New economic development program to support and assist existing business

Nearly 75 percent of a community’s new job creation and capital investment comes from existing companies, and that is certainly true in the Springfield region.

That is why supporting and assisting our existing businesses has always been part of the Chamber’s focus, and that is why the Chamber’s economic development team is implementing a new program to better serve local businesses. 

At its core, this economic development strategy involves talking with executives, listening to what issues they are dealing with, removing barriers to their growth, and providing assistance as they expand. 

The bottom line is we want employers to stay in our community, and we want to help them succeed here in the Springfield region.

Already, we have seen some trends begin to emerge.  Our existing business community is cautiously optimistic about 2011.  Many companies will be hiring and expanding this year, and are anticipating growth compared to the previous few years. 

All over Springfield, companies are adding 5, 10, 30 jobs or more.  Taken as a whole, this adds up to a significant amount of job creation across our community. . .

Read the full story.

Check out our social networking opportunities

The Chamber has an active presence in the social media world. The conversation is already happening and this is your opportunity to get your business or organization involved!

The Chamber is using social media as another tool in our tool belt to provide your business with even more tangible member benefits.

Start by liking us on Facebook, connecting on Linkedin and following us on Twitter. See Springfield through the eyes of those who live here through the Chamber's flickr and YouTube pages. Check out all our networks!
 

Legislative Breakfast series off to a good start

The Springfield Metro Partnership kicked off its Legislative Breakfast Series this week with the first of three events on Feb. 16.

The events take place at 7 a.m. at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City. Remaining breakfast dates include March 30 and April 27. Register now!

These events provide networking opportunities with state legislators over breakfast in Jefferson City. The Chamber is a member of the Springfield Metro Partnership.