SPARK Developer Academy & Trades on the Move Spotlight
Sheri Alber • February 24, 2025

SPARK Developer Academy with a Spotlight on "Trades on the Move"

Spark’s mission is to help profoundly transform disinvested neighborhoods into prosperous and thriving communities. Communities like North Omaha have vacant, scattered infill lots that have remained dormant for years. The underlying economics that make development in distressed communities unprofitable remain unchanged. Hear how SPARK is activating an army of small-scale, mission-oriented, entrepreneurial developers with intimate local knowledge.


Spotlight - Trades on the Move: Hear from Michelle Lubken with Hamilton Communication as she spotlight a new program coming out the Central Region for 6 Regions 1 Nebraska.



By Sheri Alber January 15, 2026
The Custer Economic Development Corporation highlighted housing initiatives since 2014, noting the construction of more than 80 homes and 61 apartment units since 2013. Scotti Ross and Stuart Fox emphasized that many of these projects were made possible through Tax Increment Financing (TIF).
i
By Sheri Alber November 20, 2025
The November HomeNE webinar focused on rural housing initiatives in Nebraska, with a presentation from John Madsen and Jon Schmaderer highlighting successful housing development strategies in Stuart. They discussed partnerships, funding approaches, and the role of local organizations in promoting affordable housing.
W
By Sheri Alber October 16, 2025
Creative Methods that Spur Community Revitalization: Proactive Redevelopment of Commercial and Residential Properties in Ord, Nebraska