It is with great excitement that I introduce the inaugural edition of the South Kent Business Journal, a quarterly publication dedicated to keeping our members informed, engaged, and inspired. With 2,500 copies printed for distribution and an online version available, we aim to reach every corner of our vibrant business community.
Over the past few months, we have made significant strides in strengthening our community through collaboration and innovative initiatives. Here are some highlights of our recent activities:
Establishing Key Coalitions:
We are proud to announce the formation of two vital coalitions: the Superintendent Coalition and the Manufacturing Coalition. The Superintendent Coalition, supported by board member Craig Hoekstra, Superintendent of Wyoming Public Schools, includes superintendents from Kentwood, Grandville, Kellogsville, Godwin Heights, Byron Center, Godfree Lee, and Kent ISD. This coalition focuses on regional initiatives that address educational needs and bring awareness to the South Kent County area.
The Manufacturing Coalition, led by Shea Hickman, Chief People Officer at RoMan Manufacturing, includes organizations such as RoMan Manufacturing, Weller Truck, Lacks, GRCC, and West MiWorks. This coalition is dedicated to addressing the needs of our local manufacturing sector, fostering collaboration, and driving economic growth.
Engaging with Community Partners:
Our partnerships with local community partners and organizations have been instrumental in promoting community engagement and awareness. Collaborations with business service partners such as the Urban League, the Hispanic Center, GRABB (Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses), Glimpse of Africa, Welcome West Michigan, and leaders from the Asian and Asian Pacific community have enriched our efforts to build a diverse and inclusive business environment. Additionally, we have been actively engaging with local municipal leaders of the City of Wyoming and the City of Kentwood. We are beefing up our efforts to connect with more municipal partners as we strengthen our partnerships with surrounding municipalities.
Promoting the National Civics Bee®:
We are considering engaging with our partners, the Michigan Chamber, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and other local and regional chambers who participated last year, to promote the National Civics Bee® in our state. This initiative will leverage our existing partnerships and the newly formed Superintendent Coalition to enhance civic education and participation among our youth. We plan to collaborate with member businesses and local municipalities' economic development departments to make this endeavor a success.
Member Support and Services:
We are committed to supporting our members with a range of services designed to help your businesses thrive. From mentoring and coaching to filling critical needs where we can make a difference, our goal is to ensure that you have the resources and support necessary for success. As a Chamber member, you have access to these valuable benefits. Additionally, we are excited to announce some upcoming support services:
South Kent Chamber Young Professional's Fabulous 15: This program celebrates 15 emerging professionals aged 21-40 who are making significant contributions to our community.
1st Annual SKC Golf Classic: Join us for a day of networking and fun at our inaugural golf event. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow members and enjoy a day on the greens.
Looking Ahead:
This first edition of the South Kent Business Journal marks the beginning of a new chapter in our communication with you, our valued members. This is a South Kent Chamber publication provided for our members, local businesses, and business leaders, helping create awareness of our area known as South Kent County. We are committed to keeping you informed about the latest developments, opportunities, and success stories within our Chamber and beyond.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Together, we are building a stronger, more dynamic South Kent business community. We look forward to sharing more updates and stories with you in our future editions.
We have something for everyone! Business professionals keep all various hours and not all times work for everyone. We intentionally have events that hit all times of the day. There is no reason you can’t find one of these events that will fit your schedule. Join us to hear about upcoming events, meet other professionals, and make networking for your business pleasurable Our networking events occur at various locations, so we have a chance to showcase new and familiar businesses We focus on creating inviting environments, so everyone feels welcome!
Benefits and Orientation Breakfast
Are you a new member or considering joining the South Kent Chamber? Join us for breakfast to learn how you can get involved and engage with your local chamber. If you’ve never attended a chamber event or have had little engagement, now is the perfect time to join us! This free event includes coffee, a continental breakfast, or sometimes a buffet. We look forward to meeting new businesses and connecting with you!
Connect over Coffee
Join us for one of our networking events that is relaxed, early, and inviting. Join a group of professionals looking to network during the morning hours, so they have the rest of the day to focus.
After Hours Events
These after hours allow those who like to relax at the end of the day with some good professional company and a beverage of their choice. Join a group of professionals looking to network at the end of the day, so they can relax and meet old and new friends after a hard day at work.
3rd Friday Luncheon
Networking
Our 3rd Friday Luncheon is one of our traditions that has meet for years nearly every 3rd Come eat, network, catch up with old friends, and meet some new friends.
INTRODUCING THE MANUFACTURING COALITION: A PARTNERSHIP FOR PROSPERITY
Shea Hickman - Roman Manufacturing Manufacturing Coalition Chair
In an exciting development for our community, South Kent Chamber is excited to introduce the Manufacturing Coalition This new alliance brings together manufacturing firms and educational institutions to promote economic growth, innovation workforce development and social responsibility in our region
Uniting Leaders in Manufacturing
INNOVATION PROMOTION:
ENCOURAGING THE ADOPTION OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND BEST PRACTICES THAT INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY AND COMPETITIVENESS.
The mission of the Manufacturing Coalition is to cultivate dynamic partnerships in all sectors of manufacturing in South Kent County, establishing the region as a cornerstone of industrial excellence within the metropolitan area How many times have you asked this question, “How can we close the skills gap in manufacturing?” or “How can we attract more young people to careers in manufacturing?” We recognize the diverse challenges in workforce development, which is why we seek to partner with local manufacturers dedicated to pooling resources and expertise to enhance economic output and advocate for manufacturing as a rewarding career choice
This initiative marks a pivotal moment, as it unites small and medium manufacturers with a common goal: to enhance the vitality of our local economy through collaboration
Community Impact
The impact of a strong manufacturing sector reaches well beyond the factory floor By enhancing local production capabilities, the coalition not only safeguards manufacturing jobs but also stimulates the local service and retail sectors
Moreover, with its dedication to sustainable practices, the coalition is committed to reducing environmental impact while increasing efficiency
Join Us
The Manufacturing Coalition is more than just an alliance; it s a movement toward a brighter economic future We invite local manufacturing firms, from startups to established enterprises, to join us Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and competition into collaboration
As we look forward to the growth and success of the Manufacturing Coalition, we remain committed to the prosperity of our community This initiative represents a significant step forward in fostering an environment where manufacturing thrives and benefits all For more information on joining or supporting the coalition, please contact the South Kent Chamber
Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient local economy, We are excited for what lies ahead!
NETWORKING AND RESOURCE
SHARING: FACILITATING REGULAR MEETINGS AND WORKSHOPS THAT ALLOW MEMBERS TO SHARE BEST PRACTICES, SOLVE COMMON CHALLENGES, AND UNLOCK NEW GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:
REPRESENTING THE INTERESTS OF LOCAL MANUFACTURERS IN POLICY DISCUSSIONS TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES, PRIORITIZE ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP, AND ETHICAL BUSINESS PRACTICES.
Celebrating a HUGE accomplishment with The Candied Yam! Owner and founder Jessica Ann Tyson opened the original Candied Yam 2016 and has established herself as an innovative and involved community member. This newest project is a testament to dedication, determination, and rising above adversity no matter what! Congratulations to all involved with this project, we are proud to be a part of this journey with you.
The Candied Yam is open for business at their new location at 923 Division!
BLVD AT WILSON'S CROSSING
PINSPIRATION
Pinspiration owned by Kate Ford opened in May. It's a creative arts studio with guided crafts, party packages, and more.
BLVD at Wilson's Crossing, a brand new luxury living community in Grandville It has a resort style pool, dog park and run, gym, pickeball court, walking trails and more.
Join the Excitement at RoMan Manufacturing's New Facility!
Sparked by recent growth from the Data Center and Semiconductor markets, RoMan Manufacturing is making significant investments in its West Michigan infrastructure We are transforming an old 45,000-square-foot building into a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and constructing a new 27,000-square-foot production plant to enhance our manufacturing capabilities RoMan is dedicated to not only to serving their customers in the data center, semiconductor, resistance welding, glass, and furnace markets but also to the heart of the organization, our people As we grow, we are seeking talented individuals to join our team and be part of our exciting journey
Why Work at RoMan Manufacturing?
At RoMan Manufacturing, we believe that our people are the heart of our success We foster a collaborative, innovative, and supportive work environment where every team member is valued and has the opportunity to thrive Our commitment to technological advancement and community development means that working with us isn't just a job it's a chance to be part of something bigger
Expanding Opportunities in Data Centers
Data centers are the unsung heroes of the digital age, powering everything from social media to business operations With the rise of hyperscale data centers, which handle massive amounts of data efficiently, the demand for innovative solutions is skyrocketing Our new facility is at the forefront of this exciting industry, and we're eager to welcome new team members who share our passion for innovation and excellence
Leading the Way in Semiconductor Manufacturing
Our advanced power supply systems for the semiconductor industry are renowned for their precision and reliability By joining RoMan Manufacturing, you'll be part of a team that is driving the future of semiconductor technology Our products are designed to be energy-efficient and compact, significantly reducing operational costs and space requirements for our partners
A Culture of Innovation and Growth
RoMan Manufacturing is dedicated to creating a culture where innovation thrives We encourage our employees to think creatively, push boundaries, and take initiative Our investment in cutting-edge technology and facilities is matched by our investment in our people We provide ongoing training and development opportunities to ensure our team members are always at the forefront of their fields
Making a Difference in the Community
Our new facility isn't just about technological advancement it's about community impact By expanding our operations, we're bringing more jobs to the area and boosting the local economy RoMan Manufacturing is proud to be a part of Wyoming's growth and development, and we're committed to giving back to the community that supports us
JOIN OUR TEAM
RoMan Manufacturing's investment in its facilities is more than just a renovating and putting up a building—it's a symbol of our commitment to growth, innovation, and community. We're looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join us as we seek to change the world by transforming power and people!
Ready to take the next step in your career? Discover exciting job opportunities with RoMan Manufacturing and be part of a team that’s making a difference locally and globally.
Leadership
The South Kent Chamber Ambassadors recognizes Mr. Bill Hahn, of Advantage Group, as Most Outstanding Ambassador for the first quarter of 2024. Bill is highly engaged with the chamber through his involvement as Director of the Santa Parade and his attendance at multiple chamber events such as ribbon cuttings, networking events, and new member orientations. Additionally, Bill actively reaches out to chamber members and provides a warm welcome, timely information, and serves as a valuable connection between chamber members and the office. Thanks Bill for all you do to promote SKC, our member businesses, and our community!
“I am proud to be a member of the South Kent Chamber of Commerce because it is a vibrant, growing organization that is actively surveying the landscape to see what needs of the business community have.
Being a member of the Chamber means I get to be an active participant of the growth that is happening in South Kent.” - Bill Hahn
YOUNG PROS
EDUCATE EMPOWER ENGAGE
COFFEE AND CONVERSATION
Meet other young professionals, participate in great conversation, and network in a relaxed setting
FINANCIAL WELLNESS SERIES
Learn financial principles from fundamental personal finance to more complicated topics such as investing and accounting best practices
TheYoungProfessionalsarealsoveryhappywith theirrecentDogNetworkingEventthatwasjustheld inKellogg'sWoodsParkinKentwood Dogsandtheir humansenjoyedbeautifulweather,playtimeand makingnewconnectionswithoneanother The YoungProsarestrivingtoprovidemoreunique networkgatheringsforprofessionalsintheSouth Kentarea.
AFTER HOURS NETWORKING
If you are looking for a time at the end of the day, between office hours and home responsibilities to network and or relax join other young professionals in conversation and networking
FABULOUS 15 AWARDS
The Fabulous 15 Party is the Wyoming Kentwood Young Professional’s annual selection of the most influential young professionals in South Kent County The recipients of the Fabulous 15 award will be announced during the Fabulous 15 Party, our WKC Young Professional’s signature event celebrating the mission of the WKC and the young professionals who are making their mark in Wyoming, Kentwood, and surrounding areas
JULY 11TH NOMINATE A YOUNG PROFESSIONAL
Do you know a Young Professional (between the ages 21 and 40) who deserves an award for their work ethic, leadership skills, or volunteer efforts? Please nominate them for an award with N E T W O R K
The Diversity Business Council for the South Kent County Area focuses on the needs of local businesses in this area. The council works to provide awareness, education, and advocacy for local traditionally underserved business communities.
There are so many resources available for businesses in all stages in the business life cycle. Unfortunately, so many leaders and entrepreneurs miss out because of lack of awareness. We work to bridge the gap between those business leaders and organizations in need and those providing services to fill those needs. Our Diversity Business Council provides a platform for community businesses and organizations looking to service these businesses to connect, spread the message, and support local businesses looking to grow and maintain sustainability
MASTERINGMID-CAREER FINANCIALPLANNING
There comes a point in all of our lives where the prospect of retirement appears like a speck on the horizon. It is still a way off, but you can see it coming. Likely, you are in your prime earning years and have 10-20 years until retirement. For some, this is very exciting as it means that years of hard work and prudent financial planning are beginning to pay off. For others, the idea of retirement is very unsettling, and the future is more uncertain. Thankfully, even if you have not given much thought to planning for your retirement, there are things that you can do now to put yourself in a good position when the time comes.
ALEXANDER T. OVERBEEK, AIF Partner, Financial Consultant Provisio Retirement Partners
NEEDS, WANTS, MAYBE’S
By now, you likely have a good grasp of your monthly income needs and some ideas about your retirement aspirations. If you haven't already, start by jotting down these figures. Outline your essential monthly expenses and subtract those that will cease upon retirement (e.g., mortgage, commuting). Then, add in retirement-related expenses (e.g., travel, charitable giving) If retiring before 65, remember to budget for private health insurance.
This exercise serves two purposes. First of all, it provides clarity on meeting essential needs and helps identify attainable wants and aspirations. Secondly, it establishes concrete retirement goals, removing ambiguity Remember, your retirement plan is flexible and evolving This all probably seems daunting now but diligent planning can lead to significant improvements
SOURCES OF INCOME
After outlining your income needs, wants, and possibilities, it's time to start identifying your retirement income sources Social Security is a prominent source, but decisions like when to start claiming and the resulting monthly payments may be unclear. The Social Security Administration’s website offers tools to estimate payments at different start dates, aiding in decision-making Visit SSA gov to create an account and access these resources Additionally, your retirement accounts will be significant income sources. There are pros and cons to the different types of investment accounts available to you, and it is important to consider the tax ramifications of withdrawing from different account types in retirement Consult with your financial advisor to determine which account type is right for you!
You have worked hard, saved well, and are now looking towards retirement. Taking these easy steps now can help you be a good steward of your money later. If you have questions about retirement or other financial planning topics, please feel free to reach out at alex.overbeek@lpl.com!
SAVING INTENTIONALLY
Now that you have determined what your expenses will be and where your income is going to come from, it is time to consider how you will save now in order to prepare for your eventual retirement. Ideally, this is also a discussion that you would have with your financial advisor however, there are a few steps that you can take to get started First, consider your employer-sponsored retirement plan (e g 401(k), SIMPLE IRA) Most employer sponsored plans offer a contribution match which you can take advantage of. For example, an employer may offer to match your contributions dollar-fordollar up to a stated percentage of your income After confirming you are making the most of your employer match but before making additional contributions, ensure that you have an emergency fund equal to 3-6 months of necessary expenses in cash in your bank account Lastly, consider making contributions to an after-tax retirement account like a Roth IRA These accounts allow you to make contributions now that will not be taxed upon withdrawal in retirement The IRS sets an annual maximum that you can contribute to a Roth IRA ($7,000 in 2024, $8,000 if you are older than 50)
Kentwood is an attractive destination for homebuyers Residential construction continued to be on the rise in 2023, with 101 housing starts totaling an estimated $24,667,665 in construction value In 2024, the city is anticipating several large residential developments that could producehundredsofnewhousingunitsinthecomingyears It'snowonderKentwoodisgrowing TheCityoffersahighqualityoflifeduetoits proximitytomanyofWestMichigan'sdestinationdining,entertainment,andoutdoorrecreationoptions,aswellasqualityschoolsystemsand safe,friendlyneighborhoods
Aspartofthe2022voter-approvedparksmillage,theCityismakingimprovementstoitsparks,trails,recreationalfacilities,andprogramming KentwoodwillalsoconstructamultigenerationalcommunitycenternearCityHall,FireStation1,andtheJusticeCenter.Thisbuildingwillserve asagatheringspaceforthecommunityandahubformanyparkandrecreationactivities Theplanningprocessandearlystagesofdesignfor thisprojectareunderway StaytunedtotheCity'swebsite,monthlyeNewsletter,andsocialmediachannelsforupdates The City also continues to invest in its streets, sidewalks, and non-motorized trail infrastructure Some of the construction projects for 2025 includetherepavementofthePaulHenryTrailfrom44thStreettoWingAvenue,theestablishmentofmidblockcrosswalksonBretonAvenue andDivisionAvenue,andtherehabilitationandreconstructionofmajorstreetswithinthecommunity Insummary,Kentwood'seconomictrajectoryremainspositive,drivenbyacollaborativeapproachbetweengovernment,businesses,andthe communityatlarge.
A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY OF WYOMING
City Center Public Infrastructure Project Update
The Wyoming City Center project is a public-private development that includes public investment in non-motorized infrastructure and private investment in a mixed-use development The public investment will provide an ADA-compliant pedestrian bridge, 4.6 miles of new trails and relocate the aerial power and communication lines on 28 th Street between Clyde Park Avenue and Burlingame Avenue to underground to reduce visual clutter along the corridor. The private development will provide new commercial and office space as well as expand on the existing mixed income HoM Flats development The City has received over $36 million in ARPA funding and state grants to fund the public-infrastructure components of the project
Relocation of the aerial power and communication lines is currently underway Improvements to Hook Avenue, including a portion of the non-motorized trail, are also currently under construction and expected to be completed in late June. In April, the Wyoming City Council awarded a construction contract for the pedestrian bridge to Anlaan Corporation Construction on the bridge is expected to begin in September 2024 Additional sections of the trail project are expected to be open for bids in early summer with construction commencing in early fall. You can learn more about this project on the City’s website: https://www wyomingmi gov/citycenter
36 th Street Marketplace Update
The City of Wyoming has many exciting projects currently underway Following are updates on three projects in Wyoming: the Site 36 Industrial Park; the City Center Public Infrastructure Project; and the 36th Street Marketplace
JOHN SHAY - WYOMING CITY MANAGER
Site
36 Industrial Park Update
Earlier this year, the Wyoming Planning Commission and City Council approved a proposal from Corewell Health for a 296,515 square foot consolidated service center on the north 40 acres of Site 36 that will provide space for Corewell Health’s supply chain offices, document and mail services, and a 36,000 square foot shell space. As part of the project, Corewell Health will be developing a non-motorized path along the east edge of the property to provide neighborhood residents a direct path to the City’s new marketplace located at 301 36 th Street SW The new development is expected to bring approximately 240 jobs Benteler Automotive also received Planning Commission approval for a 296,710 square foot facility that is expected to be an assembly location for V801 Ford Transit Van battery components The project will go to City Council for approval in June. Benteler Automotive has been in the Grand Rapid’s region since the early 1980s and has three other locations in Michigan, including one in Wyoming. They will be developing approximately 20 acres on the southwest portion
The 36th Street Marketplace is designed for year-round usage and will support local vendors, seasonal farm and food markets, and community events Located across the street from the Site 36 Industrial Park, 36th Street Marketplace is intended to play a large role in Wyoming’s economic future. The market will be 6,000 square feet with room for more than 20 vendors. Construction is expected to start later this year You can learn more about this project on the City’s website: https://www wyomingmi gov/FarmersMarket
Wyoming Public Schools demonstrates a commitment to educationalexcellencebyprovidingscholarswithambitious instruction The districts strategic focus includes personalized learning, innovative teaching methods, and rigorous academic standards to ensure scholars are wellpreparedforthedemandsofpost-secondaryeducationand themodernworkforce
WPS has established strong partnerships with local businessesandhighereducationinstitutions Programslike the Wyoming Middle College, a dual enrollment initiative, allow scholars to earn college credits while still in high school This not only gives scholars a head start on their collegeeducationbutalsoreducesfutureeducationalcosts forfamilies Forbusinesses,thismeansasteadypipelineof well-prepared, motivated young individuals ready to join theworkforceorpursuefurtherspecializedtraining
WorkforceDevelopment
Oneofthekeyadvantagesofathrivingpublicschooldistrict isitsdirectimpactonlocalworkforcedevelopment WPS's focus on career and technical education (CTE)programs is particularly noteworthy These programs offer scholars hands-onexperienceinvarioustradesandprofessions,from healthcare to information technology, ensuring they graduatewithpracticalskillsthatmeettheneedsofourlocal community
Business owners can benefit significantly from these initiatives By engaging with WPS through internships, apprenticeships,andmentorshipprograms,companiescan help shape the curriculum to better align with industry standards and expectations This collaboration not only enhancestheemployabilityofgraduatesbutalsofostersa sense of community and mutual support between local businessesandtheschooldistrict
COMMUNITY CORNERSTONE & DRIVER OF ECONOMIC GROWTH
CommunityEngagement
Wyoming Public School’s impact extends beyond academicsandworkforcedevelopment Thedistrictserves as a community hub, hosting events, workshops, and recreational activities that bring residents together Vibrant community engagement fosters a sense of pride and belonging, which is crucial for attracting and retainingtalentinthearea Forbusinessprofessionals,a strong local school district can enhance property values andimprovetheoverallbusinessclimate Familiesoften prioritizequalityeducationwhenchoosingwheretolive, makingWPSasignificantdrawforpotentialresidents In turn,aninfluxoffamiliescanboostlocalbusinesses,from retail and restaurants to healthcare and professional services
The community’s support has been instrumental in significant facility upgrades across the district The successful passing of bonds, which paved the way for extensive renovations at Wyoming High School and Wyoming Junior High, demonstrates a collective commitment to the future of our community These improvements have significantly enhanced learning environments, providing state-of-the-art facilities that support both academic and extracurricular excellence
Suchdevelopmentsnotonlybenefitourscholarsandstaff butalsouplifttheentirecommunity,reflectingthestrong partnership between the district and its residents in fosteringabrighterfutureforall These construction projects have not only improved districtfacilitiesbuttheyhavealsohadarippleeffecton thelocaleconomy Districtconstructionprojectsgenerated jobs and increased business for local contractors and suppliers,stimulatingeconomicactivityintheregion Our modernized school buildings offer advanced learning environments that attract families to the area, subsequently boosting the local housing market and increasingdemandforlocalservicesandbusinesses
InvestingInTheFuture
Supportingthelong-termsuccessofWyomingPublicSchoolsisnotjustaninvestmentineducationbutinthefutureofour community Businessleaderscanplayacrucialrolebyadvocatingforpoliciesthatsupporteducationalfunding,participatingin schoolboardmeetings,andcontributingtoschoolinitiatives Sponsorshipopportunitiesforschooleventsandprogramsprovide businesseswithvisibilityanddemonstrateacommitmenttolocaldevelopment
Additionally,businessescancollaboratewithWPSoninnovativeprojectsthatbenefitbothscholarsandthecommunity For instance,technologyfirmscansupportcodingclubsorroboticsteams,whilehealthcareprovidersmightofferhealthand wellnessprogramsforscholarsandstaff Suchpartnershipsnotonlyenrichtheeducationalexperiencebutalsocreateapositive feedbackloopthatstrengthensthecommunityandeconomy Conclusion
A comprehensive business publication designed for the modern professional.
The South Kent Business Journal, a full-color publication of the South Kent Chamber of Commerce, is distributed to 2500 readers 4 times per year and available digitally. In addition to the printed pieces, we post online, on social media platforms, include in email communications to members and subscribers, and provide complimentary copies to the local government office. Contact the chamber for pricing on multi-month packages or front and back cover information
4415 Byron Center Ave SW Wyoming, MI 49519
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