Chamber Voice Newsletter | February 2022 - Annual Report Issue

February 2022 | Vol 17 Issue 2

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

A Letter from the Chairman It’s an extremely special year for our Chamber! We’re celebrating our Centennial as the trusted source for growing business, activating leaders, and building community in our region. Remember to purchase your tickets to join us as we kick off our Centennial Celebration on March 29! And stay tuned throughout the year as we celebrate the past, present, and what’s next for our exciting future.

For 100 years, generations of business and community leaders have helped the Chamber build a strong reputation of being influencers for responsible growth, catalysts for positive change and conveners of the community to facilitate collaborative solutions. It’s a proud history of leadership and action and being your seat at the regional table.

• The Government Affairs division completed the Northwest Arkansas Regional Legislative Agenda with the NWA Council, NWA Chambers and Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce to help guide priorities.

• Over $83 million in private capital investment (67 large-scale projects) had begun at year-end in Rogers.

• At year-end, Rogers had collected $23.7 million in taxes, $3.2 million above the record set in 2020.

• In Rogers-Lowell, 2,591 jobs were created in 2021 and the labor force grew by 1,849.

• The unemployment rate in Rogers decreased from 3.4% in January to 1.3% at the end of last year.

• Downtown Rogers opened 31 new businesses last year and continued to attract investments.

• The Community Development division hosted 243 minority entrepreneurs in its programs: How to Start a Business Spanish Seminar, NWA Minority Business Expo, and Board Service Certification.

• The Visit Rogers division’s efforts helped 2021 room tax revenue rebound to just below $1 million (an increase of 30% over 2020), evidence of a resurgence in leisure, group, and corporate travel to Rogers.

• The Chamber’s membership grew by 125 businesses, for a total of 1,901 member businesses in 2021.

Last year, with our mission work, we made a big impact on economic development, downtown development, workforce recruitment and retention (by developing the next generation workforce pipeline), government affairs (by advocating for businessdriven public policy), community development (by creating leadership, engagement, inclusion, and education programs), small business and entrepreneurial development (by sharing resources and educational opportunities), destination marketing and management (by continually attracting visitors and building In this Annual Report, you will find more details of our 2021 a world-class destination) and long-range community strategic accomplishments and highlights. I would love for you to review planning (by focusing on quality of place). it and engage with us this year as we continue working together to create a cohesive and connected community where people are Our “Roadmap to 2022” (100th anniversary date) began in excited to visit, live, invest, work, and play.

2019 and included a comprehensive new Vision 100 Community Action Plan, a three-year Strategic Plan (2020-21-22) and a redefined Vision, Mission and set of Core Values to ensure we remain relevant, necessary, and competent in a new decade of rapid change. Last year was a year of recalibrating after the pandemic and getting back 2021 Chairman of the Board our momentum.

Tucker’s Furniture and Appliances

Angie Tucker-Ridley

While the last couple of years have been challenging, we have continued to be successful. Here are some highlights of what we achieved this year and results we’ve influenced with our mission work:

The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is one out of just 132 chambers of 7,000+ nationwide accredited with Five Stars.

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Vision Statement

The center of world-class business, welcoming communities, and opportunities for all.

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Mission Statement

We are influencers, catalysts and conveners; the trusted source for growing business, activating leaders and building community.

The center of world-class business, welcoming communities, and opportunities for all.

3

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Goals & Key Focus Areas Goals & Key Focus Areas 2020 - 2021 - 2022 | Journey to Our 100th Anniversary

GOAL:

EXCITING & UNIQUE BRAND

2022 | 100th Anniversary

KEY FOCUS AREAS: Segmentation and Brand Strategy Rebrand Launch at 100th Anniversary GOAL:

GOAL:

GOAL:

KEY FOCUS AREAS: Keeper of the Vision Campaign Add 3200 S.F. Upstairs

SUSTAINABLE FUNDING STRATEGY KEY FOCUS AREAS: Dues vs. Campaign Investing Keeper of the Community Vision Bottom Line that Increases Reserve

UPGRADED FACILITIES

GOAL:

MEMBER/INVESTOR BASE KEY FOCUS AREAS: Customer-Member-Investor Path Mission-Focused Next Gen Development

STRONG STAFF KEY FOCUS AREAS: Continuing Education Professional Development Hiring the Best Qualified for Open Positions GOAL:

COHESIVE LEADERSHIP KEY FOCUS AREAS: Community Business

GOAL:

SOUND STRATEGIC PLANNING KEY FOCUS AREAS: Driven by Vision-Mission-Core Values Political Center ROI Centric Transparent Vision 100 Influence Inclusive

4

Arts & Entertainment Downtown

2020 | The Journey Starts Here

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

2021Program Strategic Goals of Work | STRATEGIC GOALS 2021 BUDGET & FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP COALITION

VISION 100

MEMBER RETENTION & OUTREACH

DOWNTOWN ROGERS, INC.

DESTINATION ROGERS

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT & TALENT PIPELINE

LEADERSHIP ACTIVATION

PRO-BUSINESS ADVOCACY & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

BUILDING EXPANSION AND REMODEL

LOWELL COMMUNITY STRATEGY

100th ANNIVERSARY

Balance Budget and Grow Reserves Develop Sustainable Funding Model Cultivate Investors for Increased Funding

Deliver “Over the Top” Customer Service Optimize Retention Efforts Maximize Member Contact and Feedback

Prepare Downtown for Sustainable Growth Attract New Business Investment Attract New Housing Investment Create Jobs and Business Expansion

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

Champion New Initiatives and Best Practices Convene the Minority Community Deliver Unique Programming to the Business Community

ENTERPRISE ADOPTION OF ACCRISOFT’S FREEDOM PLATFORM Resolve Outstanding Deployment Issues Provide Staff Training Become Data-Driven: Optimize Database & Reporting

Integrate Citywide Communications Improve Collaboration and Cooperation

Activate Programming for Downtown Attractions & Amenities Deliver Successful DTR Farmers Market Create Long-Term Funding Strategy

Develop Long-Term Shared Destination Vision Promote Rogers’ Role as an Arts & Entertainment Destination Activate Quality Experiences Promote Tourism to Rogers

Increase Leadership Development Engagement Activate NextGen Leaders with Programming Increase Outreach to Minority Community

Develop Talent Pipelines for Workforce Needs Connect Education with Industry Support Partner Programs and Initiatives

Start Due Diligence Process

Define Legislative Priorities for Economic Growth Advocate for Business-Driven Policy Engage Community in Political Process Drive Change and Initiatives for New Political Paradigm

Develop Relationships with Community Leaders Increase Outreach to Lowell Businesses Support City with Contracted Services

Integrate in Strategic Planning Implement Community Outreach to Champion the Plan Develop Resource Campaign

ON HOLD Explore Opportunities for Creating Unique Branding Develop Celebration Activities Create Launch Plan with Timing

Head to RogersLowell.com for more information 5 about the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

Executive Committee

Chairman of the Board

Angie Tucker-Ridley Tucker’s Furniture & Appliances

Chairman-Elect

Treasurer

Erin Kiefer Assembled Products

2021 Directors

Leah Acoach, FHB Ventures Danny Beck, Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield Joe Donaldson, Sam’s Furniture Brad Hicks, J.B. Hunt Transport Inc. Stennett Thompkins, AAA Insurance David Vaden, Ernst & Young LLP

Mike Power First Security Bank

Past Chairman

RIDC President

President/CEO

Greg Fogle Nabholz Construction

Jerry Vest Regions Bank

Raymond Burns, CCE

2022 Directors

Tom Allen, Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners Ron Branscum, Strategic Business Consulting, Inc. David Kimball, Benchmark Group Jerra Nalley, University of Arkansas Walton College of Business Tanya Smith, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Melissa Turpin, Honeycomb Kitchen Shop

2023 Directors

Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Sotheby’s International Realty Dean Fisher, Glad Manufacturing, Inc. Angela Grayson, Precipice IP Patrick Kerrwood, Northwest Health Mathew Mozzoni, Cox Business Knight Weis, Signature Bank of Arkansas

Ex-Officio Directors Daizy Andrade, University of Arkansas Dr. Marlin Berry, Rogers Public Schools Jerry Carmichael, 3C Retail Solutions Ever Cuellar, First Security Bank Larry Cooper, Embassy Suites NW Arkansas Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp.

Sandy Edwards, Crystal Bridges Museum David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade Cathy Foraker, AT&T David Foster, APAC-Central, Inc.

Bradley Hardin, AEP/SWEPCO Ron Hayes, First United Methodist Church Denise Thomas, Arkansas World Trade Center Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Tron Hodges, Black Hills Energy Tom Hopper, TallChamps, LLC Corry Hull, BHC Insurance Dr. Evelyn Jorgenson, Northwest Arkansas Community College Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center

Chris Moore, Mayor, City of Lowell Barry Moehring, Benton County Judge Bianca Montoya, Bike NWA John-Michael Scurio, George’s Eric Pianalto, Mercy of Northwest Arkansas Gregg Stanfill, Arvest Bank Chris Sultemeier, Retired Walmart Dick Trammel, Chairman Emeritus Josh Vasquez, United Bank Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods

Division Chairs

Community Development - Leah Acoach Membership Services - Tanya Smith Economic Development - Tom Allen

05

JAN Financial technology company SmartAsset names Benton County as most generous county in United States.

06

6

Audit Committee

Government Affairs - Jerry Carmichael Convention & Visitors Bureau - Larry Cooper

David Vaden Ron Branscum Knight Weis

10

JAN 93rd meeting of Arkansas General Assembly convenes and Governor Asa Hutchinson gives his State of Arkansas Address.

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TIMELINE: January 2021

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

2021 Regional Recognition

­

­ ­ ­

­ ­

7,000+ 200

Chambers Accredited

Only 136 5-Star

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5

­

­

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JAN City of Rogers acquires naming rights for John Q. Hammons Center, name changes to Rogers Convention Center.

12

­

25

JAN University of Arkansas Center for Business and Economic Research hosts annual Arkansas Business Forecast, bringing together international experts to discuss the state’s economic outlook.

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TIMELINE: January 2021

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce

Core Values

Passion

We are proud to work here; we are committed to creating an optimistic and balanced culture through passion, enthusiasm and dedication.

Integrity

We are the trusted and dependable source.

We are honest and accountable in all endeavors and do the right thing because we are guided by a set of moral principles.

Service

We exceed expectations by providing knowledgeable, thoughtful solutions, and leading by example.

Community

We better our community through servant leadership, encouraging compassionate relationships, and collectively working toward a common goal.

Togetherness

We believe that through diversity, collaboration, and teamwork we create an inspired, open, and welcoming environment that leads to the greater good.

05

FEB Chamber Partners with NWA Emerging Leaders for social media campaign to celebrate accomplishments of regional AfricanAmerican leaders for Black History Month.

01

8

10

FEB

06, 13, & 27

Chamber’s Government Affairs Division hosts Benton County Legislative Forums, providing Chamber members the opportunity to learn more about important issues.

TIMELINE: February 2021

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FEB C M se ab w le

08

5

Chamber launches new Chamber Mission Minute weekly video eries, featuring important news bout our mission work and how we’re growing business, activating eaders, and building community.

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

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25

JAN Downtown Rogers Art on the Bricks Art Walk theme “Love Is…” showcases art inspired by people, places, creatures, and things they love.

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TIMELINE: February 2021

FEB

22

Lowell-based carrier J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. and Google announce alliance to develop nextgeneration supply chain platform technology.

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 Membership in the Chamber is a direct investment in the work we do to grow business and build community. Our Member Services division helps you understand how to connect, invest and grow with us. Whether you are a community partner, member, or both, we provide “over-the-top” customer service by offering valuable information, services and programs to deliver value and return on your investment with the Chamber.

2021 Goals | Membership Services 1.

Provide Five-Star Customer Service to Customers, Members and Investors

2.

Provide Value-Added Member Benefits

3.

Increase Annual Investment Revenue

4.

Utilize Digital Tools for Data-Driven Efforts

Shelle Summers, IOM Senior Vice President of Membership Services ssummers@rogerslowell.com

Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com

Marni Rogers, IOM Member Relations Manager marni@rogerslowell.com

Read the

2021 Program of Work

Full Report

New Member Portal

Launched a New and Improved Web Portal for Members to Access SelfService Tools and Manage Accounts

$151,893 Actual Revenue resulting from our 8 Signature Events in 2021

The first ever online stream of our Annual Celebration event has been viewed more than 5,025 times since it premiered in April 2021

$620,839 05

MAR Benton County Partners with Excelerate Foundation to offer $8 million in Rental Assistance for residents following COVID-19 pandemic; NWA Council announces new center focused on housing affordability issues.

01

10

Total Value of Chamber Memberships at the end of 2021 10

MAR Arkansas Department of Health launches Vaccinate the Natural State initiative to educate Arkansans about the COVID-19 vaccine.

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TIMELINE: March 2021

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MAR R d C

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

TOP REASONS MEMBERS JOINED THE CHAMBER Involvement/ 1. Community Increasing Visibility Networking/ 2. New Business Connections

183 & 1,901

4.

5,282

Supporting the Chamber’s Mission/ Improving the Quality of Life in NWA

The Largest Percentage of Businesses Who Joined in 2021 are Located in Benton County vs Other Counties in NWA

100+

130

Number of MEMBER ENGAGEMENT CONTACTS by Member Engagement Committee in 2021 (52 Face to Face); the Remaining were Virtual Visits due to the Pandemic Health Guidelines

Total Number of the Chamber’s Member Representatives at the end of 2021

27 84% 2021

Number of Golfers Who Attended the Socially Distanced 4-Person Scramble September 2 at Big Sugar Golf Club in Pea Ridge

Number of Rogers Schools Visited during the Thank A Teacher Celebration Parade

(by Caravans of Members and Sponsors) to Welcome Teachers

and Administrators Back to Classrooms

Provided 78 BUSINESS-BUILDING NETWORKING EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES in 2021 2020 which allowed members to GROW THEIR PROFESSIONAL NETWORKS and GENERATE BUSINESS LEADS.

Overall Member events 5 Retention Rate

Rogers Mayor Greg Hines delivers 2021 State of the City Address.

79%

Marketing/ Advertising/ Publicity Opportunities

3.

Number of Businesses that Joined the Chamber in 2021 and Total Member Count at the end of 2021

5

60%

The Largest Percentage of Businesses Who Joined in 2021 are Located in Rogers and Lowell vs Other Cities in NWA

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9

events

20

events

45

events

25

MAR Chamber staff testifies to Arkansas House Education Committee in support of House Bill 1451, an important bilingual education bill, that would ultimately pass.

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TIMELINE: March 2021

MAR Chamber hosts The Lens Series: Women in Business with NWA MLK Council featuring panel discussion with woman entrepreneurs.

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 Our Marketing Communications division’s work impacts the Rogers-Lowell Area, Chamber members and partners, and the business community. They deliver easily accessible and up-to-date information about local businesses and our community by sharing stories about the Chamber’s mission, accomplishments, strategic programs and major events. They also help to unify communications and messaging into “one voice” for our community.

2021 Goals | Marketing Communications 1.

Unify Strategic Communications and Messaging into “One Voice” to the Community

2.

Monetize Chamber’s Digital Assets Suite to Generate Incremental Revenue

3.

Advertise and Promote Chamber’s VisionMission-Core Values, Accomplishments, Strategic Programs, and Major Events (Trade and Cash)

4.

Grow Social Media and Interactions with Target Audiences (Customers, Members, Investors and Community)

5.

Position Chamber as the “Voice of Business” by Informing Target Audiences with Timely and Relevant News and Information

6.

Promote RogersLowell.com to Increase Traffic

7.

Deliver In-House Agency Design Expertise and Creative Production Services to Support Success of Each Chamber Division and Save Money for the Chamber

Brad Phillips Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications brad@rogerslowell.com

Justin Freeman Marketing Communications Manager justin@rogerslowell.com

The average open rate the monthly email to members announcing the new edition of the Chamber Voice newsletter received

Created strategic messaging for the Mission-5 and integrated it into the new Vision 100 Resources Campaign

Published

206 MEMBER NEWS ARTICLES & 62 CHAMBER NEWS ARTICLES

2021 Program of Work

Full Report

on www.RogersLowell.com 05

APR Chamber announces 2021 Educator of the Year Award and 2021 Academic Awards for local students.

12

23%

We are the “Trusted Source” | “One Voice to the Community”

Read the

01

Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com

10

APR Chamber hosts 99th Annual Celebration of Business & Community virtually (with more than 5,000 online viewers) and announces winners of Awards for Excellence.

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TIMELINE: April 2021

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APR 4th ev eff reg

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

Resources $130,300 COVID-19 Web Page relative production value

Since its inception last year, the page has had 4,870 page views, 4,220 unique visits, and average time spent on the page is 3:35 hours/minutes.

Produced all creative design and video projects in-house for cost savings. The division produced 388 hours of Art and Design Time worth $87,300 (RPV) and 215 hours of Video Production Time worth $43,000 (RPV).

The Website is

SELLING

54

Website traffic converted to memberships sold in 2021

Continued Media Outreach

32,497

$193,795 Total Trade negotiated for the year,

Showcase, Art on the Bricks Art Walk, NWA Job Fair,

Ribbon Cuttings in 2021

exceeding the annual goal

NWA Minority Business EXPO, and Mission-5 work.

Distributed 30 press releases and followed up with

Facebook Live views for member

Publications Continue Digital

The Digital Format Saved the Chamber Significant Printing and Postage Costs, Enabled Better Design Flexibility and Interactive Content and Added New Advertising Options for the Chamber Voice of Business newsletter and The Good Life Destination Guide

5

h Annual NWA Gives vent supports fundraising forts for nearly 300 gional nonprofits.

pitches resulting in over 50 placements for Media Coverage (broadcast, print and online) for Economic Development Highlights, Annual Celebration of Business & Community, NWA Employment

$73,500 Revenue Generated from the Chamber’s Digital Advertising Assets in 2021 (Digital Newsletter Ads, eNews Banner Ads, Website Banner Ads, Social Media Marketing Premium Packages and Digital Ad Packages in The Good Life Destination Guide)

20

25

APR

19

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences approved for $85 million orthopedic and sports medicine facility to be built in Northwest Arkansas.

TIMELINE: April 2021

APR

21

Ritter Communications completes $28 Million investment to expand 100% fiber internet to Northwest Arkansas businesses.

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 Our Accounting and Finance division prepares useful, relevant, and clear financial information and statements for the Chamber in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the U.S. Working with both internal customers and external partners, they provide the right data to the right people at the right time to facilitate our organizational success. They also support the human resource needs of the organization.

Vickie Grotts, IOM Vice President of Accounting & Finance vickie@rogerslowell.com

2021 Goals | Accounting & Finance 1.

Provide quality financial data: understandable, reliable, relevant financial analysis and reporting.

2.

Engage and convene our finance support teams: Audit Committee and the 401(k) Trustee Committee, facilitating fiscal oversight, monitoring, and guidance.

3.

2

Loretta Gomez Finance Manager loretta@rogerslowell.com

Delivered Two Clean Audits and Facilitated Submission of

& Six Tax Returns

6

Manage Human Resource Health and Wellness benefits for our staff.

1

Read the

The auditor’s report reflects a “clean, unqualified opinion of the financial statements. The data is fairly presented in all material respects.” ~ John Evan, Landmark PLC.

Facilitated One

Annual IRS

& Form 5500 and

2021 Program of Work

5

Full Report

Five Annual Reports

Our 401(K)

Plan has 100% participation.

Health Benefits

Our team actively monitors individual participant activity to ensure compliance.

A&F convenes the Trustee Committee, meeting annually to review our portfolio, evaluate investment performance, discuss any plan document changes and updates, employee participation and engagement, and identifying the best ROI opportunities for our participants.

Managed Chamber’s Health Benefits Program and Facilitated 16 Immunizations 05

MAY Chamber highlights local small businesses in social media campaign for 2021 Small Business Week.

02

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10

MAY Restaurant Revitalization Fund portal opens, providing $28.6 billion in direct relief funds to restaurants and hard-hit food establishments.

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TIMELINE: May 2021

15

MAY Visit of the Touri the W celeb Trave

06

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

THOUSANDS Transactions Processed for the Chamber’s Business in 2021

Our team strives for continual transformation and innovation across all processes and relationships. We communicate data and results. This year Accounting & Finance created the “Global View” report (see right):

Manage

26 Accounts

We manage twenty-six bank accounts, including eight certificates of deposit, seventeen checking, savings, or money market accounts, and one investment account.

Community-Based Scholarship Program Disbursed

$312,095 in scholarship funds

from

58 donors to 140 recipients.

5

Rogers, a division e Chamber, hosts ism Talk event at Walmart AMP to brate National el & Tourism Week.

20

25

MAY Chamber’s Hustle In Heels program hosts The Benefits of Girl Power luncheon.

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TIMELINE: May 2021

MAY Chamber hosts The Spotlight Series: Economic Development Roundtable event discussing development in Rogers and Lowell as well as future growth plans for the City of Rogers.

25

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 Our Customer Service division has a reputation of delivering excellent customer service to external and internal customers. They ensure cohesion within the Chamber and Community through effective communications, processes and procedures. In addition to supporting the Chamber’s goals, they help our visitors, members, new residents and board members get information they need to know.

2021 Goals | Customer Service 1.

Provide “Over the Top” Customer Service to our Visitors, Residents, Members and Staff

2.

Provide “Over the Top” Customer Service to our Campaign Donors/Investors

3.

Provide “Over the Top” Customer Service on behalf of the Rogers Development Foundation to our Students and Donors

4. Provide ‘Over the Top” Customer Service on behalf of the State Chamber Accreditation

Katie Burns Vice President of Operations katie@rogerslowell.com

5-Star Customer Service

In total, the front desk attended to 2,000+ phone calls, 1,521 in-office visitors, 746 mailed visitor packets, 95 relocation packets, and 215 The Good Life Destination Guides given out

Read the

2021 Program of Work

Full Report

Scholarships

Coordinated the distribution of scholarship funds through the Rogers Development Foundation on behalf of participating donors

5-Star Accreditation Completed and submitted accreditation before the August deadline

05

JUN Northwest Arkansas National Airport welcomes Breeze Airways, delivering nonstop flights to Tampa, San Antonio and New Orleans.

01

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TIMELINE: June 2021

Member Outreach

Completed 520 Event Registrations, 200 Event Posts on Community Calendar, and 109 In-House Receipts Emailed 10

JUN City of Rogers announces lineup for new Railyard Live concert series on Butterfield Stage and Railyard Entertainment District as part of downtown revitalization plan.

02

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

Opening Doors to Higher Education Continued use of the CommunityBased Scholarship Program’s New Website and Database, Connecting Community Partners, Students and Donors throughout 2021 Check Out the Website:

www.RogersScholarships.com

5

20

25

JUN PeopleforBikes regional cycling study reveals Rogers as a top 200 city for cycling in the United States with a $127 million impact on the Northwest Arkansas economy.

07

TIMELINE: June 2021

JUN Right to Start entrepreneurship initiative launches in Northwest Arkansas, funded by Walton Family Foundation.

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 Our Government Affairs & Advocacy division serves as the link between members and local, state and federal government by advocating for pro-business and quality of life issues that are important to Northwest Arkansas. They also engage in activities that produce long-term positive impacts including voter registration and education, engagement of members in the political process and continuously improved outreach efforts.

Jon Moran Senior Vice President of Government Affairs jon@rogerslowell.com

2021 Goals | Government Affairs & Advocacy 1.

Serve as the regional link between business and government by defining legislative priorities that help our local economy grow

2.

Ensure the voice of business is heard and represented on local, state, and national legislative policy issues

3.

Advocate for business-driven policy that impacts businesses of all sizes (taxation, regulation, infrastructure, etc.)

4.

Engage the community in the political process including registering to vote, contacting legislators, hosting educational forums, and organizing calls to action

5.

Influence long-term prosperity and quality of life for our region

Developed Bond Election Strategy

Delivered Strategic Advice and Consulting to regional partners on bond elections in 2021

Staff worked with Emerging Leaders and Community Engagement to develop a presentation that encourages participants in Emerging Leaders and the LEAD Program to register to vote in 2022.

Worked Closely with Community Development Divison on DEI Legislation in Arkansas

Read the

2021 Program of Work

Full Report

05

JUL Northwest Arkansas ranks as 4th best place to live in America by U.S. News & World Report.

01

18

Increased Young Voter Engagement

TIMELINE: July 2021

10

JUL IRS and U.S. Treasury Department announce details of tax credits available to small businesses under the American Rescue Plan.

07

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

ADVOCACY & OUTREACH

The role of the Advocacy and Government Affairs division at the Chamber is to bring focus to issues that can have a positive influence on business as well as those that may be costly and unfriendly. Sign up to receive weekly Legislative Updates on activities and issues occurring in Little Rock and Washington D.C. that impact on your business. Attend a monthly

Developed and Advocated for NWA Regional Agenda

Government Affairs Committee meeting to hear updates on policy and legislation and discuss government-related issues affecting our region. Read the monthly Chamber Voice of Business newsletter articles and follow us on Twitter and Facebook to receive breaking news, updates on legislative activities, and calls to action.

Established the Northwest Arkansas Civic and Community Leadership Institute (NACCLI) Began Process of Organizing for Classes to Start in 2021

State Legislative Forums Adapted for Zoom Participation

5

20

25

JUL Chamber hosts The Spotlight Series: Transportation Roundtable focusing on current and future transportation infrastructure projects in Northwest Arkansas.

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TIMELINE: July 2021

JUL Chamber hosts 2021 Rogers Cycling Festival across Rogers, with proceeds benefiting nonprofit cycling causes in Northwest Arkansas.

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 Programs in our Community Development division impact and enhance the quality of life in Rogers, Lowell and the region. They are committed to expanding our diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to better welcome the growing number of residents, workers, and visitors from all backgrounds. They also support educational programs and help develop our leaders for the future.

Ross Phillips Senior Vice President of Community Development ross@rogerslowell.com

2021 Goals | Community Development 1.

Positively Impact Future Leaders

2.

Ensure Leaders Represent the Entire Community

3.

Monetize Chamber’s Spanish Seminar Series Quarterly Educational Opportunities

4.

Increase Minority Small Business Membership

5.

Improve Graduation Rates for Minority Students

6.

Serve as the Welcoming Coordinator for the City of Rogers

Geovanny Sarmiento Vice President of Community Engagement & Inclusion geovanny@rogerslowell.com

Jivette De Jesus Community Engagement and Inclusion Manager jivette@rogerslowell.com

Students Participating in Re-Launched Arvest First Leadership Program

Students are from Rogers, New Tech, and Heritage High Schools

15 Small/Mid-Size Businesses

Read the

participated in the DEI Regional Cohort

2021 Program of Work

Full Report

05

AUG Northwest Health System announces combined Emergency Room and Urgent Care facility coming to Northwest Arkansas.

02

20

10

Connected Minority Participants

TIMELINE: August 2021

participants to leadership roles within the community.

10

AUG Chamber SVP of Community Development Ross Phillips honored with 2021 Forty Under 40 recognition by the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal.

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15

43

new minority-owned businesses signed up through our efforts to Chamber membership

32

NUMBER OF YOUNG

PROFESSIONALS who attended one of 7 PROFESSIONAL

who particiapted in Leadership

DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITES

Benton County program in 2021

through NWAEL

Sold $1,750

Number of participants in the 2021 Board Service Program Secured funding for this program and launched the LEAD Student Program at all Rogers High Schools. The LEAD Student program implemented and launched at all Rogers High Schools. Ended the year with 87 students signed up for the LEAD Project.

20

in Sponsorship Solutions targeting Spanish speaking audiences (members and community at large)

102

NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS in the Spanish Seminar Series “How to Start A Business in Arkansas”

Hosted the NWA Minority Business Expo. We sold all available booths and had the participation of law enforcement as well as the business community. Overall, we had close to 500 people in attendance throughout the day.

25

AUG Habitat for Humanity announces partnership with CEI to build homes in Northwest Arkansas for disabled seniors and veterans.

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257

NUMBER OF YOUNG LEADERS

68

5

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

AUG Chamber hosts 2021 Thank-A-Teacher Celebration Parade, partnering with members to donate and distribute needed items to teachers, and announces winner of Sam’s Furniture $10,000 home makeover to a deserving local teacher.

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TIMELINE: August 2021

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 New job creation and business expansion impact businesses by creating meaningful opportunities to sell goods and services to new businesses and residents. Our Economic Development division works with industries both large and small to increase job growth and business expansion. They also work with individuals to support and increase our growing small business community.

1.

Be a Business-friendly Community focused on Business Growth and Commercial Development in Rogers and Lowell

2.

Invigorate Commercial Development in Lowell through business expansion and new retail opportunities through $5 million in new capital development.

3.

Create Workforce Development Opportunities in Our Community

4.

Engage the Small Business Community

5.

Engage Minority Communities within Northwest Arkansas with Programs and Offerings

6.

$83 Million

Steve Cox Senior Vice President of Economic Development steve@rogerslowell.com

2021 Goals | Economic Development

26 Videos IN THE C2C YOUTUBE

Value of 67 active large-scale projects under construction in Rogers

24 FACILITATED

PLAYLIST

with over 6,000 total views across all social media platforms.

Continue to Create Quality of Place Initiatives to Attract a Diverse, First-Class Workforce Read the

2021 Program of Work

Full Report

CONNECTIONS

between Rogers Public Schools & local businesses for workforce development opportunities

$23.7 Million

TOTAL SALES TA X COLLECTIONS in 2021, an Increase of $3.2 Million from 2020

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SEP Chamber unveils new RogersLowell.com My Chamber Login for members, featuring a redesigned and easy-tonavigate interface for members to manage their account.

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SEP NWA Council launches new NWA Recycles regional recycling initiative and website encouraging local businesses to step up recycling efforts.

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TIMELINE: September 2021

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SEP

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22 INQUIRIES Held 10 Discussions

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

responded to in regards to expansion and relocations for industries in Rogers and Lowell.

HIGH

3.4% LOW

with developers related to affordable housing for our workforce. Plans are hopeful for a new multifamily option in Downtown Rogers.

1.3%

Unemployment in Rogers Began at 3.4% in January and fell to 1.3% as of November 2021

Small Business & Entrepreneur Tools

Updated and maintained the Online Small Business Toolkit and digital Entrepreneur’s Guide for 2021

$59 Million & 200+ New High-Wage Jobs Combined Capital Investment Six manufacturers in Rogers currently have in expansion plans.

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Nasa Hataoka wins 2021 Walmart NW Arkansas Championship at Pinnacle Country Club in Rogers; event organizers raise donations to NWA Food Bank and local hospitals.

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SEP

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Rotary Club of Downtown Rogers hosts 6th Annual Frisco Inferno BBQ Competition and food tasting in Downtown Rogers.

TIMELINE: September 2021

SEP

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Ribbon cutting held for Bella Vista Bypass, an 18.9-mile new I-49 segment connecting Missouri and Arkansas.

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 Our Downtown Development division is the primary point-of-contact for economic development in Downtown Rogers and provides resources and help implementing the Downtown Rogers Initiative Plan. They focus on increasing the number of businesses, employees, and residential properties in the downtown core. They also cultivate strong relations with existing businesses and government entities, identifying opportunities to activate underutilized properties, connecting potential partnerships and facilitating business relations to maximize resources for downtown and the surrounding community.

Karen Wagaman Vice President of Downtown Development karen@rogerslowell.com

2021 Goals | Downtown Development 1.

Increase the number of mixed-used and multi-family residences in Downtown Rogers by 40 percent between 2019 and 2023

2.

Attract new businesses including retail, and restaurants as well as supplier, professional services, and light manufacturing—Increasing the number of employers and jobs in Downtown Rogers

3.

Establish the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce as the Primary Point-of-Contact for Doing Business in Downtown Rogers

4.

Connect All Activities to the Mission of Economic Development and the Master Plan with at Least Six Public Announcements

5.

Showcase Why Downtown Rogers is an Ideal Place to Conduct Business, Raise a Family, and Enjoy Quality of Life Amenities and Activities

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Develop and Promote Downtown Rogers as a Destination Location for Arts, Music, Dance, and other Interactive Experiences

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Build Community Value through Effective Activation of Under-Utilized Properties

Read the

2021 Program of Work

Full Report

Number of New Businesses Opened in Downtown Rogers in 2021

Attracted New Employers to Downtown

Facilitated site locations in and near Downtown Rogers for five film productions and two monthly magazines’ photo shoots

OCT Rogers breweries Ozark Beer Co. and Natural State Beer Co. receive recognition; OBC as one of the top breweries in the southeast by ravereviews. org and NSBC as a Gold Medal winner during the Great American Beer Festival in Denver.

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The Chamber Participated in Stakeholder meetings monthly with Downtown partners including City of Rogers Community Development and RDP Merchants Association

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Downtown Planning

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OCT Rogers Public Schools named best employer to work for in Arkansas by market research company Statista.

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TIMELINE: October 2021

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OCT C N F R v a lo

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

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80+ INITIATED

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VIRTUAL ART ON THE BRICKS ART WALK EXHIBITIONS IN 2021

Collaborated with organizations to offer programs that are socially or culturally significant during the monthly art walk.

Popular themes showcased: Veterans and their Art, Artists with Autism, Dog Friendly Downtown, Anime and Cosplay Artists

INTRODUCTIONS or MEETINGS among prospective business partners with an interest in downtown.

Arts & Entertainment Destination

NUMBER OF STORIES FEATURING AND PROMOTING DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES in the Chamber Voice of Business newsletter in 2021

#ShopNWA Support Local

Showcased the Local “Creative Economy” by Highlighting Downtown Rogers Arts & Entertainment Activities through Collaborated with DTR, Inc., Visit Rogers and the MarCom regional press releases and media trades with KNWA and division to continue the Shop Local Campaign with CitiScapes magazine.

Downtown Rogers Merchants

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Chamber hosts NWA Fall Job Fair at Frisco Station Mall in Rogers, featuring a variety of employers and job seekers ooking to get hired.

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OCT Chamber hosts inaugural NWA Minority Business EXPO in Rogers, creating an entrepreneurial platform for minority owned businesses to connect with each other and celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month.

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TIMELINE: October 2021

OCT Through social media channels, Chamber celebrates 2021 Arkansas Chamber of Commerce Week, as proclaimed by Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, by honoring the positive impact that local chambers of commerce have on their community and members.

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022 Visit Rogers creates economic opportunity for our community by attracting meetings, conventions, tournaments, events and leisure visitors to the city of Rogers and Northwest Arkansas. Overseen by the Rogers Advertising and Promotion Commission, Visit Rogers is our Destination Marketing Organization responsible for marketing the city to visitors.

J.R. Shaw, IOM Executive Director/Executive Vice President | Visit Rogers jr@rogerslowell.com

2021 Goals | Visit Rogers 1.

Promote Rogers as a World Class Destination, generating Tourism Revenue that funds investment in building the destination’s Strength and Quality of Place

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Build Awareness of Rogers as a WorldClass Destination through Digital, Print, and Social Media Marketing Strategies

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Align the Rogers community around a shared Value Vision for Tourism

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Champion Destination Leadership Principles and Practices in Rogers

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As a division of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce, support the Chamber’s Goals and Objectives with Visit Rogers Destination Leadership

Kelly Parker, TMP Director of Marketing & Communications | Visit Rogers kelly@rogerslowell.com

Luke Wiggins, TMP Director of Sales | Visit Rogers luke@rogerslowell.com

$1 MILLION Room tax revenue surged to just below

evidence of resurgence in leisure, group, and corporate travel to Rogers.

,

2021 sales efforts exceeded 2020 totals by an average of

20%

Read the

2021 Program of Work

Full Report

and totaled 86% of the 2019 sales figures.

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NOV AEP Foundation presents $100,000 donation to the Chamber’s Rogers Development Foundation to help fund the L.E.A.D. program that works to facilitate academic success among Latino/ Hispanic students in Rogers high schools.

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NOV Chamber unveils #ShopNWA campaign on social media to promote shopping locally and supporting small businesses during the holidays and on Small Business Saturday.

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TIMELINE: November 2021

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NOV Beav Allia Wate Guar to th Roge their good man the r

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218,070 users

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

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99% of them new, visited www.visitrogersarkansas.com in 2021, a 19% increase over 2020.

Visit Rogers staff partnered with the Chamber’s Marketing Communications department in development of the digital

Presented

2021 Tourism Talk

The Good Life

event at the Walmart AMP during National Travel & Tourism Week.

Destination Guide

57,024 future room nights, generated 134 leads to partners and produced 25,747 definite room nights through all Sourced

magazine, small business spotlights, and collaborative social media promotions.

Visit Rogers sales efforts

Total Visit Rogers social media metrics for 2021:

Rogers A & P Commission implemented procedures to collect the

3% LODGING TAX from owners of vacation homes in the city beginning January 1, 2022

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ver Watershed ance presents ershed rdian Award e City of ers in honor of r work toward d water quality agement for region.

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NOV Downtown Rogers Art on the Bricks Art Walk partners with Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks to showcase art from U.S. Military Veterans for Veterans Day.

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4,905 posts/stories generated a reach of 2,225,227

viewers with 2,564,912 impressions and 140,022 engagements.

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NOV Chamber hosts Arkansas Secretary of Education Johnny Key along with educators and industry professionals for its Large Industry Council (LIC) and Kindergarten to Job (K2J) Connect Program to talk about workforce needs and develop future talent pipelines.

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TIMELINE: November 2021

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2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

F

or 100 years we’ve been bringing people together to grow business, activate leaders and build community. This is our Mission as well as our passion and inspires everything we do to ensure the

Rogers-Lowell Area is a great place to visit, live, invest, work, and play. We have a proud history of leadership and action and being your seat at the regional table. We appreciate your membership and support and invite you to celebrate our successes with us this year!

The Centennial Celebration (formerly known as the Annual Banquet) is the highlight of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce year, recognizing the organization’s current and incoming leadership.

Telling our story starts with the people and organizations that have made the Chamber what it is today. Our legacy of success wouldn’t be possible without our business and community leaders – they have a willing spirit, a healthy focus,

DATE & TIME

March 29, 2022 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

and a progressive attitude. Our leaders possess the core values of faith, family, community, education, and economic prosperity – the community’s shared values identified in the Vision 100 Community Action Plan. In fact, Vision 100 came together because of these leaders and is now the roadmap that guides our mission-work to enhance our quality of life and ensure readiness for the future.

LOCATION

Rogers Convention Center 3303 Pinnacle Hills Pkwy.

Save the date and purchase your tickets now to our Centennial Celebration of Business & Community coming March 29. We’ll be telling our story through the lens of our unique history and featuring the diverse people and organizations that have made an impact on the Chamber’s successes. More details on the Celebration will be announced in the coming weeks.

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DEC Leadership Benton County announces 2022 class of future leaders that will participate in the 11-session program.

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DEC Rogers-based company PelFreez celebrates 110 years in operation with exhibit at Rogers Historical Museum.

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TIMELINE: December 2021

2021 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2022

In

2022

As a special tribute , to our Anniversary, the Chamber created

a refreshed brand imageArea for 2022.

It’s a fun and modern twist on the Rogers-Lowell Chamber of Commerce our honoring our the 100-year willlogo celebrate 100th milestone. anniversary.

Click here to view a preview of what to expect as we move forward into our next

100 years!

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DEC Chamber hosts Chamber-toCommunity (C2C): Managing Cashflow event, teaching participants the importance of cashflow management and guidance on best practices for business success.

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TIMELINE: December 2021

DEC Chamber introduces 2022 Entrepreneur’s Guide, featuring resources, services and opportunities for small business development.

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