Included in this issue... | |
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- Legislative Advocacy
- Northern Michigan Policy Conference
- Alliance Quarterly Report
- Economic Development
- Staff Changes
- MEDC Survey
- Leadership & Professional Development
- Manistee Area Leadership Program: Industrial Day
- Upcoming Programs
- New Investors & Investor Updates
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Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce Attends the
Northern Michigan Policy Conference!
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Michigan's top legislative officials came together to discuss the policies surrounding the most important issues in rural Northern Michigan
Our President and CEO, Stacie Bytwork, partner of the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance, attended the regional economic development conference led by a coalition of 16 chambers and economic development organizations across Northern Michigan.
This year's policy conference was honored to have Governor Whitmer as the keynote speaker who addressed and focused on issues surrounding rural business development, talent, housing, and childcare.
We heard remarks from key state leaders including Susan Corbin - Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, Sarah Lucas - Office of Rural Prosperity, Amy Hovey - Michigan State Housing and Development Authority, and Joe Tate - Michigan State House District 10.
A panel discussion on current affairs (topics such as housing and talent) with the Northern Caucus was held, featuring Sen. Damoose - Michigan Senate District 37, Sen. Hoitenga - Michigan Senate District 36, Rep. Coffia- Michigan State House District 103, Rep Hill - Michigan State House District 109, Rep. Roth - Michigan State House District 104, and Rep, VanderWall - Michigan State District 102.
The conference also included a U.S. Senate Candidate Forum, which included Hill Harper, Michael Hoover, Peter Meijer, and Nikki Snyder.
Bytwork's presence at the conference and strong relations with key officials and state leaders prioritizes answers to these key issues within Manistee County.
Thank you to everyone who attended and our partner organizations for their leadership in making this a success!
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Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance
Quarterly Report
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The Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance Quarterly Report
is available today!
This report contains concerns on energy policy, a new Supporting Partner with the Alliance, a briefing of the Northwest Michigan Housing Summit, and many more vital updates.
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Marc Miller, our Director of Economic Development, has accepted a position with the University of Illinois and his last day will be Friday, February 2, 2023. | |
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While we are sad his employment is coming to an end with the Chamber, we are excited for this opportunity he has for the future of his career and to be closer to family. Marc has been a true asset to the economic development program, and we appreciate his almost 4.5 years of dedication to this work building momentum and positive incremental change for our community.
“The economic development program has built a foundation of solid momentum in recent years, and it is moving forward in 2024,” said Marc Miller. “Economic development is a collaborative team effort, and there are many important players - the Economic Development Council, Chamber Board of Directors, governmental leaders and officials, strategic partners that build capacity, and the staff of the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce. I have enjoyed personally working with everyone while making positive, incremental change, and know that these leaders will continue making strides in Manistee County.”
The Chamber is currently working on a transition plan, and we're thankful we have an economic development intern, Nicole Kaminski, who's on staff until the middle of March to assist with some of Marc's role.
We wish Marc all the best in his new position, and will miss him!
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WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER TEAM: | |
Please join us in welcoming Nicole Kaminski to the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce as our Economic Development Intern. | | |
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We are thrilled to have her join our team for the quarter!
Nicole Kaminski was born and raised in Manistee. She is a 2020 graduate from Manistee Catholic Central and recently graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Economic Geography and a minor in Cities: Environment, Design, and Society. In her free time, Nicole is a volunteer assistant coach for Manistee Catholic Central girls’ basketball team. She looks forward to traveling abroad in the future but says Manistee will always be her home.
Please welcome Nicole Kaminski!
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Are you a small business of at least 10 employees?
Take this 5-minute survey.
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The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) is conducting a critical survey to better understand the challenges and needs of second-stage small businesses (10+ employees).
By sharing your expertise and insights, you help shape the future of Michigan’s small business resources. The survey responses will inform the MEDC on strategies and programs to better serve our state’s entrepreneurs.
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Survey Highlights: 5 minutes estimated time to complete
- Responses are strictly confidential, and individual data will remain anonymous.
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This survey will remain open until January 31, 2024.
- Input will influence the support services and resources available to businesses in Michigan.
Help Us Spread the Word:
We kindly request that you share this survey within your network of second-stage small businesses (10+ employees). Your support can amplify the impact of this initiative and bring us closer to a brighter future for Michigan’s business community. You can use the template provided here to communicate with your networks.
Survey Questions or Assistance:
Should you or anyone you know have any questions or encounter difficulties while completing the survey, please don't hesitate to reach out to Startup Space at contactus@startupspace.app.
Thank you for your dedication to Michigan’s small businesses. Together, we can empower and uplift our entrepreneurial community.
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Leadership Program: Industrial Day | |
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Manistee County has a strong manufacturing sector that plays a significant role in its economy. Last Thursday, the Leadership Team toured Packing Corporation of America, Martin Marietta, and Myotek for Industrial Day! We were able to get a firsthand look at the day-to-day operations of each company and see the impact they have on the local economy.
It was impressive to see the efficiency and scale of each operation as well as their commitment to sustainability and dedication to innovation and continuous improvement. Overall, manufacturing plays a vital role in Manistee County’s economy, providing employment, driving innovation, and contributing to the overall prosperity of the community.
We want to thank our Power Hour sponsor, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center- Northern Michigan, Betsy Williams for traveling to Manistee. She kept us on our toes as we learned to implement technical and leadership skills.
Thank you to our lunch sponsor - Manistee Manufacturers Council for lunch at Two Slices!
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Chamber UnTapped 2024: TOMORROW! | |
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Get your tickets now!
Come start the new year with a bang: mingle with business professionals, enjoy food and drinks, and enjoy an evening of conversation and live music by Tim Krause.
WHEN: Thursday, January 25th, 5:00-7:00pm
WHERE: North Channel Brewing Company
$10 for Chamber Members
$20 for Non-Members
Sponsored by: NOMI Racing, Johnson Sign Company, Dunegrass Co., and North Channel Brewing Co.
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TICKETS NOW LIVE:
Business Awards Gala 2024
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Celebrate Manistee County businesses and business professionals! This elegant, formal evening includes cocktails and conversations, dinner, and dessert, followed by the annual Chamber of Commerce Awards Program. Wrap up the evening with a festive after-party featuring The Great Lakes Brass Band, and a cash bar!
PROGRAM
5:00 - 6:15 PM Cocktails & Conversation
6:15 - 7:30 PM Dinner & Entertainment
7:30 - 8:45 PM Awards Program
9:00 - 10:30 PM After Party - featuring Great Lakes Brass Band!
If you are interested in lodging, please call the Little River Casino Resort at (231) 723-1535 to reserve your room. Mention Manistee Chamber Annual Award Dinner for a discounted rate!
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Manistee Chamber: Investment & Sponsorship Opportunities | |
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We are always looking for ways to get your name out there.
The Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of sponsorship opportunities across our wide array of programs.
When you invest with the Manistee Area Chamber, you have increased presence with early sponsorship selection, Chamber website recognition, and additional benefits. You also support our efforts in Legislative Advocacy, Economic Development, Leadership/Professional Development, and the Downtown Development Authority.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Carmen Kott at carmen@manisteechamber.com or 231-723-2575 to discuss your options.
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Please welcome our new Chamber investors! | | |
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ZenBusiness - ZenBusiness is excited about helping other entrepreneurs realize their dreams of creating & growing a successful business. ZenBusiness is set apart for their fast filing, low cost, expert service, simple setup, and their core belief that the "awesomeness" of entrepreneurs can be unleashed in everybody. | | |
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The Studio - is a DIY art studio that offers a wide range of DIY classes for individuals, groups, or corporate events. From beginners to artists, there is something for everyone. Classes are priced to include all of the supplies you will need to let your creativity shine. | | |
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Riverside Toys - From the same owners as Port City Emporium, Riverside Toys will bring a selection of unique major brand-name toys for children. Programs will be available all year long such as the Stewie Birthday Club and a once-a-month toy giveaway. | | |
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The SunShack & Co. - Coming soon to Downtown Manistee, the SunShack & Co is a tanning salon located on River Street. Their services include hydro-massage and house a variety of tanning lotions, and skin moisturizers. The SunShack will also include a small boutique area with swim attire, fun dresses for the summer and holidays! | |
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Have an update to share for a future Chamber newsletter?
Don't be shy... let us know!
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Contact Blade Gates at communications@manisteechamber.com with details on your program or update for the opportunity to be mentioned in the next newsletter under 'Investor Updates' | | |
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Give the gift that gives back locally!
manistee county ca$h is a county-wide certificate program available for purchase online 24/7 and accepted at 30+ locations.
Use the link above to purchase today!
Further questions?
Contact carmen@manisteechamber.com.
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Need to update your information?
Let us know!
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It's a new year: we want to make sure our records are up to date.
Whether you have a new staff member, new address, or any similar information in need of updating, let us know!
Please contact Carmen Kott at carmen@manisteechamber.com with this information.
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COMMUNITY TRANSFORMERS
These businesses have gone above and beyond to invest in the Chamber,
ultimately benefiting our community. Thank you!
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