Current Economic Sectors and Industries
Currently the service sector accounts for nearly 40 percent of total employment in Omaha. Other key sectors are trade, transportation and utilities, as well as the finance, insurance and real estate sectors. Telecommunications and architecture/construction are also major influences on the local economy. The Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership identifies the defense industry, manufacturing, and information technology as important areas, as well.
The presence of the Strategic Air Command during the Cold War and the U.S. Strategic Command has led to a strong defense industry. Transportation in Omaha has been vital to the city's growth, with more than 144 million pounds of cargo passing through Eppley Airfield in 2004. The Union Pacific and several other major railroads provide freight service that is coordinated with many of the trucking companies serving the metropolitan area.
Studies also show that the Holland Foundation, which is based in Omaha, is one of the most generous philanthropic foundations in the United States.
Read more about this topic: Economy Of Omaha, Nebraska
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