Cornhusker State News

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen will lead a trade mission to Israel from October 27 to 30. The delegation includes representatives from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, the Jewish Federation of Omaha, and professionals from Nebraska’s agricultural equipment manufacturing, food manufacturing, and service industries.

During the visit, state leaders plan to promote Nebraska-made kosher beef, encourage partnerships in agricultural technology, and strengthen relationships with civil associations. Governor Pillen is scheduled for high-level diplomatic meetings where he will discuss the importance of U.S. defense technologies in securing Israel. The group will also observe humanitarian projects in Israel that are supported by organizations based in Nebraska.

"Nebraska accounts for more than 99% of all U.S. beef exports to Israel. In 2024, Nebraska exported $13.5 million of beef products to Israel. The state’s beef sales to Israel are increasing. From January through July of 2025, Nebraska beef exports to Israel are 27% higher than they were during the same period last year," according to information provided by the governor's office.

Collaboration between Nebraska’s agricultural manufacturers and Israeli ag tech companies has grown in recent years. For example, Lindsay Corporation worked with Taranis on Smart Pivot crop management software; Taranis has since moved its headquarters from Tel Aviv to the United States but still maintains an office in Israel. Reinke partnered with CropX Technologies from Netanya, Israel, on a pivot-mounted sensor for monitoring crop water use. In 2021, Valmont acquired Prospera Technologies, an Israeli company specializing in artificial intelligence for agriculture.

Israeli startup Greeneye Technology has invested in Nebraska due to its reputation for agricultural innovation. Greeneye uses artificial intelligence for precision weed and pest control and has conducted field trials with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Agricultural Research Division alongside local farmers. The company now partners with Boeck Seed Services in Exeter, Nebraska, serving corn and soybean growers across the Midwest.

Beyond economic ties, cultural and academic connections between Nebraska and Israel remain strong. The Jewish community in Nebraska supports cultural exchange through education and travel programs. Several universities have established academic initiatives focused on Jewish society and culture: these include the Schwalb Center at the University of Nebraska Omaha, the Harris Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the Klutznick Chair at Creighton University—all of which jointly host an annual symposium on Jewish civilization.

Governor Pillen's office can be contacted at PO Box 94848 or at their location on K Street in Lincoln.