Job openings in #ChamberWorld; Special Report - Week of February 18th; Executive Director, New Glarus Chamber of Commerce - - New Glarus, WI; Membership Development Representative Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Inc (WMC) - Madison, WI; Opportunity: Director of Business Services, Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce; Communications Manager - Village of Winnetka, IL - $65,000 - $91,462 a year; Director, Marketing and Communications - Greater Louisville Inc. Executive Director - Owen County Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Corporation - Spencer, IN $33,280 a year; Executive Director Cross Plains Area Chamber of Commerce - Cross Plains, WI - Part-time; Membership Coordinator, Charlevoix Area Chamber of Commerce- Charlevoix, MI - $25,000 - $28,000 a year; Executive Director - Bellaire Chamber of Commerce - Bellaire, MI - $19,500 a year;

Job openings in #ChamberWorld; Special Report - Week of February 18th

Executive Director, New Glarus Chamber of Commerce -  - New Glarus, WI

Full Time – salaried position commensurate with experience

The Executive Director’s specific areas of responsibility includes executive leadership of the Board of Directors, support of positive member relations, community connecting / liaison activities, planning and executing major community events, and representation of the Chamber at regional and state levels.

Minimum Qualifications include;

• 3 years’ experience in a business related field including leadership and/ or event planning.
• Ability to present a professional and positive image to members and community
• Excellent communication and organization skills

Desired Qualifications Include:

• Proficient with various software such as email, word processors, spreadsheets, calendars, Quickbooks
• Experience with social media and website maintenance such as Facebook, Wordpress

Core office hours are 8:00AM - 4:00PM, and occasional evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand, especially during events. More information: contact  New Glarus Chamber of Commerce

Membership Development Representative
Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Inc (WMC) - Madison, WI

Overview

Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce is the state's largest business advocacy association. We are a combination of the state chamber of commerce and state manufacturers’ association. Our membership includes thousands of businesses of all sizes in every industry sector and every region of the state. Our mission and focus is developing Wisconsin's workforce, advancing our state’s economic competiveness and enhancing our business-friendly climate.

Objective

The Membership Representative is responsible for using a variety of prospecting activities including telemarketing, cold calling, networking, e-mail and face-to-face meetings to recruit businesses throughout Wisconsin to invest in WMC membership.

Essential Duties

• Membership Recruitment—80%
• Using a variety of prospecting activities, recruit new WMC members who believe in our mission.
• Attend networking events to establish a WMC presence in the business community and develop personal relationships.
• Stay current on business issues and understand WMC’s policy agenda.
• Follow up on all prospecting activities (campaigns, etc.) in an efficient and timely manner.
• Work with others on staff to recruit new members on an as needed basis.
• Member Engagement/Retention—10%
• Assist with retention and cancellation requests on an as needed basis.
• Ensure members are fully engaged in WMC programs and services.
• Administrative Duties—5%
• Maintain current, accurate records and contact logs in WMC’s membership database.
• Develop membership proposals and packages as needed.
• Provide feedback to WMC on member needs/wants.
• Other duties as assigned—5%

Skills

• 4- year college degree and/or 2+ years of sales/fundraising experience preferred.
• Must be organized and have proven record of developing a sales pipeline and meeting sales goals and objectives.
• Strong understanding of legislative process and lobbying organizations.
• Must be comfortable discussing politics with C-level business individuals.
• Excellent communications skills including one-on-one sales presentations.
• Strong interest and desire to develop sales contacts and make sales calls to prospects and existing customers.
• Candidate must be able to travel throughout Wisconsin.

More information: WMC


Opportunity: Director of Business Services, Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce

We’re looking for a Director of Business Services to join our team! Under the direction of the President of the LPCC, the Director of Business Services oversees all membership attraction, engagement, retention and sales activities while serving as a resource for Lincoln Park businesses. This is a full-time position with occasional evening and weekend hours. To apply, please send cover letter and resume to jobs@lincolnparkchamber.com. No phone calls please.


Responsibilities

Membership
• Serve as primary point of contact for 500 business members
• Create and maintain strong rapport with all members to be their go-to business resource in the Lincoln Park community
• Solicit new members through prospective member visits and outreach to grow membership
• Onboard new members to LPCC services and offerings
• Retain members through cultivation, such as annual member visits, reviewing membership benefits and regular communication
• Manage and execute Membership Attraction and Retention plan
• Oversee membership renewal process and follow up with past due accounts
• Execute and grow new member benefits and services
• Manage Ambassador Committee of 10+ volunteers
• Conduct annual membership survey to all members and use findings to enhance membership services

Business Support
• Welcome all new businesses to the neighborhood
• Connect businesses with resources, programs and other members
• Create and maintain partnerships with business resources (Small Business Advocacy Council, Alderman’s Offices, etc.)

Sales and Advertising
• Secure annual advertisers for e-newsletters and website to meet annual budgets
• Update and maintain current advertising contracts
• Secure annual LPCC sponsors at Silver, Gold and Platinum level
• Fulfill sponsorship benefits through consistent communications

Other
• Attend all LPCC events and activities
• Attend member events, grand openings, etc.
• Attend community and neighborhood association meetings as LPCC representative
• Coordinate other projects or activities as directed by the LPCC President

Qualifications
• Strong commitment to the mission of the LPCC and helping Lincoln Park businesses
• Bachelor’s degree (required)
• Must have own transportation (required)
• Familiarity with or residence in the Lincoln Park area
• Three or more years of work experience in sales, recruiting or membership
• Experience working or volunteering in a nonprofit organization (preferred)
• Excellent customer service skills for working with various groups including business members, community members, board and staff, and others
• Flexible, adaptable and able to effectively prioritize tasks
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Candidate must be organized, a self-starter, able to meet deadlines and work independently to accomplish goals
• Understands cultivation and has an enthusiastic approach to projects and responsibilities
• Able to work in collaboration with a small, creative, entrepreneurial team

More information: Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce




Communications Manager - Village of Winnetka, IL - $65,000 - $91,462 a year

The Communications Manager is responsible for conveying effective communications, internally and externally, related to Village operations, services, programs, policy decisions, community/special events, and other related information. Central to this position is the administration of the Village’s communication plan, including the strategies and initiatives that promote and enhance a positive image of the Village. This position requires a great deal of interaction with Staff and the public, as well as collaboration with the local media and residents.

Essential Functions:

• Oversee content, design, editing, and publishing of the Village’s communication plan, including website, print and electronic newsletters, social media, marketing, and public announcements.
• Write and edit content for electronic and print communications, such as news releases, website, brochures, newsletters, and presentations. Develop content and design of special brochures and informational materials.
• Coordinate, promote, and supervise Village-sponsored events.
• Facilitate communications, co-promotion, and co-advertising opportunities with business stakeholders as well as the Chamber of Commerce.
• Serve as the Village’s spokesperson.
• Act as the Village’s webmaster—overseeing website design as well as developing all content and web tools.
• Serve as a public communications resource to all Village departments, including making recommendations for best practices and strategies that improve information channels and increase overall transparency.
• Manage the development of the Village’s social media platforms and overall presence. Monitor and respond to comments and requests; route to appropriate departments for follow-up.
• Coordinate compliance to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and serve as central FOIA Officer; conduct regular training for all FOIA Officers; and maintain all FOIA related forms and records.
• Act as the Village’s official photographer. Assist in developing public service announcements and promotional videos.
• Create and regularly disseminate an employee newsletter.
• Draft, review, and edit correspondence on behalf of the Village Manager, Assistant Village Manager, Village President, and/or Village Council.
• Develop and disseminate crisis or emergency communications to the public and affected stakeholders upon activation of Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
• Prepare communication budget recommendations for the Assistant Village Manager. Monitor annual communication expenses and prepare spending summaries.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, or a related field.
• Three (3) to five (5) years’ progressively responsible communications work; experience in a municipal government or public body is strongly preferred.

Shifts are normally 8 hours in duration, 40 hours weekly, but may be extended or altered in the event of emergency, personnel shortage, workload, and/or work in progress. Work activities are conducted in a climate-controlled open office environment and noise levels are usually quiet.

Salary Range: $65,000 - $91,462 annual, DOQ.

Position is open until filled.

Candidates should apply with application, resume, and cover letter

TO APPLY: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/winnetka

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $65,000.00 to $91,462.00 /year

Experience:

• Social Media Marketing: 3 years (Preferred)
• Communications: 3 years (Required)
• Municipal: 3 years (Preferred)

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Director, Marketing and Communications - Greater Louisville Inc.


Greater Louisville Inc. - the Metro Chamber of Commerce is focused on growing the regional economy. As the region's largest convener of business leadership, GLI leads economic and global outreach strategies focused on business attraction; nurtures the entrepreneurial eco-system; and champions the development of the community's talent base. As the voice of Greater Louisville's business community, GLI advocates for a pro business environment and facilitates businesses engagement on issues that impact regional competitiveness. For more information, visit www.greaterlouisville.com.

The Director leads public relations, corporate communications and marketing to create and enhance GLI's mission, vision, values and reputation with stakeholders, members, community and the GLI team and volunteers. Develop and execute high level concepts and oversee the organizations messaging to broaden the brand awareness.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND TASKS:

Maintain company communications, messaging and graphic standards

Ensure communication strategy is consistent and reflects the organization's strategic vision. This includes reviewing correspondence distributed from all departments of the organization.

Prepare remarks for GLI CEO and other senior leadership as requested

Proactively manage and build media relations and maximize media opportunities while also serving as point of contact for all media requests and organizational inquires

Write and edit copy for various publications, media and internal audiences such as board and investors. This includes op-eds, GLI e-newsletter, top investor update, chamber of the year application content, and annual report

Proactively work with senior staff to strategically message GLI to existing and prospective investors in a way that will continually demonstrate ROI

Manage advertising trade programs including media placement and creative development

Lead the team to manage the GLI Brand, including advertising, marketing, presentations, communications and video design and production

Oversee development & implementation of digital marketing and social media strategy

Serve as executive editor for the organization's website and the GLI Communications calendar

Oversee the organizations messaging and brand and develop high level strategies

Analyze website traffic and implement best practices to elevate the GLI brand

Create and manage the GLI Communications and Marketing budgets

Perform other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree with three (3) years of corporate communications and marketing experience as well as experience in leading teams/people management. A combination of education and experience may be substituted when proficiency is demonstrated.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to those who are able to perform the essential duties of the job. More information: Greater Louisville Inc.


Executive Director - Owen County Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Corporation - Spencer, IN $33,280 a year
Job Description

The Executive Director is the chief executive officer and administrative officer for the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation. They are expected to provide visionary leadership for the organization and is responsible to the Board of Directors for the full range of activities needed to ensure the organizations success in meeting its objectives. They are responsible for planning, organizational structure, finances, volunteer development and membership growth, the employment, development and supervision of staff and maintenance of the Chamber/EDC headquarters.

The Executive Director answers to the President and/or Chairman of the Board plus receive guidance from the board through intercession provided by an executive committee.

General Purpose

Reporting on activity aimed at meeting annual goals and objectives, overseeing organizational finances, as well as any and all administrative management activity needed to be conducted on a day-to-day basis.

Leadership of all operations in the development and implementation of all policies, goals and other activities required by the Board of Directors.

Financial management which would include the creation and implantation of the annual budget.

Acts as spokesperson and liaison for the Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Corporation in all interactions with other groups or organizations and individuals as per direction of the Board of Directors.

Monthly reporting to the Board of Directors about the development, implementation and accomplishments of all activity conducted by the Chamber of Commerce. The Executive Director is the chief supervisor of all assigned staff and is responsible for personnel activity including the interviewing, recommendation for hiring, employee training, the planning and assigning and directing of all employment activity, work performance evaluations, conduct appraisal and reward as well as the administration of discipline and the answering of all workplace complaints and resolution of problems. 

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordination of membership recruitment and retention
• Plan and direct sales and marketing strategies for membership recruitment
• Develop and implement Members Service programs, which enhance the visibility of the organization and its members.
• Coordinate the collection of current and past due accounts.
• Responsible for maintaining, tracking, and reporting monthly retention.
• Develop innovative programs, which maximize the benefits of Chamber members.
• Schedule ribbon cuttings/grand openings for new members.
• Creation of marketing and information pieces (flyers, brochures, books, pamphlets, etc.)
• Membership Management/Engagement and Event Planning
• All other duties assigned

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to direct, supervise, and delegate work activity.
• Possess general knowledge of business practices, operations and needs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the Board of Directors, employees, committees, members, governmental units, civic groups and the general public.
• Ability to review and critically appraise program proposals and other complex issues.
• A demonstrated commitment to and vision for the mission of the Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development.
• Prepare a variety of reports
• Coordinate program activities
• Group and meeting facilitation
• Demonstrate independent problem solving and decision making
• Computer skills and experience with QuickBooks, word processing, spreadsheet and database applications

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Must have a High School diploma
• Associates Degree in Business Administration or at least 3 years administrative or executive experience in a related field or organization.
• Resident of Owen County, Indiana

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $33,280.00 /year

Experience:

• QuickBooks: 1 year (Preferred)
• Administrative: 3 years (Preferred)

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Executive Director, Cross Plains Area Chamber of Commerce - Cross Plains, WI - Part-time

Cross Plains Area Chamber of Commerce

Title: Executive Director

Classification: This position is part-time with an average of 25 hours a week. Pay will be commensurate with experience. Opportunity for performance-driven bonuses after meeting measurable annual membership and event goals. Currently would be working from home.

Position Overview

The Executive Director provides leadership for the Chamber’s overall mission and goals. We are looking for a natural leader and visionary. The ideal candidate will be energetic, task-oriented and results-driven with a customer service mindset.

Organization

The Cross Plains Chamber of Commerce promotes a strong economy and high quality of life for our chamber members and Cross Plains area community. The Cross Plains Area Chamber currently holds four large-scale events annually, along with monthly social functions and has a budget of approximately $70,000. There are currently more than 110 members of CPACC. More information: Cross Plains Area Chamber

Membership Coordinator, Charlevoix Area Chamber of Commerce- Charlevoix, MI - $25,000 - $28,000 a year

• Sale of membership benefits, services and overall value through phone calls, emails, personal visits, and meetings.
• Coordinate membership benefit fulfillment (promotion, media, marketing, calendar of events, Biz Blast etc.)
• Maintain membership records including dues, invoicing and receivables.
• Lead the development and execution of membership events from conception to completion alongside the Events Coordinator.
• Create all correspondence and marketing to the Membership, including but not limited to the weekly Biz Blast newsletter, event promotion and member spotlight.
• Staff liaison with the Ambassador Group; set meetings, agenda and volunteer opportunities. Coordinate Ambassador support for all Chamber events.
• Ensure membership database and website accuracy as a tool for Charlevoix commerce promotion and development, and to track membership referrals, correspondence and member information.
• Attain membership goals and retention of current membership.
• Develop and assist on educational membership events.
• Network, engage and represent the Chamber at Chamber and community events.
• Respond to a diverse range of e-mails, telephone calls, and assorted membership and sponsorship inquiries, troubleshoot member issues and concerns.
• Support the needs of our guests and members at the front desk.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively cultivate relationships with vendors, prospects, members, volunteers and community stakeholders.
• Ability to organize, plan and prioritize workload involving multiple projects at one time.
• Ability to think creatively and innovatively as well as provide solutions.
• Ability to communicate effectively to diverse audiences, including public speaking.
• Strategic, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent verbal, written, negotiation, and organizational skills.
• Experience and success in developing compelling written, oral and visual presentation/marketing materials.
• Knowledge and understanding of the business community in the region.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs including Outlook, Excel and Word.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $25,000.00 to $28,000.00 /year

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Executive Director - Bellaire Chamber of Commerce - Bellaire, MI - $19,500 a year

The Executive Director role will serve as a professional key contact to the community and manage daily operations of the Bellaire Chamber of Commerce. The Executive Director (ED) is directly accountable to the President and to the members of the Chamber Board of Directors (BOD). The ED is a salaried position, based on 25 paid hours per week, year round. Salary is determined by the BOD budget and approved by the Chamber Board of Directors, The ED is a non-voting member of the BOD and is expected to attend and be an active participant in all BOD meetings, The ED employee performance evaluation is to be completed annually by the BOD and will focus primarily on the following listed duties. Evaluations will also provide appropriate job and personal development planning, The following activities are to be managed by the ED in support of the Bellaire Chamber of Commerce Mission Statement. The Board of Directors sets forth the mission and direction of the organization and the Executive Director moves the direction forward to fulfill that mission and annual goals. The Bellaire Chamber Executive Director position is an opportunity to contribute to the overall success of the organization. About the Chamber: The Bellaire Chamber of Commerce has a steady focus on membership attraction and retention, while providing a programs and services designed to help businesses of all sizes grow and prosper. Currently the Chamber of Commerce produces six community events excluding business events, and manages a budget of approximately $100,000..The Bellaire Chamber is a non-profit non-governmental, membership driven organization with a strong contingency of over 180 members. Requirements: Post-secondary education preferred, Proven experience coordinating and event planning, Ability to effectively communicate through written materials and public speaking, Proficient in MS office and knowledge of modern office practices and procedures including mail merges and database management, Knowledge of basic accounting and QuickBooks software Knowledge of Wordpress CRM websites, Must have the ability to interact with the public and fellow employees in a tactful and pleasant manner and must be able to handle stressful situations, Experience of non-profit and financial management and development. Check out the full job description: https://www.bellairechamber.org/seeking-a-new-executive-director/ Job Type: Part-time Salary: $19,500.00 /year Experience: Management: 1 year (Preferred) Education: Associate (Preferred) Working days: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Hours per week: 20-29

WEDC awards nine grants to support entrepreneurship programs throughout Wisconsin; Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi Membership Directory and Business Guide 2018-2019; Michigan West Coast Chamber Announces Community Champion Partnership with Gentex Corporation; #Bestchamber practices: Quad Cities Chamber: Illinois Legislative Resources; Chamber hosting IOSHA/INSafe program; New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Hampton Roads Chamber: 2019 Diversity in Business Forum; Southeast Kentucky Chamber awards five education grants; Fox Cities Chamber Features Nationally-Acclaimed Economist Elliot Eisenberg as Keynote Speaker for 2019 Economic Outlook Lunch on February 14; Petal Area Chamber Banquet Celebrates Successful 2018; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

Happy Friday #ChamberWorld! Have a GREAT weekend!

WEDC awards nine grants to support entrepreneurship programs throughout Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) announced today that nine organizations have been awarded a total of $500,000 in grants to help develop or expand innovative programs aimed at advancing the climate for entrepreneurship throughout the state.

The grants are being awarded as part of WEDC’s Entrepreneurship Support Program, which is now in its third year. The grants will help fund activities that promote entrepreneurship or deliver education, training and other resources to assist new and aspiring business owners. More than 400 entrepreneurs are expected to receive services through a wide variety of initiatives.

“These grants will enable organizations throughout the state to provide more resources to support their local entrepreneurial communities,” said Mark R. Hogan, Secretary and CEO of WEDC, the state’s lead economic development organization. “Through this program, we are supporting local and regional organizations that understand the unique needs of their communities and can provide key resources to foster a statewide culture that celebrates and encourages entrepreneurs to build successful businesses.”

The grant recipients are:

• BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation of Milwaukee ($55,000) will organize and host three iterations of the successful HATCH entrepreneurial pitch program in three regions of Wisconsin, for a total of nine events.
• Oconto County Economic Development Corporation of Oconto ($40,000) will promote and assist in new business formation and accelerate business growth in Oconto County.
• Green County Development Corporation of Monroe ($80,000) will promote and assist in new business formation and accelerate business growth in Green and surrounding counties. The program is projected to engage more than 900 individuals and create 15 to 17 new businesses.
• Couleecap Inc. of Westby ($70,000) will support its multi-agency plan to provide and expand entrepreneurship services in the region creating up to 35 new businesses.
• Indianhead Community Action Agency Inc. of Ladysmith ($41,000) will provide technical assistance resources to entrepreneurs in 12 rural northwest Wisconsin counties.
• Concordia University of Mequon ($59,000) will provide an innovative cohort-based education program to low-wealth communities in Milwaukee with the partnership of BizStarts.
• Janesville Innovation Inc. of Janesville ($40,000) will build and expand the Rock County Entrepreneurial Business Development Program, which provides customized technical assistance to startups and scaling growth companies in Rock County.
• UW Health Innovation Hub of Madison ($75,000) will create a “hub” to gather innovative ideas and solutions directly related to patient and health system challenges, and to enable those ideas to advance by providing resources in product development, legal and accounting services.
• Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council Inc. of Eau Claire ($40,000) will provide business development services to underserved and disenfranchised populations in western Wisconsin.

WEDC received 22 applications for the program, which provides matching grants to nonprofit organizations and communities. The Entrepreneurship Support Program is part of WEDC’s suite of entrepreneurship resources, which also include support for startup accelerators, seed capital funds, investment tax credits and technology development loans. In addition, WEDC supports and engages an existing statewide network of partners that offers business training, mentorship and financing to aspiring entrepreneurs.

While WEDC already had a variety of programs to support the formation, development, growth and financing of technology-based and growth-oriented startup and early-stage businesses, the Entrepreneurship Support Program was added to provide funds for organizations and communities whose efforts may not meet the eligibility criteria for the other programs. Entrepreneurship Support Grants are awarded on a competitive basis, and grant funds must be matched by the applicant. Projects supported by the new round of grant funding must take place in 2019.

Launched in 2016, the grant program has provided a total of $1.5 million in grants to 26 organizations statewide to help fund activities such as prototyping assistance, legal services and outreach to underserved entrepreneurs. More information: WEDC

Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi  Membership Directory and Business Guide 2018-2019

The Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi  Membership Directory and Business Guide 2018-2019 is available at the Area Development Partnership in Hattiesburg! Thank you to Chad Newell, Valencia Williamson and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 

Hattiesburg Membership Directory and Business Guide 2018-2019

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.

Michigan West Coast Chamber Announces Community Champion Partnership with Gentex Corporation

The Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the creation of an exclusive Community Champion Premier Partnership with Gentex Corporation, effective January 1, 2019. Gentex Corporation is a longtime Gold Premier Partner and has been a member of the Chamber since 1976.

“The partnership between Gentex and the West Coast Chamber is a natural fit, as we are both
dedicated to cultivating a thriving business community where people want to live and work,”
said West Coast Chamber President, Jane Clark. “Gentex, is a global corporation that makes a
point of supporting local businesses. We’re both focused on working for the greater good of our
community.”

"At Gentex, we have a passion for our team, our work, and our community. That's why we're so
proud to create a new and distinctive partnership with the Michigan West Coast Chamber of
Commerce. We believe in our community, and are committed to making a tremendous, positive
impact in it. We hope our commitment inspires others in the community to keep investing in this
special place we call home," said Seth Bushouse, Senior Human Resources Director at Gentex.

In addition to their Gold Premier Partnership, Gentex participates regularly with the Chamber’s
West Coast Cash program, purchasing significant amounts of the community currency gift
certificates to gift to Gentex employees. The West Coast Cash program is designed to
encourage community members to shop at over 90 local Chamber member businesses. By
investing in the program, Gentex is not only giving gifts to employees, but is also sending traffic
into local businesses, and supporting the local economy.

Gentex is Ottawa County’s largest employer, with more than 5,600 employees located in West
Michigan. The company was founded in 1974 as a manufacturer of commercial fire protection
devices, yet has grown into an automotive and technology enterprise with $6 billion in market
capitalization and sales approaching $2 billion annually. Its automotive product lineup includesunique digital vision, connected car and dimmable glass technologies, which can be further
explored at www.gentextech.com.

The Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce is the unified voice and leading advocate for
over 1,200 businesses representing 60,000 employees in the greater Holland/Zeeland area.
The Chamber represents a broad segment of the business community; our role is to be a leader
in and partner to the business community and the community at large. The West Coast
Chamber is proud to be recognized among the top 1% of Chambers nationwide, and was
recently named the 2018 Outstanding Chamber of the Year for the state of Michigan.

#Bestchamber practices: Quad Cities Chamber: Illinois Legislative Resources

The Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce is the economic and community development organization serving the whole Quad Cities region. We are committed to advocating public policies that enhance our economic competitiveness, increase investment, and benefit our members and communities.

2019 Advocacy Resources

Illinois Policy Priorities

United States Congress

Senator Dick Durbin  •  Senator Tammy Duckworth •  Representative Cheri Bustos 

Office of the Governor of Illinois

Governor JB Pritzker  •  Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton

Illinois General Assembly

Find your legislators.
See all senators.
See all representatives.

Live Debate
Stream the House live.
Stream the Senate live.

Calendars
View the House calendar.
View the Senate calendar.
View House Committee hearings.
View Senate Committee hearings.

Bill Tracking & Additional Services

Setup your own bill tracker here.

Want a refresher on how a bill becomes a law in Illinois? Check it out. 

Local Elected Officials

Rock Island County  

Member Cities:

Coal Valley  •  Colona  •  East Moline  •  Geneseo
Hampton   •  Milan  •  Moline - (Mayor / Council)  •  Port Byron 
Rock Island - (Mayor / Council)  •  Silvis

Contact Us
Not finding what you’re looking for or have additional questions? Contact Tyler Power.

Chamber hosting IOSHA/INSafe program

The Greensburg-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a lunch and learn program featuring Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IOSHA) Deputy Commissioner of Labor, Michelle Ellison, and INSafe Deputy Commissioner K.R. Boucher, on Feb. 21.

The program will be held in the gymnasium at Greensburg City Hall, 314 W. Washington Street, and will start at 11:30 a.m. with lunch. Doors will open at 11:15 a.m.

Chamber executive director Jeff Emsweller explained why the Chamber is hosting this upcoming program.

“We try to organize a quarterly program and bring in speakers who can provide information that is important to their company,” he said. “One of the quarterly programs are the directors of Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration and INSafe. Among other things, they will be discussing ways to improve workplace safety and health for workers by reducing hazards and exposures in the workplace environment that result in occupational illnesses, injuries and fatalities.”

The cost to attend this event for Greensburg-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce members is $10 and includes lunch. Non-Chamber member price is $12 and also includes lunch.

Both Chamber members and non-members may register online through their company portal on the Chamber website or by emailing execdirector@greensburgchamber.com. The Chamber will invoice the company involved if necessary.

Reservations are due by noon Feb. 19.

Ellison and Boucher will provide important updates and information from IOSHA and INSafe and will be available to answer any questions or entertain any comments attendees may have.

The program is slated to conclude by 1:30 p.m.

“These are important issues and the Chamber felt that we should open it up to more than just Greensburg-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce members. So even if a business is not a member of the Chamber, they can still attend to hear these state directors speak,” Emsweller said. “The price includes the cost of the meal and we should be able to wrap of the luncheon and learn by 1:30 p.m. Of course the directors will stick around to speak with anyone who may have additional questions about anything related to those agencies.” Read more: Greensburg Daily News

New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce Community Map

New Castle-Henry County Chamber map

The New Castle-Henry County Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the New Castle-Henry County Chamber today! Thanks to Missy Modesitt, Mary Campbell 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. 

Hampton Roads Chamber: 2019 Diversity in Business Forum

The Hampton Roads Chamber means business and works to be an impactful advocate, powerful economic partner, and inspiring ignitor for the region. Now more than ever the Chamber wants to shine a light on issues of Diversity and Inclusion Practices in business and the workforce.

This forum will feature Keynote Speaker Carla Williams, University of Virginia Athletic Director

Panelists: Jim Bibbs, Port of Virginia

Dr. Deborah Fontaine, Norfolk State University

Dr. Johnny Garcia, President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and small business owner

Susan Alaya-West, Hampton Roads Pride

Panel Moderator: Kurt Williams, WTKR Anchor

Comments by Congressman Bobby Scott

Be there to cover this important and timely discussion!

Date: Thursday, February 21, 2019

Time: 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM

Location: Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel

777 Waterside Dr.

Norfolk, VA 23510

Southeast Kentucky Chamber awards five education grants

The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce recently awarded nearly $6,000 in education grants through its Excellence in Education Grant Program to five schools across the region, including three in Martin County, one in Johnson County, and one in Pike County.

Jordan Gibson, president and CEO of the Southeast Kentucky Chamber, said the educators in the region who apply for the education grants always have exciting and innovative projects for which they are seeking funding.

“The Chamber is honored to be able to give back to the educators in the region who are making a difference in the lives of their students,” Gibson said. “The applicants who apply for these grants each year go above and beyond for their students by finding outside resources that will make learning more fun and efficient.”

Sheldon Clark High School, Martin County Area Technology Center, and Eden Elementary were among the three schools to receive grants from Martin County. Eden Elementary educator Micah Davis received $1,100 to purchase Google Chromebooks for her classroom. Students will use the Chromebooks, along with those already available, to learn coding and robotics. Sheldon Clark’s Emaleigh Osborn received $1,231 to purchase Google Chromebooks for her students to use. Osborn said those computers will allow students to participate in virtual labs, individual instruction and for a coding class. Rachel Addison-Miller, an educator at Martin County ATC, received $1,167 to create a school store operated by students, with supervision from teachers. In addition to students learning about business, the profits from the store will be invested into the store to keep it self-sustaining.

Johnson County’s Highland Elementary educator Amanda O’Bryan received $1,236 for a project she calls the “Creation Lab.” O’Bryan will use the funds to purchase building materials as well as coding equipment to engage students. The purchases include coding robots, roller coaster building activities, and others.

Pikeville High School Band Director Scott Bersaglia received $1,227 to purchase new equipment for students to use. Bersaglia said the purchases will allow the students to learn and perform more challenging and demanding music. The band will purchase new cymbals, stands and mutes with the funds. Read more: News-Express

Fox Cities Chamber Features Nationally-Acclaimed Economist Elliot Eisenberg as Keynote Speaker for 2019 Economic Outlook Lunch on February 14

The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Fox Cities Regional Partnership will host the Fox Cities Economic Outlook Lunch where both macro and micro economic insights come together along with an entertaining presentation by keynote speaker, Dr. Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D., discussing how national and global trends could impact the Fox Cities’ economy.

The results of the annual local Fox Cities Economic Outlook Survey, conducted by the Fox Cities Regional Partnership (the economic development division of the Fox Cities Chamber), will also be revealed which cover business trends from the previous year and projections for 2019.

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D., often called the “Stand-up Economist,” is president, chief economist and founder of Graphs and Laughs, LLC. He uniquely specializes in making the arcana and minutiae of economics entertaining and relevant. With expertise and consultation sought-out by federal, state and local governments and legislators, hedge funds and investment advisory groups, Dr. Eisenberg is an established authority on the national and global economy and its impact on various industries.

When: Thursday, February 14, 2019

Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Registration & Networking

11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Lunch

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. - Program

Where: Red Lion Hotel Paper Valley, 333 W. College Avenue, Appleton, WI 54911

Tickets: Chamber members - $45/each or $400/table of 10; General admission - $55/each or $500/table of 10 (Tickets can be purchased online at foxcitieschamber.com or by calling (920) 734-7101.)

For additional event information, please contact Tonya Boelter, Senior Director of Community Engagement, at (920) 734-7101 or tboelter@foxcitieschamber.com.

Petal Area Chamber Banquet Celebrates Successful 2018


The Petal Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated its accomplishments and progress during 2018 at the annual banquet held Jan. 24. The banquet was sponsored by the chamber’s great partner, Mississippi Power Company. 

“We welcome and thank the businesses that have chosen Petal as their home and those that have re-opened or moved to a new location in Petal,” said Chamber Director Valerie Wilson. “They have invested in our community and should be recognized for their allegiance to Petal.”

Here is a listing of the ribbon cuttings that were held in 2018.

• Merle Norman & More – re-opening following the tornado

• The Mortgage Connection

• Sully’s

• Chappell Hill Grocery & Restaurant

• Robin’s Wharf

• Rhinestone Ranch

• Domino’s Pizza

• Keesler Federal Credit Union

The chamber was very active in 2018 organizing and promoting the following programs and events to improve the business climate and quality of life in Petal, including:

• Petal High School Ambassadors Leadership Program

• MS Scholars and MS Tech Master’s Program

• Petal Military Advisory Board 

• Shop Petal First

• Area Development Partnership Education Task Force

• Veteran’s Day Salute Cookout

• Petal Christmas Parade

• Petal Christmas Market

• Celebration in the Park

• Petal Southern Miss Powwow

• Star Spangled Celebration on the River

• Petal Police & Firefighter Thanksgiving Turkeys

• Petal Farmer’s Market

• Police Officer & Firefighter of the Year Awards

• Bobby Runnels Leadership Award

• Downtown Revitalization

• Business Recruitment and Retention

• Business Professional Development Seminars


RUNNELS AWARD WINNER

The evening also recognized Ione Bond as the 2018 recipient of the Bobby Runnels Leadership Award. Bond was presented with the award by the 2017 recipient, Deborah Reynolds.

In addition, the Police Officer of the Year and the Firefighter of the Year awards were presented to DeReginald Keon Williamson and Chris Shows, respectively.

Carrie Flynt Holeman, president of the Chamber board of directors, was presented with plaque honoring her service by incoming president, Markus Simmons of the Area Development Partnership. New board members will begin their terms in April. New members include Chuck Parish/HomeCare Hospice South, Ann McWilliams/Ann McWilliams Properties, Mandy Wigley/Southern Lace Boutique and Leahne Lightsey/Petal Education Foundation. Read more: Hub City Spokes

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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