Showing posts with label Wisconsin (3). Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wisconsin (3). Show all posts

Monday, April 25, 2022

Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan and Partners Launch $40M Capital Loan Program; Inspired by ‘Schitt’s Creek,’ Short’s Brewing buys motel for seasonal workers to live in; Wisconsin SBA, WEDC Collaboration: Starting May 3: Boost Your Business with Ten Power-packed Webinars at the Small Business Academy During NSBW; The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Ignite Young Professionals and UWSP to host "Get On Track With PoCo Professionals," a professional growth conference; Reminder: Join Wisconsin Department of Revenue for our MyDORGov Webinars on May 11 and 12 – Register Now; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!



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

Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan and Partners Launch $40M Capital Loan Program


The Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan in Detroit has formed a collaboration with DRI Fund, ProFinCo, and Crowdz to launch the Capital and Cash Flow Program, a $40 million initiative targeted at strengthening Black businesses with low-cost access to capital, $10 million of which is immediately available to city of Detroit contractors.




The Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan in Detroit has formed a collaboration with DRI Fund, ProFinCo, and Crowdz to launch the Capital and Cash Flow Program, a $40 million initiative targeted at strengthening Black businesses with low-cost access to capital, $10 million of which is immediately available to city of Detroit contractors.

Black businesses have historically been locked out of accessing low-cost capital, but this partnership seeks to address what has traditionally been the biggest inhibitor to growing sustainable Black businesses in public works and infrastructure projects.

“There have been hundreds of announcements regarding access to capital for Black businesses since the murder of George Floyd,” says Sen. Marshall Bullock (D-Detroit), chair of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus and president of the Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan.

“Yet the needle has not moved on the number of Black contractors in infrastructure or capital availability to create their access. There is no better place to change that than in Detroit, and there is no better opportunity for success than in Michigan.” Read more: D Business 


Inspired by ‘Schitt’s Creek,’ Short’s Brewing buys motel for seasonal workers to live in


One of Michigan’s most popular breweries is channeling the hit comedy series “Schitt’s Creek” to solve a problem this summer.

Short’s Brewing announced Friday that it has purchased the 26-room Bellaire Inn, 728 E. Cayuga St., and is in the process of converting and updating the units for short-term housing for staff the brewery plans to hire for Northern Michigan’s busy, summer tourism season.

“When the opportunity came for us to create our own version of the Rosebud Motel (from Schitt’s Creek) we couldn’t pass it up. If Johnny Rose can do it, we can too.” Scott Newman-Bale, CEO for the brewery, joked.

Brewery staff is hopeful the move will help Short’s combat staffing shortages, a problem made worse by the lack of affordable, short-term lodging in Antrim County, according to the brewery.

The Bellaire Pub is looking to hire up to 20 additional staff for their kitchen and front-of-house operations this season. Short’s also has several open positions at its Elk Rapids location.

“We’ve missed out on (non-local) candidates because they can’t find a place to live, and we’ve had employees move out of state because of the lack of affordable, workforce housing.” Read more: M LIVE


Wisconsin SBA, WEDC Collaboration: Starting May 3: Boost Your Business with Ten Power-packed Webinars at the Small Business Academy During NSBW

NSBWSmall Business Academy


Elevate your business with ten power-packed sessions with, SBA, WEDC and a host of statewide experts at the  Small Business Academy hosted by WEDC during National Small Business Week. Check out the agenda and register below for this free, virtual conference--with the option to join in-person in six communities on Friday, May 6. 

May 3

9 am: Welcome and Opening Remarks

10 am: Show Me the Money! Locating Alternative Sources of Funding

11 am: Six Ways to Work with a Mentor

May 4

9 am: E-Marketing: How to Get Started with Digital Marketing

10 am: Cybersecurity for Small Businesses

11 am: Federal, State, and Local Small Business Certifications

May 5

9 am: Developing Financial Projections

10 am: Financing Your Business: Getting to Yes - A Panel Discussion

11 am: Structuring Your Business: Things You Should Know

May 6

9 am: Resilient and Persistent: Wisconsin SBA ‘s 2022 National Small Business Week Winners (virtual moderated panel discussion).

Join an in-person Watch Party and Networking Session hosted by SBA and WEDC partners in Milwaukee, Madison, La Crosse, Appleton/Oshkosh, Crandon, or Eau Claire on Friday.

 Register for All


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. 


Ignite Young Professionals and UWSP to host "Get On Track With PoCo Professionals," a professional growth conference


To help promote professional development in central Wisconsin, Ignite Young Professionals and UWSP are proud to host Get On Track With PoCo Professionals at the UWSP campus on April 27 from 4 to 7 pm at the Dreyfus University Center. This event will be great for professionals looking to advance their careers, people in the job market, or those who are interested in starting their own business.

Jeff Ebel of Midwest Wealth Ventures will key up the event as the Keynote speaker discussing the many facets of business ownership. After, the event will break off into two distinct tracts:

· Tract one, "Starting The Race," will include three local Entrepreneurs from Siren Shrub and Curbwise who will discuss the trials and tribulations of being a young and motivated entrepreneur in the 21st century.

· Tract two, "Passing The Baton," will feature two successful local executives from Skyward and Greenheck. They'll discuss necessary skills for the next generation of business leaders. They'll focus on succession planning, the importance of communication, and the process of receiving the reins of a thriving business that'll need excellent leadership to grow and maintain what has already been built.

The event is $10 for community members, and free to Ignite members and all UWSP students due to the generosity of the UW-Stevens Point School of Business and Economics. Appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages will be served along with gift bags full of trinkets! Stick around after the event and network with attendees, students, business owners, and our guest speakers.

To learn more about Ignite, signup for this event, or register any of the other events held during Young Professionals Week, visit the Ignite Young Professionals facebook page 





Reminder: Join Wisconsin Department of Revenue for our MyDORGov Webinars on May 11 and 12 – Register Now


To:  SLF Customers

 

This is a reminder from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) to register for the upcoming MyDORGov webinars. The May 11 session is geared toward new users; the May 12 session will focus on recent enhancement/system updates.

Available Webinars

1. New Users Webinar

·      When – May 11, 2022, 10-11 a.m.

·      Who should attend – users new to MyDORGov

·      Register now  space is limited! Click link to begin registration.

Topics

·      Getting started/accessing the system

·      Updating your contact information

·      Managing your own access (requesting an office/access)

·      Managing others to file on your behalf (approving, denying, removing access)

·      Using the system – filing a form, viewing historical filings and notifications

·      Resetting your account – multiple email addresses

·      Q&A

2. Enhancements/System Changes Webinar

·      When – May 12, 2022, 2-3 p.m.

·      Who should attend – users who previously filed forms in MyDORGov

·      Register now  space is limited! Click link to begin registration.

Topics – What's New?

·      Home page dashboard

·      Historical filing page

·      Notifications page

·      Intuitive search and sorting features

·      Retractable navigation menu

·      Updated online help

·      Q&A

General Webinar Details

·      After registering, you'll receive an email on how to access the webinar

·      You'll need speakers to hear the presenter but will not need a microphone

·      We'll answer your questions live during the webinar

We hope you can attend, but if you can't…visit our website to watch a recorded version.

Questions?

Contact us at slf@wisconsin.gov.

 Thank you,

State and Local Finance Division

Wisconsin Department of Revenue


Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories: 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!

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Chamber delight: Governor Pritzker Joins Lion Electric to Announce Company’s Plans to Bring First-Ever U.S. Manufacturing Facility to Joliet; Sen. Paul tackles COVID issues on Kentucky tour stop in Somerset; Chamber members: Is Your Culture Ready for Industry 4.0?; Nebraska Manufacturer Eyeing New Albany; West Bend Area Chamber of Commerce: Craig Farrell retiring after 15 years; Muskego Chamber: Student Opportunities Among Local Businesses; Lou Molitor to retire from Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce on Aug. 31; Letter urges urge Maryland to move forward with American Legion bridge replacement; Free consulting services offered to Front Royal-Warren County businesses; #BestChamber practices: Starkville Partnership: Using a Webcast when an Event is sold out! From Waterloo IL Chamber --- RRF Fund update: Sign up now! Macomb County Chamber: Two Weeks Until Purpose Summit 2021! State of the Lansing Region Report Represents the Next Step Forward for Greater Lansing; Clarkston Area Chamber: Tune in this Thursday to the 36th Annual Clarkston Community Awards; Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce event focusing on employee shortage; Midland Business Alliance: First Small Business Tuesday a Success + Loons are Back; Midland Business Alliance: First Small Business Tuesday a Success + Loons are Back; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory Sales 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! 



Chamber delight: Governor Pritzker Joins Lion Electric to Announce Company’s Plans to Bring First-Ever U.S. Manufacturing Facility to Joliet


Governor Pritzker today joined elected officials and the Lion Electric Company — a Canadian based manufacturer of all-electric medium and heavy-duty urban vehicles — to announce a significant investment in Illinois, with plans to build the company’s first-ever U.S. manufacturing facility and the largest plant of its kind in the country. A minimum of $70 million will be invested to build a new facility dedicated to producing medium and heavy-duty electric vehicles (EVs) in the U.S. The facility is expected to come online in the second half of 2022, setting into motion annual production capacity of 20,000 zero-emission vehicles a year, and creating at least 745 jobs for Illinoisans.
 
“Lion’s historic investment to bring its largest production facility to Illinois represents not only a win for our communities, but a strong step forward in our work to expand clean energy alternatives and the jobs they bring to our communities,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The new Joliet facility will put Illinois at the forefront of a national movement to transition to zero-emission vehicle use, advancing our own goals of putting one million of these cars on the road by 2030. In Illinois, we know that a clean energy economy is about more than just vehicles – it’s about healthier communities and jobs for those who live there. We are excited to welcome Lion to the Land of Lincoln and look forward to their future success here.”
 
The new 900,000 SF facility represents Lion Electric’s largest dedicated production site in the U.S. The company’s expansion helps respond to increasing demand in the marketplace for “Made in America” zero-emission vehicles, while simultaneously bringing production closer to its customers. Lion’s investments also help bring Illinois closer to its own clean energy goals, with plans to increase adoption of EV’s in the state to one million by 2030.
 
“Lion is the leader in electric school buses and has always been dedicated to the U.S. market, and our commitment to be close to our customers is one of the core values we have as a company,” said Marc Bedard, CEO and Founder of Lion. “This significant expansion into the U.S. market will not only allow us to drastically increase our overall manufacturing capacity of electric trucks and buses but to also better serve our customers, while adding critical clean manufacturing jobs that will form the backbone of the green economy. I also want to acknowledge the crucial role that P33 and Intersect Illinois, civic groups committed to developing a long-term roadmap for the local tech industry, played in connecting Lion with the Chicago area’s business and civic community to help further commercial traction, as well as engagement with key workforce and supplier partners.” More information: Joliet Region Chamber




Sen. Paul tackles COVID issues on Kentucky tour stop in Somerset



Though it was actually the monthly Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce luncheon at The Center for Rural Development, one might be excused for feeling like they were in the congregation of a charismatic church on Tuesday during Sen. Rand Paul's address.


As the junior senator from Kentucky made his points, one could hear affirmative murmuring from the crowd could be heard: "Yes," "That's right," etc., the same way those in a church might give an "amen" from the pews. 


And one statement in particular even drew a spontaneous round of applause from those assembled at The Center — about 275 in number, estimated Chamber Executive Director Bobby Clue, likely the largest count for a Chamber luncheon over the past year.


"It's the burden of proof of your government to tell you why they're taking your freedoms," he said before the line that was applauded: "They should have to prove to us the science behind what they're telling us to do."


Paul's focus Tuesday was on this subject: the gap between bureaucracy and the citizenry, particularly when it comes to COVID-19 and all the various regulations and restrictions that have come from all levels of government, whether the CDC or Gov. Andy Beshear in Kentucky. Read more: Kentucky Today

Chamber members: Is Your Culture Ready for Industry 4.0?

Choosing the right tech tools and being able to afford them are not the defining problems any more.

While Industry 4.0 has been a buzzword for some time, the technology has become more affordable and effective enough in the last two to three years to make it a reality for more companies. There’s an increasingly clear ROI from technology spending, clearing a hurdle that in the past has held back many manufacturers from committing to a digital transformation.

Choosing the right tech tools and being able to afford them are not the defining problems anymore. Two similar manufacturing companies can adopt exactly the same technology and have very divergent results. The difference will lie in how ready the companies are to absorb the technology and their effectiveness in getting the most out of it.

That’s why the successful adoption of Industry 4.0 technology requires a much broader change in company culture, one that needs to be led by the C-suite and carried out by the business units.

There are four key areas that manufacturing firms need to get right in order to make the most of technology adoption. Read more: Industry Week


Nebraska Manufacturer Eyeing New Albany

Nebraska-based MP Global Products LLC is planning to set up operations in Floyd County. The company, which manufactures recycled cardboard insulation packaging products, is looking to invest $4.4 million in an existing building in the New Albany Industrial Park and create more than 50 jobs.

The facility would be MP Global Products' third in the country and first outside of Nebraska.

The manufacturer is seeking a property tax abatement from the New Albany City Council that it says will save $113,000 over a five-year period. The council is set to vote the incentives next week. One Southern Indiana, the economic development organization and chamber of commerce for Clark and Floyd counties, says the project is contingent on the council's approval.

“MP Global Products, LLC, would be a great addition to the regional business community, bringing more than 50 new jobs to the region. This would result not only in increased commerce in our business community, but it also has a direct effect on the lives of the individuals who choose to work there," said 1si President and Chief Executive Officer Wendy Dant Chesser. "One Southern Indiana is looking forward to the possibility of a new location for MP Global Products, LLC, and continues to be happy to assist company leaders in achieving their immediate and future goals.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corp. has also offered MP Global Products up to $500,000 in conditional tax credits, which the company will not be eligible to claim until Hoosier workers are hired for the new jobs. 

If the company moves forward with the project, the facility is expected to open by the fourth quarter. Read more: Inside Indiana Business

West Bend Area Chamber of Commerce: Craig Farrell retiring after 15 years



As his 15th anniversary with the West Bend Area Chamber of Commerce (WBACC) approaches, Executive Director Craig Farrell announced this week he will be retiring at the end of June.

“This coming May 1st, I will be celebrating my 15th anniversary with the Chamber which have been some of the happiest years of my long career. Little did I know when I accepted the job that my work here would be so much more rewarding than what I experienced in corporate life,” Farrell wrote in an update to WBACC members on Wednesday.

Before joining the chamber, Farrell had a 28-year career in the hotel industry running marketing departments for major hotel companies, such as Holiday Inn, Choice International and Days Inn. He was the president/ CEO of Choice Hotels Canada for seven years before moving back to the U.S.

Upon his return, he was recruited to join The Marcus Corp as the chief marketing officer for the Baymont Inns and Woodfield Suites brands until his retirement.

However, retirement did not last long for Farrell. Within a year, he became bored.

Someone who used to work for him mentioned running a chamber of commerce.

“I was looking for something where I could make a contribution. It turned out to be perfect,” said Farrell.

He met with the WBACC Executive Board and officially started May 1, 2006.

“It’s been one heck of a ride,” he said.

Shortly after joining, the U.S. entered the Great Recession. This past year, Farrell led the chamber through the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on the economy and local businesses.

“Our success would not have been possible without your support and the help of amazing staff and Board of Directors dedicated to our mission,” Farrell wrote in the update.

He found that joining the chamber took him back to the days in his father’s tour company, where “you did everything yourself” 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

“We were able to do some unique things that are sort of special to chamber life. It’s been such a wonderful opportunity and I was blessed with having a staff of people I’ve been able to work with,” he said.

In his retirement, Farrell is looking forward to spending time with his 20-monthold grandson, who he and his wife have not seen since he was six months old due to the pandemic, as well as getting back to some old hobbies like gardening and golf.

After a career in the travel business, being a tour operator and running a hotel company, Farrell has always loved traveling but has not always had the time for it. He also hopes to stay involved in a couple of community organizations. “It’s going to keep us busy, but I love our home. We’re going to stay in West Bend,” he said.

The chamber will begin the search for a new director next week, and Farrell’s goal is that his successor will begin prior to his departure.

Muskego Chamber: Student Opportunities Among Local Businesses

Muskego Chamber invites you to learn about student work opportunities through the MHS Connect Academy program at our May 18 Networking Lunch with MHS Connect Academy Coordinator Jim Michlig. See details below. Register Online Sorry, I'm not able to attend

Date: May 18, 2021
Time: 11:30 AM - 01:00 PM CDT
Website: http://www.muskego.org

Muskego Chamber Networking Lunch
Presentation by Muskego High School’s Jim Michlig
Topic: Student Opportunities among Local Businesses
Learn about internships, hiring students, and the Connect Academy program.

Location: Matty’s Bar & Grille, 14460 W College Ave
Build Your Own Taco & Salad Bar. Cash bar available for beverages
$15 per person; Register by May 11

Lou Molitor to retire from Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce on Aug. 31


Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer Lou Molitor is retiring after nearly 13 years as head of the organization that has helped to build a network of 670 members.

Molitor announced his retirement Monday, with his official retirement date set for Aug. 31.

A search committee is currently looking for a new president.

When Molitor joined the Kenosha Chamber as executive director in October 2008, the region was in the midst of a deep recession that slowed business growth.

A nearly lifetime Kenosha resident, Molitor previously was president of the more than 400-member Lake County (Ill.) Chamber of Commerce. He served in that position for two years before coming to the Kenosha Chamber.

Prior to that, Molitor served as vice president of business operations and as co-executive director for Northpointe Resources, a $6 million nonprofit organization serving people with disabilities in northern Lake County.

Locally, Molitor has served on several nonprofit boards, including Women and Children’s Horizons, the WCH Foundation, Kenosha County Workforce Development and the Kenosha County Business Advisory Board. He also served on the City of Kenosha Arts Commission and the Lakeshore Business Improvement District and Downtown Kenosha Inc. boards.

Wisconsin Secretary of Revenue Peter Barca said Molitor brought many programs to the Chamber membership and was an active advocate for local businesses. 



Letter urges urge Maryland to move forward with American Legion bridge replacement

More than 60 business, labor, and community organizations have signed a letter to the Maryland Board of Public Works expressing strong support for Phase 1 of the Maryland Traffic Relief Plan, which includes replacing the aging American Legion Bridge and improving the Interstate 270 corridor.

“The project will benefit our entire region,” said Jason Stanford, president of the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance. “It will create a seamless managed lane network between Maryland and Virginia, which will move more people through this important corridor including via a new express bus service between Bethesda and Tysons. This project is a gamechanger for those who are tired of being stuck in soul-crushing traffic on the American Legion Bridge.” 

The letter is signed by representatives of regional business and labor organizations, including the Baltimore-D.C. Metro Building Trades Council, LiUNA, AAA Mid-Atlantic, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce.  These organizations represent thousands of members, according to a news release.  Read more: Inside NOVA


Free consulting services offered to Front Royal-Warren County businesses


The Town of Front Royal and the Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce have partnered with local business consulting specialist Herb Melrath to offer free consulting services to small businesses in Warren County.

The services are free to any small business owner within Warren County and will be tailored to the individual business owner’s needs.

Melrath, who works full time with the Maryland Small Business Development Center, is a Front Royal resident who previously owned the Main Street Daily Grind for 13 years in the town. His services will include information gathering that will help “recover and invigorate our small business economy,” in addition to going through options pertaining to social media, email updates, webinars and more.

“We thought there was a need,” Malrath said on the decision to partner with the chamber. “I just wanted to try to give back to the community to help them through this time and try to give them more of an onsite, personal way to have someone from the county help them, whether it be COVID-related matters, funding, helping them through a loan process or even growing their business. That’s what I’m here for.”

Malrath said he believes his time spent as a small business owner in Front Royal will help him connect with other business owners facing typical struggles.

“I learned the good, the bad and ugly of running a small business and what it took,” he said. “A lot of times for small business owners, it’s a 24/7 operation. I get what it takes to run a business, knowing if you’ve got enough in your checking account to run the business the next day. I can empathize with them. I think that gives me a good background to know what these guys are going through. If nothing else, I can be a sounding board. I understand the issues.”

Niki Foster, president of the Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce, encouraged all small business owners to take advantage of the services.

“Part of the Chamber’s mission is to connect business with the resources they need to be successful and encourage growth. We are excited to team with the Town of Front Royal to move forward from the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 crisis,” she said in a news release. “This is just part of what our organization does to help businesses thrive in our community.”

The services will be available until April 2022. For more information or to schedule an appointment, Melrath can be reached at 719-284-2291 or hmelrath@frontroyalchamber.com. Read more: Northern Virginia Daily

#BestChamber practices: Starkville Partnership: Using a Webcast when an Event is sold out!

Today's Lunch and Learn with Chick-fil-A is currently full!

We are excited to offer a zoom option though so you can still hear this wonderful content. We will go live at 11:00!

Please see below.

Starkville Partnership is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Chick-fil-A Customer Service Luncheon
Time: May 11, 2021 11:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82903126927?pwd=RnE4K3ZESW9VQnFrT3VqeERHSlFsZz09

Meeting ID: 829 0312 6927
Passcode: 597247
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,82903126927#,,,,*597247# US (New York)
+13017158592,,82903126927#,,,,*597247# US (Washington DC)

My Best,
Hunter Harrington
Director of Membership Development

From Waterloo IL Chamber --- RRF Fund update: Sign up now!


From: Edie Koch <ekoch@mciledc.com>

Sent: Monday, May 10, 2021 11:32 AM
Subject: Reminder: Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) open for applications and other programs
Importance: High

 

Everyone who meets eligibility for RRF, regardless if they are priority business owners or not,  should get their application in the pipeline for the RRF now.  According to Darrah Perryman, Outreach Specialist  for the US SBA, it’s important to get your applications in the queue now.  Of course SBA will be processing priority business owner applications first, but after that they will begin processing all other  applications in the order received. There is no particular end date to the program; it will be open until funding is exhausted. This is a grant, and the only reason that a company would have to pay it back is if the  funds awarded weren’t used properly (refer to program guide pg. 10); (OR) if business hasn’t  completely used all of the funds by March 11, 2023 (would then be asked to give back the unused portion of funds.)

 

If you are a restaurant; food stand, food truck, or food cart; caterer; bar, saloon, lunge, or tavern; snack and nonalcoholic beverage bar; licensed facility or premise of a beverage alcoholic producer where the public may taste, sample or purchase; other similar place of business in which the public or patrons assemble for the primary purpose of being served food or drink; bakery; brewpub, tasting room, or taproom;  brewery and/or microbrewery; winery or distillery; Inn,  you need to check out if you are eligible for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF).  Information below on full list of eligibility guidelines and other key information.

ü  Date and Time: Friday, May 14, 2021 at 2:00 pm CST. Register: HERE 

ü  Date and Time: Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at 3:00 pm CST. Register: HERE 

ü  Date and Time: Friday, May 21, 2021 at 1:00 pm CST. Register: HERE 

ü  Date and Time: Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at 4:00 pm CST. Register: HERE

ü  Date and Time: Friday, May 28, 2021 at 1:00 pm CST.  Register HereHERE

 

Macomb County Chamber: Two Weeks Until Purpose Summit 2021!

 
May 11-13th in Mt Clemens, MI

View the Agenda at ThePurposeSummit.com


There Are Four Ways to Attend Purpose Summit 2021:

Livestream Virtual: Access to all sessions throughout the three days: $225
On-Demand Virtual: 30-Day On Demand access to recordings of all sessions of the Purpose Summit: $225
In-Person Livestream Pavilion: General Session Livestream seating onsite in an outside covered pavilion: $325
In-Person Inside Theatre: General Session Live seating inside the Emerald Theatre: SOLD OUT

*In-person tickets will als
o receive 30-Day On Demand access to recordings of all sessions of the Purpose Summit.

The Three Days Include:
Over 30 local and international speakers & authors.
A virtual online and onsite business expo held outside on closed streets.
Lunch provided from several local restaurants, in outside food tents.
Live music at various points throughout the three days.
In-person attendee giveaways and contests.
Various evening activities, networking events, and private sponsor receptions.

Day 1 (May 11) Theme: Individual Purpose

Day 2 (May 12) Theme: Organizational Purpose

Day 3 (May 13) Theme: Purpose in Action

View Agenda, Registration, Exhibitor, Sponsor, and Speaker Information:
Visit: ThePurposeSummit.com


State of the Lansing Region Report Represents the Next Step Forward for Greater Lansing

Landmark Benchmarking Study Compares Lansing to 11 Peer Regions and Serves as a Blueprint to Build a More Exciting Future for the Region


A recently completed analysis of the Lansing region’s competitiveness relative to other similar thriving regions around the country is expected to serve as a blueprint for developing strategies to strengthen Greater Lansing position on the national and global stage. The first ever State of the Lansing Region Benchmarking Report was developed as the result of a partnership between the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC), the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) and 10 leading business and education stakeholders.


“Our collective future is bright in a highly competitive global economy,” said Tim Daman, president & CEO, LRCC. “However, we must accelerate our efforts to compete for future jobs and investments successfully. One of the first steps was to benchmark our region against thriving communities and identify our competitive strengths, opportunities for growth, and a regional vision.”

“The Lansing region is currently experiencing historic levels of growth with $3.2 billion in current investments. However, the region needs to continue to compete for economic investment and jobs on a national and global scale,” said Bob Trezise, president & CEO, LEAP. “This report will actively guide us toward important goals and strategies that will lead to continued growth. It will not be easy, but we must accept this challenge with confidence.”

LRCC and LEAP commissioned Anderson Economic Group to conduct the benchmarking study. The economic data reflected in the report is from the years 2014-2018, the most recent economic data available at year end 2019. The resulting inaugural State of the Lansing Region Benchmarking Report compares the Lansing region on 42 indicators relative to 11 peer regions: Ann Arbor, Mich.; Columbus, Ohio; Des Moines, Iowa; Durham, N.C.; Grand Rapids, Mich.; Greenville, S.C.; Hartford, Conn.; Indianapolis, Ind.; Madison Wis.; Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn., and Nashville, Tenn.

“The number one objective I see for this is to raise awareness for leaders in the Lansing area is that we are competing against some pretty strong other metropolitan areas,” said Patrick Anderson, principal, Anderson Economic Group. “We have strengths to bring to that race and we have weaknesses to address. If we focus on those, we will do well.”

Among the 42 economic indicators, four stood out for short-term strategic focus based on their long-term economic growth; population growth, educational attainment, private sector growth and affordability.

As partners launched the report in 2019, they did not anticipate a global pandemic and the resulting disruption is not reflected in the data. Anderson Economic will update the data twice in the next two to four years, which will allow the region to assess the impact of COVID more fully and further adjust strategies and tactics as economic circumstances continue to evolve.

The State of the Region Lansing Benchmarking Report will be introduced at a community roundtable, held virtually at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 4. Partners are also planning to establish the Lansing 2025 Pathway to Prosperity Steering Committee, which will develop action strategies from the inaugural State of the Lansing Region Benchmarking Report and propose alignment with existing regional economic plans.

The entire State of the Lansing Region Benchmarking Report can be accessed by visiting www.stateofthelansingregion.com. The public is strongly encouraged to download, print and share the report. Questions can be directed to stateoftheregion@lansingchamber.org.

“The State of the Lansing Region Benchmarking Report represents an opportunity for business leaders to work together to establish a vision for Lansing’s future,” said Daman. “There is a lot of great work already being done in the region in many of these areas. We need to focus on how we gain alignment and get people working together to move the region forward.”

Clarkston Area Chamber: Tune in this Thursday to the 36th Annual Clarkston Community Awards

 

Join us as we celebrate the people who make our community great at the 36th Annual Clarkston Community Awards! This year's awards video will premier live on Facebook at 7:00pm on Thursday, May 13th. Available for viewing at https://www.facebook.com/events/2890801161175324/.

Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce event focusing on employee shortage


This month's edition of Wake Up West Coast: Coffee Break will feature a conversation with leaders from two local businesses known for thriving workplace cultures.

The 45-minute event, presented by the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce, will take place via Zoom at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 13.

Speakers will include Ed Amaya, president of Kenowa Industries, and Brett VanderKamp, CEO of New Holland Brewing Co.

"In a time when attracting talent is a challenge in many industries across the board, developing a culture and work environment where employees want to stay for the long-term is key strategy in retaining talent," the chamber wrote in a statement.

Amaya's career at Kenowa began in 2003, when he was first hired as manufacturing manager.

He became president in 2006 and majority owner in 2009. In 2012, the company was named Minority-Owned Business of the Year by the chamber.

VanderKamp co-founded New Holland Brewing in 1996. Today, he serves as CEO, overseeing the corporate and leadership teams.

With nearly 500 employees, the business sells its craft beer and spirits across the country and around the globe. In 2015, VanderKamp was named Small Business Person of the Year by the chamber.

Registration for the event is available at westcoastchamber.org. Admission is free for members and $20 for nonmembers.


Midland Business Alliance: First Small Business Tuesday a Success + Loons are Back


It was a little chilly, but Opening Day for the Great Lakes Loons also included the first Small Business Tuesday. As part of the MBA’s small business support effort, we have partnered with the Loons to host Small Business Tuesdays. From May to September 2021, the MBA and up to 10 small businesses will be at the Dow Diamond during game time.

Each game night will have a different theme and focus on a specific industry. This week's theme was restaurants and featured the following businesses:

· Basil Thai Bistro

· Captain Dave's Family Entertainment Center

· Genji Midland

· Midland Brewing Company

· Pi's Chinese Restaurant

· Pizza Baker, LLC

· Pizza Sam’s

· WhichCraft Taproom

Click here to see photos from Tuesday's event. The next Small Business Tuesday will be May 18. Stay tuned to see what businesses will be featured and for the schedule!


Atlantic Area Chamber: T-Bone Trail of Western Iowa Tour



A modern-day expedition into western Iowa, the T-Bone Trail Tour will be one of the beefiest missions of the year and The Iowa Gallivant is ready to take it on! Some of Iowa’s greatest communities will be showcased May – August, with Cass County being the first stop this Friday.

“This will be JayJay and The Iowa Gallivant’s second trip to our community and we’re excited to welcome him back and show him even more of the area. The idea of the T-Bone Trail Tour is to showcase what travelers can do outdoors and highlight restaurants serving Iowa raised beef,” Bailey Smith, Executive Director at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce said.

Goodvin will make stops at Schildberg Recreation Area with highlights of walking and biking trails in Atlantic, Baxter Cycle in Marne, Cold Springs Park in Lewis, The Outdoor Classroom in Massena, Lake Anita State Park and end with a steak dinner at the Wiota Steakhouse. He will post videos and blogs of his adventures to his Facebook page, The Iowa Gallivant, and encourages everyone to follow along!

“What if I told you that a juicy steak could be paired with the beautiful Loess Hills, rural roller-coaster like blacktops, vibrant Main Streets, tranquil off the beaten path wonders, historic landmarks unique to Iowa, hundreds of miles of hiking/biking trails and unbelievable lakesides you can’t believe you’ve overlooked before. People have a favorite steak night go-to in Des Moines, Omaha, Kansas City, etc. It’s time to expand that sense of adventure and find another juicy, perfectly cooked beefy masterpiece in western Iowa and experience one of the greatest areas in the world,” JayJay Goodvin, creator of The Iowa Gallivant said.

The next stop on the tour will be a visit to Audubon County on Saturday, May 8. Goodvin will visit a local beef producer, Albert the Bull, T-Bone Trail, a trip to the golf course and to the Nathanial Hamlin Park. He’ll end his visit with a steak dinner at the Barn Burner in Brayton.

For more information about The Iowa Gallivant, visit their website at www.theiowagallivant.com, Facebook, The Iowa Gallivant, or contact the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at 712-243-3017. The T-Bone Trail Tour kicks off this Friday, May 7. Read more: Atlantic News Telegraph




Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory Sales 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!