Entrepreneurship task force approved

Lawmakers gave final approval April 1 to a bill that creates a legislative task force focused on innovation and entrepreneurship in Nebraska’s economy.

LB1083, introduced by Gothenburg Sen. Matt Williams, adopts the Next Generation Business Growth Act and creates a Venture Development and Innovation Task Force consisting of six senators appointed by the Executive Board.

The task force will develop a statewide strategic plan to cultivate a climate of entrepreneurship and innovation in Nebraska. The strategic plan will include:
• an inventory of existing state-sponsored and locally sponsored programs and resources that are targeted to small businesses, microenterprises and entrepreneurial endeavors in the state;
• an economic impact analysis of the existing programs under the Nebraska Business Innovation Act;
• an overview of best practices from other states; and
• a review of previously issued statewide strategic plans focused on high-growth businesses and various policy options.

In consultation with the Executive Board, the task force will employ a nonprofit organization to assist in development of the strategic plan by Dec. 1, 2016. The $75,000 in funding for development of the strategic plan will come from the Community Development Assistance Act.

The Next Generation Business Growth Act will terminate on Jan. 1, 2017.

LB1083 passed 46-0.