Target Industries

The Norfolk area offers a strong foundation for agribusiness innovation, particularly in precision agriculture and sustainable farming systems. Located in the heart of one of the nation’s most productive agricultural regions, the community sits at the intersection of row-crop production, livestock operations, and ag processing. Proximity to producers and supply chains allows companies to test, deploy, and scale new technologies in real-world conditions, while strong transportation access, available industrial sites, and a business-friendly development environment support efficient growth. The Norfolk region delivers the infrastructure, connectivity, and market access agribusiness firms need to grow and compete.

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Precision ag and sustainable agriculture thrive in environments where technology, data, and practical application intersect—and Norfolk delivers on all three. The area supports a strong network of forward-thinking producers and early adopters, creating opportunities for companies working in automation, sensors, data analytics, remote monitoring, soil health, water management, renewable inputs, and climate-smart agriculture.

Combined with a skilled workforce pipeline and a regional commitment to land stewardship and long-term productivity, Norfolk provides agribusiness firms a scalable, real-world innovation platform built for long-term success.

The Norfolk area is positioned for diversified energy production, offering the infrastructure, land availability, and community support needed to advance multiple energy technologies. Centrally located in the Midwest, the region provides access to transmission networks, transportation corridors, and industrial users that support large-scale and emerging energy projects. 

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Norfolk is open to exploring a broad mix of energy production opportunities, including nuclear, solar, wind, bioenergy, and other innovative energy technologies. The region values long-term resilience, energy security, and sustainable growth, creating a collaborative environment for companies advancing energy solutions. 

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​Additionally, a wind-specific talent pipeline is at your fingertips through Northeast Community College’s Wind Energy program, which prepares students with the safety training, technical expertise, and hands-on experience needed to succeed in today’s high-demand wind energy sector.

We are a highly strategic location for biosciences companies focused on biofuels and ethanol production. Positioned within one of the nation’s most productive agricultural regions, the community offers direct access to abundant feedstocks, established grain supply chains, and supporting ag infrastructure. Proximity to growers, processors, and transportation networks creates operational efficiencies while reducing logistics costs.

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Biofuels and ethanol operations thrive in ecosystems where agriculture, energy, and technology intersect—and Norfolk delivers that alignment.

The area supports a workforce experienced in ag processing, manufacturing, and industrial operations, along with regional partners focused on innovation, sustainability, and energy transition. Companies benefit from a collaborative environment that values renewable energy, resource efficiency, and long-term resilience, making Norfolk an ideal platform for biosciences firms seeking scalable growth and reliable inputs.

The Norfolk area also serves as a regional healthcare hub, anchored by Faith Regional Health Services, a full-service regional hospital that provides comprehensive medical care, specialty services, and advanced clinical capabilities for Northeast Nebraska. This strong healthcare infrastructure supports both community health needs and healthcare sector growth, creating opportunities for providers, clinics, specialty practices, and healthcare-related industries. 

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Norfolk also offers a built-in workforce development advantage through a strong, locally based talent pipeline. Northeast Community College provides healthcare and allied health training programs that prepare students for direct entry into the medical workforce, while the UNMC College of Nursing Norfolk Division—located on the Northeast Community College campus—creates a seamless pathway for nursing education and advanced clinical training. Together, these institutions ensure a consistent flow of skilled professionals, supporting workforce stability, talent recruitment, and long-term healthcare system growth for the region.

The Norfolk area also offers a competitive and scalable environment for metal manufacturing and advanced manufacturing operations. Centrally located within the Midwest, the region provides efficient access to domestic supply chains, transportation corridors, and key industrial markets. A unique advantage is proximity to major material suppliers, including Nucor and Norfolk Iron & Metal, creating strong local and regional supply chain efficiencies for steel, fabrication inputs, and industrial materials. 

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Advanced manufacturing thrives in communities that combine technical skill with practical production experience—and Norfolk delivers both. The area supports a strong workforce pipeline with experience in machining, fabrication, automation, precision manufacturing, and industrial maintenance.

Regional training partners and workforce development programs help ensure companies have access to adaptable, skilled talent as technologies evolve. For manufacturers seeking long-term stability, scalable operations, and a community that understands industrial growth, Norfolk provides a durable platform for innovation and sustained success.

The Norfolk, Nebraska area provides a strong foundation for business administration, corporate services, and professional operations, supported by a diverse regional economy and a development-ready business environment. The Norfolk region creates an ideal platform for corporate offices, shared services operations, and business service firms seeking scalable growth and long-term stability.

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Norfolk’s competitive advantage is strengthened by a robust workforce pipeline built around comprehensive academic and technical training. Through the Wayne State College Career Scholars program, the region supports programs in Business Administration, Accounting (Professional Accountancy), Agribusiness, Economics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Industrial Operations Management, International Business Studies, Management, Marketing, Professional Studies, and Supply Chain Management—along with strong pipelines in communications and IT.

This unique program delivers graduates with one year of work experience, giving employers direct access to skilled professionals across administrative, analytical, operational, and technology-driven roles.