VALENTINE, Neb. – A new effort is underway to bring a convention center to Cherry County, with Cherry County Tourism launching an approximately $4 million fundraising campaign to make it happen.

Cherry County is already a well-known destination, drawing tourists from across Nebraska and beyond. From visiting Nebraska’s largest waterfall to tubing down the Niobrara National Scenic River or experiencing a certified dark sky, the area has plenty to offer.

“The amount of lodging tax dollars that Cherry County collects ranks us in the top 25% of cities in Nebraska,” said Cherry County Tourism Board Member Greg Nollette.

Nollette, who has served on the tourism board for more than 30 years, remembers when promoting the area meant mailing postcards from the back of Young’s Western Wear store. Since then, tourism has flourished—but he says there’s still something missing: a convention center.

That’s why the Cherry County Tourism Board is working with the county and Mid-Plains Community College to build one in Valentine.

“I can’t wait for the first day that we have 200 to 300 people that we can drop off on Main Street, and say, ‘This is only here because we had this convention center built,’” said Cherry County Tourism Board Chair Rich Mercure.

The proposed convention center will be attached to Mid-Plains Community College, with plans to break ground in July 2026. The goal is have the building open by July 2027.

“We’re about ready to start a fundraising campaign. We have all kinds of levels of donations that we’re looking at,” said Mercure.

Large donations could allow contributors to name meeting rooms, while smaller donations will still be recognized. Donors don’t have to pay all of the money at once; they can pledge it over five years.

“It’s a little bit of a legacy for what you can bring to our community and our area,” said Mercure.

Supporters believe the convention center could be a game-changer for the local economy, drawing more events and visitors to the region.

“It’s a catalyst. It brings people to town. It’s an opportunity for other businesses and new growth,” said Nollette.

You can check out the plans and offer feedback during an open house Tuesday, April 15 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Mid-Plains Community College. If you would like to make a donation, contact Cherry County Tourism at 800-658-4024 or [email protected].