Willie D. Barney is the Founder and CEO of the Empowerment Network, a community-based collaborative advancing economic development in Omaha and in partner cities nationwide. Founded in 2006 and launched in 2007, the Network unites hundreds of organizations and thousands of residents to improve quality of life, expand opportunity, and strengthen neighborhoods—especially for African-Americans and North Omaha residents.

Through shared strategy, accountability, and community engagement, the effort has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for aligned initiatives. The outcomes have inspired replication in cities including New Orleans, Kansas City, Tulsa, Lansing, and Syracuse.

Over a decade of coordinated work, Omaha saw a 70% reduction in gun violence with a 100% clearance rate, improved African-American graduation rates (64% to 81%), and reduced Black unemployment (21% to 7%); youth unemployment dropped by 50%. Economic gains included a 95% increase in Black employer firms and measurable growth in household income.

Willie and his wife, Yolanda, lead WDB Resultants, a national consulting firm supporting strategic planning and community engagement, and helps strengthen small businesses and entrepreneurship through initiatives such as the Revive! Black Business Network, Revive Center and the Carver Legacy Center.

Willie and Yolanda have two children, Nehemiah and Priscilla. Nehemiah lives in Los Angeles working in the film and videography industry and Priscilla just completed her first year at the University of Nebraska studying International Business.