Nebraska Department of Economic Development director resigns

K.C. Belitz, who has led the Nebraska Department of Economic Development since July 2023, has resigned. His final day in the position will be July 18.

Belitz oversaw the implementation of economic development initiatives including 6 Regions, One Nebraska, the Governor’s New Venture Competition and READ Nebraska.

Gov. Jim Pillen announced Belitz’s resignation and said he was complimentary of Belitz’s time as director.

“K.C. is a committed public servant, whose entire career has been about growing local communities and growing Nebraska,” Pillen said in a press release Tuesday. “Over the past two years, he has been a positive champion for bringing new business to the state and fostering relationships that will allow Nebraska to continue attracting companies involved in the bioeconomy, manufacturing, technology and other industries. I appreciate all that K.C. has done as director of DED and wish him the very best in all future endeavors.”

Belitz, who worked for the Nebraska Community Foundation prior to leading DED, did not give a reason for his resignation in Tuesday’s press release but said it was a “pleasure” to serve the people of Nebraska through his position.

“It has afforded me the chance to meet stakeholders across Nebraska who care deeply about their communities, making investments and creating opportunities so that families can raise their kids, have great careers, and thrive in their home state,” Belitz said. “That has been immensely satisfying, and I’m appreciative of those many relationships.”

Pillen’s office said an announcement regarding future leadership at the Department of Economic Development will be made at a later date.