Friday, August 19, 2022

Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.

 I retired on July 1st, 2022. Here is my favorite quote over the last ten years: The quote was already many years old. I saw it in late March 2020. Covid was taking a stranglehold on our country. 

Pessimism was rampant. Businesses were closing or being ordered to close.  This quote from Fred Rogers gave some optimism:


"When I was a boy and I would see scary things on the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." - Fred Rogers

So I looked for the people who were helping, and those helpers were all over the country. They were working 80 hour weeks, some with no pay. They were communicating, they were lifting up people, they were the innovators that guided us back into the light. Many gave away everything they had for free to save not just their members, but entire communities. THEY were the chambers of commerce professionals across America, and they are the reason America and American businesses are back. You can read some of their stories here.

Friday, June 10, 2022

Pfizer plans $120M expansion for COVID pill manufacturing at Michigan facility; Join us for the Muskego Chamber's 2022 Chamber Jazz Dinner Cruise Social; The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide; Crossroads Regional: From The Chamber; Dubuque Area Chamber: Inside the Chamber Lobby; The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Chamber Event: Greater Starkville Development Partnership: Mississippi State University Student Athletes and How they can Benefit Your Business: Tune In to Find Out How!; 2022 Best Places to Work in Kentucky Rankings Announced; Reston Chamber: Join us at Google!; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!; Expand your chamber's footprint with LinkedIn: Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce

Pfizer plans $120M expansion for COVID pill manufacturing at Michigan facility


Pfizer is planning to invest another $120 million into its Kalamazoo-area manufacturing facility in an effort to expand production of its antiviral COVID drug, Paxlovid.
The pharmaceutical company said its latest expansion will create 250 new jobs and ramp up production of Paxlovid, an oral COVID-19 treatment available under emergency use authorization for people 12 and older with mild to moderate illness who are considered high risk of severe illness.
Pfizer announced plans to expand manufacturing capacity of Paxlovid last month, and shared more details Monday, June 6, during a press event at the company’s Portage campus. Production of Paxlovid is already underway and will be expanded over the next year, explained Mike McDermot, Pfizer’s chief global supply officer. Read more: M LIVE


Join us for the Muskego Chamber's 2022 Chamber Jazz Dinner Cruise Social

Date: July 22, 2022
Time: 06:45 PM - 09:00 PM CDT

The Muskego Chamber Board of Directors invites you to a Jazz Dinner Cruise!
Lake Geneva Cruise Line “Grand Belle” Boat ~ Friday, July 22, 2022
6:45 p.m. Boarding ~ 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. Cruise
Plan ahead for parking and traffic. For parking visit: www.cityoflakegeneva.com
Menu and Boat Details:
Summer Berry Salad with Berry Poppy Seed Vinaigrette, Coffee, Iced Tea
Duet Plate of Petite Steak & Chicken Cordon Bleu, Smashed Yukon Gold Potatoes
Chef’s Choice of Vegetables, Bakery Rolls, New York Style Cheesecake with Sauce
Climate controlled, enclosed boat with restrooms, Full Bar (cash/credit card)


The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide

The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide is available at the chamber today ! Thanks to Maggie Dobson and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 



A Guide to Cedarburg

Town Square Publications  (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community profile or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.


Crossroads Regional: From The Chamber


 



Crossroads Regional Chamber Members and Community:

The 2022 Annual Corn Roast was a huge success! Thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers and those who came out to support!

We are thrilled to be honoring 3 local seniors this year with a $1000 scholarship per student. If you are interested in sponsoring a student please let me know. The checks will be presented to the students at the June monthly program.

The Golf Outing is July 25 at Innsbrook Country Club! We are making some changes to this fun day! Please check out the information below and register for a foursome and or sponsorship.

Looking for a way to promote your business? Consider adding promotional items or literature to our new member welcome gifts. We provide a gift bag full of items for all new members. We ask for 30 - 50 items, please drop off at the chamber office or we will happily pick up!

We appreciate all of our members and their continued support. Please let us know how we can help you.

At Your Service,


Deann Patena
President/CEO

Dubuque Area Chamber: Inside the Chamber Lobby


LEGISLATIVE UPDATE


The legislature adjourned at 12:16am last Wednesday, calling the 2022 session of the 89th General Assembly to a close.

Throughout session the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce fought on behalf of our members to support workforce solutions, promote economic development, and reduce regulation and taxes on our member businesses.

Most notably, the legislature passed a historic tax cut for Iowa families and business owners. On the individual side we will see all Iowan’s paying a flat, fair rate of 3.9% by 2026. Corporate taxes will also fall over the course of the coming years from our current 9.8% (ranked 46th in the country) to 5.5%, one of the most competitive rates in the region. The legislature also passed long advocated for changes to aircraft parts and labor sales taxes on general aviation vehicles, allowing the Dubuque Regional Airport to maintain a competitive position with other regional airports in neighboring states – this bill awaits signature by the governor.

With workforce issues continued to slow the growth of business, we worked hard to promote pro-business workforce policies to reduce barriers to employment and support workers re-entering the workforce. An end of year deal included the Iowa Employer Child Tax Credit program which will provide more than $2 million to support a credit of 10-25% on qualified employer expenses to support employee access to childcare – this deal still awaits final signature by the Governor. Childcare providers now have more flexibility in hiring and staffing their rooms after the legislature increased the staffing ratios for 2- and 3-year-old care to align with national averages and allowed 16- and 17-year-old professionals to staff rooms without supervision.

The Chamber also supported legislation to expand access to the last-dollar scholarship by allowing part-time and summer students to fully access the benefits of the program, which were previously reserved for full-time students. The education appropriations legislation maintains a significant increase in funding for the last dollar scholarship program and increased the Iowa Tuition Grant – which supports Iowa’s private colleges including Loras College, Clarke University, and University of Dubuque – by around $1.3 million.

We also fought hard for our small business owners in the restaurant and hospitality industry, supporting efforts to better regulate third-party delivery services and protect restauranteurs intellectual property and liability in such transactions. We also supported efforts to simplify the three-tier alcohol system in Iowa. Both efforts have passed and await signature by the governor.

This year’s legislative session lasted much longer than we had thought it would but significant work on behalf of Iowans and the business community was accomplished. We look forward to continuing to advance the priorities of the business community and will continue to advocate for workforce solutions as our businesses continue to struggle hiring and retaining top talent.

We thank our local legislative delegation: Senator Pam Jochum, Senator Carrier Koelker, Representative Shannon Lundgren, Representative Lindsay James, Representative Steve Bradley, and Representative Chuck Isenhart for their dedication to serving Iowa and Dubuque County residents.

Feel free to reach out to Ryan Sempf, VP Government & External Affairs with any questions:
RSempf@DubuqueChamber.com
(319) 270-7462

The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce Community Map

The Eau Claire Area Chamber Community Map is now available at the Chamber today! Thanks to David Minor, Chrystal Mills and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!


Town Square Publications  (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633. 


Chamber Event: Greater Starkville Development Partnership: Mississippi State University Student Athletes and How they can Benefit Your Business: Tune In to Find Out How!

Dear Members of the Partnership:

College Athletics have changed dramatically in the last 12 months. The Name, Image, and Likeness for athletes and/or teams can be a powerful way of promoting you and your business. Some Starkville businesses have already partnered with MSU athletes to endorse their products and services and it may be more affordable than you think.

The Partnership is pleased to virtually host a meeting to explain the new changes in college athletics and the potential benefits. Charlie Winfield of the Winfield Law Firm will be with us on June 22nd at 12:00p to explain the new opportunities that exist for athletes and business owners. Charlie has devoted a significant portion of his practice to advising clients on issues related to intercollegiate athletics, including NCAA compliance matters. In addition to broadcasting MSU Sports and the Out of Left Field podcast, Charlie is the founder of The Bulldog Initiative, LLC, an entity that seeks to provide athletes with the opportunity to earn compensation in exchange for the use of their Name, Image, and Likeness.

Whether you're an SEC sports fan or a business owner looking for new marketing opportunities, this webinar will be of interest. Registration is required so please click the link below to register as soon as possible: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/registertZwvdOmspzwjG9UJmeuCTRgWl1utspNCYMLX After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Thanks and we look forward to connecting on June 22nd!

Thanks!

My Best,

Hunter Harrington
Director of Membership Development
200 East Main Street | Starkville, MS | 39759
Phone (662) 323-3322 | Fax (662) 323-5815
starkville.org


2022 Best Places to Work in Kentucky Rankings Announced

Envoy Mortgage, Ltd., ARGI, and Alpha Business Acquisitions, Inc. take top honors

Frankfort, Ky. (June 9, 2022) – Envoy Mortgage, Ltd., ARGI, and Alpha Business Acquisitions, Inc. were ranked the 2022 Best Places to Work in Kentucky by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management (KYSHRM).

During the 18th Annual Best Places to Work in Kentucky awards ceremony, presented by ClearPath Mutual Insurance Company, more than 900 attendees joined in celebrating the 100 Kentucky companies recognized for their commitment to focus, measure and move their workplace environments toward excellence.

The companies who made the 2022 list were announced in March and the ranked list was announced on stage at the awards ceremony. The 100 winning companies participated in a comprehensive survey process and were then ranked according to those results. The list consists of three categories: small companies of 15-149 employees, medium companies of 150-499 employees and large companies consisting of more than 500 employees (categories based on number of U.S. employees, only Kentucky employees surveyed).

Envoy Mortgage, Ltd., the top winner in the large category, is a privately owned mortgage bank that is 100% focused on residential lending. They provide home loans throughout the U.S. for consumers looking to purchase a home or refinance into a more favorable financial situation. Envoy Mortgage, Ltd has made the list for six years and was previously ranked sixth in the large category.

ARGI, the top winner in the medium category, has a mission to improve the lives of their clients, colleagues, and communities through their heart of service. Unlike many financial services companies, they have embraced a ‘we before me’ approach to service, utilizing a team of advisors and consultants to service their clients’ needs, instead of relying on the knowledge or skills of a single advisor. ARGI has made the list for 11 years and was previously ranked seventh in the medium category.

Alpha Business Acquisitions, Inc., the top winner in the small category, provides the upmost quality sales experience to customers, extensive training, growth, and friendly culture to employees, and long-term retention of customers to our clients. They go above and beyond to develop their team in sales, customer service, and leadership training to all hit their goals individually and as a team. Alpha Business Acquisitions, Inc. has made the list for three years and last year was previously ranked 20th in the small category.

Now in its 18th year, the Best Places to Work in Kentucky program has recognized a combined 333 unique Kentucky companies with 243 of those making the list more than once. Special recognition to the two companies that have made the list all 18 years - Dean Dorton and KORT.

The Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management (KYSHRM) state council and the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce are proud to host the Best Places initiative, as both organizations support the value of workplace excellence as a key component in moving Kentucky forward.

“HR professionals are the CEO's strategic partner in creating an adaptive advantage for Kentucky's employers. The Best Places to Work in Kentucky program recognizes those employers who set an exemplary standard of excellence for both employee engagement and business success,” said KYSHRM Chair, Amanda Huddleston, SHRM-CP, CSP.

According to Kentucky Chamber President and CEO, Ashli Watts, “In order to help Kentucky’s economy thrive, we must be able to educate and employ current Kentuckians, while also creating workplaces that attract talent from outside of the state. The Best Places program does just that.”

For more details about Best Places to Work in Kentucky, visit bestplacestoworkkentucky.com.

Click here to view the 2022 magazine.


Reston Chamber: Join us at Google!

We’re excited to have this networking event LIVE at the Google office in Reston next Thursday!

Representatives from Google will:

· Share resources for small businesses

· Discuss resources for non-profits

· Highlight how to make sure your business shows up on Google Maps

· Provide an overview of other training options

· Answer your questions!

Come for the great networking and education, and stick around for a short tour!

As the event host, Google requires you to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination and a photo ID to attend this event.

Register Today!


Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!


Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications

Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!



Expand your chamber's footprint with LinkedIn: Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce

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Thursday, June 2, 2022

Spotlight: Midland, Michigan

Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! 

Midland Business Alliance: New + Next in Midland Business


Each month, I’ll share what is new and next in Midland Business – intentional commentary, industry trends, program opportunities, and aptly, new project info. I look forward to sharing a peek into the Economic Development ecosystem!

New business + talent attraction is a key element of economic development, meant to create and bolster industry clusters, value- and supply-chains and to provide the educated, trained talent hub to meet the needs of our business community. Secondarily, increases in commerce and residents means greater vibrancy, diversity and community growth. In this forum, I continually note talent attraction as the most critical challenge, universally expressed across all industries, regardless of business size.

The success of community attraction is rooted in infrastructure - inclusive of systems, assets and amenities that support the lives of residents and its businesses. This includes water, streets, railways, airports and utilities, though also includes items more nebulous - availability of attainable housing, childcare availability and connectivity, to name a few. (Side note: For more information on the MBA's Broadband / Internet Connectivity work, reach out to Tina Lynch!)

Both business and talent attraction and existing business growth require that our community create capacity in its less tangible infrastructure. For clarity, a few assist requests from our business connection conversations:

"We (Company A) are considering an expansion, requiring 165 additional employees, we're confident that we can recruit the talent, but when HR asked about the housing environment here in Midland, we're concerned about the availability of 1-2 homes, much less 165. We'd hate to do it, but we may have to locate these people elsewhere"

"We relocated 30 employees to Midland and hired around 100, but our day shift ends at 7. Can you help us find childcare? There are 25 employees on day shift that have kids who are mostly wait-listed, but even those providers close at 5/5:30. Additionally, we've an overnight shift, does Midland have providers that offer overnight care?"

"Help Requested. We've a handful of summer interns that desperately need housing in order to make it work. Do you know of any rentals that would accommodate a summer lease - every open rental we've called won't accommodate a short term lease (also, the price points are such that each would be paying 50-60% of their wages in rent."
 
In Midland County, we are incredibly fortunate to have assets and amenities that far exceed that of similarly-sized cities - beautiful, mid-mod architecture, wonderful recreation, nature-based places and school systems that mold the next generation of leaders. To be sure these assets are playable in the game of attraction, we've to prepare for the priorities, needs and lifestyles of those we're attracting. Aligning those elements with the development of attainable housing and childcare - employing curiosity and informed creativity to build capacity for each.

--- Nicole Wilson, Vice President, Economic Development
EcD Industry News

· Michigan ranked #9 in Site Selection magazine 2022 Prosperity Cup; the Prosperity Cup is awarded to the most competitive states based on an index of 10 criteria, including project, capital expenditure and job creation data

· Michigan #18 in Chief Executive’s 2022 ranking of Best and Worst States for Doing Business.

· Michigan ranked #2 in the country in Credible’s list of states where the economy has recovered the most from COVID-19.

· Michigan ranked #3 in sustainable development practices by Site Selection magazine's 2021 Sustainability Rankings.




Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories: The BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!


Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications

Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Mike Jordan set to retire at the end of 2022 after 25 years leading Chippewa Falls Chamber

Mike Jordan set to retire at the end of 2022 after 25 years leading Chippewa Falls Chamber


CHIPPEWA FALLS — After serving at the Chamber of Commerce in Davenport, Iowa, for four years, Mike Jordan began looking for a new position.

“I was doing a national search,” Jordan recalled. “We were interviewing in a number of communities in the Upper Midwest.”

Some didn’t click. But Jordan and his wife, Carol, liked what they saw of Chippewa Falls when they crossed the bridge into downtown the first time.

“Both of us immediately felt like this was a place we could live and raise a family and start our careers,” he said.

That was May 1997. Now, after 25 years as president of the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, Jordan has announced he will retire by the end of the year. He’s proud of the successes in the community during his tenure.

“Our organization is very widely viewed as an influential business organization in the region,” Jordan said. “We’re leaving the organization in a good position. Where we’re at is a solid, diverse business community. We have a diverse manufacturing base, which is really important. And the tourism business, that is money getting imported into our community.”

Perhaps the most notable achievement of the chamber was creating Oktoberfest, which launched in 2003 and has steadily grown.

“It’s been highly successful,” he said.

Jerry Jacobson, Northwestern Bank president, praised Jordan for his work in transforming the city and downtown.

“Mike Jordan revitalized that chamber,” Jacobson said. “He changed its scope into economic growth in Chippewa Falls. His leadership was really evident in economic development. And he would not take credit for anything. He let others take credit for it. He just wanted things done for Chippewa. We were very fortunate to have him.”

Chippewa Falls Mayor Greg Hoffman offered similar words of praise.

“Mike is a strong proponent of industry,” Hoffman said. “He’s been really good to work with. He looks to the future.”

Charlie Walker, Chippewa County Economic Development Corp. executive director, said Jordan deserves credit for helping the community grow.

“There is no doubt that his leadership since the late ‘90s has stewarded Chippewa Falls through ups and downs,” Walker said. “It’s going to be big boots to fill because Mike was truly a leader. He’s a behind-the-scenes guy, always making sure things are moving forward. He was a visionary in motivating the county in establishing the Lake Wissota Business Park.”

Jordan said he is pleased that the city has become even more of a tourism destination since he started.

“Before the (Highway 29) bypass, people hated coming to Chippewa Falls; (roads) would be backed up on a Friday,” he said.

The Chamber opened in its current location at the entrance corridor to downtown in 2015. The building is located at 1 N. Bridge St., replacing the Empire Building, which sat empty after a May 2002 fire until it was torn down in 2014. Across the street, there is the new Short Elliott Hendrickson headquarters, while the new Cobblestone Hotel is also at that intersection, which has revitalized the entrance to downtown.

Before moving into their new building, the Chamber of Commerce office was in a former Hardee’s restaurant a block south of the new headquarters for 13 years. That building was torn down to make way for the new Chippewa Riverfront park, which also has been a draw to the city, bringing people to get a scenic view of the river.

NorthRidge Center, also known as the Chippewa Mall, was revitalized during Jordan’s tenure, adding a movie theater, restaurants and the Chippewa Valley VA Clinic, along with other businesses. Leinenkugel Brewing Co. constructed the Leinie Lodge, which has become a tourism draw. And Lake Wissota Business Park has attracted so many businesses in recent years that the county is looking for land for a future business park.

Jordan, 59, earned a degree in international business from Marycrest College in Iowa. He has no plans to leave the area. One of his children was born here, and the other was young when they moved to the city.

“It’s a great community,” he said. “It’s been a great community for my family.”

Friday, May 27, 2022

U.S. Chamber: Antitrust Bill Would Irreparably Harm Our Economy; Greater Wausau Chamber: 2022 Small Business of the Year Award recipients named; Kentucky SBA: You have questions... we have answers!; Town Square Publications Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in North America!



Good morning #ChamberWorld! Have a GREAT Memorial Day weekend! 


U.S. Chamber: Antitrust Bill Would Irreparably Harm Our Economy


This week, a revised version of the antitrust bill, the "American Innovation and Choice Online Act," was introduced to the Senate.

Why it matters: This legislation would irreparably harm the American economy and innovation. It fails to address bipartisan concerns that it would undermine our national security, cybersecurity, privacy, and international competitiveness—and harm consumers.
Such an approach will fuel further inflation, limit choices, and undermine investment in innovation by injecting regulatory uncertainty into the marketplace at the worst possible time.

Be smart: The bill’s sponsors have rushed ahead intentionally avoiding any hearings to thoughtfully evaluate the bill. American innovators and businesses of all sizes deserve better.
The legislation is too consequential to not have been properly vetted as it seeks to remake an entire tech ecosystem that has made the United States the envy of the world.

Bottom line: This bill won’t just impact the tech sector—it seeks to upend the role of antitrust to give government sweeping authority to regulate entire industries and micro-manage our economy.

ICYMI:
Antitrust Bills: A Trojan Horse That Will Radically Alter Our Free Market Economy



Greater Wausau Chamber: 2022 Small Business of the Year Award recipients named

The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce named the recipients of the 2022 Small Business of the Year Awards at a program held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Rib Mountain on Tuesday, May 10. Eleven businesses and organizations had been named as finalists in two categories.

The Small Business of the Year Award recognizes business growth, community involvement and innovative efforts in the Wausau region and is a part of the Chamber’s annual Business Week. Neena Pacholke of WAOW served as the emcee for the event.

The 2022 Small Business of the Year Award recipients were Lamb’s Fresh Market in the Business-to-Consumer category and the Wisconsin Automotive & Truck Education Association (WATEA) in the Charitable Non-Profit category.

“Being nominated and selected for this award is such an honor and one that we as an organization are so proud of.” said Ron Lamb, CEO of Lamb’s Fresh Market. “It is a privilege to be included with all of the outstanding businesses that have received this award and we will use this award as constant reminder of what it takes to be recognized in this way. Serving the greater Wausau area and the people in it is certainly a blessing to our organization.” Read more: Wausau Pilot and Review


Kentucky SBA: You have questions... we have answers!

Did you miss Q&A with SBA?



Here is a quick recap of some of the questions asked:


  • I’ve been told that my COVID-19 EIDL loan was funded. However, my bank returned the funds. Are those funds still earmarked for me? 
    Yes, they are but it may take longer for you to receive the funds. Check your email frequently.  



  • Grants can come from many sources including all levels of government and foundations.​ However, our experience has been that there are very few grants available directly to businesses for  startup or expansion. 

  • I have an oil change business in an area with a lot of public/government vehicles. I’d like to get some of this local business, but I’m told I must accept credit cards. True or false?
    True, the government pays for services with:​
    • EFT Electronic Funds Transfer
    • Credit Card (micro purchases)
  • I would like to start a business, but don’t know where to begin. How can SBA help me?
    SBA has excellent online resources. Check the Business Guide tab on the sba.gov website. There's also a Learning Platform.​ SBA Resource Partners provide no-fee, high quality business counseling. Many resource partners can meet virtually. Find your Resource Partners under the Local Assistance tab at sba.gov.

  • I have a business in my current state and would like to expand in a different state. What is the best way to start that process? 
    Make sure you register your new business with the right agencies. 
    • Licenses and permits
    • Foreign qualifications
    • New state and localities taxes

  • How do I certify my business with the SBA? 
    SBA is the gatekeeper to small business certifications when it comes to doing work for and with the federal government.   
    • WOSB Woman Owned Small Business
    • 8(a) Program 8(a) Business Development Program
    • HUBZone Historically Underutilized Business Zone
    • Vets First Verification Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Business (moving to SBA in 2023)

  • My bank turned me down for a business loan. What are some alternate sources of funding? 
    The federal government supports several non-bank business funding sources like Community Development Financial Institutions and Microloan entities.  

  • How can a home-based business use my Google Business Profile page? I have a family and don’t want to share my personal address.  
    If you don't serve customers at your business address, leave the business location blank. However, you should identify your service area AND follow all recommendations to strengthen your listing. Click here for information from our Resource Partners at SCORE. 

  • Does SBA do anything else I may not know about? That is, other than access to capital, government contracting and counseling services?​Yes, SBA works to support small businesses through many different avenues such as: ​
    • National Small Business Week ​​
    • Small Business success stories
    • Small Business research
    • Visit www.sba.gov for more information 



Town Square Publications Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in North America!

Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications

Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Finalists Named for the 2022 ACCE Chamber of the Year; Mason City Chamber of Commerce Mason City, IA Zionsville Chamber of Commerce Zionsville, Ind. Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce Paducah, Ky.; West Des Moines Chamber West Des Moines, Iowa; Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Bowling Green, Ky. Dallas Regional Chamber Dallas, Texas Hilton Head Island - Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Hilton Head Island, S.C.

Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! 

#BestChamber: Finalists Named for the 2022 ACCE Chamber of the Year



The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives announced today the finalists for the 2022 Chamber of the Year competition, sponsored by Personify.



“This year’s finalists are among the most impactful organizations within the chamber industry,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “We’re in the midst of a chamber renaissance. Chambers of commerce have never been more essential to regional prosperity and are being called on to serve as partners, thought leaders and innovative problem solvers in new ways on new issues. Congratulations to our 2022 finalists.”

Finalists for 2022 Chamber of the Year are:

Category One

Mason City Chamber of Commerce
Mason City, Iowa

North Tampa Bay Chamber
Lutz, Fla.

Zionsville Chamber of Commerce
Zionsville, Ind.

Category Two

Henry County Chamber of Commerce
McDonough, Ga.

Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce
Paducah, Ky.

West Des Moines Chamber
West Des Moines, Iowa

Category Three

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Bowling Green, Ky.

Conway Area Chamber of Commerce
Conway, Ark.

Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce
Eugene, Ore.

Category Four

Dallas Regional Chamber
Dallas, Texas

Hilton Head Island - Bluffton Chamber of Commerce
Hilton Head Island, S.C.

Portland Business Alliance
Portland, Ore.

In the final phase of the competition, a judging committee conducts interviews with leaders representing each finalist chamber. One winner from each category will be named on Wednesday, July 27 at the #ACCE22 Convention in Indy.

Learn more about Chamber of the Year here.



Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! 


Town Square Publications Chamber Directories, Maps, Digital Directories and Community Profiles: The BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!


Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications

Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

TOMORROW: America's Seed Fund Startup Expo 2022 - #entrepeneur; Catalent Inc. to Expand in Winchester, Create 277 Well-Paying Jobs With $175 Million Investment; Michigan saw record small business growth in 2021; Hollobus Technologies to Locate HQ, Manufacturing and R&D Operations in Murray, Create 150 Jobs With $2.25 Million Investment; Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber: Last week's Professional Edge Workshop; Mclean County Chamber: Walk-Up Job Fair Returns with 40+ Employers; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!!


Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! 

TOMORROW: America's Seed Fund Startup Expo 2022 - #entrepeneur


Join the SBA's Office of Investment and Innovation tomorrow, May 25, 2022 for the launch of the inaugural America’s Seed Fund Startup Expo. Registration is free and open to the public, allowing innovation communities throughout the country to join and participate from afar. We encourage you to invite others from your network who might be interested in learning about the important work and impact of America’s Seed Fund and the innovative startups presenting at this inaugural virtual event! You can share SBA’s Twitter and LinkedIn posts (and the LinkedIn Event)

The program for this virtual event will feature a welcome and opening remarks from SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman and showcase 12 U.S.-based startups supported by America’s Seed Fund for presentations and discussions on:

Climate and Energy, moderated by Ryan Panchadsaram, Advisor, Kleiner Perkins
Amorphic Tech (Allentown, PA)
FGC Plasma Solutions (Middleton, MA)
Hydroplane (Lancaster, CA)

AgTech and Food Security, moderated by Laura Appenzeller, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
General Probiotics (Saint Paul, MN)
Nucleic Sensing Systems (Saint Paul, MN)
Shellfish Solutions d/b/a Blue Trace (Castine, ME)

Supply Chain Resiliency, moderated by Javier Saade, Partner, Fenway Summer & Impact Master Holdings
Chromatic 3D Materials (Golden Valley, MN)
Delta Development Team (Tucson, AZ)
Re:3D (Houston, TX)

National Security and Defense, moderated by Wes Spurlock, Chief of Strategic Capital, AFWERX
BadVR (Pacoima, CA)
Enduralock (Lenexa, KS)
PSYONIC (Champaign, IL) Register



Catalent Inc. to Expand in Winchester, Create 277 Well-Paying Jobs With $175 Million Investment

Company to boost production capacity and add R&D presence



Today Gov. Andy Beshear congratulated Catalent Inc., which partners with pharma, biotech and consumer health companies to optimize the development, launch and life-cycle supply of products for patients around the world, on its planned $175 million investment to expand its existing operation and add a new R&D facility in Clark County, creating 277 high-wage jobs for Kentuckians.

“It’s always great to see existing companies expand in Kentucky, but it’s even better when that growth includes great jobs for our residents,” Gov. Beshear said. “Catalent has been an important part of the Winchester community and the creation of 277 well-paying jobs will strengthen its presence in Clark County in the years to come. Thank you to Catalent’s leadership for continuing to create excellent job opportunities in our state.”

With this investment, the existing 190,000-square-foot Winchester facility on Enterprise Drive will grow by 90,000 square feet to increase manufacturing capacity within Catalent’s oral dose division. The company also will acquire a nearly 17,000-square-foot facility on Venable Road, which will house its R&D operations. New positions created in Clark County will include, but are not limited to, scientists, manufacturing, quality assurance, maintenance and warehouse positions. Work on the project is expected to begin this year and to be completed by 2027.

Company leadership noted Clark County and the commonwealth’s strong workforce and excellent quality of life as advantages to locating the expansion at the existing Winchester operation. Currently, Catalent employs more than 650 people at the location.

“We look forward to further investing and growing in Winchester,” said Chris Rosenbaum, general manager of Catalent in Winchester. “The state of Kentucky’s talented workforce, tight-knit community and business environment provide major advantages to the future growth of Catalent.”

Catalent is a global leader in helping pharma, biotech and consumer health partners to optimize the development, launch and life-cycle supply of products for patients globally. With expertise in development sciences, delivery technologies and multimodality manufacturing, Catalent partners to produce personalized medicines, consumer health brand extensions and blockbuster drugs. Catalent helps accelerate over 1,000 partner programs and launch over 150 new products every year. Its flexible manufacturing platforms at over 50 global sites supply over 70 billion doses of nearly 7,000 products to more than 1,000 customers annually. Catalent’s expert workforce exceeds 19,000, including more than 2,500 scientists and technicians. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, the company generated $4 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2021.

Currently, more than 200 health care-related technology, service and manufacturing locations operate in the commonwealth, employing over 37,000 Kentucky residents. Since the start of the Beshear administration, businesses within the sector have announced more than 2,000 new jobs throughout the state. The industry includes headquarters operations, pharmaceutical makers, medical equipment design and production, medical device manufacturers and health care product distributors.

Clark County Judge/Executive Henry Branham said Catalent is an instrumental part of the community.

“Our community of Winchester/Clark County is very pleased to work with Catalent on another expansion,” Judge Branham said. “They continually work with our local governments to increase quality of life opportunities for our citizens. They are a wonderful corporate citizen and we are fortunate to have them in our community.”

Winchester Mayor Ed Burtner noted the importance of Catalent’s continued growth.

“The community of Winchester and Clark County are pleased that Catalent has chosen to expand their operations here and thereby add many new, good-paying jobs and investment to our business and economic base,” Mayor Burtner said. “Catalent is an important corporate citizen and we value highly their investment and contributions to our community.”


Michigan saw record small business growth in 2021

Despite a labor shortage and a wave of resignations defining the first year after the coronavirus hit, Michigan consumers have a chance to try many new small businesses as the state saw its fastest small business job growth in 23 years.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced in a press release Monday that in 2021, roughly 150,000 Michiganders applied to start small businesses, which is 59% more than in 2019.

The first three quarters of 2021 saw the fastest start to small business job growth in 23 years, according to the Michigan Bureau of Labor Market Information. Small businesses with less than 50 workers created almost 170,000 jobs statewide.

"Small businesses form the backbone of Michigan’s economy and are the anchors of communities across the state," Whitmer said in the release. "Through tough times, they’ve shown grit and innovation to continue getting things done for their customers and employees." News Advocate


Hollobus Technologies to Locate HQ, Manufacturing and R&D Operations in Murray, Create 150 Jobs With $2.25 Million Investment

 
Manufacturer of electrical power distribution connectors recently acquired former Briggs & Stratton facility

MURRAY, Ky. (May 25, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear joined local officials and representatives from Hollobus Technologies Inc., a new subsidiary of Canada-based engineering design technology company Superior Tray Systems (STS), to announce the company’s $2.25 million investment to locate in Murray and create 150 full-time jobs.

“It is great to see continued economic growth in Western Kentucky as this region recovers and builds back following last year’s devastating tornado,” Gov. Beshear said. “Hollobus is a company that will be a great fit for Murray and Calloway County, and I hope to see it grow for decades to come. Thank you to the leaders at Hollobus for their part in helping build a brighter future in the commonwealth.”

The investment will locate the company’s head office, primary manufacturing operation and an R&D facility at the former Briggs & Stratton location at 110 Main Street in Murray. The project will build out the new Hollobus product line, which serves as an alternative to electrical cabling for major industrial projects and is designed to survive extreme water events. Hollobus leaders have partnered with Murray State University to establish a workforce pipeline and have expressed intent to focus hiring efforts on recently discharged military personnel from nearby Fort Campbell.

“We were initially attracted to Murray, Kentucky, because we were looking for a building in the mid-Southeast United States,” said Mihaela Adams, manager of global business development for Hollobus. “After coming here and working with local officials, we are excited to be part of the Murray community and look forward to having great success here for many years.”

Since 2005, STS has produced electrical power distribution connectors for a range of projects in the U.S., including the City of Boston water treatment facility, high rises in New York City, offshore oil rigs in Texas and various military installations. STS also provided electrical systems for the Richmond-Airport-Vancouver (RAV) Rapid Transit line for the 2010 Winter Olympics and Canadian Navy projects, as well as wind and waterpower inversion systems and mining applications in Central and South America. The company’s green manufacturing and business practices, such as precision molding and product development systems, contribute to a near-zero waste footprint.

Calloway County Judge/Executive Kenny Imes said the company and community will continue to grow together.

“As Calloway County judge/executive, I want to thank all of the many partners who have helped make this possible,” Judge/Executive Imes said. “As a lifelong resident of Calloway County, good jobs for our citizens have always been my top priority. I know that this company will grow and prosper and that our people will be a huge part of their success.”

Murray Mayor Bob Rogers anticipates Hollobus will be successful in West Kentucky.

“I am very pleased to see a progressive, innovative company like Hollobus repurpose the former Briggs & Stratton facility here in Murray. Their products can be used in everything from data centers to high-rise buildings and are literally a new way of helping companies with efficient and cost-effective solutions to their electrical and data needs,” Mayor Rogers said. “I have had the pleasure, through both my role as mayor and a Murray-Calloway Economic Development Corp. board member, to get to know founder Martin Cox and his family and am convinced they will be highly successful in anything they do. This is a very good day for Murray, and I appreciate the many months of work that have gone into making this day possible.”

Murray-Calloway EDC Chair David Graham noted the importance of the skilled jobs being created by the company’s investment.

“We, along with the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and TVA, have been working on this project for a number of months. We are proud to see the owners investing in the former Briggs facility to bring it new life for our community,” Graham said. “The skills that will be needed by Hollobus are very familiar to our workforce and include precision metal work, welding and assembly as well as other skills to be learned. We think the future is bright for Hollobus and its owners and pledge to continue doing all we can to assist in their – and our – ultimate success.”

John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of economic development, noted the partnerships needed to make the project possible.

“TVA and Murray Electric Systems congratulate Hollobus Technologies Inc. on its decision to establish operations in Calloway County,” Bradley said. “Supporting companies, like Hollobus, creating new jobs and investment in the region is fundamental to TVA’s mission of service. We are proud to partner with the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and Murray-Calloway County Economic Development Corp. to help further that mission and celebrate this announcement together.”


Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber: Last week's Professional Edge Workshop

 

Chamber Member Laura Khalil presented to dozens of fellow BBChamber Members on "How to Build a Highly Referable Business." A wonderful discussion followed the formal presentation. The event was held at Avalon of Bloomfield.


Mclean County Chamber: Walk-Up Job Fair Returns with 40+ Employers



May 17, 2021 — After successful showings in 2021, the McLean County Chamber of Commerce is once again hosting the ever-popular Walk-Up Job Fair on Tuesday, May 24, 11 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., in the former Bergner’s Parking Lot at Eastland Mall, 1615 E. Empire Street, Bloomington. The Walk-Up Job Fair is presented by Express Employment Professionals.

Whether hoping to find a fresh start, a better job, or a new career direction, job seekers will find a wealth of exciting opportunities at this free job fair. Over 40 local employers from a variety of industry sectors are eager to hire for more than 1,300 immediate openings in a wide range of fields. Food will be available for purchase from Gill Street Eatz and Uncle Tony’s Food for the Soul food trucks. The job fair is free and open to all Central Illinois communities.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be the presenter of the Spring Walk-Up Job Fair hosted by the Chamber,” said Matthew Boston, branch manager of Express Employment Professionals Bloomington. “We are focused on helping people succeed – specifically, at work so they can experience more success in life and in living. When we accomplish this, both McLean County businesses and community members win.”

Applicants are encouraged to bring their official ID and several copies of their resume, and dress for success. Many employers will be prepared to interview and make a job offer on the spot.

Participating employers include: Abbey Placements, LLC, Allied Universal, Aston Carter, Avanti's Italian Restaurant – Normal, BEER NUTS Brand Snacks, Brandt Industries USA Ltd., Carle BroMenn Medical Center, CCSI - Case Coordination, LLC, Chestnut Health Systems, Inc., City of Bloomington, CORE 3, CRAFTED Commons, Evergreen FS, Inc., Express Employment Professionals, Fleet Feet Bloomington, Gailey Eye Clinic, Goodwill Industries-Land of Lincoln, Heritage Operations Group, Inc., Identity Optical Labs, Illinois State University, Land of Lincoln Credit Union, Manpower, Marcfirst, McDonald's Restaurants, McLean County 911 Communications Center, McLean County Unit School District No. 5, Mechanical Devices, Neuhoff Media, O'Brien Honda of Bloomington, OSFHealthCare, PeopleReady, PRIDESTAFF, Rader Family Farms, State Farm Insurance Companies, STL Staffing, TENTAC, The Baby Fold, The Chateau Hotel and Conference Center, Town of Normal, U.S. Army Recruiting, Westminster Village, Zentech Bloomington, and more.

For more information, please visit www.mcleancochamber.org or contact Event Services Manager, Jessica Kemp, at 309-829-1188 or jessica@mcleancochamber.org.



Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!


Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications

Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!