In preparation for this week’s Cowtown to Boomtown event in Cedar Rapids, Seed Here, the organization that runs the event, asked Tom Chapman, director of entrepreneurship and innovation at the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, to write a paper digesting what he and other individuals, companies, organization and institutions have done to build up the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Omaha. From presenting Omaha’s strengths and “not-strengths,” to breaking down the elements of an ecosystem, Chapman’s paper is as much a look into what’s been done as it is a call for what still has to be done.

Chapman delivered his paper in a keynote talk during Wednesday’s luncheon. For video of his presentation, visit ustream.com, and for a recap, see Business 380: “Cowtown to Boomtown: Doing innovation for real in Omaha“.

Through Silicon Prairie News, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Chapman, whether in casual conversation or formally working with him on a project or event, and recently I had the honor of introducing him as one of our regular guest contributors. He’s been a major supporter of our efforts, making introductions when appropriate, providing us sponsorship dollars for events and including us in important conversations about where our community is headed.

Without further ado, I encourage you to read Chapman’s 29-page paper. It’s a longer read than usual for Silicon Prairie News readers, but it’s an important one. If you have any questions or feedback for Chapman, please leave them in a comment below or contact him at tchapman@omahachamber.org.

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To read an abridged version of Chapman’s paper, visit slidshare.com. Find the full version (below) also available on scribd.com.