Using data from membership surveys, 1:1 visits and focus groups, we understand the current business climate. We assess the pending opportunities. We act!
Our priorities and strategies. Who we’re serving. What we’re accomplishing.
The Board of Directors sets the strategic goals and objectives and checks in regularly to assure progress is being made.
Technology has revolutionized every organization across every industry sector. We use multiple platforms to communicate our message to our members and the general public. Tune in to our facebook page, website (www.litch.com), print and radio programs featuring the most up-to-date business promotions and local happenings.
Our buy local efforts encourage consumers and businesses alike to buy local.
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Grow Minnesota!
We are a member of the statewide Grow Minnesota! business retention and expansion program. During 1:1 visits, we provide timely assistance to solve problems related to doing business in our community and in Minnesota. We help connect businesses with each other either as customers or suppliers. We are the only organization that routinely says “thank you” to local businesses!
Workforce Training
Businesses can only grow as fast as the availability of a skilled workforce. We partner with leading training organizations to provide customized programs that meet our local workforce needs. These programs are ongoing and targeted to the diverse needs of businesses.
Financial Assistance For Adult Students
We provide financial assistance directly to individuals through two scholarship programs. Offered annual in January and August, each program targets a unique student. Partnering with the local school district we arrange classroom-to-careers activities and experiences to bring the future workforce closer to local opportunities.
Job Seekers
Local jobs for local employment and career opportunities. It’s easy when you use our online job posting. It’s simple to do yourself….or we can help you!
Economic Development Resources
Meeker County EDA
Mid Minnesota Development Commission
Southwest Initiative Foundation
Workforce Center
Small Business Development Resource Center
Customized Training
Ridgewater Community College
Day in, day out we connect consumers to businesses, businesses to suppliers, and suppliers to market channels. One steady image the Chamber has is that we are the reflection of the community and a trusted resource center. It’s why people call us for everything under the sun. It’s why school children write letters to us. The Chamber is expected to know the answer to every question about the Litchfield area. While having every answer is impossible, through our 240-plus member network, we have a whole team of experts at a moment’s notice with recommendations, tips and resources about almost anything people ask of us.
Networking
It may be one of the most over-used words in business today, but networking is how business happens. Every event we host is another opportunity to connect on a personal level. Isn’t it trusting, personal and professional relationships that establish life-long connections? Every month, there is at least one opportunity to meet local business and community leaders. We can teach even the most reticent business professional how to make those connections. Attend a seminar. Get involved in a committee. Serve on the Board of Directors. There are many ways to connect with other business folks.
Our events bring together businesses from across every sector. More than “networking”… members build lasting relationships, share best practices and collaborate on a wide variety of projects.
Increase Visibility
Better visibility = business growth. Visibility comes naturally when you’re a chamber member. Thousands of people come to our website to find a business. Be part of our online referral directory. Every level of membership comes with additional opportunities to increase your visibility. Be seen!
Business Skills
The acquisition of knowledge is central to the competitive advantage of individuals and organizations in today’s economy. Employees want their career to advance. The smart executive will offer their employees great opportunities for training and career development. Providing training to develop their management and leadership skills will provide immediate and long-term benefit to your business. It’s integral to retaining your most talented employees.
Our commitment to providing training opportunities is unmatched.
Leadership
Developing business and community leadership is integral to the strength of our community. We provide hands-on, experiential opportunities along with training programs. Start with committee involvement and progress to serving on the Board. We bring together businesses from across every sector. More than “networking”… members build lasting relationships, share best practices and collaborate on a wide variety of projects.
Like you, we care about the community. As the largest business organization in the community, we influence decisions made at all levels of government. The Chamber is the local voice of business. Your membership in the Chamber multiplies the value for all of our members.
When you need to influence community decision-makers, we can help you make the right connections. When advantageous, we can shield your business from controversy.
Local/State Decisions
Our members believe it is very important that the Chamber represent their interests with government and be involved in political action. Therefore, we monitor and are a visible presence at City Council and County Commission meetings as well as the State Legislature. You can be proud of the work the Chamber does on behalf of the business community.
Issue Briefings
Health care, taxes, government regulation, transportation, labor relations and other issues are not unique to any size of business or any particular industry. We bring topical experts to lead discussions about the issues and concerns that keep you up at night. We provide information on key legislation moving through the State legislature and help you tell your elected officials the impact their decisions have on your business. We are the only local organization that represents you. Your input at these issue briefings is critical to moving business-friendly legislation forward.
Elections
An engaged citizenry is the foundation of our democracy. We provide education opportunities for individuals interested in public service. We host candidate forums to educate potential elected officials on business issues. We provide “get out the vote” resources for our members to use within their companies and organizations.
