Brought to you by:
The Ionia Area Chamber of Commerce
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Hang in there... warmer days are coming! In fact Spring is right around the corner and we couldn't be more excited. Not only are we ready for better weather, but we've been working behind the scenes to put together a brand new event for our community.
We are working on pulling together all of the details and will begin public promotions soon, but we just can't wait to share what we're working on.
This event will be an all-around celebration of the arts and will provide local talent with a platform to share their various art forms with the community. Our goal is to have a variety of activities for all ages, tentatively including:
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Art Trail – judged contest featuring works of local art displayed in local businesses for public view (similar to “ArtPrize” on a much smaller scale).
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“A Murder Mystery at the Murder Mystery” - presented by Ionia High School Theatre
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Open Mic Night – (music & writing)
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Artisan Village (hand-crafted and locally made items)
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Art/Craft Clinics (Various locations/times)
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Immersive Art Exhibit/Selfie Museum – presented by Ionia High School Theatre
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Musical Review “pop-ups” – Ionia Community Theatre (various locations/times)
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Historical Downtown Architecture tours – Ionia County Historical Society
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FREE Concert – (~1-9pm on Saturday)
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Performance Stage (Saturday, at start of concert)
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“Best of” – Local Restaurant Tasting Contest
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Cooking Contests - (for residents)
As mentioned above - we're putting together the different components to be able to start promoting and taking registrations. In the meanwhile, we're starting a list! Please contact us or share our information if you or someone you know may be interested in:
- Sponsoring
- Reserving an artisan booth
- Entering a piece of Art into the Art Trail
- Teaching/instructing an art workshop or clinic
- Novice/intermediate bands/musicians performing on the Performance Stage during the first part of the concert
- Established bands/musicians interested in being a part of our concert
- Participating in Open Mic Night
Contact Information:
Kat Hansen - Executive Director
info@ioniachamber.net
616.527.2560
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Quick Poll - Your Feedback Matters! |
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How does your company/organization value customer service?
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Extremely High - We offer trainings to our employees and/or offer incentives
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High - but we don't offer our employees formal training or incentives
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We value it - but we know we could be doing a bit better
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We'd like to/need to improve drastically
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Does not apply to my business / organization
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What's Happening at the Chamber? |
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Please help us welcome the newest member of our Board of Directors!
Shelly Springborn - Director of Communications & Public Relations, Montcalm Community College
Why are you interested in being an IACC Board of Director?:
"At Montcalm Community College, community is our middle name, and this is a motto we live by. Being involved in a variety of activities to enhance the communities in which we live and serve is something I live by every day... I have been involved with a number of organizations and volunteer efforts for my entire career.
That said, I believe in the work that Chambers of Commerce do to enhance networking and outreach opportunities for area businesses, organizations and individuals, as well as the valuable resources and relationships that are built and maintained through Chamber memberships. Chambers of Commerce provide credibility, exposure, networking opportunities and resources to build better communities. I believe my 27+ years of experience working in the communications business combined with my dedication to serving others would be beneficial to the board as the IACC continues its work."
Welcome Shelly!
Introducing the Chamber's new Membership & Event Coordinator
"My name is Lisa Potter I was born in Dublin, Ireland. Graduated from the Marketing Institute of Ireland. I spent several years living in London, England and Paris, France. I came to the United States in 1993 and became a citizen in 1999. My family and myself have made Ionia our home for the last seven years and we live within the city limits. I am super excited to start my new position as Member and Event Coordinator for the Ionia Area Chamber of Commerce. I plan on expanding our membership and providing excellent support to our current members. And above all promoting our businesses throughout Michigan. I look forward to meeting you all and getting to know you and your business in the near future. If there is anything I can do to assist you please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I look forward to our continued growth under the guidance of our director Kat Hansen."
2023 Promotional and Advertising Opportunities - CLICK HERE
Upcoming Chamber Events
- March 24: Career Fair (Lakewood Schools)
- April 27-29: Art/Food Festival (more info coming soon)
- May 18: Mega Mixer
- June 02: Golf Classic
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Upcoming Networking
& Educational Opportunities
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Next Event -
Date:
Monday, March 27
Time:
9:00AM - 10:00AM
Location:
West Michigan Works
603 W. Adams St., Ionia
Cost:
FREE to attend
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Legislative Update
Learn what YOUR state Senators and Representatives are working on at this FREE to the public monthly meeting! Local county, city and township officials, including commissioners and city officials are also in attendance to provide updates. Question & answer period at the end.
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Wake Up & Shake Up Networking Breakfast
This monthly event gathers business and community representatives for a presentation by a local business or organization and information sharing. Conversation, leads, referrals, info-sharing and more to KICK-START your day!
Refreshments will be provided compliments of the sponsor.
Interested in sponsoring in 2023? View Sponsor Information - CLICK HERE
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Next Event -
Date:
Tuesday, March 28
Time:
7:30AM - 8:30AM
Location:
West Michigan Works!
603 W. Adams St. Ionia
Sponsor:
PFCU Credit Union
Cost:
$5 per member*
*Prospective Members are invited to attend up to two events at the member rate ($10 after)
Contact us to purchase an Annual Pass
Bring your business cards, brochures and flyers!
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Next Event -
Date:
Tuesday, March 14
Time:
11:00AM - 1:00PM
Location:
Ionia Armory Community Center - Lion's Room
439 W. Main St. Ionia
Cost:
FREE
BYO lunch (water, soda and chips provided)
Bring a laptop or tablet if possible.
Registration Appreciated
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Chamber "U" - Maximizing Your Membership
Whether you are a prospective, new or long-time member; Chamber U - Mazimize Your Membership is an opportunity to "Meet the Chamber" and learn more about benefits, resources, opportunities, and events available through Chamber Membership.
- Network with other business professionals
- Learn about your Chamber of Commerce
- Meet your Chamber staff and volunteers
- Start utilizing your membership benefits
- Learn about Chamber Programs, Events & Committees
- Discover Promotional & Advertising Opportunities
- Learn how to access and use the Members-only portal to promote your business
- Q&A
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Power Networking Lunch
Join us for your lunch break at our monthly Power Networking Lunch!
The luncheons feature open and structured networking and will be highlighted by 3 presentation tables, allowing Chamber members to spotlight their business. The event usually lasts 90 minutes and allows attendees to make important connections within the business community.
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Next Event -
Date:
Thursday, March 16
Time:
11:30AM - 1:00PM
Location:
Linda's Corner Landing
128 W. Grand River Ave. Ionia
Cost:
$15 | IACC members
$20 | Non-Members
$50 | Presentation tables (2 remaining - first come first serve)
Contact us to purchase a Quarterly Pass
(2nd Quarter at Tropical Smoothie Cafe)
Pre-register by 4pm on March 09th
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Next Appointments -
Date:
Friday, April 7
Time:
9:00AM: Open
10:00AM: Open
11:00AM: Open
Location:
Unless otherwise arranged, consulting appointments are hosted at Sozo Coffee Roasting
576 N. State St.
Ionia, MI 48846
Cost:
FREE
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Free Confidential Business Consulting
Considering starting a business or making changes to an aspect of your business?
Remove some of the risk by meeting with our free and confidential Business Consultant - Make your appointment for the first Friday of the month through the Ionia Area Chamber of Commerce.
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Next Meeting -
Date: Wednesday, March 8th
Time: 11:30AM - 1:00PM
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The Small Business Briefing
Airs Mondays and Thursdays at 3pm ET. Watch to get the latest news from SBAM’s Brian Calley and Sarah Miller, along with special guests!
(Click image to redirect)
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Employment Law 2023 - Workplace Trends you Need to Know Now
Date: Thursday, March 09, 2023
Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00PM
Location: In-Person at Bodman PLC 99 Monroe Ave NW | Suite 300 | Grand Rapids MI 49503
$249 to Members of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce (IACC Members) | $349 Non-Members
Contact us for Member Code to apply discount
(Active IACC Members)
(Click image to redirect)
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Big Changes and Opportunities in Sweeping New Federal Retirement Savings Law – The Top Things Small Businesses and Employers Need to Know
Date: Tuesday, March 14, 2023
Time: 9:30 AM - 10:00AM
Location: Webinar
FREE to Members of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce (IACC Members) | FREE Non-Members
(Click image to redirect)
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SCORE Workshops
Date: Thursday, March 02, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM
Date: Thursday, March 16, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM
These are a FREE online workshops hosted by SCORE
(Click image to redirect)
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Events & Promotional Opportunities |
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Career Fair
The goal of our career fair is to connect students with industry professionals and local business leaders to explore career opportunities post high school. Businesses seeking to recruit employees can reserve interview rooms to speak further with potential candidates.
During the career fair our businesses can provide informational flyers, visuals, credentials needed or a career pathway for employment.
Lakewood students will visit in the morning starting at 8:00 a.m. by grade level (8th - 12th)
Portland High School, Saranac High School, Belding High School, Ionia High School will each have their 11th and 12th graders visit in the afternoon during a scheduled time slot.
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Date
Friday, March 24, 2023
Time
7:30AM | Booth Setup
8:00AM | Start
Location
Lakewood High School Gymnasium
7223 Velte Rd. Lake Odessa, Mi 48849
Fees/Admission
Business Registration is FREE
Questions?
Contact Jodi Duits at 616.374.8043x4426
duitsj@lakewoodps.org
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Ionia Chamber Golf Classic
One of the BEST Fridays of Spring! The event typically has 128 players and 12 volunteers helping to fund raise to fulfill the Chamber's mission of providing resources for businesses and promoting a vibrant community image.
Teams FULL
If you are unable to attend, there are many ways
to have your business represented
TEE SPONSORSHIP - $80/Each
Grand Prize Donations - $200+ Value
Raffle Prize Donation - $20 to $200 Value
Door Prize Donation - $20 or less Value
Bag Stuffers - coupons, freebies, etc. (see sponsorship guide for more ideas)
Other Sponsorship & Promotional Opportunities - CLICK HERE
Give us a call at 616-527-2560 to donate a prize or discuss other options!
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New Member Welcome Packets
When a business or organization becomes a Member of the Chamber, we send a packet of Welcome Information to help them become familiar with our Organization and fellowMembers.
Many of these new members are looking to fellow members to do business with, as well as getting more familiar with the many options in our community.
A coupon, special offer, or small free gift is a great way to encourage new Members to learn about your products and services and encourage future business and referrals.
This is a FREE opportunity for Chamber Members to participate in.
Please Contact us at (616) 527-2560 if you are interested in participating.
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Fill the Wall Challenge
(Envelope Wall)
Officially kicked off at the beginning of 2023, our goal is simple... to raise funds to fill the donation wall to support the Chambers 2023 Initiatives.
Simply choose an available envelope, labeled $1, $2, $3.... up to $75 to donate online. We will also bring the envelope wall to ALL Chamber events until the wall is filled.
All who donate will be recognized on the Chamber's social media
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Please Help us Welcome Our Newest Members! |
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(Click image for more info) |
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(Click image for more info) |
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Member Employment Opportunities |
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Do You Have Employment Opportunities to Share? |
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PFCU Employees Donate $8,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Ionia County.
(Click the logo to be redirected for more details)
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Have News you'd love for us to share?
Don't forget to add it to the Member Information Center!
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50% Off Any 24oz Smoothie
(Click the logo to be redirected for more details)
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FREE Emergency Ready Profile Advantage
(Click the logo to be redirected for more details)
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Have a Public or Member-Only Deal you want us to share?
Don't forget to add it to the Member Information Center!
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Have an upcoming event you want us to share?
Don't forget to add it to the Member Information Center!
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Community Events Calendar |
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Thursday, May 4
Saturday, May 13
Saturday, May 20 - Sunday, May 21
Thursday, June 1
Saturday, June 3
Saturday, June 10
Saturday, June 10
Saturday, June 17
Saturday, June 17
SMAT Community Day
Wed., June 21 - Sun., June 25
Thursday, June 29
Thursday, July 8
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Saturday, July 10
Friday, July 14 - Saturday, July 22
Thursday, August 3
Saturday, August 12
Saturday, August 12
Thursday, Sept. 7
Thursday, Sept. 7 - Sunday, Sept. 10
Saturday, Sept. 10
Friday, Sept. 22 - Sunday, Sept. 23
Wizard of Oz Festival
Sunday, October 29
Every Sat. 9am - 1pm | June 3 - Oct. 7
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When
Thursday, March 23 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM
Where
Ionia County Intermediate School District
2191 Harwood Rd
Ionia, MI 48846
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The Ionia County Economic Alliance invites you to attend our 2022 Annual Meeting and Economic Outlook on March 23, 2023.
- An update on The Right Place's regional People, Place, Prosperity strategy and new Strategic Plan
- A West Michigan Region economic outlook
- An introduction and update from Sarah Lucas of the Office of Rural Development
- A Rural Broadband update
- A recap from 2022 and a look ahead to 2023 from ICEA Executive Director Ryan Wilson
This meeting will be available in-person and through Zoom at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84272230138?pwd=TnBhNU82RlNmWUFwWHY4a3I1UDkxdz09
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Join the Michigan Chamber Wednesday, April 5 for the 2023 Small Business Summit. This event features in-demand sessions with Q&A, networking opportunities, and cutting-edge, actionable advice on many of the most pressing issues facing small businesses today.
This event has something for everyone, including business owners and other professionals working in human resources, finance, marketing, sales, and more.
Early bird registration closes Feb. 28, so register today! Plus, save another $25 with special code "WJR" through Friday, Feb. 10
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**IACC Member Benefit Spotlight** |
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Exclusive & Discounted Promotional Opportunities
Communicate with business decision makers, community residents, and visitors throughout the greater Ionia Area!
No matter your budget, we can help GET YOUR MESSAGE out through affordable and targeted marketing campaigns.
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WEBSITE BANNER ADS
- 3, 6, or 12 month packages
- Several placement options
- Ad tracking capability, clickable to Member page
E-NEWSLETTER ADS
- Header, Mid-Publication or Footer placement
- 1, 2, or 6 month packages
- Sent to over 700 contacts, 40% Open Rate
- Limited space available (1 per placement per month)
"WORD ON THE STREET" E-BLAST
- "Shoppers-style" monthly e-blast (also shared on social media)
- 1 FREE per year for Members
- $25/Month - limited to 12 spaces per month
- Sent to over 1,400 contacts, 40% Open Rate
- Ad designed by Member
OTHER
- Welcome to Ionia County Guide - Annual (discounted Ad rates for Members)
- Business Directory Enhanced Listings
- Ionia Community Cash - no merchant fees for Members
- Host/Sponsor a Networking Event or Lunch n' Learn
- Event/Program Sponsorship
- Premiere Partners Program
Contact us today to learn more about any of these opportunities!
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Don't forget to submit your jobs, news, events, and deals to the Member Information Center by the FINAL Wednesday of each month to be included in our next Newsletter! |
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As always, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or comments |
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Kat Hansen | Executive Director
Ionia Area Chamber of Commerce
(616) 527-2560
info@ioniachamber.net
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