Norfolk Area Economic Council helping 'bravest people on the planet'

NORFOLK, Neb. -- Starting a business comes with many major risks. But a northeast Nebraska organization is helping potential new business owners navigate the process. 

“We have in place what we call the Norfolk Area Business Resource Network,” Norfolk Area Economic Development Director Candice Alder said. “The network consists of a number of different partners that we have that all provide assistance to entrepreneurs or businesses.” 

If a small business needs a property, business plan, or gap financing, the organization connects small businesses with a partner in the resource network. They zero in on if a business makes sense and can be profitable for the future.

“Entrepreneurs and small business owners are some of the bravest people on the planet,” Business Resource Specialist Melissa Figueroa said. “They are taking huge risks and so the one thing I always start with people who want to start a small business, is they really have to sit down and do their research.”

Norfolk and Madison County have seen many changes over the past decade. 

According to bestplaces.net, Norfolk has a future job growth of 27.6%. The report said Norfolk also has very high property taxes, but overall a lower cost of living than most towns in the U.S. 

“I definitely have noticed a lot of difference in the past four years from moving here,” Figueroa said. “The energy has shifted a lot and I actually hear excitement about certain events that are going on downtown. People just have a more renewed energy for Norfolk which I really appreciate.” 

Although some businesses pose more risks than others, Alder said the Norfolk Economic Development Team is here to help successfully guide new or existing businesses through a safe and effective process.

“I just love seeing people chase their dreams and then that coming out into the community,” Economic Development Coordinator Mikah Wheeler said. “When I know that I had my hand in that process, whether it’s a small business starting from scratch or someone that has had a business for a while and is ready to expand, being able to see that growth in the community is something I take a lot of pride in.”

Figueroa said that success in the program is defined by more than just numbers.  

“It is a really positive experience,” Figueroa said. “I love being able to meet people, find out about what they're doing and what their ideas are. My entire role is really just based around helping people, and so that’s a really positive position to be in.”