Milwaukee Commerce - Fall 2023 by MMAC

MILWAUKEE COMMERCE Fall 2023 - Volume 102, No. 3

Supplier Diversity

Lifts Communities Inclusive Purchasing Drives Growth, Innovation

In This Issue Business Equity by the Numbers Page 6

Sherman Phoenix Spurs Success Page 12

Inclusive Banking Has Huge Impact Page 28

Stronger Together Providing the best legal service to our clients requires the strongest team. A rich diversity of talent leads to faster innovation and a wider variety of creative solutions for clients. That same principle extends to our vendors – they serve us best when they represent a diverse supplier network that reflects our community and our clients. If your diverse business would like to be considered by Reinhart, please reach out us at SupplierDiversity@reinhartlaw.com.

414.298.1000 reinhartlaw.com

2 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Sponsored content

Partnering in Possibilities Local organizations actively taking steps to promote supplier diversity. In recent years, the city of Milwaukee has seen a surge in emphasis on supplier diversity as a key driver of our economic growth and social empowerment, acknowledging the positive impact of seeking and utilizing suppliers that represent a wide range of backgrounds including minority-owned, womenowned, veteran-owned, and other underrepresented businesses. Many local organizations have been actively taking steps to promote supplier diversity and create an inclusive business environment. Initiatives such as outreach programs, capacity-building workshops and networking events have been developed in recent years to connect diverse suppliers with potential business partners. At Reinhart, we are also committed to economic development through greater supplier choice. Our suppliers serve us best when they represent a diverse supplier network that reflects our community and our clients. We seek out suppliers of all backgrounds such as race, color, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, ethnicity, religion or creed. We utilize local vendors from various backgrounds to support our internal Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives and our day-to-day operations. These highly diverse, talented individuals and their organizations offer quality products at reasonable prices with a focus on delivering exceptional client service— the same level of service we provide to the clients of our firm.

Beth J. Bahr

Chief Human Resources Officer bbahr@reinhartlaw.com 414.298.8228

We have found that there are many benefits from utilizing a supplier diversity approach: economic growth and a more resilient business ecosystem, increased innovation, greater employment opportunities and enhanced competitiveness which leads to higher quality products, services as well as lower costs. Not to mention, investing in supplier diversity directly impacts the lives of the individuals and families in our community. By offering support of diverse businesses, we foster an environment where entrepreneurship is encouraged and nurtured. Those efforts create a ripple effect that lifts our local neighborhoods, promotes local reinvestment and strengthens community ties.

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Content

Diversifying the suppliers you rely on and being inclusive in your purchasing habits comes with a number of benefits – new perspective, innovation, potential cost savings and infusion of revenue into underserved communities, just to name a few. In this issue we’ll make a case for supplier diversity and introduce you to some of the businesses that can help you achieve your business goals.

FEATURING

06 08 12 14 18 21

Regional Business Equity Much work left to be done

Cocoa Company & Woman-led Importer Find Their Niche by Emily Allen, FaB Wisconsin

Launching Entrepreneurship

Future 50 Winners Distinct Businesses, Shared Vision Learning on the Job Small Bank, Huge Ambition Reaching Goodness Leadership Council Startup Story Legislative Wins

23 24 26 28 31 34 39 40

In every issue: 42 48 52 53 53

How the Sherman Phoenix is fostering business success in Milwaukee by Corry Joe Biddle, MMAC

MMAC event photos New MMAC members Member milestones Postage Statement Staff directory

MKE Black, mercadoMKE helping Black- and Brown-owned Businesses Get Seen

Thank you to our advertisers:

Paying it Forward

Husch Blackwell program provides pro bono legal counsel for growing businesses

Power of the Purchase

Inclusive purchasing up to everyone

Volume 102, No. 3 - Milwaukee Commerce (USPS 546-370, ISN 0746-6706) is published four times a year by the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC), 301 W Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 220 | Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203 Periodicals postage paid at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Subscriptions $5 per year for members, included in dues. POSTMASTER send address changes to: Milwaukee Commerce - MMAC/Andrea Medved 301 W Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 220 Milwaukee, WI 53203

4 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Additional content:

Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren Associated Bank Wintrust Commercial Bank University Wisconsin - Milwaukee Spectrum Reach Delta Dental Investors Associated CG Schmidt WICPA JCP Construction UnitedHealthcare

2 10 16 20 22 30 32 38 50 51 54

Cathy Jacobson, MMAC Chair Tim Sheehy, MMAC President Ryan Amundson, Editor (ramundson@mmac.org) Anna Reaves, Graphic Design (areaves@mmac.org) Jane Backes, Advertising (jbackes@mmac.org)

Diversifying Suppliers Generates Benefits for Companies, Community & Economy

s the metro-area chamber of commerce, MMAC supports and celebrates businesses – small and large companies in every industry throughout the region. But the fact is that companies owned by people of color continue to face additional challenges and biases – across the nation and even more acutely in our own community. According to 2020 Census figures, 1.2 million employer businesses were owned by minorities. They employed about 9.9 million employees and had an annual combined payroll of $357.4 billion. Some large, local corporations are tapping into the 1,200+ Black- and Brownowned businesses based in Milwaukee for services and products ranging from construction and manufacturing to food services and health care. Many more are not.

According to a McKinsey study, minority- or women-owned businesses enterprises (MWBEs) generate year-over-year cost savings of 8.5%. Supplier diversity also fosters a more resilient supply chain ecosystem. Small and diverse suppliers bring agility, flexibility and enhance a company’s ability to adapt to market changes.

Who you do business with is as important as who you hire. Milwaukee has the lowest ranking among its peer cities for successful diverse businesses. Success here translates to wealth creation, crime reduction and talent retention.

The end goal of supplier diversity isn’t to just be more inclusive of vendors — it’s to open supply chains to new ideas, disruptive technologies, new talent, specialized insight and local expertise.

Ugo Nwagbarocha

So why isn’t everyone doing it? The number one barrier to supplier diversity, as reported by 75% of organizations surveyed by MMAC in 2021, is finding credible new suppliers and working with them to scale their products and services. This work is not easy, but first steps can be simple. Expand your pool for RFPs, seek out diverse providers for even one-time purchases. Make new connections and build relationships.

MMAC Board member and Chair, The Business Council

Growth in supplier diversity and spending with diverse-owned firms offers shared value to corporations, the economy and the community. I encourage you to consider the benefits. By investing in diverse firms, you are investing in your business success.

Tim Sheehy MMAC President

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REGIONAL BUSINESS much work left

EQUITY

to be done

he numbers paint a challenging picture. For decades, studies have shown Milwaukee, the region and Wisconsin as having one of the country’s poorest business climates for MBEs (minority business enterprises). The most recent – a study of minority entrepreneurship by Lendio, an organization supporting those applying for SBA loans – shows Wisconsin ranks 48 out of 51 states and the District of Columbia for minority entrepreneurs. Those numbers are based on access to small business loans, business ownership rates and overall income equality.

Wisconsin ranks

48 out of 51

For more than four years, MMAC has been working to decrease racial disparities for talent, business and students. Since its launch in 2019, the Region of Choice initiative has helped more than 125 companies collaborate to make Milwaukee a more welcoming place for Black and Brown talent. In 2021, companies signing the Region of Choice pledge reported a 12.3 percent increase in their Black and Brown employment, and a 26 percent increase in Black and Brown representation in management ranks.

for minority entrepreneurs Making Milwaukee a

REGION OF CHOICE

MMAC also supports wealth creation through minority business development and entrepreneurship. By developing partnerships between companies and diverse suppliers, the goal is to increase business through individual purchases and long-term supplier relationships.

Peer-Region Comparisons In comparing Milwaukee to 20 peer metros around the country, Milwaukee ranked 17th for Black and Brown entrepreneurship rates. Strengthening minority business development and entrepreneurship is vital to reducing wealth disparities.

SUPPLIER DIVERSITY OPPORTUNITIES

Industry

Total

White

Total Minority

Asian

Black

Hispanic

Total Black & Hispanic

Construction

3,056

2,961

Manufacturing

2,322

2,004

Retail Trade

3,008

2,214

556

495

Wholesale Trade

2,028

1,622

Transportation & Warehousing

959

756

100

Information

383

263

Finance & Insurance

1,499

1,175

Professional Services

3.614

3,141

230

118

117

Admin. & Support Services

2,079

1,859

111

Healthcare & Social Assist.

3,620

2,460

699

488

578

Accommodation & Food Services

2,667

2,111

610

433

121

155

Other

1,937

1,670

229

167

Total $

27,172

22,236

2,726

1,365

730

438

1,168

82%

11%

Even with imperfect Census data, we see a strong base of business with the experience and scale to deliver scalable results.

Percentage %

Data: Census SBO (2017) Projections. “Y” notes poor sample for projections; does not mean none exist. Data should only be used for directional purposes only.

In its most recent study of local firms, the Milwaukee metro area was found to have 1,200-plus Black- and Brown-owned businesses across many industries. These businesses offer value and innovation. Some larger Fortune 1,000 companies – such as Johnson Controls, Froedtert, Advocate Aurora and others – have formal supplier diversity programs in place. 6 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Companies that signed the Region of Choice pledge reported a

12.3% increase in their Black and Brown employment and a

26% increase in Black and Brown talent

in management ranks from 2018 -2021

Supplier Diversity Challenges In the same study, corporate stakeholders identified several barriers to increasing spending with diverse suppliers, including:

Prioritization

Those interviewed stressed that change needs to start at the top with an authentic commitment to the issue.

Access

Interviewees saw a lack of access in the nation’s most racially segregated city – making intentionality essential for more diverse business partners.

Misconceptions

Tap Into the Resources Diverse-owned businesses can tap into the resources of ecosystem supporters, including: • African American Chamber of Commerce of WI | aaccwi.org • BizStarts | bizstarts.com • gener8tor | gener8tor.com • Hmong Chamber of Commerce of WI | hmongchamber.org • Jobs Work MKE / MKE Anchor Collaborative | jobsworkmke.org • Latino Chamber of Commerce of SE WI | latinochambersew.org • Latino Entrepreneurial Network | latinoentrepreneurialnetwork.org • LISC Brew City Match | brewcitymatch.com • MKE Black | mkeblack.org

Implicit bias may cause decision makers to think that minority businesses are “too small,” “lowskill,” “more expensive,” “lacking in quality or innovation” and result in a lack of opportunities.

Process

Corporate procurement processes are often less transparent and harder to navigate than those in the public sector. Additionally, diverse suppliers often go through extra steps, such as certification confirmation, not expected of non-minority companies often with short RFP turnaround times.

Capacity

Despite strong Black and Brown business talent in the area, not all industries have representation.

Business Case for Supplier Diversity There are a number of benefits local companies can gain by diversifying their suppliers, including: • Company culture improvement with sound social responsibility initiatives. • Meeting expectations of investors that companies make progress in this area. • Increased competition drives cost savings, quality and customization among competing suppliers. • Expansion of local GDP by increasing direct production of goods and services in Milwaukee. • Increased recirculation of spending to other local firms, enhancing indirect and induced spending. • Creation of local jobs in underserved local communities, driving livability and neighborhood revitalization.

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Cocoa Company & Woman-Led Importer Find Their Niche

Carrie Fix, formerly of M.E. Dey Co.; Steve Olsen, former Mayor of the City of Franklin; Edmond Poku, Niche Cocoa; Steve Wallace, Omanhene Cocoa Bean Company; and Marisa Lago, U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, meet to discuss the transition of Niche Cocoa in Ghana, Africa to Franklin, WI, US. 8 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Edmund Poku, Niche Cocoa, and Steve Wallace, Omanhene Cocoa Bean Company, pose at the grand opening celebration of its 44,000-square-foot facility in Franklin, WI. This is Milwaukee 7’s 115th win with $25 million in capex, the largest food and beverage investment by an Africa-based company in U.S. history.

teve Wallace is what you might call a cocoa expert.

Emily Allen

And these days, he’s on double duty as president of Omanhene Cocoa Bean Co. and North American project manager for Niche Cocoa.

Communications Director FaB Wisconsin

Omanhene has been a leader in Ghanaian cocoa since 1991. In late 2022, Ghana-based Niche announced its intentions to open a processing facility in Franklin, Wis. The company is working to complete its 44,000-square-foot facility in what will be the largest food and beverage investment by an Africa-based company in U.S. history. “We’re importing machinery from all over the globe and soon will begin the importation of cocoa cake, cocoa liquor and cocoa butter from our mothership factory in Ghana,” Wallace explains. Despite his cocoa expertise, an import partner is crucial, as Wallace calls the process of cargo coming into the U.S., especially from Ghana, “a bit out of the ordinary.”

Wallace has full trust in customs broker M.E. Dey, an expert in the regulatory environment and the logistics market involved in importing. A self-described champion of extending opportunities, he contracts with minority-run businesses whenever possible. Wallace has full trust in customs broker M.E. Dey, an expert in the regulatory environment and the logistics market involved in importing. A self-described champion of extending opportunities, he contracts with minority-run businesses whenever possible. M.E. Dey, family-owned and -operated since 1907 and now led by President Sandi Siegel, has been a valued partner of Omanhene’s for over 20 years, and is now working with Niche. The woman-founded and -led company has proven itself to be both a pleasure to work with and good at what they do.

Niche and M.E. Dey have been working hand-in-hand in their importing efforts: overseeing all incoming sea freight containers and air cargo shipments, coordinating customs and duty payments, ISF filings and delivery to the new facility. “They always saw the potential and gave me a level of service that was indistinguishable from that extended to far larger customers. They believed in me when I was just starting out,” shares Wallace. Niche and M.E. Dey have been working hand-in-hand in their importing efforts: overseeing all incoming sea freight containers and air cargo shipments, coordinating customs and duty payments, ISF filings and delivery to the new facility. “I prefer to say we are always in search of great talent and realize that comes in many packages,” he says, explaining that these companies understand how important it is to get a chance to compete, win a place at the table and demonstrate their talents. Smaller minority-owned businesses are “more used to the entrepreneurial journey,” a quality Wallace finds important. Wallace says challenging perceptions of what a company and its people should look like is a bonus effect of working with minority-owned businesses. “The founding of M.E. Dey over 100 years ago by a woman is remarkable,” he says. “I would love to know what she was like, how she persevered and overcame the gender biases of that era and how she built a company with a global footprint.” Today, the partnership between Niche and M.E. Dey is just getting started. Wallace says M.E. Dey will “no doubt” assist Niche when they begin exporting products after completion of their facility. “We continue to work hard towards commissioning the factory,” he says. “We can’t wait to show Wisconsin and the world how we are changing the cocoa value chain with surprising results both here and in Ghana.”

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THE PARTNER THAT HELPS YOU CLIMB HIGHER. Grow your business by standing out. Our local experts can become your trusted team members, focused on helping you to grow for a bigger tomorrow. You’ve got this. Because we’ve got you. AssociatedBank.com/MMAC Chris Hamilton Market Leader | Commercial Banking Christopher.Hamilton@AssociatedBank.com 414-283-2277 111 E. Kilbourn Ave. #600 Milwaukee

Deposit and loan products are offered by Associated Bank, N.A. Loan products are subject to credit approval and involve interest and other costs. Please ask about details on fees and terms and conditions of these products. Relevant insurance coverage, if applicable, will be required on collateral. Member FDIC. (7/23) P08253

10 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

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The Value of a Diverse Supplier Base If the supply chain crunch of the past few years has any silver lining, it’s the lesson that restricting your vendor options to one or two sources can backfire. If you’re considering broadening your circle of suppliers, you might want to look within your own community—and find partners you’ve never considered before. At Associated Bank, we’ve embraced the ideals of diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I). Commitments such as our Supplier Diversity Program—part of our overarching objective to increase opportunities for Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs)—have resulted in mutually beneficial business relationships and an expanded community network. Senior Vice President of Commercial Banking Christopher Hamilton attests to this success: “Working with diverse suppliers leads to innovation, access to new markets and a competitive advantage. Businesses that employ this approach can serve a wider range of clients, bring jobs to local underserved communities, and attract additional customers and employees.” By selecting suppliers from a variety of backgrounds, businesses of all sizes and industries can see real benefits: • Diverse suppliers bring unique experiences to the table, which can lead to innovative ideas and creative solutions. In a competitive marketplace, this can drive product or service improvements that stand out from the rest. • Suppliers from different backgrounds can help your business tap into new markets they might not reach otherwise. You may also discover cultural nuances that can aid you in tailoring offerings that build new customer bases and even translate into better navigation of complex global markets. • A concerted effort to partner with diverse suppliers shows that you’re genuinely committed to social responsibility. This can enhance your reputation and brand perception, influencing customers who value diversity and inclusion. • Demonstrating your commitment to DE&I extends beyond your customer base. Employees are often proud to work for a company that supports it, leading to improved morale and higher levels of engagement. • Encouraging a broader supplier base can foster healthy competition, resulting in better pricing and service terms. They may also offer unique products and services that not only fit your business goals but can give you an edge over the market and your competition. Ultimately, incorporating a broad array of suppliers into your business’s supply chain strategy isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about leveraging the very real benefits of DE&I: fresh perspectives, backgrounds and potential for innovative progress and positive economic impacts on our communities.

Connect with us today to learn more at AssociatedBank.com/MMAC Member FDIC

Chris Hamilton

Market Leader | Commercial Banking Associated Bank AssociatedBank.com/MMAC

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Launching Entrepreneurship How the Sherman Phoenix is Fostering Business Success in Milwaukee

n a city marked by economic disparities and racial inequities, the Sherman Phoenix stands as a testament to resilience, collaboration and the transformative power of entrepreneurship. Nestled in the heart of Milwaukee, this innovative hub has not only breathed new life into a historic building but has also become a beacon of hope for Black and Brown entrepreneurs seeking to make their mark on the local business landscape.

A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes: Corry Joe Biddle

VP of Community Affairs MMAC

History and Origin

The Sherman Phoenix was born from the ashes of a tragic fire that engulfed a historic building in 2016. Fueled by a collective vision to rebuild and revitalize, founders JoAnne Sabir and Juli Kaufmann envisioned a space that would not only provide a launchpad for entrepreneurship but also address the deep-seated economic inequalities that plagued the city. What emerged was a vibrant hub where businesses of color flourish, creating opportunity and cultivating community.

A Reality Check on Entrepreneurship: Black and Brown Businesses in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, like many American cities, grapples with a stark disparity in business ownership between Black and White entrepreneurs. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2017, Black-owned businesses constituted only 6.5 percent of all businesses in the city, despite the fact that Black residents make up 39 percent of the population. Similarly, Hispanic-owned businesses accounted for just 5.8 percent. These statistics underscore the systemic barriers that minority entrepreneurs face in accessing capital, resources and opportunities.

The Incubator Approach:

Fostering Success for Businesses of Color Incubators have long been recognized as powerful catalysts for business growth. This is particularly true for businesses of color, which often face challenges such as limited resources, mentorship and access to markets. The Sherman Phoenix, with its collaborative atmosphere and affordable rental opportunities, provides a unique incubator environment where entrepreneurs can test their ideas, refine their strategies and connect with a supportive community of like-minded individuals. The shared experiences and knowledge exchange enable entrepreneurs to overcome hurdles that might otherwise impede their growth.

Lush Popcorn: From 300-Square-Foot Space to 3,000-Square-Foot Popcorn Factory and Tasting Room Marcia and Marc Taylor, the sibling owners of Lush Popcorn, embody the success stories that have emerged from the Sherman Phoenix. Marcia recalls the journey of transforming a hobby into a thriving popcorn business, saying, “It started as a hobby, and we were doing farmers markets and such, testing the market and working out of shared kitchens.” The move to the Phoenix provided a physical location for their brand and a network of fellow entrepreneurs for mutual support and growth. The business experienced rapid growth, with annual sales increasing from $25,000 to over $100,000 in the first year. Five years after moving into the Phoenix, Lush Popcorn is developing a 3,000-square-foot retail and production space in the Riverwest neighborhood. The new store is set to open in September.

12 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

It started as a hobby, and we were doing farmers’ markets and such, testing the market and working out of shared kitchens.

Funky Fresh Spring Rolls:

“Being in that space really allowed for people to explore with no strings attached, just out of curiosity,” she said. “And once they did, we were able to say, ‘we offer this service, and we have this kind of product and we started to develop our customer base.’”

From Food Truck to 150 Regional Grocery Store Freezers For TrueMan McGee, the owner of Funky Fresh Spring Rolls, the Sherman Phoenix marked a turning point in his business trajectory. “We were more of a mobile food business at the time, doing farmers markets, festivals, catering, pop-ups and so forth,” he said.

My goal is to connect with folks in neighborhoods throughout the city so they can actually start farming and growing food for themselves.

The business now has two locations – a wellness center on Lisbon Avenue and a popular King Drive location with an apothecary retail space and tasting room serving non-alcoholic cocktails and wellness teas. Like her space, her vision is also growing.

Just after moving into the Phoenix, we were over $400,000. Then each year we’ve increased.

The transition to a brick-andmortar establishment within the Phoenix led to a significant surge in visibility and a 25 percent increase in sales. “We were at $300,000 in sales before. Just after moving into the Phoenix, we were over $400,000. Then each year we’ve increased,” he said. McGee said last year the business’ sales topped $700,000.

Having established a partnership with Palermo’s Pizza, including capital investment and a joint-venture product line called Funky Villa, Funky Fresh Spring Rolls is being sold in 150 grocery stores regionally and is set for national roll-out in early 2024.

Honey Bee Sage: From Massage Therapy to a Two-Location Apothecary & Wellness Center Angela Mallett, founder of Honey Bee Sage, experienced a similar transformation within the Phoenix. Her fledgling wellness-focused business was established in the nurturing environment, allowing her to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, build a supportive community and gain customers by way of curiosity and foot traffic.

“We are looking into developing a green space that’s adjacent to our building now into a community, social garden and market where we’ll be able to impact the community hopefully, having the first farmer’s market in that area,” she said. “My goal is to connect with folks in neighborhoods throughout the city so they can actually start farming and growing food for themselves.”

Building a Bright Future:

Impact Beyond Business Success Beyond the tangible business growth, the Sherman Phoenix has fostered a sense of unity and pride within the Sherman Park neighborhood. The entrepreneurs who call the Phoenix home have forged deep connections with one another, creating a web of support that extends beyond business collaborations. “It’s just a blessing to be able to have a network and friends that could help on the journey,” Marcia Taylor said reflecting on the value of the relationships she built at the Phoenix. McGee echoed those sentiments. “The Sherman Phoenix tenants have a lifelong bond that we all can understand, because we spent a lot of late nights, after hours, seven days a week at the Sherman Phoenix. So, I think there’s an appreciation for each other that only comes from growing our businesses with shared space and experiences,” he said.

For more information about the Sherman Phoenix visit www.shermanphoenix.com. To watch the full interview with TrueMan, Angela and Marcia, visit MMAC’s YouTube channel @TheMMACMilwaukee.

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Searching for a good business? Look no further

MKE Black, mercadoMKE helping Blackand Brown-owned businesses get seen

he pandemic changed so many ways we live our lives and run our businesses. For some, it presented an opportunity and a new approach to marketing.

“When COVID hit, with a lot of the businesses that we work with, it became very clear that a lot of Latino business owners were not online, not on an e-commerce platform,” said Adrian Hernandez. Hernandez is the accounts manager for mercadoMKE, a local, online marketplace for Latino-owned businesses including restaurants, crafters and more. The site launched in 2021. “It’s a very practical e-commerce platform so that Latino business owners can market their catalogs, their products, their services,” Hernandez said. “The consumer can purchase directly from the website. As we were coming out of the pandemic, it was vital.”

“The consumer can purchase directly from the website. As we were coming out of the pandemic, it was vital.”

- Adrian Hernandez, mercadoMKE 14 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Not long before the pandemic, Rick Banks had a similar idea for a website highlighting Black-owned businesses.

“I thought, if you want a thriving Black community, we need to have thriving Black-owned businesses,” he said. “And if we’re going to have thriving Black-owned businesses, we need to know where they are so that we can intentionally support them.” Born of that idea was MKE Black, an online resource highlighting dining, shopping, culture and other resources. “For us, the goal is to promote and advance Black-owned businesses and black culture in the city of Milwaukee,” Banks said. “It’s a variety of different things, from being the mouthpiece and advertising support, to providing direct connections to financial resources and business opportunities, to just being the promoter of what’s happening positively in the community.” Both mercadoMKE and MKE Black have seen their sites grow since launch. Launched in 2020, Banks said MKE Black now features about 850 businesses on its site. “I would say one of the challenges has been managing the growth,” he said. “Managing the scope and making sure that we’re staying in our lane and we’re able to have a meaningful impact is probably one of the biggest challenges.” Hernandez said mercadoMKE highlights about 120 businesses.

Milwaukee’s Black Business Directory

MKE Black celebrates and promotes Black business, events, culture and advancement in the greater Milwaukee area. They are a non-profit dedicated to providing a one-stop shop for locals and tourists, with information on dining, shopping, culture, resources and more through their website and app.

Visit mkeblack.org to learn more or to find a Black-owned business to support.

“I thought, if you want a thriving Black community, we need to have thriving Black-owned businesses. And if we’re going to have thriving Black-owned businesses, we need to know where they are so that we can intentionally support them.”

- Rick Banks, MKE Black

“We have a very diverse portfolio, whether it’s restaurants, tax preparers, construction, pastries,” Hernandez said. “What we really envision is being a one-stop shop, a one-stop shop for everything Latino, Latino-owned. The big dream is that we would be like the Latino Yelp or Amazon.” Hernandez added that he hopes mercadoMKE helps people look beyond certain times of the year when shopping Latino-owned businesses. “We notice this happens with every cultural demographic, but we notice an uptick and an intentionality to purchase from Latino business owners during Hispanic Heritage Month, or during the week of Cinco de Mayo,” he said. “Really what our purpose is to let people know that the Latino business owner is providing quality products, quality services 12 months out of the year.”

Latino-owned Business Directory

mercadoMKE’s mission is to strengthen and expand Latino-owned businesses by providing an easy on-ramp and adoption to e-commerce. Its vision is e-commerce in every Latino-owned business.

Visit mercadoMKE.com to learn more or to find a Latino-owned business to support.

mmac.org | 15

Partner with Wisconsin’s Bank for Business® and achieve more. Crafting creative solutions, anticipating your needs, and helping you reach your financial goals: Our team can offer all that and more. Our bankers are true financial partners — experts who know your business and Wisconsin as well as you do. We’re here to help your business grow because your success is our top priority.

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Vice President Wintrust Commercial Banking at Town Bank, N.A. rkeval@wintrust.com 414-255-1010

Vice President Treasury Management cbroderick@townbank.us 414-255-1013

Vice President Business Development Officer ldavis@townbank.us 414-273-3748

townbank.us/partnerships

16 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

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9 Services Wintrust Provides That You Probably Didn’t Know About 1. Foreign currency We buy and sell currencies from around the world for our customers coming and going from foreign countries or students studying abroad. If we don’t have it in-branch, one of our other branches will send it to us when a request is made.

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4. Safe deposit boxes1 While other banks have dropped this service, most of our branches still offer them to account holders who need a secure place to store important documents, heirlooms, or other valuables.

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6. One-on-one financial education As part of our Money Smart program, we have financial education resources offering guidance on topics for all age ranges.

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Stop by your bank branch for these services and more. Rahim Keval

Vice President Wintrust Commercial Banking at Town Bank, N.A. www.townbank.us

Safe deposit boxes. Safe deposit boxes are non-FDIC-insured.

Free Coin Counting. Free coin counting available for consumer households, business customers, and nonprofits. Fees may apply for non-customer businesses.

Shred Event(s). No purchase necessary. Limit three boxes/bags per person. Wintrust Community Banks assume no liability for shredded items.

mmac.org | 17

Paying it Forward program provides pro bono legal counsel for growing businesses Many look at the year 2020 as an inflection point. The country was in the depths of its first pandemic in over 100 years, a divisive presidential election was looming and the death of an African-American man at the hands of law enforcement in Minneapolis forced us all to reflect. At Husch Blackwell, a comprehensive corporate law firm with offices throughout the U.S. including here in Milwaukee, leadership felt something needed to be done.

In addition to having minority-owned status, McNeal said the businesses qualifying for the program should be viable – generating some kind of revenue – and unable to pay for the types of legal services offered by Husch Blackwell.

Our idea would be to help industrious entrepreneurs grow their businesses so they could create a ripple effect in their community.”

“It began with our partners taking a look outside their windows, just seeing racial animus, political unrest, just an awful time,” said Quinncy McNeal, Pro Bono Counsel at Husch Blackwell. “We began giving money. We began giving food. We began giving wherever we could. We realized this was not enough, and frankly it’s not really innate to what we do.” The law firm continues to do those same things but was moved to go beyond to provide for the community. They wanted to use their legal expertise to do it. The result: Communities for Change.

The program, conceived in 2020 and launched the following year, provides pro bono legal counsel to minority-owned businesses in communities the firm serves. Services include assistance with business formation, contracts, employment and labor advice, intellectual property work and help with minority business certification. In addition to Black- and Brown-owned businesses, the program caters to women- and veteran-owned businesses, as well. McNeal said the objective was to promote economic and social mobility.

18 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

“Our idea would be to help industrious entrepreneurs grow their businesses so they could create a ripple effect in their community,” he said. “So they could create jobs, independent contractors, opportunities and resources.”

Since launching the program in 2021, McNeal said Husch Blackwell has provided pro bono services to between 150 to 180 fledgling businesses, dedicating about 10,000 billable hours and roughly $5 million in value for those services. In Milwaukee, about a dozen local businesses have taken part in the program.

McNeal said the results have been good. “We have seen revenues increase. We have seen headcounts increase at these businesses,” he said. “Many businesses grow out of the program, where we can no longer justify free legal help. Those businesses are called ‘graduates.’” With positive measurements to show, McNeal said the pro bono work they’re doing is the right way for Husch Blackwell to make an impact in the communities they serve. “The heart behind it is this idea of social justice being about economic mobility,” he said. “We really do believe at this firm that it is a part of our DNA – to do what we can to make sure that everyone is doing well and that everyone has the opportunity to excel and succeed.”

mmac.org | 19

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uwm.edu/sce 20 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Diversifying your suppliers can range from making onetime purchases to long-term contracts. It all starts by building relationships. - Corry Joe Biddle MMAC

KE Black, the Hispanic Collaborative and MMAC co-hosted “Power of the Purchase” – an event to showcase diverse vendors on Sept. 12. The event brought together a wide variety of small business entrepreneurs, including caterers, professional service firms and consultants with potential purchasers. “The idea behind this event was that anyone can support diverse businesses – you don’t need to have ‘purchasing’ in your title,” explained MMAC VP of Community Relations Corry Joe Biddle. “Diversifying your suppliers can range from making one-time purchases to long-term contracts. It all starts by building relationships.” The event featured a discussion with TrueMan McGee, founder of Funky Fresh Spring Rolls; Nancy Hernandez, president of the Hispanic Collaborative and marketing agency Abrazo; and Christina Villanueva with negozee – tax preparation and accounting. The three business owners discussed common challenges, ranging from the often complicated and time-consuming processes to be certified as a DBE (disadvantaged business enterprise) to dealing with payment terms that can be unworkable for a small business trying to meet payroll.

Rick Banks, MKEBlack

Crystal Bell, Chayil Inc.; and Cristina Villanueva, negozee

Nancy Hernandez, Hispanic Collaborative; TrueMan McGee, Funky Fresh Springrolls; Cristina Villanueva, negozee; and Corry Joe Biddle, MMAC

As businesses, we have to be in a position to win [the job or contract]. - TrueMan McGee

Funky Fresh Spring Rolls

“As businesses, we have to be in a position to win [the job or contract],” said McGee. He explained his philosophy of “collecting pennies” – pieces of wisdom from others that help you improve. Hernandez encouraged entrepreneurs to “support each other and pay it forward.” The panelists agreed that developing relationships with potential customers is critical. “Interaction before transaction,” advised McGee.

Doyle Sprewer, DDS Consulting; and Eli Rivera, The Way Out

Kenge Adams, MKE Black/ Connect Business Consulting

mmac.org | 21

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Congratulations Adventure Rock American Construction Services Arrow Sewing

to the 2023 Future 50 winners

Atomix Logistics Automated Energy Solutions Lakeland Supply Basic Metals Benz Metal Products Best Version Media Bevco Engineering Co. Bliffert Lumber & Hardware

Lauber Business Partners Lisbon Creek Systems Magellan Promotions MARS Solutions Group Midwest Precision Molding

Briohn Building Corporation Central Standard Craft Distillery

MilwaukeeWarehouse Moore Construction Services

Color Ink Duffek Construction Edge Electric Empower Electric Evans Transportation Galbraith Carnahan Architects Gorilla Mill / Carbide Grinding Co. Great Lakes Industrial IEWC Implecho Kelmann Restoration Kesslers Diamond Center Koru Health

MPE Palmer Hamilton PartsBadger Pattyn North America QPS Employment Group River Run RJ Schinner Stamm Technologies / Stamm Media TKO Miller Total Mechanical Valor Technologies Vizance Vyron WeldFab Manufacturing Wolter Xiogenix *Bolded names are MMAC members

mmac.org | 23

Distinct businesses, shared vision JCP Construction, Athena Communications making their mark in Milwaukee

A Family Affair It’s the customer, their wants and their satisfaction that comes first at JCP Construction. “Understanding quality and taking care of the clients, that’s first and foremost,” said James Phelps, President of JCP,.

vocations, in different trades,” James said, adding that his brother, Clifton, attended Tuskegee University in Alabama to learn the administrative aspects of running the business. “We felt we had a lot of the different things needed to be successful in it.”

Understanding quality and taking care of the clients, that’s first and foremost.” James Phelps, President, JCP That quality can be seen in projects around Milwaukee – from Northwestern Mutual and Mitchell International Airport to the Fiserv Forum. Established in 2008 by brothers James, Jalin and Clifton – all Milwaukee Tech graduates – the company cut their teeth on concrete work and finished carpentry. “Two of us, myself and Jalin, actually were working with the tools in different

24 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

The brothers took several years to learn the business – from building relationships around the community to honing best practices – before establishing themselves as a general contractor. Their first project – Pete’s Fruit Market. “I think Pete’s was the first one that let us know that we could manage an entire project by ourselves without having to rely on other people,” said Clifton.

While hard work, dedication to the craft and a priority placed on quality defines JCP Construction, the business remains an anomaly – a Black-owned general contractor in the construction industry. Because of that, the brothers believe being inclusive in choosing a business to work with is paramount in a thriving community. “So, I think supplier diversity gives Black companies, in our case, the opportunity to compete in the industry that has been mostly driven by white companies,” said Clifton. Providing opportunities, like those afforded to JCP, lifts the entire community. “It’s making sure that everybody’s benefitting,” James said. “If we’re talking about access to family-supporting jobs, whether it’s construction or whether it’s in other industries, it’s making sure that everyone is able to benefit from that.”

One business is helping to transform a skyline, the other is trying to transform narratives. JCP Construction and Athena Communications are businesses you should know, with both making distinct differences in the community. Incidentally, the Black-owned businesses got their start about 15 years ago – in the throes of one of the country’s deepest economic challenges in generations, the Great Recession. Despite the challenge, JCP Construction and Athena have weathered the storm and have come out on the other side flourishing – with projects truly making an impact in the Milwaukee area.

Bronzeville into a mixed use of housing and programming focused on wellness, early childhood education and more. Belton-Davis said when companies look to diversify their supply chain, in areas like construction and communications services, it benefits all.

Taking on projects that make a difference Tammy Belton-Davis wasn’t planning on building her own communications firm. She said she was “good with a guaranteed paycheck, and finite work hours.” But after years of community impact and public affairs work, she was looking for something more. “I wanted to work on projects I thought were meaningful,” she said. So in 2009, Athena Communications was founded. For the next six years, Belton-Davis said her business served as a typical public relations firm – event planning, communications projects, media engagement. But those projects weren’t filling the void. “I, at some point, grew fatigued, a little bit of anger, a little bit of righteous indignation about change not happening in Milwaukee,” she said. “I need to be a part of the change that I want to see.” She said it was at that point, she and her firm would focus their attention on transformational projects – projects

with a philanthropic bent, real estate projects that would change the complexion of communities. “Rooting community and equity was our jam before people began talking about these issues,” she said. With a team made up of nine employees, Athena provides many of the same services as other firms – branding, strategic communications, government relations, community engagement and more. But it’s change within the community that drives the mission. “The vision of Athena is to be catalytic in terms of advancing conversations along with the messaging and the strategy to get it done,” she said. Coincidently, the project she said meshes “all the loves and all the services” Athena provides is one she’s working on with JCP Construction – the ThriveOn Collaboration. The project – a joint collaboration between the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Royal Capital and the Medical College of Wisconsin – will convert the Schuster’s/Gimbel’s building on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in

Rooting community and equity was our jam before people began talking about these issues.” Tammy Belton-Davis, Founder & President, Athena Communications “(Supplier diversity) benefits are exponential,” she said. “There’s an opportunity for diversity of perspective, creativity, innovation, all the things you need to experience business growth.” So where are we as a community? Belton-Davis said we have a ways to go, but is optimistic. “I’m optimistic that there continues to be good work, but I know the pressure has to stay on, the pressure to not only do what is the morally right way to engage, but has business imperative,” she said. mmac.org | 25

Learning on the Job Hispanic Collaborative internship program to boost local Latino businesses By: Clare McGinnis, MMAC Intern, MMAC

he Hispanic Collaborative is spearheading a new internship program directly impacting Milwaukee’s Latino community.

The year-long program offers bicultural college students a wealth of communications and social media management experience. With this program, communications teams help promote and market three to four local Latino businesses for a year – free of charge. Leading industry partners advise the interns and offer their expertise. While tapping into plenty of resources, these interns can learn while getting hundreds of hours of experience in the field. One team gave a glimpse into their experience interning thus far. Team 10, named M and MMs, met with Unforgettable Moments, an event planning and flower shop business. They went over their communications and marketing goals, troubleshooted social media issues and established how the business wanted to be promoted on certain platforms.

26 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

While tapping into plenty of resources, these interns can learn while getting hundreds of hours of experience in the field.

The team’s account coordinator is Magali López, a sophomore at Marquette. Magali was drawn to this internship because she loved that it would help Latino businesses. “I know the hardships that they go through,” said López. López grew up working at her father’s restaurant in Chicago. She would go straight to the restaurant after school to help. Magali noticed how the business struggled to garner a social media following. As an account coordinator, López is the main point of contact for their clients. She schedules meetings and delegates tasks. It is somewhat of a team leader role. She also translates Spanish to English for the non-Spanish speakers in the group. Some of their clients are fluent in Spanish only, so her role is crucial for the team to collaborate well. Melissa Castillo is the team’s designer and a sophomore studying animation at MATC. She is the team’s Milwaukee local. When one of M and MM’s clients asked what level of experience the team had, Melissa explained that despite it being the first time it had worked on a project like this, she understood how difficult operating a small business can be.

“My family did have their own restaurant and they weren’t sure how to market it for the area,” said Castillo. Her experience motivated her to apply for this internship. She loves the rewarding aspect of promoting less visible, but stellar, businesses in her community. Castillo is not only the designer for the group, but she also does photography on the side. Some of their clients have even made plans to hire her as their photographer. Marvin Twombley, a junior at Marquette studying communications, is the team’s content developer. Twombley grew up around plenty of small businesses in Boston. He was excited about this internship because he has been hoping to use his knowledge of social media marketing with small businesses. “I think that social media could coincide with how these businesses are growing,” said Marvin. M and MMs are hopeful for the future. They genuinely love the work they do, and it shows. Even though the internship is only two months in, the team is already shaping the community through their work.

mmac.org | 27

Small Bank,

Huge Ambitions Columbia S&L has served Milwaukee for a century, now it wants to transform it

itting on the corner of North 20th Street and Fond du Lac Avenue, Columbia Savings & Loan has been a constant among Milwaukee’s African American community for nearly 100 years.

Ryan Amundson

“Many of the churches that were built back in that day, and many of the mortgages for African American families were because of this bank,” said Will Martin, Executive Vice President of the institution. “We’re ensuring low- and moderate-income families have access to buying their piece of the American dream.” Sr. Director of Communications MMAC

That piece of the American dream – home ownership – has been elusive for too many Black and Brown families in the Milwaukee community. According to a report conducted by the Wisconsin Policy Forum in 2022, the Black homeownership rate sat at only 25.2 percent – last among 11 peer cities studied for the report. Hispanic homeownership was at 38.5 percent, third-worst among peers. White homeownership was at 55.8 percent – in line with its peer cities. Columbia Savings & Loan, the oldest Black-owned business in Wisconsin and the only Black-owned bank, is doing something to change the narrative. They are urging local businesses, associations and others to consider being more inclusive in their banking partnerships. “A lot of business leaders will consider diversifying goods and subcontractors,” said Martin. “They don’t really think about how they can change the community just by banking more inclusively.” Martin said he’s been meeting with potential corporate and banking partners, and the institution has launched its “100 by the 100” campaign to commemorate its centennial anniversary in 2024 – hoping to raise $10 million in deposits by 2024. By reaching that number, the bank can extend 100 new mortgages

28 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

to near north- and south-side residents. The bank is off to a good start, already securing $5.5 million in deposits. “Where many think they have to do something through a charitable contribution in order to advance home ownership among low-to-moderate-income families in our community, this is a great example of just banking differently,” said Martin. “Community-conscious companies don’t have to replace their banking relationships, they can just expand upon those relationships to include Columbia Savings & Loan.” Whereas $1 million in deposits will allow a bank to extend two mortgages in some suburban areas of the region, the same amount will allow Columbia Savings & Loan to extend up to 10 mortgages for those purchasing on the near north- and southsides of Milwaukee. And with an increase in home ownership, Martin believes a number of issues confronting the community will improve. “If we want to see violence and some of these behaviors subside, people have to be part of an ownership society. They have to have a stake in the community,” he said. “When 75 percent of Black Milwaukeeans rent and they’re living in neighborhoods that are, in some areas, substantially, if not entirely renters, it’s a very different dynamic.” Diversity, equity and inclusion is often associated with where we work or learn. Martin said that line of thinking has to extend to the choices we make when banking and how it will impact those in the community it serves. “If we want to change our community and make sure when we talk about diversity, equity and inclusion, if we truly live that out, we have to make room, and opportunity for, people of all backgrounds to be able to own a piece of this community,” he said. “No government program, no philanthropic program, is able to do it alone. We can all be a part of the solution, and I think that’s where Columbia Savings & Loan can play an important partnership role.”

Many of the churches that were built back in that day, and many of the mortgages for African American families were because of this bank.

Did you know? • Columbia Savings & Loan was founded in 1924 by Ardie and Wilbur Halyard. • The institution is the oldest Black-owned bank in the state of Wisconsin. • Columbia Savings & Loan is the sixth-oldest Black-owned bank in the U.S. • The bank is currently one of only 25 Black-owned banks in the country. • Since kicking off its centennial campaign, “100 by the 100th,” the bank has raised $5.5 million in new deposits.

If you’re considering being more inclusive in your banking, contact Columbia Savings & Loan Executive Vice President Will Martin at WMartin@ColumbiaSLA.com.

mmac.org | 29

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30 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

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Reaching Goodness One Cookie at a Time A

lan Goodman learned to bake under duress.

Emily Allen

Communications Director FaB Wisconsin

As a child, after lying about his whereabouts after school – playing basketball instead of going to the library – he paid his penance by helping his mother in the kitchen. But his punishment had unintended consequences. He started to enjoy it, and soon graduated to baking using family recipes.

Capitalizing on his baking skills and passion didn’t cross his mind until nearly 40 years later when he attended a friend’s dinner party, bringing homemade bread pudding as a dish to pass. “When it was time for dessert, my friend pulled me to the side. He said, ‘Look at everyone tasting your dessert. Look at how happy they are. You should be selling this.’ That was the first time that I thought about baking as a business,” he says.

But the entrepreneurial spark wasn’t quite ready to ignite. Nearly a decade later, the long hours of his corporate job caught up to him and he quit to pursue baking as a passion project. He researched what it meant to be a successful entrepreneur, and, finding inspiration in young entrepreneurs in Milwaukee’s African American community, started A Goodman’s Desserts in 2018.

When it was time for dessert, my friend pulled me to the side. He said, ‘Look at how happy they are. You should be selling this.’ That was the first time that I thought about baking as a business. Continued on page 33 mmac.org | 31

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32 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Continued from page 31 Using his treasured family recipes, two scratch-made desserts were added to the menu: a glazed butter cookie, and his famous bread pudding. The inefficiencies of opening a brick-and-mortar bakeshop didn’t sit right with Goodman, a lean practitioner. He opted for an e-commerce model with a retail rollout strategy, working to fulfill orders from a rented commercial kitchen. Like many entrepreneurs, Goodman has had no shortage of roadblocks to overcome: gaining customers and credibility, funding (“That’s always an issue”), and maintaining confidence and perseverance, especially as a self-proclaimed introvert.

2020-21 Championship season, which Goodman calls “a dream come true.” While success has seemingly come quickly for Goodman, he considers owning a business “one of the hardest and scariest things [he has] ever done” and says more can be done to support his and other local Black-owned businesses. “Get to know us,” he urges. “Find out why we have our businesses, our vision, and what motivates us. Small businesses are the lifeblood of the American economy. By supporting our businesses … you’re helping us to employ local residents who want to make an honest living and improve their lives.”

I want customers to eat a good dessert and feel good and happy as a result. ..We need more goodness towards each other. That brings me joy. “Even though I have run a business or two, it’s vastly different on my own. It’s not as simple as taking a product from your kitchen to retail – there are many steps in between,” he explains. “And you won’t be able to accomplish those tasks on your own. I had to abandon that mindset quickly.” Introversion hasn’t stopped Goodman from scaling up. He has three pitch competition wins under his belt: Rev-Up MKE in 2019, Project Pitch It in 2022 and the AARP Make Your Move Entrepreneur Contest, which earned him a meeting with celebrity entrepreneur Daymond John. His devotion to basketball also came full circle when he secured the Milwaukee Bucks as a customer during the

And of course, purchases and referrals go a long way. “Recurring purchases help us stay in business,” Goodman says. “When you like something, be an advocate for us.” As the volume of orders continues to grow, Goodman is transitioning into a co-manufacturing arrangement and moving to sell wholesale. This new era of his business will free up time in the kitchen, allowing him to do what’s most rewarding – forging relationships. “I want customers to eat a good dessert and feel good and happy as a result. And to take those good feelings and serve someone else,” he explains. “We need more goodness towards each other. That brings me joy.”

Visit AGoodmansDesserts.com to learn more or order now.

Glazed Butter Cookies mmac.org | 33

Unveiling the Submerged Truth The Leadership Council - some of MMAC’s most engaged stakeholders - give insights into their strategies, priorities and commitment as they relate to the future of the Milwaukee region.

ASSETS Manufacturing cluster 66% Productive workforce 66% Overall affordability 56% Professional sports 50% Entertainment, dining & nightlife 47% Experiencing the four seasons 38% Higher education institutions 38% (2- and 4-year)

LIABILITIES Poverty rates 34% Quality and alignment of education 41% and/or workforce training programs Overall tax rates 41%

Absence of leadership 47% & collaboration in government

Shortage of skilled workforce 56%

Difficulties attracting or retaining talent 66%

Crime & safety concerns 78%

MMAC Leadership Council

40%

of the 79 LC members participated in this survey from the following industries:

13% Advertising & media 7% Business & professional services 32% Finance & insurance 10% Government & education 19% Industrial & manufacturing 16% Real estate & construction 3% Restaurants, food & beverages

34 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

76% How important do LC members consider DEI in their talent attraction or retention efforts?

Very or somewhat important

What do LC members view as the most critical factors in securing our region’s future?

The best ways businesses can contribute to the region’s development and well-being:

9% Sourcing materials and services locally

50%

81%

Investing in education, vocational training and upskilling programs to ensure an adaptable workforce

74%

38%

Partnering with local schools, colleges and training centers to provide internships, apprenticeships and job training programs

By creating job opportunities for local residents

Creating an attractive living environment with a high quality of life to retain and attract talent

61%

Upgrading and maintaining the regional infrastructure (transportation, telecommunications & digital connectivity)

58%

Facilitating access to funding and financing options for small businesses

54%

Fostering collaborations to address challenges and implement strategic initiatives for economic growth

LC members see local government role in supporting businesses as:

23%

Investing in workforce development and education

19%

24%

Providing resources, mentorship and financial assistance

Simplifying regulations and permits for new businesses

Streamlining/modernizing regulatory processes to reduce bureaucratic hurdles to development

How do you plan to attract and retain talent in the Milwaukee region?

28%

Offering incentives, grants and tax breaks to attract new businesses & encourage existing ones to expand

54%

72%

Promoting wellness programs for employees

72%

Encouraging sustainable business practices, environmental responsibility & energy efficiency

69% 41%

Demonstrate our brand through our values, mission & workplace culture

Leverage social media to tell company’s story

Promote flexible work arrangements

Provide opportunities for professional growth & development

31% Offer competitive salaries & benefits

mmac.org | 35

Welcome to our

new Leadership Council members!

Participants in this group have the unique opportunity to:

RICK ANDRITSCH

SAL ANGELO

LARRY BARTON

Get involved! www.mmac.org/LC.html

or contact Barb Smith at 414/287-4173, bsmith@mmac.org

President/CEO Strang Waukesha

MARK BECKER

DAVID BINDER

LANCE DIEKEN

JOHN DUGGAN

KIMBERLY KANE

CHRIS LIPSKI, JR.

SCOTT MENKE

CINDY MEYER

S.R. MILLS

ANTHONY MLACHNIK

PHIL SPIVEY

AIMEE THERRIAN

BEN TOPERCER

• Forge valuable connections • Discuss innovative ideas • Be recognized for their leadership

Partner & VP of Business Dev. VJS Construction Services Pewaukee

VP of Mechanical Grunau Company Inc. Oak Creek

MMAC serves as a platform to gather and create strategies that will drive the Milwaukee region’s continued success. The Leadership Council’s perspectives are instrumental in charting our path. This exclusive group is reserved for individuals who are passionate about strengthening ties within our business community while helping to address the future of our regional economy.

Senior VP MLG Capital Brookfield

Interim President/ CEO & COO Rogers Behavioral Health Oconomowoc

VP Aventus Data Centers Milwaukee

CEO BEAR Real Estate Group Kenosha

36 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

COO The Concord Group Milwaukee

Partner, Advisor NorthRock Partners Milwaukee

President/CEO Kane Communications Group Milwaukee

CEO Dedicated Computing Waukesha

Managing Dir. Vantage Financial Cedarburg

Chief HR Officer CentroMotion Waukesha

Co-Founder/COO Geneva10 Fulfillment Delevan

Interim Chancellor University of WI-Parkside Kenosha

EVP & Chief HR Officer Enerpac Tool Group Menomonee Falls

Current Leadership Council members include: RYAN BARBIERI

Partner, EVP of Sales - Employee Benefits M3 Insurance

ROBERT BARTLETT Dir. of Public & Community Affairs Alliant Energy

ERIC BAUMGARTNER EVP of Academics Milwaukee School of Engineering

DALE BOEHM

President/CEO Caspian Technologies

BILL BOELTER

CEO/Chairman Boelter Companies

LAWRENCE BROWN President/CEO Aries Industries

KITTS CHRISTOV VP People Places & Solutions Jacobs

JEFF CLARK

CEO Waukesha Metal Products

HECTOR COLON

President/CEO Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper Michigan

KEITH COURSIN President Desert Aire

ALICIA DUPIES

CINDY GNADINGER

SCOTT KRAEMER

STEVE RAASCH

GINA SKIBO

WI Area Executive First Citizens Bank

President/CEO Zimmerman Architectural Studios

MARK GOLDSTEIN

KEN KRAHE

JON RAUSER

MARK SOBCZAK

RICHARD HENSLEY

FRANK KREJCI

President Carroll University Principal Goldstein Law Group President - SE WI National Exchange Bank & Trust

DAN HICKEY

President/CEO Strattec Security Corp.

GUILLAUME LAUR

CEO Kalmbach Media

VP/GM for the Power Regulation/Delivery Div. Eaton Corp.

JOHN HUGGETT

RYAN MANISCALCO

VP, Central Operations BOLDT

DAN HURDLE

CEO Colectivo Coffee Roasters

TOM IRGENS EVP Irgens

MARY ISBISTER Owner GenMet

JOHN ISCHE

President/CIO Trisept Solutions Apple Leisure Group

JOSHUA JEFFERS CEO/Founder J. Jeffers & Co.

JEFF JOHNSON

President Pepper Construction Company of WI

Area Manager (MKE Office Leader) Gilbane Building Co.

ALEXANDER KEMPE

JULIAN FEDERLE

JEFFREY KOBER

Head of Public Policy Amazon

President MSI General Corp.

CEO Novir

President/CEO Milwaukee Composites

MKE Market Leader Baker Tilly US

ANDREW MARTIN

Manager Gov. Affairs Meijer

VICKI MARTIN PH.D President Milwaukee Area Technical College

HENRY MOHR

General Manager Great Lakes Coca-Cola Bottling

MARK MONE PH.D. Chancellor University of WI Milwaukee

KRIS NAIDL, APR

EVP, Managing Dir., PR Laughlin Constable

CORY OWEN

President Uihlein Electric Co.

JAYA PANDRANGI

Owner/VP The Rauser Agency /Robertson Ryan

GERT REICHETSEDER President/CEO Wacker Neuson America Corp.

BOB REYNOLDS Plant Manager Copeland

MANUEL ROSADO

President Spectrum Investment Advisors

NICHOLAS SAYNER

Partner/WI Market Leader Sikich

DAVID SPANO President/CEO Annex Wealth Management

JIM STRACK

VP/General Manager Enterprise Rent-A-Car Company of WI

JOHN SWALLOW

President Carthage College

CEO/Founder The Difference Principle

PAUL SWEENEY

GREG SCALZO

JIM TARANTINO

JERRY SCHLITZ

KURT THEUNE

ANDREW SCHWARTZ

KATHY THORNTON-BIAS

MARK SCHWENN

JEFF VAN STRATEN

Market Manager Good Karma Brands

Business Banking Manager, EVP Old National Bank Business Banking Manager, SVP MPI Dir. of Business Development A&J Property Restoration

MIKE SEKULA

Partner McKinsey & Co.

VP of Global Supply Chain Mgt & Safety Inpro

TOM POSTA

SARIT SINGHAL

President Bader Rutter

MKE & WI Market Leader Wipfli LLP

President/CEO SSR TOTAL IT

Principal PS Capital Partners CEO/Founder Capri Communities VP/General Manager Mortenson

President/CEO Boys & Girls Clubs of Gtr. Milwaukee

CEO The Clearwing Group

MIKE VEUM

President/CEO IEWC

EMILIE WILLIAMSON

Corporate Affairs Roundy’s Supermarkets

GARY WITT

CEO PTG Live Events

mmac.org | 37

HOW

DIVERSITY LOOKS

A diverse workforce stimulates innovation, builds relationships and supports the local economy. As a leader in the construction industry, we believe it’s our responsibility to create meaningful employment opportunities for the people and communities in which we work. We are your trusted building partner, we are drivers of diversity, equity and inclusion, and we strive for continuous improvement to build a better tomorrow, together.

38 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

MILWAUKEE // MADISON // CGSCHMIDT.COM

WEDC grants support local entrepreneurship T

he Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) awarded nearly $1 million in the latest round of Entrepreneurship Grants in Quarter Three 2023.

“Wisconsin stands behind its innovators and business owners,” said Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of WEDC. “These grants help organizations across the state provide advice, funding, education and other support to entrepreneurs of all backgrounds.”

Anna Lardinois

Storyteller Milwaukee Startup News

BizStarts

Created in 2021, Entrepreneurship Partner Grants are for organizations working to provide training, financing, mentorship, technical support and more to entrepreneurs and prospective entrepreneurs – especially those who historically have not had equal access to capital and resources, such as women, people of color, the LGBTQ community and rural residents.

Develop America

Milky Way Tech Hub

SCORE

$150,000

$85,000

$75,100

BizStarts offers a specialized entrepreneurial training curriculum for English- and Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs.

Develop America will use the grant to provide technical assistance and grants ranging from $5,000 to $40,000 to earlystage Black-owned businesses.

The Milky Way Tech Hub provides training, mentorship and, in some cases, capital investment for underrepresented entrepreneurs in tech.

The funding will allow SCORE to increase its mentoring capacity in rural communities.

The goal of the Entrepreneurship Partner Grant is to encourage the formation of entrepreneurship support programs and to develop startup and emerging growth companies in the state of Wisconsin. Entities eligible for Entrepreneurship Partner Grant funds include communities, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and other entities that operate a nonprofit entrepreneurship assistance program in Wisconsin. Programs that focus on underserved populations are especially encouraged to apply. Recipients will be required to match WEDC funds 1:1 with cash funds or eligible expenses.

See more at mmac.org | 39

LEGISLATIVE WINS Since 1861, MMAC has been actively involved in legislative efforts and has played a significant role in shaping the economic landscape of the region. These legislative efforts have aimed to promote business-friendly environments, attract investment and create job opportunities for all.

2023 has turned into a banner year for those efforts. A number of measures within the recently signed state budget represent years of the organization’s relentless advocacy for policy fostering a more dynamic regional and state-wide business climate.

New Local Revenue Streams for City/County The city of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County were facing a fiscal cataclysm. As one of the few major metros in the country without the ability to levy a local sales tax, they were hamstrung in finding new revenue streams to fund essential services – like public safety – and crippling pension liabilities. MMAC worked with a bipartisan group of state and local leadership, local business leaders and stakeholders to reach a compromise agreement that will spare both local bodies from falling off a fiscal cliff.

Bottom Line: Enacting these new streams of revenue will provide solvency to city and county budgets and help sustain and improve public safety, transportation, libraries, parks and more throughout the area. It will also help the city and county dig out from the weight of immense pension liabilities.

Increased State Shared Revenue For generations, state government would exclusively levy income and sales taxes, leaving local governments to collect property taxes. In exchange, the state would share a portion of income and sales taxes it collected with local municipalities. That shared revenue was frozen by the state legislature in 2000, leaving local municipalities to deal with shortfalls and ensuing cuts to essential services. Under new shared revenue guidelines, both the city of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County will see a 10 percent increase in shared revenue in the coming years.

Bottom Line: Increased revenue means the region is on solid ground fiscally. The city and county can deliver essential services without fear of sacrificing elsewhere in the budget, or worse yet – bankruptcy.

Educational Funding As part of a $1 billion investment in education, this year’s state budget will increase per-pupil spending for choice and charter school students and narrow the gap between these schools and their public school counterparts. Charter school students will see their vouchers go from $9,264 to $11,366 annually; choice schools will see student vouchers raised from $8,399 to $9,874 in grades K-8 and from $9,045 to $12,368 in high school.

Bottom Line: Parents sending their children to choice or charter schools were seeing funding at thousands of dollars less than children in public schools. This gap created significant inequity between students and threatened the ability for the schools to continue to provide a quality education. With more funding in place, all students in our region should have access to the resources they need to receive a strong education – providing a bright future for employers in our region with a strong base of local talent.

40 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Personal Property Tax Even prior to Wisconsin becoming a state, businesses were faced with a burdensome cost come filing time – the personal property tax. This cost taxed business owners on all goods owned not considered land or buildings. After nearly 200 years in existence, and much lobbying from the MMAC, this onerous tax was repealed in this year’s state budget.

Bottom Line: When looking at the bottom line, the elimination of the personal property tax is estimated to save businesses $200 million annually. Additionally, it will save those same businesses time when accounting for personal property when filing their taxes every year.

Manufacturing Tax Credit Extension Since 2011, manufacturers filing their taxes with the state have counted on the Manufacturing and Agriculture Credit to receive a 7.5% credit for all eligible production activities. In one budget proposal this year, that tax credit would have been eliminated. MMAC worked with state legislators to keep this business-friendly tax credit in place.

Bottom Line: This extension is an integral cost-saving measure for existing eligible businesses as well as those looking to start, relocate or expand in the state. This tax would have added $650 million in costs annually for impacted businesses.

Research & Development Tax Credit Increase Companies will see a significant incentive to increase research and development activities under a new tax incentive. This measure in the budget will increase the research and development tax credit from 15 percent to 25 percent starting in 2024.

Bottom Line: This tax credit increase will improve competitiveness and aid in the development of new products within the state. In addition to spurring this activity among existing businesses in Wisconsin, it also serves as an attractive benefit to entrepreneurs looking to start a business or others looking to move to the state.

Data Center Sales Tax Exemption As part of the state budget, a sales tax exemption was created for activities directly related to data centers. This includes the sale of computer servers and networking equipment; substations providing uninterrupted energy equipment and supplies; backup generation equipment and other components.

Bottom Line: Measures to curb costs for those operating data centers create a welcoming environment for tech companies providing cloud services to their customers. Similar measures in other states have spurred billions in economic development. This tax exemption is key in staying competitive with neighboring states for those dollars.

Milwaukee is a baseball city. But we’re at risk of striking out. A long-term lease extension at American Family Field will require updates estimated at $24 million annually to maintain the facility and make capital improvements in line with the rest of the league. Recent legislation introduced by Rep. Robert Brooks and Sen. Dan Feyen would keep Major League Baseball in Milwaukee until at least 2050. The $600 million funding package is a solid hit up the middle, ensuring that greater Milwaukee and the state of Wisconsin continue to grow with the asset of Major League Baseball.

Bottom Line: MMAC commissioned a study that showed a $2.5B impact over the past 20 years from the economics generated by ballpark activity, visitors and proximate spending. Being a major league market drives a big return for our brand, our economy and positions us as a place to attract and retain in a talent hungry economy. mmac.org | 41

REGION OF CHOICE

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit:

The Power of Belonging 1

This event highlighted current workplace inclusion research and offered practical learnings on DEI practices. Guests heard from national and local leaders how to achieve and sustain wins in your DEI and community impact efforts. Pictured: Alvin Hill, Jr., Centers for Independence; Karen Nelson, Herzing University; Theresa Jones, Children’s Wisconsin; and Tiffany Henry, Office of Tammy Baldwin. 2. Carrie Fix, formerly of M.E. Dey Co. 3. Back: Karin Graves, Carthage College; and Jaclyn Skalnik, BOLDT; Front: Margit Schatzman, Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.; and Regina White, Northwestern Mutual

42 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

4. Diverse Talent Retention panel: Amy Hanneman, Northwestern Mutual; Geraud Blanks, Milwaukee Film; Mal Montoya, Milwaukee Artist Resource Network; Chad Bauman, Milwaukee Repertory Theater; Melissa Muller, Washington Park Neighbors; and Tarik Moody, Radio Milwaukee, Inc.

Sponsored content

5. Bring your whole self to work panel: Guillermo Gutierrez, ManpowerGroup; Nicole Acosta, Hoops Project; Ashley Hines, Advocate Aurora; Dr. Lynne Woehrle, University of WisconsinMilwaukee; Cecilia Tenorio, Broader Impact; and Tim Cole, Rivet 6. Jeff Spence, Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District

7. Cheryl Lucas-DeBerry, MRA; and Morgan Phelps, Colorful Connections

mmac.org | 43

MMAC’s 14th- Annual Brewers Outing 1

Guests networked in the exclusive Northwestern Mutual Legends Club while enjoying food, drinks and fun over an afternoon of Brewers baseball. Pictured: Tim Clancy and Bruce Wetzel, The Concord Group; Jay Gentle, B2E Solutions; and John Duggan, The Concord Group 2. Andrew Davis, MMAC; County Executive David Crowley; and Alec Knutson, Milwaukee County 3. Harriet Pedersen, Commerce Industrial Chemicals (retired)

4. Jenny Miller, HGA; and Jennifer Wareham; United Performing Arts Fund 5. Joe Camilli, von Brieson & Roper SC and Mike Gryczka, National Exchange Bank & Trust

44 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

6. Barb Esser & Mark Schmaling, Marketing & Branding Solutions 7. William, Beverly, Cat & Robert Gross, Gross Automation 8. JD Smith and Andrew Holmstrom, Arch Solar; and Khaleel Ali, Edvest College Savings Plan

9. Eric Schulz, Tailored Label Products, Inc. and Tori Morrow, Vulcan GMS

mmac.org | 45

FUEL MILWAUKEE

Summer Sunset Yacht Cruise 1

Guests enjoyed a two-hour expedition cruising on Lake Michigan. These young (and young at heart) professionals enjoyed cocktails, sightseeing and networking on Milwaukee’s best asset - the water. Pictured: Shelina Harvey and Tristaca Patrick, Coldwell Banking; and Talaya Scott, FIIT Perspective, LLC

2. Guests enjoy the view of the skyline from the river 3. Sofia Hernandez, James Troutman, William Staviski and Carson Dodge, MLG Capital 4. Katherine Etta, City of Wauwatosa; Katie Christian, HellermannTyton Corp.; and Kristen Day, Wisconsin Center District

5. Adrian Folsom, Layer One; and Christian Files, Zurn Elkay Water Solutions

46 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Lakefront Brewery This Business After Hours connected members to other local business professionals with a chance to unwind after a long day of work and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lakefront Brewery’s brand-new outdoor beer garden and upgraded patio. Pictured: Joseph Jannazzo, Jr., COUNTRY Financial; Jennifer Cwiklinski and Nasir Khan, X-Centric IT Solutions

2. Michael Rivera, Rivera & Associates, and Cassi Woodley, ValorTech 3. Rob Hoverman, 23point5 LLC, and Carl Carby, Insulation Technologies, Inc. 4. Jennifer Buchholz, Excel & Flourish, and Carole Tapp, Lakefront Brewery 5. Ron Engel, Current Electric Company, and Alex Engel, Empower

5 mmac.org | 47

New MMAC Members A.B. Data Ltd.

Marcos Mejia Chief Financial Officer 600 A.B. Data Dr. Milwaukee, WI 53217 (414) 961-6360 www.abdata.com Class Action Administration

Brilliant Metrics

Columbia Savings & Loan Association

William Martin Executive Vice President 2020 W. Fond Du Lac Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53205 (414) 374-0486 columbiasavingsandloans.com Financial Services

Chris Remington Senior Solutions Consultant 4427 N. Farwell Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53211 (800) 940-8964 www.brilliantmetrics.com Marketing Communications

Dominican High School

CESA 6

Mike Kinsella, President 815 E. Reservoir Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53212 (262) 422-9339 www.elevatedidentity.com Signs

Amy Richter College & Career Center Consultant 2300 State Road 44 Oshkosh, WI 54904 (920) 236-0554 www.cesa6.org Education

CESA 6 | Youth Apprenticeship

2300 State Road 44 Oshkosh, WI 54904 (920) 236-0554 yawisconsin.org Education

Citizens Bank

Cheryl Chapman Community Relations Director 2109 Corporate Dr. Waukesha, WI 53189 (262) 363-6500 www.CitizenBank.bank Banks

48 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

120 E. Silver Spring Dr. Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 (414) 332-1170 dominicanhighschool.com Schools-Secondary/Elementary

Elevated Identity, Inc.

Geneva10 Fulfillment

Mary Stickney Executive Assistant to Mark Becker 1501 E. Wisconsin St. Delavan, WI 53115 (262) 267-8267 www.geneva10.com Fulfillment Services

Geno.Me

Britt Gottschalk Founder & CEO 507 S. 2nd St., Ste 130 Milwaukee, WI 53204 (608) 422-1945 www.yourgeno.me Biotech

H.PR Strategies

Megan Hakes, Owner Brookfield, WI 53045 (414) 788-6599 hprstrategies.com Public Relations Consultants

Hoefler Group LLC

Thomas (TK) Kingston, Owner 925 Elm Grove Rd., Ste. 102 Elm Grove, WI 53122 (262) 765-6136 www.hoeflergroup.com Business Consultants

Inspire Wisconsin Network 2300 State Road 44 Oshkosh, WI 54904 (920) 236-0893 inspirewi.org Workforce Development

Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School

David Bartelt, Superintendent 3399 Division Rd. Jackson, WI 53037 (262) 677-4051 www.kmlhs.org Schools-Secondary/Elementary

Kingdom Prep Lutheran High School

2520 N. Wauwatosa Ave. Wauwatosa, WI 53213 (414) 727-9979 kplhs.org Schools-Secondary/Elementary

KTEC High School

7400 39th Ave. Kenosha, WI 53142 (262) 286-0320 www.ktecschools.org Schools-Secondary/Elementary

MAY - JULY 2023 Lake Country Lutheran High School

401 Campus Dr. Hartland, WI 53029 (262) 367-8600 www.lakecountryhs.org Schools-Secondary/Elementary

Living Word Lutheran High School

2230 Living Word Ln. Jackson, WI 53037 (262) 677-9353 www.lwlhs.com Schools-Secondary/Elementary

Martin Luther High School

5201 S. 76th St. Greendale, WI 53129 (414) 421-4000 www.martinlutherhs.org Schools-Secondary/Elementary

Mathison Manufacturing, Inc. Al Leidinger President W246 S3245 Industrial Ln. Waukesha, WI 53189 (262) 408-5915 www.mathisonmfg.com Contract Manufacturing

Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill Brookfield Dustin Gasper Owner/Operating Partner 95 N. Moorland Rd., Unit 3E Brookfield, WI 53005 www.nafnafgrill.com Restaurants

Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill Greenfield 5003 S. 76th St. Greenfield, WI 53220 NafNafGrill.com Restaurants

Opaline Recruiting

Pointer Financial Group

Matt Bruce, President 10700 W. Research Dr., Ste. 120 Wauwatosa, WI 53226 (414) 253-9057 www.pointerfg.com Wealth Management Services

Anthony Sanberg President PO Box 1802 Milwaukee, WI 53201 (414) 552-2442 opalinerecruiting.com Recruiting Firms

Polacek Consulting

Pathfinder Maritime Training

RELY Contract Manufacturing

Bobby Carsey CEO/President PO Box 180674 Delafield, WI 53018 (414) 409-7228 pathfindercaptain.com Training Programs

Pius XI Catholic High School

135 N. 76th St. Milwaukee, WI 53213 (414) 290-7000 www.piusxi.org Schools-Secondary/Elementary

Point Real Estate LLC Daniel Scardino Executive Vice President 19000 W. Bluemound Rd. Brookfield, WI 53045 (262) 424-2807 pointre.com Real Estate

Carol Polacek Strategist/Consultant 2723 N. Murray Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53211 (414) 759-7294 Marketing Consultants

Clay Giese Senior Business Consultant N59 W13500 Manhardt Dr., Ste. 300 Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 (262) 853-1634 relycm.com Manufacturers

Richards Benefits & Financial Services LLC

Tim Jeziorski Employee Benefits Consultant 3018 W. Washington St. West Bend, WI 53095 (262) 334-2500 www.richardsinsurance.com Insurance Agents/Brokers

Secchi, Inc.

Rudy Nigl, Vice President 1517 W. Pierce St. Milwaukee, WI 53204 (608) 304-4309 www.secchi.io Human Capital Management Software

mmac.org | 49

NEW MEMBERS CONTINUED | MAY - JULY 2023

Sherman Park Grocery Maurice Wince, Owner 4315 W. Fond du Lac Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53216 (414) 788-0523 Grocers-Retail

The Frantz Group, Inc.

Thrivent

The Kammer Group LLC

Urbanly Cultured LLC

Susan Wang Partner PO Box 761 Grafton, WI 53024 (262) 204-6000 www.thefrantzgroup.com Marketing Consultants

Shoreland Lutheran High School

9026 12th St. Kenosha, WI 53144 (262) 859-2595 www.slhs.us Schools-Secondary/Elementary

Peter Kammer President 44 E. Mifflin St., Ste. 305 Madison, WI 53703 (608) 512-1280 thekammergroup.com Government Relations Consultants

Source TEN

Sandra Dempsey Menomonee Falls, WI (414) 614-0391 www.sourceten.com Video Production

Wisconsin Institute of Certiﬁed Public Accountants

CONNECTING

Jennifer Moston Market Director 111 E. Kilbourn Ave., Ste. 1750 Milwaukee, WI 53202 (608) 219-7159 connect.thrivent.com/ jennifer-moston Financial Services

Ostassia Jackson Primary 11431 N. Port Washington Rd. Thiensville, WI 53092 (414) 319-9195 urbanlyculturedmke.com Business Management

YO U

} Advocacy

} Exclusive Savings

} Credibility

} Networking

} Development

} Resources

YOUR CONNECTION Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, increase your expertise and leadership or protect the business you’ve built, the WICPA will help you stay connected to the profession and succeed. Tammy Hofstede, WICPA President & CEO

Become a member and connect with over 7,000 CPAs and accounting and business professionals. 50 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

LEARN MORE

Vantage Financial Chris Lipski Managing Director 101 Falls Rd., Ste. 405 Grafton, WI 53024 (262) 357-1013 www.vantagefncl.com Financing

Warnke/Nichols Ltd. Investment Management

Andy Ramer Principal, Portfolio Manager 440 Wells St., Ste. 203 Delafield, WI 53018 (262) 303-4113 warnkenichols.com Investment Management Services

Support your fellow members by doing business together. MMAC.org/ Directory.html

A Dedicated & Diverse

Workforce

Every project, on time & within budget jcp-construction.com

mmac.org | 51

MMAC Member Milestones MAY - JULY 2023

100 years

30 years

90 years

25 years

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Perlick Corporation

85 years

UPS - Northern Plains District

80 years

Badger Mutual Insurance Company

75 years

Experis Manpower ManpowerGroup

65 years

Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center

60 years

Milwaukee Repertory Theater

55 years

Guardian Credit Union

40 years

Paychex, Inc. Wells Fargo Wells Fargo-Asset Management

35 years

ACL Laboratories Advocate Aurora Health Aurora at Home Aurora Medical Center Grafton Aurora Medical Center Summit Aurora Medical Center Washington County Aurora Sinai Medical Center Aurora St. Luke’s South Shore Aurora West Allis Medical Center Neu Tool & Supply Corp.

52 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

Willis Towers Watson

MKE Brewing SysLogic, Inc. Versiti Wisconsin, Inc.

20 years

Dorshak Family Tree & Landscape, Inc. Frank & Frank LLP Molded Dimensions, Inc. MSI General Corporation War Memorial Center

15 years

Accunet Mortgage Allis Roller LLC Artisan 179 Commercial Association of Realtors Wisconsin Komatsu Mining Corp. Korb + Associates Architects

10 years

African American C of C of Wisconsin AG Architecture, Inc. Amalga Composites, Inc. Capstone National Partners Casper Coffee Water & Vending Extension, Inc. Insulation Technologies, Inc. International Customs Services, Inc. Juno Logistics LaLonde Contractors, Inc. Midwest Iron MPI PAK Technologies, Inc. Parallel Employment Group, Inc. Peter Schwabe, Inc. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater College of Business & Economics Vulcan Global Manufacturing Solutions, Inc. Zimmerman Architectural Studios, Inc.

5 years

Axley Attorneys - Madison BP Energy Retail Company LLC Cafe Corazon - Bayview Corporate Design Interiors Diversatek FocalPoint Business Coaching of Wisconsin Gass Turek LLC Instaff JobsWork MKE Kapur MKE Benefits LLC P3 Development Group QRS Group, Inc. SBR Law Group Stellar Blue Technologies Supporting Strategies Milwaukee Titus Talent Strategies TWO-FIFTY Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce

1 year

AllRite Home & Remodeling Broadway Construction LLC Church Mutual Insurance Company S.I. CIBT Colectivo Coffee Roasters Connect Business Consulting Continental Properties Company, Inc. Fritsch Consulting LLC General Mills La Fleur Law Office SC Marketing & Branding Solutions MBT More Business Today LLC One Source Staffing, Inc. Renaissance Manufacturing Group LLC RJ Schinner Co., Inc. Source One Technology, Inc. Staffing Support Specialists Super Products LLC The Marek Group The Middle Six The Sigma Group WI State Fair Park Xorbix Technologies, Inc.

United States Postal Service

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation 1. Publication title

Milwaukee Commerce 4. Issue Frequency

Quarterly

2. Publication number

3. Filing Date

546-370

8/14/2023

5. # of Issues Published Annually

6. Annual Subscription Price

$5.00

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known office of publication (not printer) street, city, county, state and zip+4

301 W Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 220, Milwaukee, WI 53203-3306

STAFF MMAC.org/Staff.html

Corporate Expansion & Attraction

Contact Person Jim Paetsch | jpaetsch@mke7.com

Anna Reaves

414-287-4156

8. Complete mailing address of headquarters of general business office of publisher (not printer)

Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce 301 W Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 220, Milwaukee, WI 53203-3306

9. Full Names and complete mailing address of publisher, editor and managing editor Publisher: MMAC - 301 W Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 220, Milwaukee, WI 53203-3306 Editor: Ryan Amundson - 301 W Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 220, Milwaukee, WI 53203-3306 Managing Editor: MMAC - 301 W Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 220, Milwaukee, WI 53203-3306 10. Owner

Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce 301 W Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 220, Milwaukee, WI 53203-3306

11. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent of more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities. If none, check box X None 12. Tax Status - (For completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates) (check one) X has not changed during preceding 12 months 13. Publication title 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below 15. Extend and nature of circulation

Milwaukee Commerce 6/26/2023 Periodicals

Average no. copies No. Copies of single issue each issue during Published nearest preceding 12 months to filing date a. Total number of copies 4,118 4,218 b. Paid circulation (By mail and outside the mail) (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 2,243 4,118 (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 1727 0 (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Malls Including Sales through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Ales, and Other paid Distribution Outside USPS. 0 0 (4) Paid Distribution by other Classes of Mail Through the USPS 0 0 c. Total Paid and/or requested circulation 3,970 4,118 d. Free or nominal rate distribution (By mail and outside the mail) (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-county. Copies included on PS Form 3541 0 0 (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies included on ps form 3541 0 0 (3) Free or Nominal Rate copies mailed at Other Classes through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) 0 0 (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means) 0 0 e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4)) 0 0 f. Total free Distribution 3,970 4,118 g. Copies not Distributed 100 100 h. Total (sum of 15f and g) 4070 4,218 i. Percent Paid 100% 100%

16. Electronic Copy Circulation a. Paid electric copies b. Total paid print copies c Total print distribution d. Percent paid

0 3,970 3,970 100%

0 4,118 4,118 100%

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership X - if the publication is a general publication of this statement of this statement is required. Will be printed in the FALL 2023 issue of this publication.

Economic Development

Lynn Olberding | lolberding@mke7.com

Economic Trends & Research

Bret Mayborne | bmayborne@mmac.org

Federal, State & Local Government Andrew Davis | adavis@mmac.org

Equity & Inclusion

Corry Joe Biddle | cbiddle@mmac.org

GROW YOUR PEER NETWORKS AALAM

Walter Lanier | wlanier@aalamilwaukee.org

The Business Council

Marjorie Rucker | mrucker@mmac.org

Executive Roundtables

Chauntele Kreutz | ckreutz@mmac.org

Food & Beverage Industry

Gina Balke | gbalke@fabwisconsin.com

Hispanic Collaborative

Nancy Hernandez | nhernandez@mmac.org

Leadership Council

Barb Smith | bsmith@mmac.org

Networking Forums

Marjorie Yoshida | myoshida@mmac.org

Recruiters Roundtable

Julie Granger | jgranger@mmac.org

GAIN EXPOSURE FOR YOUR BUSINESS Advertising

Jane Trenchard-Backes | jbackes@mmac.org

Events & Sponsorship

Karen Powell | kpowell@mmac.org

Small Business

Stephanie Smith | ssmith@mmac.org

18. Signature and title of editor, publisher, business manager or owner

Date: 8/14/2023

mmac.org | 53

Teaming up to help bring your benefits costs down Discounted rates, quality employee benefits and surplus refund*potential when medical claims are lower than expected. They’re all possible with a UnitedHealthcare Level Funded health plan for your business through the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC).

Over $6,000

for an average health plan surplus refund

among the 20.3% of MMAC Level Funded plan sponsors who received a refund in 2022*

Get all the details from an MMAC-affiliated broker or visit uhc.com/mmac Don’t have a broker? Contact Barb Smith at bsmith@mmac.org or 414-287-4173.

*Among the UnitedHealthcare Level Funded plan sponsors who were MMAC members, 20.3% received a surplus refund in 2022, the average of which was $6,091. UnitedHealthcare internal reconciliation analysis, Jan. 1, 2022, through Dec. 31, 2022. Please consult a tax and/or legal advisor to determine if, by receiving this refund, there are any restrictions or obligations. Surplus refund available only where allowed by law. Administrative services provided by United HealthCare Services, Inc. or their affiliates, and UnitedHealthcare Service LLC in NY. Stop loss insurance is underwritten by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or their affiliates, including UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance Company in NJ, and UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of New York in NY. B2B EI221554556.1 2/23 © 2023 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 23-2098850

54 | Milwaukee Commerce, Fall 2023

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Breaking Down Barriers to Care: Behavioral Health Goes Digital By Dr. Donald Tavakoli, national medical director for behavioral health at UnitedHealthcare Anxiety affects nearly 30% of people1 at some point in their lives and often goes hand in hand with depression, which affects about 16 million American2 adults a year. Studies show that 4 in 10 U.S. adults who needed mental health treatment in the last 12 months did not get it3. As these numbers continue to climb, accompanied by a flood of demand for mental health care, access to virtual behavioral health care resources may help to address unmet patient need.

WHY ARE SO MANY PEOPLE WITH ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION GOING UNTREATED?

The reasons are complex and numerous, but stigma, cost, convenience and access to affordable resources are among some of the factors impacting Americans’ ability to get help for their concerns or illnesses. People are often unsure as to whether their feelings require treatment or if it’s situational and something that can be managed through changes in lifestyle for example.

ARE THE ANSWERS IN THE CLOUD?

Virtual care, also referred to as telehealth, may be part of the solution. These resources have steadily gained popularity over the last few years and continue to accelerate —with technological advancement attempting to meet demand. Not every situation calls for telehealth and digital solutions are still being studied for how they may fit into overall care planning for individuals, but virtual behavioral health services may play a role in helping to alleviate the mental health crisis.

CONSIDER THESE THREE QUICK TIPS FOR EVALUATING WHAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU: Tip #1: Establish Your Preferences

Take inventory of what may be of interest for you in terms of care. Start with asking yourself whether you wish to be assessed by a licensed professional for your mental health. Would you prefer in-person or virtual care? Do you seek focused problem solving like personalized coaching, rather than treatment?

Tip #2: Speak with Your Primary Care Physician

Your primary care physician (PCP) can be a great ally and guide—even if you want to explore virtual mental health options.

Tip #3: Speak with Your Insurance Provider

Describe the care you’d like to receive and ask about available options and therapists that are covered in-network, helping you understand your choices and keep costs down. Don’t wait to seek support for yourself or those around you – resources are available. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders#:~:text=Anxiety%20disorders%20are%20the%20most,people%20 lead%20normal%20productive%20lives. 1

https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.html

https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/news/more-than-4-in-10-us-adults-who-needed-substance-use-and-mental-health-care-did-not-get-treatment/

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