Showing posts with label Economic Development. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Economic Development. Show all posts

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, November 27, 2018

Job Openings in #ChamberWorld - Week of November 26th - Executive Director, Superior Chamber of Commerce - Superior, CO- $49,000-$52,000 a year; Economic Development Coordinator City of St. Charles - Saint Charles, IL $61,000 - $87,000 a year; Economic Development Specialist City of Evanston - Evanston, IL $31.72 - $40.72 an hour; Executive Director, Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce - Marblehead, OH - Full-time, Part-time; Vice President of Membership and Business Development - San Antonio Chamber of Commerce - San Antonio, TX; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

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



Executive Director, Superior Chamber of Commerce - Superior, CO- $49,000-$52,000 a year

Job Description
The Superior Chamber of Commerce Executive Director coordinates and implements the many activities of the Chamber of Commerce, following the bylaws and policy guidelines of the organization. As the Executive Director, he or she will be called upon to represent the Chamber Board of Directors and Officers in contact with the membership, with outside individuals, public agencies and officials, various organizations and groups, and with the general public, all requiring judgment and tact to foster positive and effective chamber/community/legislative relations. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors.

Responsibilities and/or Oversight: 
Operations & Record Keeping-Keep permanent records of the organization including bylaws, policies, procedures, legal and financial contracts, rulings and documents, important communications with the membership and other organizations or individuals. Keep records of calendar of organization meetings, events and records of the membership, billing, updated contact names, address, email, and website and membership size
Board Management-Working with the board, the Executive Director will plan for and participate at any Board of Directors meetings, including such responsibilities as preparing agendas, sending meeting notices, distributing minutes, financial reports, etc. Information that board members would like included in the board meeting, on the agenda must be received one week prior to the executive or board scheduled meetings and additional meeting announced two weeks prior to the meeting date
Committee Event/Management-Working with and assisting the board to develop and assure member participation on all committees determined through strategic planning.
  • Financial Management: (with assistance from the financial committee of the Board)
  • Working with the board in the preparation and approval of the annual budget
  • Carry out the day to-day financial management of the organization
  • Assist Treasurer in reviewing accounts, tax and payroll preparation
  • Provide monthly financial reports to the Board of Directors at each meeting
  • Prepare a year-end report after the closing of the financial year and other such reports as the board requests
  • Events: (with help from events committee of the Board)
  • Plan and orchestrate Chamber events, including afterhours, ribbon cuttings, and community events such as the 4th of July Celebration and Skate with Santa.
  • Work in conjunction with Town of Superior to manage community events
  • Negotiate budget and in-kind trades for events
  • Encourage events that foster participation, and new membership opportunitiesCommunications and Information Resource:
  • Manage the information resources including: website production and other broadcast emails as needed
  • Drive social and digital media campaigns, including the Superior Source app, to increase awareness of Chamber activities, member business, and benefits of membership.
  • Keep organizational database relevant and current
  • Create newsletters, press releases, or blogs and distribute to Chamber of Commerce membership
  • Visit local businesses face to face to promote upcoming events and educate about Chamber benefitsMembership/Non-Dues Revenue-
  • Responsible for the Chamber membership recruitment and retention.
  • Actively pursues new members, and communicates with existing membersEducation:
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution or demonstration of prior relatable experienceExperience and Skills:
  • Knowledge of budget development and management
  • Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated leadership ability
  • Experience in marketing and promotion
  • Proven ability to establish and maintain strong working partnerships with individuals and organizations
  • Vision for long-term planning
  • Media/public relations skills to effectively articulate goals, objectives and policy positions
  • Strong telephone communication skills
  • Excellent organizational and planning skills
  • Creative problem-solving abilities
  • Computer skills and experience: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher, Excel, and Quickbooks
  • Willingness to learn new software program, or already be trained in Chamber Master software
Pay: 
Annual salary $49,000 - $52,000 depending on experience
Please submit resume and cover letter by December 1, 2018. Expected start date January 2019.
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $49,000.00 to $52,000.00 /year
Experience:
  • Sales Management: 1 year (Preferred)
Education:
  • Bachelor's (Preferred)
Location:
  • Superior, CO 80027 (Preferred)
License:
  • Driver's License (Required)
Work authorization:
  • United States (Required)


Economic Development Coordinator
City of St. Charles - Saint Charles, IL
$61,000 - $87,000 a year


Description
The City of St. Charles offers a challenging and supportive work environment that fosters excellence, accountability, learning, and professional development.

This position is responsible for coordinating all economic development functions for the City of St. Charles. Reporting to the Director of Community & Economic Development, the primary emphasis of this position is to enhance the economic vitality of the City through implementation and administration of programs, initiatives, and economic incentives to attract new businesses and encourage expansion and retention of existing businesses. The position requires exercise of professional judgment and initiative within the framework of established regulations and policies.
Examples of Duties
Some of the main responsibilities of this position are to research and develop economic development programs; assist with review and negotiation of incentive requests such as TIF Districts, business districts, sales tax incentives, and property tax incentives; coordinate with financial consultants and attorneys in the review of financial proformas and preparation of development or incentive agreements; establish good communication and relationships with existing and potential businesses, property owners, real estate developers; develop and implement marketing strategies to promote St. Charles to include updating the City's demographics, economic development website, preparing marketing materials, etc.; coordinate with local organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Partnership, and the Convention & Visitor Bureau; respond to inquiries from prospective and existing businesses, brokers, property owners; administer the business assistance programs such as the Corridor Improvement and Commercial Corridor & Downtown Incentive Program; attend local business and community events and trade shows as directed; and coordinate grant-writing efforts.
Qualifications
The City is seeking applicants with three to five years of relevant economic development experience, preferably at a municipality or similar organization. A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Economic Development, Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, Economics, Urban Planning, or a closely related field is required. Master's degree preferred. Certification with the International Economic Development Council (CECD) or American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is a plus. Applicants must possess the ability to exercise independent professional judgment in their work, analyzing problems, making decisions, and recommending solutions. Proficiency Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook and PowerPoint), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and ability to learn other software is expected. Attending evening meetings will be required.
Supplemental Information
Apply on line at www.stcharlesil.gov/jobs no later than December 16, 2018.
Please thoroughly complete the online employment application. Resumes should be uploaded in the online application system. If you are unable to apply online, or for other assistance, please contact 630-377-4446.

The City of St. Charles is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Economic Development Specialist
City of Evanston - Evanston, IL
$31.72 - $40.72 an hour


Nature of Work/Essential Functions

  • Starting salary is dependent upon qualifications, but in most cases is no higher than the midpoint for the range.

NATURE OF WORK:
This position performs responsible professional work to assist in the development and implementation of City of Evanston economic development programs and projects that support commercial, office, and industrial businesses and development activities. The Economic Development Division’s work is primarily focused on the retention of existing Evanston businesses located in traditional train station and neighborhood merchant districts and within commercial office developments in downtown Evanston. This is achieved through business visit interviews, information gathering, analysis and presentation, and the application of publicly funded programs and partnerships with private service providers.

The Economic Development Specialist position will require regular reports to the City Manager and other senior city staff, and merchant districts leaders on business recruitment and retention activities, economic trends, and local real estate activity. The position will require frequent social media posts and website updates through the Evanston Edge brand, in addition to publishing short interviews or stories featuring local business owners and entrepreneurs. The Economic Development Specialist will also be required to implement and maintain the City of Evanston business registry. The position will require the creation and maintenance of an economic indicator dashboard.

The Economic Development Division is comprised of a staff of two and is located within the Community Development Department. The Economic Development Specialist reports to the Economic Development Manager; and the Economic Development Manager reports to the Community Development Director.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Specific assignment will include some or all of the following):
  • Conducts business visitations of businesses located in Evanston’s neighborhood business districts and subsequent identification of retailers or businesses in districts through business visits that are interested in expansion or require additional retention assistance.
  • Acts as initial point of contact for general inquiries from new and existing business walk-in and phone inquiries; acts as Economic Development liaison for 311 inquiries.
  • Assists in the preparation of customized, confidential, professional responses to prospect requests.
  • Contributes to the constant improvement of presentation materials / in-house publications.
  • Participates in the development of marketing and sales strategies that will result in new prospect activity.
  • Support Economic Development Manager with business district organizations concerning economic development issues and challenges.
  • Develop, maintain, and present a comprehensive inventory of available commercial, office and industrial building spaces and sites within the community for economic development purposes; tracks vacancy rates within the City by commercial industry.
  • Assists as needed in preparation of PowerPoint presentations and supporting materials, for presentation to City Manager, City Council, Committee meetings, key business groups, and/or other special interest groups.
  • Works with Economic Development Manager and the Community Engagement Team, local merchant districts, and Chamber of Commerce Officials to coordinate announcements and the promotion of the new businesses openings, existing business expansions or key anniversaries, and general business activities and special events.
  • Provides timely reports to the Economic Development Manager, Community Development Director, City Manager, and City Council on activities and progress on retention, expansion, and attraction efforts that are used to brief City Council and other elected officials.
  • Maintains economic development web presence on various websites throughout the City.
  • Prepares and works in coordination with the City’s Community Engagement staff to redesign, maintain, and distribute periodic newsletters and reports.
  • Implements the Evanston Business Registry including disseminating annual invoices, processing company information, and distributing business registry/license to applicants. Includes management of business registry database.
  • Maintains Mayor’s new business certificate welcome program.
  • Process Entrepreneurship Grant Applications for presentation to Committee and City Council.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or directed.

Minimum Requirements

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:

Must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning, public administration, or business with a focus on real estate and/or economics or similar discipline. Master’s degree is preferred.

Must possess two (2) or more years of progressively responsible economic development based work experience including economic development research experience. Possession of two (2) or more years of experience working for a local chamber of commerce, business district improvement area, special service area, or related municipal position in which job responsibilities involved direct contact with business districts and individual businesses is preferred.

Must possess a valid driver’s license and a safe driving record.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities in the following areas:
  • Knowledge of marketing, communications, and public relations, with experience in outreach and communications to a broad base audience.
  • Innovative, self-motivated, creative, resourceful and independent thinking; Strong problem solving skills with an ability to quickly assess the issues and challenges and begin to develop alternative solutions for preferred economic development projects and programs.
  • Ability to review, understand and discern key information from market analysis, economic or fiscal impact reports, or other related economic development studies and reports; ability to take information and adapt, as appropriate, to Economic Development priorities and strategies.
  • Ability to understand, administer and adapt the process of land use regulations as administered by local municipalities throughout the U.S., and articulate their theoretical basis, generally, and specifically related to commercial business expansion and attraction.
  • Considerable knowledge of and ability to use Internet search engines, word processing software, email, and Windows operating systems.
  • Experience utilizing social media software in a professional capacity through marketing, social campaigns, advertising, and/or business promotion.
  • Ability to work with and relate to a diverse group of citizens from varying socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds.
  • Excellent communication, organizational and project management skills.
  • Experience with graphic design and presentation of infographics techniques.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:
  • The ability to work in a primarily sedentary position, with the ability to occasionally use force to exert up to 10 pounds. The ability to lift, carry or otherwise move objects, books, materials, etc. using up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.
  • The employee is subject to inside environmental conditions: protection from weather conditions, but not necessarily from indoor temperature changes.
  • There are no environmental hazards associated with this classification.

Additional Information

SUPERVISION:
The Economic Development Specialist reports to the Economic Development Manager who outlines work assignments, reviews work in progress, and assesses completed work. Works closely with all relevant departments/divisions to assist and inform in the processing of economic development related issues and policies; best practices as appropriate. Guidance is provided via the strategic plan, economic development vision statement, economic development work program, City Code, City policies and procedures, applicable state and federal laws and regulations, ensuring that planning initiatives are met. Work is evaluated at least annually with respect to progress toward achieving goals, leadership, communication skills, customer service, ability to work productively and effectively with employees at all levels in the organization as well as community groups, businesses, major employers and the general public.

PUBLIC CONTACT:
The employee has regular and frequent contact with department and division employees and other City employees; regular contact with individual citizens and groups, including business associations and elected officials. Facilitation of and presentations during public meetings are part of the scope of work for this position.

SELECTION METHOD
Qualifications Assessment
Structured Oral Interview
To view the full job description and apply for this position, please visit www.cityofevanston.org on or before the closing date.
Chosen candidates will be required to provide proof of licenses, certifications, and education required for this position. Candidates will also be subject to qualifying pre-employment processes, including medical examination, drug/alcohol screen, employment verification, and criminal background check.
The City of Evanston is an equal opportunity employer and ensures against discrimination in employment on the basis of a person’s race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military discharge status, source of income, housing status, or gender identity. The City of Evanston is also committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Any person needing mobility or communications access assistance should contact Human Resources at 847-448-8204 or 847-448-8052 (TTY).




Executive Director, Marblehead Peninsula Chamber of Commerce - Marblehead, OH - Full-time, Part-time


Summary:

The hours of work for the Executive Director are a 34 hour work week, with Thanksgiving and Christmas and New Year’s Day as paid holidays. Additional hours as required and necessary to attend meetings, special events and work on special projects may be needed from the Executive Director. Executive Director will be given an annual review. A salary adjustment could/would reflect a positive review.
Will be responsible for the overall operations of the chamber office and supervision of part time staff, volunteers and interns. Will maintain membership records, status, contact information, and support for activities, events and programs and membership relationships. Present a positive image of the chamber both in the office, at chamber functions and community events. Oversees and manages all office procedures and other tasks as assigned by the Secretary and/or President of the MPCOC.
Duties and Responsibilities: Office Operations:
  • Monitor and address incoming and outgoing mail, email, phone and walk-in communications.
  • Assist Board members and Visitors with relevant information, resources, or documentation
  • Collaborate, coordinate, create and distribute notices, brochures, maps, and newsletters promoting chamber events and activities
  • Maintain rapport and communication with existing members by visiting current members.
  • Establish relationships and solicit new businesses to increase membership growth.
Duties and Responsibilities: Role with Executive Board, Board of Directors and Committees
  • Schedule coordinate, and attend Board and Committee meetings
  • Prepare and provide written agenda
  • Prepare and provide office report: log calls, member visits and walk ins and the reason for each pertaining to Chamber.
  • Increase communication with members
  • Take and compose minutes from all chamber related meetings in the absence of the Board Secretary
  • Occasionally attend council meetings
  • Increase visibility of Chamber by attending partnership meetings such as Lake Erie Shores and Islands, Boy Scouts
  • Email pertinent information to members
Duties and Responsibilities: Financial/Fiscal
  • Log incoming checks for the Treasurer
  • Take credit card payments
  • Act as collections agent for NSF checks, delinquent dues, outstanding receivables
  • Order office supplies
  • Verify Petty Cash Fund for Business After Hours
  • Verify 50/50, golf outing, Spring Banquet, Lighthouse Festival
  • Membership contracts and fees for participation in promotional materials
  • Development of addition Fund Raising Opportunities
Duties and Responsibilities: Clerical/Administrative
  • Maintain Membership information current on database and website
  • Routinely update mailing lists, forms, notifications, and letters
  • Keep office safe, presentable, and customer friendly environment
  • Maintain promotional materials, brochures, and Membership information current
  • Make trips to Post Office, pick-up supplies, and deliver maps and materials as needed
  • Order membership plaques and current year stickers
  • Correspond with business affiliates, area publications, and Members regarding events/activities
  • Perform website management routinely to keep information current including Member information, calendar of events, and preparing data and images for webmaster applications
  • Delegate duties to volunteers or interns
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of principles and practices of organization, planning, records management and general administration
  • Customer Service oriented with active listening skills
  • Computer literate-proficient
  • Good written and verbal communication, analytical and problem solving skills
  • Ability to operate standard office equipment and electronics
  • Motivate, develop, and direct people and resources to achieve optimal results
  • Increase participation on Social Media
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 21 years of age due to the responsibilities of this position as it relates to MPCOC
events and activities
  • Must have a high school diploma or the equivalent
  • Professional appearance (Dress code is business attire for office and required meetings)
Delegation of Authority:
  • Will work in conjunction with the President of the Board of Directors of the MPCOC
  • Supervise part time employees, volunteers and or interns
  • Will perform other job duties as assigned
EMAIL RESUMES TO: Dave Barth, President
Job Type: Full-time
Education:
  • Associate (Preferred)

Vice President of Membership and Business Development - San Antonio Chamber of Commerce - San Antonio, TX



Position Title: Vice President Department: Membership and Business Development
Reports To: Executive Vice President Classification: Exempt
Summary Description of This Position’s Work and Contributions to The Chamber’s Success:
The Vice President of Membership and Business Development is the “Salesperson in Chief” for the largest business association in the San Antonio area. The successful candidate will creatively develop, implement and manage programs related to membership attraction and retention to include close interaction and collaboration with business and community leaders, Chamber members and fellow Chamber executives and staff. The individual will actively promote Chamber benefits, services and involvement opportunities to sustain a healthy membership base and grow membership and non-dues revenue sources to implement the Chamber’s mission and program of work. This VP will be responsible for meeting Membership number and revenue goals, directing a small team of sales people, evaluating their performance and working collaboratively with the membership and Chamber staff.
Essential Duties:
  • Develop and lead membership programs to ensure Chamber recruiting and retention goals are met or exceeded.*
  • Keep Membership programs fresh and exciting—provide new ideas and improve on current programs to both attract and retain members**
  • Manage and adapt programs based on Membership Dues revenue progress, including new members, increases, decreases, cancellations and renewing members.**
  • Develop and grow relationships with both member and non-member business leaders.**
  • Creatively develop, manage and maintain non-dues revenue streams including membership networking events and other programs and services.**
  • Motivate and inspire the membership sales team to ensure optimum program success and efficiency*
  • Work closely and collaboratively with fellow VPs and staff to maximize utility of all Chamber programs, in particular our advocacy efforts and their impact on business to drive greater membership growth
  • Actively participate in Chamber Operating Council and Metro 8 group
  • Oversee the Chamber Ambassador volunteer program and member benefit programs (Office Depot, Infintech, Association Healthcare Plan),
  • Actively represent and attend all major Chamber events, appropriate community functions, other Chamber events and stakeholder meetings
  • Meet scheduled timelines and deadlines with excellent quality work.
Decision Responsibilities:
  • Creatively develop and produce membership events and manage respective budgets
  • Create inspiring communications for department level events
  • Proactively provide thoughtful Membership Dept. content for website, newsletter, emails and print material
  • Work hand in hand with the Finance department and EVP to develop annual Membership revenue goals
Education Requirements:
Minimum:
  • BA/BS degree in business, public administration, marketing or a related field
Desired:
  • Masters Degree
  • Bilingual (Spanish) is a plus
Previous Experience Requirements:
  • Minimum 5 years experience in non-profit membership development and/or fundraising and/or significant successful corporate sales experience
  • Experience working with and leading volunteers and internal team members
  • Knowledge of Financial reporting systems.
Skills & Abilities (including High Performance Team):
  • Creative and successful membership generation
  • Effective oral and written communication*
  • Interpersonal relationship and team work**
  • Planning, organizing, and time management*
  • Microsoft Office Suites, Outlook and Internet
  • Ability to read and analyze financial reports
Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to walk, stand and work for extended hours
  • Must have reliable transportation
  • Must have flexibility for attending or responding to early morning and late-night meetings and inquiries
Job Type: Full-time
Education:
  • Bachelor's (Preferred)
Language:
  • Spanish (Preferred)



Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.


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

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

#BestChamber Practices - Websites Highlighting Economic Development with Key Information (Demographics, Buildings, Sites, Incentives) Attracts Site Selectors; Positive Words Lead to Positive Results; Exporting: MEDICA 2014, the World's Largest and Most Prestigious Medical Technology and Equipment Show; Report: Indiana School Counseling Not Meeting Postsecondary Needs of Students; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Leadership)



Jeremy Stratton , President & CEO of the EL Dorado, Arkansas Chamber of Commerce wrote the following in a recent email.  The information highlights that to be a successful chamber of commerce, you also need to have both arms in economic development. 

"The best way we can market El Dorado and Union County to economic development projects in today's world is through a comprehensive website that includes all of our sites, buildings and demographic information. Right now, we have a great tourism and relocation website; we need to enhance it with key demographic, building, site and incentive information. When beginning a site selection for a new plant location, the first place a company or consultant researches is the Internet. Consultants and company officials will pre-screen among thousands of communities to see which ones have the real estate they need for their operation. If we have property that meets their needs, the company and/or site consultant will visit our community. Thus, it is paramount that we show our properties on our website in a very conspicuous and well organized manner."


Here are five websites Jeremy recommends for chamber economic development (and the last three from me).



Editor's Note: The best place to start economic development is with the existing businesses in your chamber. Once you have met their needs and built awareness of local site development and expansion possibilities, regional and state training, exporting opportunities, and growing their businesses through financing and incentives, then expand your horizons with open arms for economic development.

Positive Words Lead to Positive Results


“You are what you eat.”  How many times have you heard that line? But according to a recent book “Genuine Happiness”, your health may depend more on what you say. Saying positive words like:

Morning
Fabulous
Helpful
Share
Running
Forward
Great
Interesting
Lunch
Discussion
Seems

These words had a positive effect on your health. People that said these words (as a group) in social media demonstrated a more positive attitude, and geographically correlated to areas with lower heart attack rates. Conversely, areas with constant references to negative words and attitudes mirrored area of high stroke and heart attack rates.

Exporting: MEDICA 2014, the world's largest and most prestigious medical technology and equipment show

MEDICA 2014 is the largest and most prestigious medical technology show in the world, with over 5,000 exhibitors, and over 135,000 international visitors. The U.S. Commercial Service's Corporate Executive Office (CEO) Program provides a unique way for U.S. firms to optimize their participation in this show. Showcase your products and services to over 135,000 "trade only" visitors from 110 countries; meet the potential partners, agents, distributors and buyers; and close business deals without the expense of an exhibition booth. For more information, visit Export.gov or contact: Christian Koschil (Chicago) Christian.Koschil@trade.gov ;


Report: Indiana School Counseling Not Meeting Postsecondary Needs of Students

A new report commissioned by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce Foundation finds that school counselors are not able to meet the range of postsecondary needs of students, due in large part to a stagnant system and a variety of situations often out of their control.
“What we have is a counseling issue, not an issue with the counselors,” explains Indiana Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kevin Brinegar. “In fact, the vast majority of counselors in the survey said they would like to spend more time providing college and career guidance.” Read more: Indiana Chamber



Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Leadership)



“Management is about arranging and telling. Leadership is about nurturing and enhancing.” ~ Tom Peters