non-members. The location changes yearly to accommodate both the eastern and western Nebraska populations. The 2011 conference was held on March 31 in Norfolk, NE at Northeast Community College.
The year's keynote speaker was Joseph Knecht, Co‐Founder & Managing Director of Vipa Solutions. Joseph gave a presentation titled "Your Web Site is a Tool ... Now How to Use It!" A successful web site must have a strong mix of targeted content, product information and value adding services. As internet use increases business owners are more comfortable with growing their businesses online the need to understand strategies like dynamic content, eCommerce, blogs, and virtual customer interactions is a must. He shared strategies to how to take your web site to the next level in a way that engages customers and entices them to come back.
"I just wanted to thank all of your staff for a very informative conference.You were all so helpful and always friendly to me. I met so many new friends and heard from some this weekend. Several opportunities have all ready come my way as a result of this conference. The lunch and snacks sure hit the spot, and tasting other GROW members food was a nice idea. Take care and I will see you all at the next event." ~Verleen Kuhlmann, Flowers by V
"I wanted to thank you again for letting me speak at the MarkeTECH Conference ... Ryan and I very much enjoyed attending and meeting everyone involved with the Conference." ~Tyson Benson, Patent Attorney, Advent
"I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know how much we enjoyed the conference. You all did a fantastic job in putting it together. Thank you." ~Wendy Beinlich, Italian Fusion
March 31, 2011
Held in conjunction with the yearly MarkeTECH conference, the MarkeTECH Trade Show allowed members to showcase service businesses. All trade show booth fees included registration for the MarkeTECH conference and lunch for one. GROW members received discounted booths.
September 28, 2011
Janell Anderson Ehrke presented to over 200 students about "Are You An Entrepreneur?" at the Republican Plains Activities Conference (RPAC) held in Alma, NE on September 28, 2011. The presentation highlighted the youth entrepreneurs and success GROW Nebraska members that started their businesses while in high school. The presentation also showcased the initiative ways GROW Nebraska is marketing Nebraska small businesses. The theme of the conference was "Lead Nebraska."
April 9, 2011
Erin Malzer presented to approximately 20 students and teachers at the 2011 Midwest Regional FCS (Family and Consumer Sciences) Conference on April 9 in Iowa Falls, IA. She presented the history of GROW Nebraska and how GROW Nebraska assists entrepreneurs on all levels.
