The RAMAC Voice - your quarterly magazine; March 2024

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

PRESIDENT’S Message

MARCH MARKS THE BEGINNING OF OUR FISCAL YEAR

and is a good time for looking forward to possibilities and reflecting on the past. Since I began my time with RAMAC, we’ve enjoyed many successes and weathered some major impacts on business, both locally and worldwide. This edition of The RAMAC Voice is the official first issue of the year, and as we transition to a new year, I want to introduce the new RAMAC leadership to our board and membership as we rotate new directors onto the board. Please welcome:

Hope Otto – Racine County Human Services

Ali Haigh – United Way of Racine County

Andrew Dodge – Johnson Financial Group

Brett Ekes – DeMark, Kolbe & Brodek

In addition, it’s time to thank the outgoing directors who have generously shared their expertise and wisdom on the RAMAC board: Outgoing Chair Mark Behrens, Johnson Financial Group; Liz Powell, Racine Community Foundation; Jody Muniz, Family Strong Wellness. Their contributions have been significant and greatly appreciated.

Our Executive Committee for 2024 will include our new Chair Scott Hess, CliftonLarsonAllen; our new Vice Chair Brian Weaver, CNH; COMAR Chair Ryan Brath, Fischer USA; Activities Chair Loretta Olson, Express Employment Professionals; Membership Chair Dana Christensen, Wiscon Products; Public Policy Chair John Warren, Warren Eye Care; Finance Chair Andrew Dodge, Johnson Financial Group.

As you may notice, one major change for 2024 is the redesign of the RAMAC Voice magazine. We hope you enjoy the new format and enhanced layout and photos. Also, in this year's editions of The RAMAC Voice, my letter will focus on the progress we have made in the different areas of the chamber over the last seven years. I’ll start by focusing on membership growth. We have increased membership from 415 to 540, just over 30%, during several economic ups and downs and a pandemic. Many things factor into that growth, but one of the most significant is the tireless work of Carmella Venturini as our Business Development Coordinator. Her efforts to develop our business since 2017 have

Kristen Beglinger

SC Johnson

Ryan Brath

Fischer USA

Dana Christensen

Wiscon Products

Mike Cretton

InSinkErator

Andrew Dodge

Johnson Financial Group

been, and continue to be, a labor of belief in our mission's importance. In most cases, Carm is the first RAMAC staff member you meet. Her knowledge and enthusiasm for the benefits you can realize from joining your chamber are a strong enticement. RAMAC and I are grateful to have her on the team.

Leadership is a critical attribute in any business, which is why we focus on leadership development in our training programs. Our flagship course Frontline Leadership is being offered on Wednesdays, March 13, 20, 27, and April 3 and 10. If you are interested in sending someone to learn or brush up on their leadership skills, please contact Carmella (262.634.1931). There are openings available.

And what better time to mark your calendars for our signature events for 2024?

Thursday, April 25 – Annual Awards Dinner at Roma Lodge

Monday, July 29 – Golf Outing/Fishing Charter – golf at Meadowbrook Country Club; fishing out of Kenosha harbor

Thursday, October 3 – Annual Membership Dinner at Fountain Banquet Hall

Business Over Breakfast, Business Blenders, Ribbon Cuttings, and our other events will be held throughout the year. In addition, don’t forget about our monthly HR Roundtable for HR professionals or for those who wear an HR hat. Our Small Business Consortium is enjoying a strong second year. If you’re interested in joining either cohort, contact Anna Clementi (262.634.1931) for more information.

Make sure you check our email blasts to keep up on the latest opportunities to add value to your membership. As always, thank you for your support and participation in RAMAC events. Follow RAMAC on Facebook and LinkedIn, and contact me if you have any questions or concerns, 262.634.1931 or mjmontemurro@racinechamber.com.

MATT J. MONTEMURRO RAMAC President/CEO

BOARD MEMBERS

Brett Ekes

DeMark, Kolbe & Brodek

Ali Haigh

United Way of Racine County

Scott Hess

CliftonLarsonAllen

Jeff Knutson

Burlington Graphic Systems

Crista Kruse

UW-Parkside

Steve Langer

Modine Manufacturing

Loretta Olson

Express Employment Professionals

Hope Otto

Racine County

Donna Owens

Ascension

Tom Schaefer

Pioneer Products

Aaron Spitzner

Kowal Investment Group

Frank Sterbin

Citizens Bank

John Warren

Warren Eye Care

Brian Weaver

CNH Industrial

BUSINESS BLENDERS

IN NOVEMBER OF 2023, the Johnson Financial Group invited RAMAC members to their offices at 555 Main Street in downtown Racine. Their Next Gen Employee Resource group planned the event which was geared toward young professionals. All RAMAC members were invited, of course, and all age groups were represented. But the Next Gen employee group facilitated a presentation on personal branding which included a panel of JFG employees. Adding this program outside of the typical networking was a well-received addition to the Business Blender.

The December Business Blender brought members to the CliftonLarsonAllen offices also in downtown Racine. CLA moved to 1 Main Street in 2020, during the pandemic. So, they were not able to showcase their new space. Finally, in 2023, they did just that!

For the first Business Blender of 2024, RAMAC members met at ClearCom to help them celebrate 20 years. It was a great event bringing friends and business colleagues together.

BUSINESS BLENDERS

RAMAC is Racine’s Business Champion serving as a voice representing the common interests of every organization in Racine – small and large, industrial and retail, for-profit and nonprofit. In support of its broad and diverse membership base, RAMAC offers a variety of pro-business and pro-community programs and initiatives. These programs aim to improve the business climate and vitality of the greater Racine area. Join us in welcoming these new RAMAC members:

New Name, More to Explore

New Name, More to Explore:

JOHNSON INSURANCE SERVICES IS NOW RISK STRATEGIES

JOHNSON INSURANCE SERVICES IS NOW RISK STRATEGIES

Risk Strategies helps businesses and individuals design insurance and risk management solutions in over 30 specialty areas.

Risk Strategies helps businesses and individuals design insurance and risk management solutions in over 30 specialty areas.

LAST APRIL, the Racine County Eye announced the pending acquisition of Johnson Insurance Services (JIS) by Risk Strategies, the ninth largest brokerage in the U.S. When one company buys another, it’s natural to ask, “What will change?” So, RAMAC reached out to inquire and spoke with Brian McNulty, a property-casualty specialist who has served Racine County for 17 years.

LAST APRIL, the Racine County Eye announced the pending acquisition of Johnson Insurance Services (JIS) by Risk Strategies, the ninth largest brokerage in the U.S. When one company buys another, it’s natural to ask, “What will change?” So, RAMAC reached out to inquire and spoke with Brian McNulty, a property-casualty specialist who has served Racine County for 17 years.

RAMAC: First, remind readers about Johnson Insurance Services and their role in the Racine community.

RAMAC: First, remind readers about Johnson Insurance Services and their role in the Racine community.

Strategies—has helped Racine individuals and businesses with their insurance needs. Commercial property and casualty. Employee benefits. Individual coverages, including life insurance. All with Samuel Johnson’s focus on service and commitment to the community.

Services (JIS). For nearly 40 years, the JIS team—now Risk Strategies—has helped Racine individuals and businesses with their insurance needs. Commercial property and casualty. Employee benefits. Individual coverages, including life insurance. All with Samuel Johnson’s focus on service and commitment to the community.

RAMAC: How does the acquisition of JIS by Risk Strategies benefit customers?

RAMAC: How does the acquisition of JIS by Risk Strategies benefit customers?

MCNULTY: Customers are gaining several new resources. For example, businesses and individuals now have access to additional insurance markets. Why is that important?

MCNULTY: Samuel C. Johnson, the 4th-generation leader of SC Johnson, saw a gap in financial services in Wisconsin and decided to act. In 1970, he established Johnson Financial Group (JFG) to provide personal service in Wisconsin communities. JFG branched into insurance in 1985 with Johnson Insurance

MCNULTY: Samuel C. Johnson, the 4th-generation leader of SC Johnson, saw a gap in financial services in Wisconsin and decided to act. In 1970, he established Johnson Financial Group (JFG) to provide personal service in Wisconsin communities. JFG branched into insurance in 1985 with Johnson Insurance Services (JIS). For nearly 40 years, the JIS team—now Risk

MCNULTY: Customers are gaining several new resources. For example, businesses and individuals now have access to additional insurance markets. Why is that important?

Climate change, outsized jury verdicts, cost of health care, and other factors have affected insurance availability and pricing nationwide. Having access to more markets means more insurance choices for Wisconsin customers.

Climate change, outsized jury verdicts, cost of health care, and other factors have affected insurance availability and pricing nationwide. Having access to more markets means more insurance

RISK STRATEGIES STAFF GATHER IN FRONT OF NEW ENTRANCE SIGNAGE.

Risk Strategies staff gather in front of new entrance signage.

RAMAC MEMBER SINCE 2023

RISK STRATEGIES

team—now Risk businesses with casualty. Eminsurance. commitment to Risk Strateresources. For access to addihealth care, and pricing namore insurance insurance SIGNAGE.

choices for Wisconsin customers.

For property and casualty insurance, businesses will also benefit from additional industry-specific expertise, along with new risk management, loss control, and safety resources.

For property and casualty insurance, businesses will also benefit from additional industry-specific expertise, along with new risk management, loss control, and safety resources.

In the employee benefits space, large employers will see enhanced health claims data analysis, pharmacy benefits program reviews, and unique programs to mitigate healthcare costs, such as stop-loss captives.

In the employee benefits space, large employers will see enhanced health claims data analysis, pharmacy benefits program reviews, and unique programs to mitigate healthcare costs, such as stop-loss captives.

For customers’ personal needs, there is now a whole group of experts for family offices and private clients. These specialists assist with everything from insuring sailboats and private planes to medical insurance for adventure travel.

For customers’ personal needs, there is now a whole group of experts for family offices and private clients. These specialists assist with everything from insuring sailboats and private planes to medical insurance for adventure travel.

RAMAC: What changes have customers seen with the transition to Risk Strategies?

RAMAC: What changes have customers seen with the transition to Risk Strategies?

MCNULTY: Risk Strategies shares Johnson Financial Group’s commitment to service. So, they didn’t want to make a lot of changes. Other than the logo, website, and signage on the

MCNULTY: Risk Strategies shares Johnson Financial Group’s commitment to service. So, they didn’t want to make a lot of changes. Other than the logo, website, and signage on the building, customers won’t see big differences in their day-to-day experience. They still enjoy personalized attention and the Wisconsin expertise they’ve come to expect.

The biggest difference? Risk Strategies has a deeper bench. In addition to the 140 Wisconsin specialists from JIS, Racine businesses and individuals can now access subject matter experts in over 30 fields from Aviation to Wineries. Each industry specialist has access to niche insurance markets, expanding the options available to customers.

Like JIS, Risk Strategies is entrepreneurial. If a customer needs an unusual insurance or risk management solution for a difficult-to-insure risk, the Risk Strategies team will turn over every stone to find a creative solution.

Larger customers will benefit from enhanced data analytics for analyzing claims and cost of risk, as well as broader tools for assessing and benchmarking enterprise risk. These resources provide greater ability to craft unique programs for complex needs.

building, customers won’t see big differences in their day-to-day experience. They still enjoy personalized attention and the Wisconsin expertise they’ve come to expect.

The biggest difference? Risk Strategies has a deeper bench. In addition to the 140 Wisconsin specialists from JIS, Racine businesses and individuals can now access subject matter experts in over 30 fields from Aviation to Wineries. Each industry specialist has access to niche insurance markets, expanding the options available to customers.

Like JIS, Risk Strategies is entrepreneurial. If a customer needs an unusual insurance or risk management solution for a difficult-to-insure risk, the Risk Strategies team will turn over every stone to find a creative solution.

Larger customers will benefit from enhanced data analytics for analyzing claims and cost of risk, as well as broader tools for assessing and benchmarking enterprise risk. These resources provide greater ability to craft unique programs for complex needs.

Joanne Szymaszek Managing Director at Risk Strategies

Brian McNulty VP Commercial Sales Leader at Risk Strategies.

Joanne Szymaszek

Managing Director at Risk Strategies.

Brian McNulty VP Commercial Sales Leader at Risk Strategies.

RISK STRATEGIES

RAMAC: What specialty expertise has been most exciting to add?

RAMAC: What specialty expertise has been most exciting to add?

cerns in the contract’s fine print.

MCNULTY: It’s hard to choose just one example. Here are three related to property-casualty insurance:

MCNULTY: It’s hard to choose just one example. Here are three related to property-casualty insurance:

Any business that delivers products to warehouses, businesses, or consumers knows the commercial auto market has been challenging lately. Risk Strategies has a team that specializes in insurance for last-mile delivery. They have an uncanny ability to find solutions for hard-to-insure delivery fleets.

Any business that delivers products to warehouses, businesses, or consumers knows the commercial auto market has been challenging lately. Risk Strategies has a team that specializes in insurance for last-mile delivery. They have an uncanny ability to find solutions for hard-to-insure delivery fleets.

Reviewing a contract through an insurance and risk management lens can help a customer avoid an unexpected liability. Risk Strategies excels in these contract reviews for architects, engineers, and fine art. For example, if a museum is planning to loan an artwork, a Risk Strategies expert can identify con -

Reviewing a contract through an insurance and risk management lens can help a customer avoid an unexpected liability. Risk Strategies excels in these contract reviews for architects, engineers, and fine art. For example, if a museum is planning to loan an artwork, a Risk Strategies expert can identify concerns in the contract’s fine print.

The Risk Strategies Pro Safety team can help Racine businesses of all sizes and industries with safety training and consulting, including guidance on OSHA compliance.

These are just a few of the resources now available to customers as a result of the acquisition.

RAMAC: How can Racine businesses contact Risk Strategies?

Benefit from additional insurance carriers and broader purchasing power with Risk Strategies.

MCNULTY: Anyone who’s interested can find more information at https://www.risk-strategies.com/. To ask a question or meet for coffee, email: racine@risk-strategies.com. Risk Strategies is excited to continue the legacy of service and community focus started by Samuel C. Johnson.

The Risk Strategies Pro Safety team can help Racine businesses of all sizes and industries with safety training and consulting, including guidance on OSHA compliance.

These are just a few of the resources now available to customers as a result of the acquisition.

RAMAC : How can Racine businesses contact Risk Strategies?

MCNULTY: Anyone who’s interested can find more information at https://www.risk-strategies.com/ . To ask a question or meet for coffee, email: racine@risk-strategies. com . Risk Strategies is excited to continue the legacy of service and community focus started by Samuel C. Johnson.

Benefit from additional insurance carriers and broader purchasing power with Risk Strategies.

•ARCHITECTS & ENGINEERS

•AVIATION

•ARCHITECTS & ENGINEERS

•AVIATION

•CONSTRUCTION

•CONSTRUCTION

•EDUCATION

•EDUCATION

•NONPROFIT & HUMAN SERVICES

•PRIVATE EQUITY

•NONPROFIT & HUMAN SERVICES

•PRIVATE EQUITY

•PUBLIC SECTOR

•PUBLIC SECTOR

•REAL ESTATE

•REAL ESTATE

•ENTERTAINMENT

•ENTERTAINMENT

•FINANCIAL SERVICES

•FINANCIAL SERVICES

•FINE ART

•FINE ART

•HEALTHCARE

•HEALTHCARE

•RELOCATION

•RELOCATION

•TRANSPORTATION

•TRANSPORTATION

•WASTE & RECYCLING

•WASTE & RECYCLING

•WINERIES

•WINERIES

John 23 Educational Center PUTS EDUCATION FIRST

John 23 Educational Center creates programs that aim to assist students in academics while supporting their social and emotional wellbeing and at the same time preparing them for their future.

JOHN 23 EDUCATIONAL CENTER CELEBRATES ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR. Founded in 2009, its mission is to prepare students for graduation with the necessary skills for success in the workplace and in higher education. The Center’s name was chosen due to Pope John 23's advocacy for quality education for all God’s children with a strong belief that education is the foundation for creating a world of peace and love. The Center offers an afterschool program for grades 5-12, which includes supervised study hall, mentoring, and tutoring Monday through Thursday. They also assist students in their respective schools through an after-school study center and lunch hour homework and tutoring support.

Their Outreach SEL (Social Emotional Learning) Program is offered at various middle schools in Racine during the school day and addresses many challenges students encounter in their lives such as dealing with loss, conflict, lack of self-empowerment and focus, life transitions, and mindfulness.

Thriving Thursdays have become an integral part of the afterschool programming designed to help students thrive academically and socially. This day is set apart for enrichment beyond homework help. Activities make learning fun and engaging so students build a foundation for their future, equipped with financial and life skills that will benefit them in middle school, high school, and beyond.

Executive Director Darci Green interacts with students.

RAMAC MEMBER SINCE 2023

additionaL PrograMs inCLude: •ESL classes for Latinx adults in the community provided by local volunteers.

•The Juntos (Together) Program open to families with middle school students, helping Latinx students succeed academically and plan for college—a free 5-Week Workshop starting in the Fall of 2024.

Scan for more information

2024 ANNIVERSARIES

O & H Danish Bakery

Diamond Transportation Systems, Inc.

Educators Credit Union

Greene Glass

Lakeview Pharmacy

My Place Hotel H. Ertel, Inc.

Dish Restaurant

The Joint Chiropractic Knuteson, Hinkston & Rosenberg, S.C.

NSR Business Solutions

Racine Riverside Marine

Racine Flame Spray, Inc.

Lakeside Curative Services

HyPro, Inc.

Washington Properties

Foxconn Technology Group

Knoell Family Dentistry

Ways to Learn More about or ContaCt John 23 eduCationaL Center

•Visit us at: www.john23educenter.org

•Like us on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/john23educenter

•View our gift registry and/or donate online at: www.john23educenter.org/donate

•Contact us via email at: communication@john23center.org

AA Security

Premier Products of Racine

Charter Spectrum

Robatech Midwest, Inc.

Dimple’s Imports LLC

Decorating cookies at the 2023 Christmas Party.

On Thriving Thursday, National Guard presenter plays game with students. Students reading with therapy dog Ellie Mae.

Thriving Thursday pumpkin game.

Johnson and Sons Paving Co. We Make T-Shirts

HIGHER EXPECTATIONS FOR RACINE COUNTY

TARGETS SCHOOL AND LIFE SUCCESS FOR EVERY CHILD

Higher Expectations for Racine County is part of a national movement to help every child succeed in school and in life, regardless of race, ethnicity, zip code or circumstance. The Higher Expectation team works with institutions and organizations, such as Racine Unified, Racine County, The City of Racine, RAMAC, and United Way of Racine County, to transform systems to better serve all members of the Racine community.

ABOUT HIGHER EXPECTATIONS FOR RACINE COUNTY

Higher Expectations engages community partners, aligns efforts, and maximizes resources to promote excellence and equity in education and employment outcomes in Racine County. They are committed to using evidence-based and data-driven decision making to identify local best practices, align community efforts, and track progress on key outcomes from birth to successful employment.

Their three core goals are:

•Every child enters school ready to learn

•Every student succeeds in school

•Every resident succeeds in a career.

Higher Expectations for Racine County started when the community came together with a shared mission: to support the success of every family, career to cradle to achieve a vision of a fully capable and employed Racine County workforce. More than 75 cross-sector representatives serve as partners in this work, including community members, school district superintendents and staff, higher education administrators, early childhood educators, business and philanthropic leaders, Racine and corporate funders, and government officials.

RACINE COUNTY ACHIEVEMENTS

IN 2015, Higher Expectations created and signed a first-of-its-kind,

Key to Higher Expectations’ success (left to right): Kristin Jenders, Elizabeth Erickson, DeAnn Possehl, Yalanda Ludtke, Ben Taft, Leanna Jones, Jeff Neubauer, Celeste Heritz, Zy Strowder.

RAMAC PARTNER

data-sharing agreement between the University of Parkside (UWP), Racine Unified School District (RUSD), and Higher Expectations (HE). The following Spring, with support from Annie E. Casey and the Lumina Foundation, this collaborative looked at their six-year graduation data and saw that Racine’s systems were not serving students equitably. With Higher Expectations support, the Racine partnership transformed systems by incorporating remedial work in classes that earned credits for degrees, collaborating across RUSD and UWP to align math pathways from K-12 to college, creating stronger pathways from an associate degree at Gateway Technical College into a bachelor’s degree at UWP, and increasing dual-credit opportunities for High School students at RUSD to earn college credits. In June of 2019, UWP achieved a 44% graduation rate after averaging 25% over its first 35 years in existence. Post pandemic the rate is 41% with a goal of 50% by 2025.

IN 2017, Higher Expectations and Racine County funded a local study of the City of Racine’s labor market and discovered something that has been seen across the country since the pandemic - Racine needs to expand its labor pool to increase nontraditional candidates. In Racine, female head-ofhouseholds (a proxy for single mothers) comprised more of the unemployed population than in similar-sized cities across the country. Higher Expectations worked with Ascension All Saints and Goodwill to design and launch RiseUp, which supports entry-level employees at Ascension All Saints to increase their educational attainment while working, so that they can move up within the system into family-sustaining careers. This program graduated 16 participants, with 6 earning certificates for continued education. Higher Expectations worked through RiseUp to adjust HR policies to increase the number of program graduate interviews.

STARTING IN 2019, Higher Expectations partnered with Racine County, Racine Unified School District, the YWCA, the City of Racine and others, to expand access to high school completion options. Through a What Works Cities application, funds from the Gates Foundation and technical assistance from Behavioral Insights to the City of Racine helped to increase the City of Racine’s population with a High School Credential. Higher Expectations also connected Racine Unified and YWCA to create a Competency Based Credit Recovery Program (CBCRP) that utilizes the 5.09 HSED Program curriculum to support students who are credit deficient but testing at high aptitude rates to give them the support they need to graduate with their peers. By 2022, 140 students were able to graduate from Racine Unified comprehensive high schools as a direct result of the HSED program. Other alternative high school diploma programs graduated 33 additional students because of referrals by Racine Unified and the HSED teams. This represents approximately 10% of the 2022 senior class, who wouldn’t have otherwise earned their high school diploma.

ALSO IN 2019, Higher Expectations connected Racine Unified School District with StriveTogether consultants to train

district leaders and teachers on Continuous Improvement cycles that impower teachers to create adaptive lesson plans that reduce the number of students pulled from instructional time for reading or math intervention. In 2023, 16 Racine Unified elementary schools made progress in Forward scores in ELA and 6 of those schools saw numbers higher than pre-Covid. Racine Unified also saw a 60% decrease in students with urgent needs in early literacy in 2023.

“It’s a long game,” says Elizabeth Erickson, Co-Executive Director of Higher Expectations. “We’ve seen some systems transformations, but we certainly are not done transforming systems. There’s still a lot to do to better the outcomes for all Racine residents. There will always be systems that could work better for our community, and we’re really determined to continue to work on our systems and transform them to be better.”

RECENT RECOGNITION

StriveTogether is the national movement to help every child succeed in school and in life from cradle to career, regardless of race, ethnicity, zip code or circumstance. Recently they designated Higher Expectations for Racine County as a “Systems Transformation” Cradle to Career Network member. In Systems Transformation communities, cradle-to-career partnerships work with systems leaders to make fundamental and institutionalized shifts in policies, practices, resources and power structures to eliminate structural racism and advance equitable outcomes. The shared goal is for every Black, Indigenous, Latine and Asian youth and those experiencing poverty to have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential, cradle to career.

According to StriveTogether President and CEO Jennifer Blatz, “Since Higher Expectations for Racine County was established in 2014, it has used data to improve cradle-to-career outcomes from kindergarten readiness and early grade reading to high school graduation and postsecondary attainment to not only address workforce needs in Racine County but also put more young people on the path to economic mobility. Higher Expectations is making a measurable difference.”

This year, Higher Expectations is celebrating its 10th anniversary in May. They plan to celebrate the great achievements outlined above and preview what’s next for the organization.

Student displays Competency-Based Credit Recovery Program diploma.

RUSD student celebrates improvements in his Early Literacy skills with teacher.

Empowering Economic Growth:

RCEDC SPARKS POSITIVE CHANGE

The

Racine

County

Economic

Development Corporation

(RCEDC)

plays a pivotal role in driving economic development and facilitating business expansions in Racine County.

With a mission to grow Racine County’s property tax base, RCEDC works closely with Racine County, local municipalities, higher education institutions, and nonprofit partners to set the stage for future development and connect businesses with the resources to support expansion projects in Racine County.

Since 2020, RCEDC staff have facilitated 360 business development projects that include comprehensive site selection, loans, grants, and incentives that when completed will result in $2.1 billion in private investment which includes $1.4 billion in new construction. RCEDC’s efforts contribute to the development of new busi-

ness parks, the construction of new housing developments, the growth of new and existing businesses, and assistance to entrepreneurs seeking financial and technical resources to start businesses.

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

Racine County’s location between Chicago and Milwaukee attracts the attention of businesses including advanced manufacturers, foreign-owned companies, and distribution firms that seek to access and serve their markets. RCEDC’s staff work closely with site selectors, real estate developers, and busi-

RCEDC’s staff, Left to right. Top: Jordan Brown (Business Recruitment Specialist), Laura Million (Deputy Director), Andrea Safedis (Portfolio Servicing Specialist), Yoav Meiri (Marketing Director), Diane Albrecht (Loan Closing Specialist), Wesley Walsh (Loan Officer). Bottom: Cassandra Glenn (Economic Development Specialist), Alison Howen (Marketing & Events Specialist), Raquel Reyes (Credit Analyst), Jenny Trick (Executive Director).

ness owners to navigate the intricacies of expansion, development, and relocation projects. RCEDC’s professionals are engaged in the early stages to assist businesses with site location options, confirming infrastructure availability and capacity, understanding the local workforce, determining the availability of state and local incentives, and gaining the necessary public approvals.

Recent notable projects that RCEDC’s staff had a hand in bringing to the county include Microsoft’s development of 315 acres for a datacenter campus and subsequent acquisition of 1,030 acres for further expansion in the Village of Mount Pleasant, Summit Packaging’s expansion project in the City of Racine, BRP’s expansion project in the Village of Sturtevant, development of the Caledonia Commerce Park by Zilber, Ltd in the Village of Caledonia, as well as development and construction of more than 2,000 of various housing units in the area in the last 4 years.

FINANCING TOOLS

Small and mid-sized businesses that seek to retain their cash for operations look favorably at RCEDC’s low-interest, low down payment loans. Through a variety of community loan programs and the Small Business Administration 504 loan program, financing options are available to local businesses to construct, purchase, or renovate buildings as well as purchase equipment to achieve their business goals.

RCEDC also manages matching grant programs for Racine County, Sturtevant, and Burlington to assist growing businesses. Since 2020, nearly 100 businesses have utilized the Racine County Matching Grant to enhance operations, launch new marketing initiatives, invest in leadership and operations training, and various consulting services.

TALENT RESOURCES

The ability to attract and retain talent is critical to every Racine County business. The size and skill characteristics of Racine County’s workforce also influence future development and site selection decisions. The importance of this reality led RCEDC to create the Greater Racine County (GRC) website, which markets Racine County businesses and communities to talent considering new job opportunities in our communities.

The GreaterRacineCounty.com website features employers, communities, and data, as well as showcases recently relocated talent through videos that highlight why they work and live in Southeast Wisconsin.

The GRC website features employers, communities, and data, but also showcases recently relocated talent through videos that highlight why they work and live in Southeast Wisconsin.

This information is pushed out to target audiences via social media advertisements funded by the local business community, RAMAC, and WEDC. The Time To Move Up social media campaign delivers video and ads to audiences in Northern Illinois, showcasing the stories of Racine County residents, their workplaces, and why they have chosen to call Racine County home. In 2023, the campaign captured the attention of over 1.2 million people. The marketing efforts combined with dedicated resources to support businesses in posting job opportunities and engaging job candidates considering relocation increase the opportunity to attract talent to our community and grow Racine County’s population.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

or to discuss a potential business endeavor, visit our website RCEDC.com, or contact our dedicated staff and start a conversation.

Jenny Trick RCEDC, Executive Director JTrick@rcedc.org

Laura Million RCEDC, Deputy Director LMillion@rcedc.org

Community loan funds enable RCEDC to make direct loans to businesses.

•Flexible Loan Terms

•Below Market Interest Rates

As Low As 10% Down Payment

•No 3rd Party Lender Required*

*In most cases

Use of Funds:

COMMUNITY LOAN PROGRAMS

RCEDC.ORG/RLF

•Real Estate Purchase

•Construction/Renovation

•Equipment Purchase

•Leasehold Improvements

*Other Uses May Be Considered

BUSINESS FOCUS

CMIT SOLUTIONS OF SOUTHEAST WISCONSIN

CMIT provides IT and cyber-security services to small and midsized businesses.

WHAT SETS YOU APART/MAKES YOU UNIQUE?

Service – many IT providers lack the personal touch. CMIT has a client first focus. We truly enjoy taking care of our clients and going the extra mile wherever we can. We love what we do, and we love seeing the impact our clients have on our local and global economy. We are a small business, and we understand tight budgets. Our team focuses on bringing Fortune 50 service and protection to the SMB space at affordable prices. We never hard sell on our products and services. We take a consultative approach to ensure you have all the information you need to make an educated cost-v-benefit decision for our solutions.

FAVORITE QUOTE:

”You can get everything in life you want, if you just help enough other people get what they want.” -Zig Ziglar

WHAT TYPES OF CLIENTS ARE YOU TARGETING IN THE COMING YEAR? We have a broad range of clients in most industries. We’ve found that the small 5 to 10 employee businesses are seriously underserved. AI and automation are impacting the modern cyber-threat landscape so small to midsized businesses are more likely to experience an event than ever before.

WHAT IS SPURRING/ENABLING YOUR GROWTH? Cyber-security threats are evolving at an unimaginable pace. At least 25% of the businesses I meet have had a recent cyber-security incident that has impacted their business. AI and automation tools have

RAMAC MEMBER SINCE 2022

made it easier for “hackers” to gain access to your systems and data. SMBs are no longer safe because of their small size—the hackers are playing a numbers game and are winning against unprotected businesses.

Service is a second area driving our growth. CMIT of SE WI is a tight team with the sole goal of taking care of our clients. As SMBs work with us they can see our customer focus and refer us to others.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHALLENGES? Keeping pace with emerging threats and technologies. A secondary challenge is what all SMBs face—growing and adding new clients without degrading our service or blowing our budget.

WHY IS RACINE A GOOD PLACE TO DO BUSINESS? Racine is positioned for continuing its tremendous growth. We’ve got amazing proximity to Milwaukee and Chicago. As downtown continues its revitalization, it just keeps getting better. The entire SE Wisconsin area has rich history that has given birth to some amazing companies and continues to attract new, larger companies to take advantage of our great people and affordable living. This drives growth and innovation in our SMB space, fueling not only our local economy but contributing to the national and global economy as well.

HOW DOES RAMAC MEMBERSHIP HELP? SE Wisconsin is a special place so connection to the community is critical. RAMAC gives us a venue to meet and work with businesses of all sizes.

NONPROFIT DRAFT DAY

IMPACT DOUBLES IN THREE YEARS

ON JANUARY 31, 2024, the RAMAC Foundation held its annual Nonprofit Draft Day. This event was started in 2022 by a Leadership Racine project team. They were instructed to connect community members who are enthusiastic about serving their community to local nonprofits in need of volunteers.

RAMAC, as the chamber of commerce, supports all business industries including those in the nonprofit sector. Through the Leadership Racine program, now in its 26th year, RAMAC has formed strong partnerships with many nonprofits in the area and continues to look for ways to support them. RAMAC recognized that there is a constant and consistent need to fill open

board positions including roles on committees and other opportunities to be engaged. The idea was to provide a venue and process for connecting nonprofits to community leaders.

The Leadership Racine program exists to build community trustees and prepare individuals for positions of public influence and decision-making such as serving on a board of directors. Those who graduate from the 9-month program have been a source of newly engaged and highly aware individuals who are looking to serve and ready to commit. But sometimes, this still is a challenge to make connections or find a passion and for individuals to find ‘the right fit’. So the idea of the Nonprofit Draft Day was born.

The concept was taken from another community but the LR project team and RAMAC made it their own. Modeled after a professional sports draft, the purpose of the Draft Day is to connect prospective board members, called free agents at the event, with interested nonprofits who are the scouts. This is a hassle-free and fun opportunity for nonprofits to reach talented local board member prospects in a safe and productive environment.

The event consists of expo-like tabling or meet-and-greet time for the free agents and the scouts to get to know each other. Free agents from the community move from table to table to ask questions, understand the nonprofits’ missions, and look to find an organization they would feel comfortable providing their time and talent. The free agents are asked to drop an interest card with up to three nonprofit scouts.

After the tabling portion of the event, the free agents sit through an educational piece on board service while the nonprofit scouts are literally discussing and “drafting” those who expressed an interest. This is a collaborative process among the nonprofits with the goal of each of them being able to “draft” at least one free agent who was at the event. Then the fun begins.

Everyone comes back together and draft announcements are made along with photos taken. But this is just the start. After the event, the nonprofits should be meeting with their draft picks to start their vetting process per each of their individual organizations' bylaws and procedures. The Nonprofit Draft Day event was the catalyst for that initial introduction and connection.

Each year this RAMAC Foundation event has been streamlined and adjusted but the purpose of being the connector has remained. In three years its impact has more than doubled:

2022 INAUGURAL EVENT:

8 FREE AGENTS WERE CONNECTED TO 8 SCOUTS.

2023 EVENT:

7 FREE AGENTS WERE CONNECTED TO 7 SCOUTS.

2024 EVENT:

19 FREE AGENTS WERE CONNECTED TO 16 SCOUTS.

programs & training

BUSINESS BLENDERS

This monthly networking event brings members together to make new or enhance existing business connections in a social style setting. Hosted by a different RAMAC member each month. No cost.

MARCH 7 – RACINE LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL

MAY 16 – VARITAY STUDIOS

7:30AM – 9:00AM $30 MEMBERS/$35 NONMEMBERS A

BUSINESS OVER BREAKFAST

Learn over breakfast from members, to members. Features a RAMAC member sharing information and expertise around a specific topic to help others solve a business, marketing or personnel issue. Held quarterly.

MAY 3, 2024

JUNE 20 - BEAR COUNTY, INC. AT BEAR PAW ADVENTURE PARK

JUNE 20 - BEAR COUNTRY, INC. AT BEAR PAW ADVENTURE PARK

FRONTLINE LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATE SERIES

5-part training series designed for those who provide direction and supervision or formal guidance without the power to hire, fire, or promote. Topics include motivation, communication, and resolving conflict. Take sessions individually or the full 5-week series.

MARCH 13, 20, 27, APRIL 3, AND 10

8:30AM – 4:30PM

$375 PER SESSION MEMBERS/$485 NONMEMBERS

FORKLIFT TRAINING

This course is an operator safety training for forklifts and self-propelled aerial lift platforms to instruct on the safe use of the equipment. The instruction includes classroom training and hands-on operation of equipment.

2ND THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH

8:30AM – 11:30AM

$140

WORKPLACE WELLNESS SERIES

NEW 3-part series for business or HR leaders to respond to the needs of their employees and create a healthy company culture. 45-minute sessions include mental health, emotional intelligence, and civil workplace strategies. Take one session each week separately or take the full series on any date.

OFFERED MARCH 5, MARCH 12, OR MARCH 19

8:00AM – 8:45/9:00AM – 9:45AM/10:00AM –10:45AM

$50 PER SESSION

Publisher:

RAMAC, 300 Fifth Street, Racine, WI 53403 - 262.634.1931 ramac@racinechamber.com - www.racinechamber.com

Editor: Maureen Bagg - mbagg@corporate-images.com - 262.633.7772

Advertising: Robert Ireland - robert.ireland@adamspg.com - 262.949.6281

Design and Production: Lindsey Witter (APG Southern Wisconsin), and RAMAC

Photos: Non-credited photos are from Varitay Studios, advertisers, RAMAC and its members, and stock.

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