Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce News and Events

Personal Development - It's All About YOU

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:54:16 GMT

In the next couple of days investigate, choose and commit to several Chamber Academy sessions scheduled between now and July 1.

YP Summit to Provide Collaboration and Community Activities

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:58:37 GMT

In addition to Bruce Mau's keynote speech, the Feb. 29 Summit will offer multiple breakout sessions and networking opportunities.

February Small Business of the Month: Omaha Friendly Services

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:06:16 GMT

Omaha Friendly Services, serving the metro's lawn, landscaping and snow removal needs for the past 10 years, is the February Small Business of the Month.

January "Greater Omaha Indicators"

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:01:42 GMT

View the latest economic indicators for Omaha.

Food for Thought Provided at Chamber's Annual Meeting

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:25:51 GMT

Thought-provoking presentations highlighted yesterday's Greater Omaha Chamber Annual Meeting.

How to Manage Problem Employees

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:47:28 GMT

Save the Date! On March 30, you won't want to miss Chamber University – How to Manage Problem Employees.

Don't Miss Your Opportunity

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:43:27 GMT

Advertising spots in "Omaha: Extraordinary Opportunities" are in high demand. Make sure your business gets the great visibility provided by this high-quality magazine.

Big O! Excellence Award Nominations Close Friday, Feb. 3

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:32:41 GMT

Nomination deadline for THE business awards of the year is next week.

Join BOSS Today!

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:12:35 GMT

Would you like to connect with other business owners, presidents and CEOs? Want to meet interesting people, in an interesting venue and talk about the issues and challenges that matter to you? Then the Greater Omaha Chamber's Business Owner Success Series (BOSS) is just for you!

President's Message: Letters from War

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:38:30 GMT

Have we become immune to stories about violence? Have we been turned into well-insulated and uncaring robots?

Who Do YOU Want to Meet?

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:59:36 GMT

Would you like to meet business leaders, future vendors, future clients, your competitors or politicians? Your Greater Omaha Chamber can help in two great ways!

Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation Annual Meeting

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:50:32 GMT

The Sarpy County Economic Development Corporation will hold its 2012 Annual Meeting Wednesday, Feb. 1, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Embassy Suites Omaha - La Vista/Hotel & Conference Center.

Nomination Deadline: 2012 Big O! Excellence Awards - Feb. 3, 2012

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 06:00:00 GMT

Hurry! Hurry! Nominations for the 2012 Big O! Excellence Awards close today!

Complete either a PDF or online nomination form. A complete description of the awards and the criteria are available at OmahaChamber.org/ExcellenceAwards.

Awards will be presented at the 2012 Big O! Excellence Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, May 15, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Ramada Plaza Omaha Hotel & Convention Center.

Register for the luncheon by Tuesday, May 8.

Purely Social: YP Summit Pre-Party - Feb. 16, 2012

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Come support local nonprofits. Have a drink with your fellow young professionals and learn about the upcoming Young Professionals Summit!

The 2012 Purely Social YP Summit Pre-Party will be held at CRAVE - Midtown Crossing on Feb. 16 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

This Purely Social event is a chance to network with other YPs and preview a few of the speakers and activities that will be featured at the YP Summit on Wednesday, Feb. 29.

CRAVE is donating a portion of the event's drink sales to support the Summit's nonprofit fair, where Summit attendees will be able to give funds away to nonprofits of their choice throughout the day. A list of those nonprofits can be found below.

Cost is $5 at the door or register online in advance. Appetizers will be provided.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

2012 Omaha Nonprofit Fair (Tentative) Participants
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands
Completely KIDS
Heart Ministry Center
Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA)
Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) Nebraska
inCOMMON Community Development
Joslyn Art Museum's Young Art Patrons
Kids Can Community Center
Literacy Center
Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly
Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska
Omaha Street School
Project Interfaith
Project Harmony
Rebuilding Together Omaha
Ronald McDonald House Charities - Omaha
Stephen Center
Ted E. Bear Hollow
Wellness Council of the Midlands (WELCOM)

Chamber Academy: Networking 101 - Connections that Count - Feb. 21, 2012

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Do you love networking or do you hate it? Either way, you will want to attend this session. From Chamber events to any time you are with a group of people, opportunities to connect are endless — make the most of them. This session facilitated by Bridget Lynch will benefit the office team, the sales team or the management team!

Outcomes include the confidence to

Comfortably meet others in person or on the phone.
Make productive connections that promote future business.
Practice what you have learned by networking with other attendees.

For groups of 15 to 500, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Lynch.

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$35 at the door, if space is available

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Greater Omaha Young Professionals: Omaha Before Work: Leadership Breakfast - Feb. 22, 2012

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Omaha Before Work: Leadership Breakfast (formerly Breakfast with a CEO)
7:30 - 9 a.m.
Farm Credit Services of America
4979 S. 118th St. (north buildling), Omaha, NE 68137

*Space is limited to 50 attendees

$20 per person to attend

One of the Greater Omaha Young Professionals most popular programs, Breakfast with a CEO , will kick off its 2012 programming on Feb. 22 with a new name, Omaha Before Work: Leadership Breakfast. The first of these bi-monthly events will feature the following CEOs from the financial services industry:

Sid Dinsdale, Pinnacle Bank
Dan Gomez, UMB Omaha
Doug Stark, Farm Credit Services of America

The discussion will focus on a range of topics including the path each CEO took to his current position, balancing work with community involvement endeavors, as well as changes within the financial industry following the challenging economic times of the last few years.

Goal of the event: To gather young professionals and CEOs in a room to facilitate an informal discussion that allows all participants to focus on career and professional development.

Likely attendees: Individuals interested in networking with leading metro area executives and those with an interest in or a connection to the financial services industry.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Business After Hours: Sheraton Omaha Hotel - Feb. 23, 2012

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Business After Hours is a mini trade show held only three times a year by the Greater Omaha Chamber. More than 250 attendees gather to browse exhibitor tables, renew relationships and make new contacts.

You are sure to make meaningful connections that lead to making more money, reducing costs and growing your business. Save time by networking where so many professionals are together in one place!

Showcase your business by reserving a display table at this event today for $50. View the table contract. To confirm your registration, sign and fax this contract to Kristy Fortenbury at 402-778-4618. Don't wait long. Tables will sell out quickly!

Cost - Pre-registration
$10 for members
$15 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$15 at the door, if space is available

Booth Price
$50 paid in advanced (must also submit contract)

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Summit for Entrepreneurship Pre-Conference Cornstalks Reception - Feb. 23, 2012

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Join us Feb. 23 at a pre-conference Cornstalks event the night before the Nebraska Summit on Entrepreneurship to get a peek at what's taking place with the university and entrepreneurship in the state. The pre-conference will be held at Embassy Suites Omaha - La Vista/Hotel & Conference Center.

The evening will begin with a cocktail and appetizer reception and will be followed with networking and a keynote speaker, Stephen J. George, CFA, co-founder and chief investment officer of Capricorn Investment Group, LLC.

George founded Capricorn Investment Group, LLC in 2002, and has since led an overall investment strategy, capital allocation, risk management and development of the firm. Currently, he is focused on the firm's investing programs in venture capital.

6 p.m. - Cocktail and appetizer reception
7 p.m. - Keynote speaker

Cornstalks was created by the Greater Omaha Chamber to be a forum that allowed entrepreneurs working on high-growth projects to come out of their labs, garages and basements to meet and discuss real problems that they, and their companies, were facing. Discussion topics and presentations have included how to find investors, create a good capital structure, protect intellectual property and find good employees.

The event is hosted by: Cornstalks, Greater Omaha Young Professionals, Lincoln Young Professionals Group, and Connecting Young Nebraskans.

The reception is FREE to attend! Register here.

Photo and Video Release: The Greater Omaha Chamber often takes photographs and video during our events for use in brochures and on the Web. By registering you agree that the Chamber may use any image of you that might appear in photographs or video taken at a Chamber event.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Chamber Academy: 2012 Metro Area Transportation Update - Feb. 28, 2012

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

What street and highway updates are on tap for the metro area during the 2012 construction season? The answer to that question can affect your business. A metro area transportation update on Tuesday, Feb. 28, from 7:30 - 9 a.m. at Dave & Buster's, 2502 South 133 Plaza, Suite 111, will provide a panel of experts with the answers to these questions and more. Facilitated by Larry Gomez.

Outcomes include information to

Help you better plan your current business routes and times.
Enhance your strategic plans by including future road and street closures and detours.
Give you a preview of long-term plans locally as well as statewide.

Panelists include:

Dan Kutilek, engineering and planning manager, Douglas County
Robert "Bob" Stubbe, public works director, City of Omaha
Tim Weander, district director, State Department of Roads
Dennis Wilson, surveyor, Sarpy County

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for nonmembers

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

2012 Young Professionals Summit - Feb. 29, 2012

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Plans for the Greater Omaha Young Professionals 2012 Young Professionals Summit are well underway. It's time for you to get it on your calendar: Wednesday, Feb. 29 at CenturyLink Center Omaha from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.! This is the place for young professionals interested in contributing to business and the community to gather and get inspired.

Bruce Mau, a world-leading visionary, innovator, designer and author, will be the keynote lunch speaker. Mau is the co-founder of Massive Change Network, an organization committed to developing purposeful projects in education, health, leadership and security. He is also the founder of the Institute without Boundaries - an innovative, studio-based postgraduate program in collaboration with George Brown College, Toronto. Mau partnered with his students to write the best-selling book "Massive Change."

See the agenda.

All Summit participants are invited to an after party at DJ's Dugout, 10th & Capitol, beginning at 4:30 p.m. This event is free of charge for Summit attendees with a hand stamp. The cost will be $5 for those without the hand stamp. Appetizer and drink specials will be available.

Connect online to get the latest updates : @omahayp, facebook.com/omahayp

Attend the entire Summit
$99 through Jan. 13
$125 from Jan. 14 - Feb. 22

Attend the lunch only
$50 through Jan. 13
$75 from Jan. 14 - Feb. 22

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Chamber Academy: Meet the Buyers - March 1, 2012

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Wondering how to work with purchasing agents? Attend Meet the Buyers and learn how to capitalize on the opportunities that result from relationships with large public and private organizations. Alleviate stress, wasted time and poor results. Facilitated by Larry Gomez.

Outcomes include

Access to local buyers and procurement specialists.
Relevant information on the process of doing business with the spotlighted companies.
Less prospecting time spent and better selling results.

Participating buyers include:
Nate Mikish - Operations Director- Procurement, Alegent Health Systems
Eric Carlson - Purchasing Agent, Douglas County
Sarah Kottich - VP of Finance and Administrative Services, College of St. Mary's

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for nonmembers

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Chamber Academy: Mobile Marketing Trends Including QR Codes and Microsoft Tags by Doug Carr - March 14, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

As the number of smartphone users continues to soar, more and more marketers are jumping on board with the latest mobile marketing trends. Doug Carr with Snitily Carr will demonstrate how companies are using this technology to garner attention and deliver a wide variety of content quickly and easily.

Outcomes include understanding:
- What QR codes and MS Tags are
- Real world examples of the new marketing tools and how they can be tracked
- The difference between a mobile website and a mobile app

http://www.snitilycarr.com/

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration opens Jan. 14.

Coffee & Contacts: Granite City Food & Brewery - March 15, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Stop by the Granite City Food & Brewery on your way to work to make some business connections and exchange ideas with other Chamber members. Potential customers or suppliers could be just a conversation away.

Special Guests
-Andrea Skolkin, OneWorld Community Health Centers
-Anne Branigan, senior vice president Greater Omaha Chamber, board member Live Well Omaha

At 8 a.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for those who are involved in the
health industry.

Cost - Pre-registration
$5 for members
$10 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$10 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration opens Jan 15.

Chamber Orientation - March 20, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Benefits of Chamber membership? Whether you are a new or a long-time Chamber member, learn how membership will help you make money, reduce costs and save time. Products and services are being added constantly to your menu of Chamber benefits - special guests and small group breakout sessions at networking events, mini trade shows, discussions about public policy issues, opportunities to share and learn with other business owners, 24/7 free marketing and an online business directory. Find out which opportunities will meet your company needs. Attend Chamber Orientation!

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration opens Jan. 20.

Chamber University - How to Manage Problem Employees - March 30, 2012

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

This "Chamber University," presented by Glenn Shepard of Glenn Shepard Seminars, is a fully accredited course that has been taught through the Continuing Education department at 146 colleges in 24 states, and has been certified by SHRM (the Society of Human Resource Professionals). People who attend this program list it on their resumes because it sets them apart from other job applicants (SHRM surveys have found that 1 out of 2 recruiters prefer those with HR certification).

This program is also accredited by numerous state boards for CPE credit for CPA's, engineers, attorneys, funeral directors, nurses, and many other professionals that are required to take these classes to keep their licenses.

This accelerated one-morning program provides quick solutions to the seven most common issues managers in the trenches ask about:
1. Where to find higher quality people
2. How to manage Generation Y/ Millenials
3. How to get people to come to work on time
4. How to get people who are good at what they do but have a bad attitude to straighten up and fly right
5. How to create a work environment that fosters teamwork and encourages cooperation instead of people working against each other
6. How to keep a toxic person from bringing everyone else down with gossip, backstabbing, or other destructive behavior
7. How to motivate people to move beyond good and great

Tuition:
$129 for Chamber members
$149 for nonmembers

Pre-regisration with payment is required.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration opens Jan. 30.

Chamber Academy: Memory Training by Dennis Rourke - April 11, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Learn how to utilize the simple science of mnemonics, a powerful set of techniques for learning and organizing all types of information. Dennis Rourke with Dennis Rourke Magic will show you the memory skill that diplomats, spies and academics use to acquire knowledge rapidly.

Outcomes include learning:

Easy ways to improve your memory
Tools to organize your mind to easily recall information
The ability to recall names to strengthen networking skills

http://www.rourkemagic.com

Cost Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens Feb. 11.

Chamber Orientation - April 12, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens Feb. 12.

Rush Hour Connections: Claas North America Holdings, Inc. - April 17, 2012

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

This event will have an agricultural twist - it will be the final event of a two-day reverse ag tour where business leaders and owners from Hastings, Paxton, Grand Island, West Point, Lincoln and other communities meet in Omaha with the Chamber's Ag Council. In attendance will be leaders and senior executives from firms with a presence in agriculture: real estate, finance, insurance, law, livestock production, personnel recruitment, manufacturing, technology industries, marketing, and more. This is a chance for professionals from Omaha and across the state to meet, exchange information and ideas, and build relationships that will benefit those attending.

A come-and-go-as-you-please event, but you'll surely want to make the most of a great time and the great food that will be served by Abraham Catering.

At 4:30 p.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for those who are involved in agriculture.

Cost - Pre-registration
$10 for members
$15 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$15 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens Feb. 17.

Omaha Business Hall of Fame Gala - April 24, 2012

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Past and present outstanding Omaha area business leaders will be inducted into the Omaha Business Hall of Fame. Hosted by the Greater Omaha Chamber, the annual Omaha Business Hall of Fame Gala honors individuals whose accomplishments in business are historically significant to the development of Omaha.

The evening begins with a 6 p.m. dinner reception followed by the program at 7:30 p.m. Parking is included.

The Omaha Business Hall of Fame was initiated in 1993 in celebration of the Chamber's centennial anniversary. Proceeds support the permanent Omaha Business Hall of Fame display at The Durham Museum, as well as providing funding for the annual Young Professionals Summit, a project of the Greater Omaha Young Professionals. View a list of all Omaha Business Hall of Fame members.

Ticket price includes parking, dinner, drinks and dessert.

Tickets purchased in groups of ten or more will ensure your group sits together for the program portion of the evening in the concert hall.

Sustaining ticket - $200
Seating in the general admission section.

Patron ticket - $250
Premium seating in the patron section, recognition in the program and on the screens.

A group of 10 sustaining tickets are available for $2,000. A group of 10 patron tickets are available for $2,500.

The 2012 Omaha Business Hall of Fame Gala sponsors are Fraser Stryker, KPMG LLP and U.S. Bank.

Registration opens Feb. 24.

Chamber Academy: Marketing 101 - How to Market Through the Chamber - April 26, 2012

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Would you like to project a positive image and have broader name recognition in our market? Get your company in front of area professionals by using the Greater Omaha Chamber. Learn how in Marketing 101. Hear about the FREE and very low cost tools for marketing that are available only to Chamber members. Facilitated by Bridget Lynch.

Outcomes include

Options available to best promote your company through your Chamber membership.
The opportunity to work through ideas and words to effectively market your company.
Up-to-date information on how a Chamber sponsorship might be what your company is looking for.

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$35 at the door, if space is available

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens Feb. 26.

Chamber Academy: Meet the Buyers - May 1, 2012

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Outcomes include

Access to local buyers and procurement specialists
Relevant information on the process of doing business with the spotlighted companies
Less prospecting time spent and better selling results

Participating buyers to be announced at a later date.

$25 for members
$35 for non members

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens March 1.

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Chamber Academy: Networking 101 - Connections that Count - May 8, 2012

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Outcomes include the confidence to

Comfortably meet others in person or on the phone.
Make productive connections that promotes future business.
Practice what you have learned by networking with other attendees.

For groups of 15 to 500, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Lynch.

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$35 at the door, if space is available

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens March 8.

Business Before Hours: Salvation Army Kroc Center - May 10, 2012

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Browse exhibitor tables, renew relationships and make new contacts at Business Before Hours, a mini trade show.

You are sure to make meaningful connections that lead to making more money, reducing costs and growing your business. Save time by networking where so many professionals are together in one place!

Showcase your business by reserving a display booth at this event today for $50. View the table contract. To confirm your registration, sign and fax this contract to Kristy Fortenbury at (402) 778-4618. Don't wait long. Tables will sell out quickly!

Cost: Pre-registration
$10 for members
$15 for nonmembers

Cost: Walk-in
$15 at the door, if space is available

Booth Price
$50 paid in advanced (must also submit contract)

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Photo and Video Release: The Greater Omaha Chamber often takes photographs and video during our events for use in brochures and on the Web. By registering you agree that the Chamber may use any image of you that might appear in photographs or video taken at a Chamber event.

Registration opens March 10.

2012 Big O! Excellence Awards Luncheon - May 15, 2012

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 06:00:00 GMT

Big O! Excellence Awards: THE Awards for Greater Omaha Businesses

Who is going to receive a coveted Big O! Excellence Award? Plan to attend the Big O! Excellence Awards Luncheon to find out. Many are nominated, but only a select few will walk away with an award!

The awards provide recognition and visibility to outstanding Greater Omaha businesses.

Individuals or businesses are nominated for the following awards: Business Woman of the Year, Corporate Citizenship, Innovator, Milestone, Minority Business of the Year and Nonprofit of the Year.

In addition, the Small Business of the Year Award recipient will be selected from the previous year's Small Business of the Month Award recipients.

Check out what made last year's winners so awesome!

Tickets are $40 per Chamber member and $400 per table of ten. Tickets are $80 per person and $800 per table of ten for nonmembers.

Sponsored by
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska
Century Link
FirstComp
KFAB 1110 AM
Smith Hayes Financial Services Corporation

Registration opens March 15.

Chamber Orientation - May 17, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens March 17.

Rush Hour Connections: All Makes Office Equipment Co. - May 22, 2012

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Renew professional relationships and build new ones at Rush Hour Connections! This is a come-and-go-as-you-please event where connections and business happen over appetizers and beverages.

Special Guests
-Randy Leaders, Werner Enterprises
-Ron Quinn, Tenaska
-Rob Maglinger, Greater Omaha Chamber

Where else can you go where you have the opportunity to meet 10, 20, 50 or even 150 professionals in two hours?

At 4:30 p.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for those who are involved in transportation (plains, trains and automobiles!), freight, and manufacturing and other industrial companies.

Cost - Pre-registration
$10 for members
$15 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$15 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens March 22.

Chamber Academy: Sales 301: What You Don't Learn at a Sales Seminar by Mark Ford - June 13, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

What you present and how you present it is critical to the buying and selling process, as well as the ongoing client relationship. Mark Ford with Dale Carnegie Training will teach you to differentiate yourself in a crowded competitive marketplace with exciting approaches to solving buyers' problems.

Outcomes include acquiring the ability to:

Build credibility and rapport with your customers
Provide solutions your customers really want
Discover techniques for uncovering hidden opportunities

http://www.nesd.dalecarnegie.com

Cost Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens April 13.

Coffee & Contacts: Bellevue University - June 14, 2012

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Stop by Bellevue University on your way to work to make some business connections and exchange ideas with other Chamber members. Potential customers or suppliers could be just a conversation away.

At 8 a.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for those who are involved in all types of activities, events, and groups that affect youth of all ages - birth to college.

Cost - Pre-registration
$5 for members
$10 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$10 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens April 14.

Chamber Orientation - June 28, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Photo and Video Release: The Greater Omaha Chamber often takes photographs and video during our events for use in brochures and on the Web. By registering you agree that the Chamber may use any image of you that might appear in photographs or video taken at a Chamber event.

Registration opens April 28.

Chamber Academy: Marketing 101 - How to Market Through the Chamber - July 10, 2012

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Outcomes include

Options available to best promote your company through your Chamber membership.
The opportunity to work through ideas and words to effectively market your company.
Up-to-date information on how a Chamber sponsorship might be what your company is looking for.

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$35 at the door, if space is available

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens May 8.

Chamber Academy: Feedback - How to Know Your Customers by Cory Jensen - July 11, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Knowing which social media method to use to capture customer feedback can be challenging. Cory Jensen with Core Research provides information that will help you determine which method best meets your goals and ensures repeat business.

Outcomes include understanding:

Not all sources of feedback are the same
Which source(s) will provide the most accurate data
How data relates to your customers and your bottom line

http://www.coreresearchinc.com/

Cost Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens May 9.

Rush Hour Connections: Q3 Systems, L.L.C. - July 19, 2012

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Q3 has a unique location being one of the original tenants to call The Mastercraft building home. The former 140,000-square-foot furniture factory, The Mastercraft is a commercial hub for creative type tenants and is quickly being recognized across the area. Come see Q3, The Mastercraft, and the exciting explosion happening right here in Omaha!

Renew professional relationships and build new ones at Rush Hour Connections! This is a come-and-go-as-you-please event where connections and business happen over appetizers and beverages.

Where else can you go where you have the opportunity to meet 10, 20, 50 or even 150 professionals in two hours?

At 4:30 p.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for business owners, CEOs and HR representatives.

Cost - Pre-registration
$10 for members
$15 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$15 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens May 17.

Chamber Orientation - July 31, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens May 29.

Chamber Orientation - Aug. 14, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens June 26.

Coffee & Contacts: Capitol School of Hairstyling & Esthetics - Aug. 28, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Stop by the Capitol School of Hairstyling & Esthetics on your way to work to make some business connections and exchange ideas with other Chamber members. Potential customers or suppliers could be just a conversation away.

At 8 a.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for those who are involved in personal beauty services of all kinds as well as apparel, shoes, and accessories.

Cost - Pre-registration
$5 for members
$10 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$10 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Chamber Academy: Networking 101 - Connections that Count - Aug. 29, 2012

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Outcomes include the confidence to

Comfortably meet others in person or on the phone.
Make productive connections that promotes future business.
Practice what you have learned by networking with other attendees.

For groups of 15 to 500, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Lynch.

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$35 at the door, if space is available

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration opens June 29.

Chamber Academy: Rev Up Your Relationships, Referrals and Revenues with Email Marketing by Paige Cahill - Sept. 12, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

The "do's" and "don'ts" of email marketing are critical to know in this business climate. Paige Cahill with Constant Contact will give you best email practices to help you create successful email campaigns.

Outcomes include learning:

What email marketing "is" and "is not"
How to CRAFT an effective email campaign
The three tips that will get your emails opened

http://www.constantcontact.com

Cost Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration begins July 11.

Chamber Orientation - Sept. 13, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration begins July 12.

Rush Hour Connections: Field Club of Omaha - Sept. 18, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Renew professional relationships and build new ones at Rush Hour Connections! This is a come-and-go-as-you-please event where connections and business happen over appetizers and beverages.

Where else can you go where you have the opportunity to meet 10, 20, 50 or even 150 professionals in two hours?

At 4:30 p.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for businesses in sports and entertainment arenas.

Cost - Pre-registration
$10 for members
$15 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$15 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Photo and Video Release: The Greater Omaha Chamber often takes photographs and video during our events for use in brochures and on the Web. By registering you agree that the Chamber may use any image of you that might appear in photographs or video taken at a Chamber event.

Registration begins July 24.

Chamber Academy: Meet the Buyers - Sept. 27, 2012

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Outcomes include

Access to local buyers and procurement specialists.
Relevant information on the process of doing business with the spotlighted companies.
Less prospecting time spent and better selling results.

Participating buyers to be announced at a later date.

$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Chamber Academy: Marketing 101 - How to Market Through the Chamber - Oct. 9, 2012

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Outcomes include

Options available to best promote your company through your Chamber membership.
The opportunity to work through ideas and words to effectively market your company.
Up-to-date information on how a Chamber sponsorship might be what your company is looking for.

Cost - Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$35 at the door, if space is available

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Photo and Video Release: The Greater Omaha Chamber often takes photographs and video during our events for use in brochures and on the Web. By registering you agree that the Chamber may use any image of you that might appear in photographs or video taken at a Chamber event.

Registration begins August 7.

Chamber Academy : Retirement Planning for the Small Business Owner by Roland Manarin - Oct. 10, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Small businesses have several options when it comes to retirement planning. Roland Manarin with Manarin Investment Counsel will advise on which plans may be best for you and your business, and how to maximize your returns and your long term benefits.

Outcomes include acquiring knowledge about:

Several types of retirement plans available to small business owners
Optimizing your tax savings
Managing your portfolio to maximize your returns

http://manarin.com/

Cost Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration begins August 8.

Coffee & Contacts: Kaplan University - Oct. 11, 2012

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Stop by the Kaplan University on your way to work to make some business connections and exchange ideas with other Chamber members. Potential customers or suppliers could be just a conversation away.

At 8 a.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for those who are involved in retail sales as well as those involved in home-based businesses.

Cost - Pre-registration
$5 for members
$10 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$10 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Registration begins August 9.

Chamber Orientation - Oct. 23, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration begins August 21.

Chamber Academy : Discover Your Inner Orator: Preparing Effective Business Presentations by Darian Davis - Nov. 14, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Feeling confident during your presentation and having a strong quality message is essential for presenting inside or outside of the office. Darian Davis with CoSentry will discuss preparing quality content, key elements of effective presentations, and how to increase your credibility using powerful delivery techniques.

Outcomes include discovering:

Components of well prepared content in a presentation
Three key elements of a memorable introduction and conclusion
Top four nonverbal/delivery techniques that will increase your credibility

http://www.cosentry.com/

Cost Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration begins November 12.

Chamber Orientation - Nov. 15, 2012

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

You will even make new business connections while there. This event is open to all Chamber members and their employees free of charge.

For groups of 15 or more, this program can be held at your location and customized to fit your specific needs. For more information contact Bridget Lynch, director of member services.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration begins September 13.

Rush Hour Connections: Thrasher Basement Systems, Inc. - Nov. 29, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Renew professional relationships and build new ones at Rush Hour Connections! This is a come-and-go-as-you-please event where connections and business happen over appetizers and beverages.

Where else can you go where you have the opportunity to meet 10, 20, 50 or even 150 professionals in two hours?

At 4:30 p.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for those who are involved in all phases of construction.

Cost - Pre-registration
$10 for members
$15 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$15 at the door, if space is available

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration begins October 4.

Chamber Academy: Your Customer Just Filed Bankruptcy - What Do You Do Now? by Douglas E. Quinn, Michael Eversden and Lauren Cole - Dec. 5, 2012

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Learn practical guidelines and solutions for businesses faced with the insolvency or bankruptcy of one or more of their customers/clients. Douglas E. Quinn, Michael Eversden and Lauren Cole with McGrath North Mullin & Kratz, PC LLO will provide instruction regarding the post-filing provision of credit versus the filing of proofs claim, dealing with contracts and leases and strategies for recovering on claims.

Outcomes include a clear understanding about why you should:

Beware of the automatic stay
Address the situation quickly
Watch out for deadlines

http://www.mcgrathnorth.com/

Cost Pre-registration
$25 for members
$35 for non-members

Chamber Academy sponsored by

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration begins October 3.

Coffee & Contacts: St. Cecilia Cathedral, Archdiocese of Omaha - Dec. 11, 2012

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Stop by St. Cecilia Cathedral on your way to work to make some business connections and exchange ideas with other Chamber members. Potential customers or suppliers could be just a conversation away.

At 8 a.m. there will be a special breakout session specifically for those who are involved in all with churches and other types of non-profits.

Interested in attending, but not currently a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber? Join today. Or contact us at memberservices@omahachamber.org.

Cost - Pre-registration
$5 for members
$10 for nonmembers

Cost - Walk-in
$10 at the door, if space is available

Severe weather: If the Omaha Public Schools District is closed for inclement weather, this event will be canceled.

Registration begins October 9.