Housing
The Northeast Region is launching the SPARK Developer Academy’s inaugural session July 27th-31st in Norfolk. Designed for developers, contractors, and community leaders, the academy provides intensive, hands-on training in real estate finance, zoning, funding strategies, and project management. Participants will gain access to a strong network of mentors and industry professionals—connections critical to moving housing projects from concept to completion. Applications for the Norfolk Developer Academy open May 1st.Leadership Development Initiative
The Northeast Elected Leadership Academy (NELA) will hold its inaugural class on April 28th. The Academy is a partnership of 6 Regions, One Nebraska, Northeast Community College, and UNL Extension. The program is designed to build long-term civic leadership capacity across the region. The academy is modeled after the Georgia Academy for Economic Development, established in 1993 and now mandatory for elected officials in Georgia.

NELA is a one-year experience with curriculum shaped by input from nearly 100 Nebraska elected officials and community leaders to ensure relevance and immediate application. The class features a one-day intensive course followed by additional sessions throughout the year and offers practical tools, peer-to-peer learning, and two dedicated networking opportunities.