Mashpee Chamber of Commerce’s Post

As a guy who was knocked for six during Covid and left with no job and no other option than to startup to survive, I can honestly say I now understand the unrelenting dedication and hard work that goes into running a business. Just managing to maintain delulu levels of optimism and living on nothing but beans and toast is something most people never consider when saying those fateful words; “I’m going to start a business” Even at the best of times It takes a helluva lot longer than you’d ever anticipate, And businesses have had to contend with everything from batflu to Brexit on top of that since 2019z The past few years have truly tested the grit, determination and resilience of many. Yet, almost every business seems to have emerged stronger and more driven than ever. The Wigan Business Awards will celebrate not just success, but the journey and effort behind it. For that reason, I am honoured to be confirmed as a judge for Wigan Business Awards The awards received more than 500 nominations - and I’m super excited to work with the other judges and showcase those local businesses who are committed to lifting each other up 👏🏻 Because teamwork makes the dream work muchachos! If you’re based in Wigan or surrounding I believe applications are still open, For more information on the awards, see comments. #SmallBusiness #StartupStories #Wigan #BusinessAwards

🌟 Member Spotlight: Sarah Collie 🌟 When you talk about Sarah Collie, the words smart, massively generous and wickedly funny are a good start.  I knew when I first met Sarah that she was a leader who understood the importance of personal and professional growth. Anyone around her when she is leading her team will find out that as a Tim Hortons Franchisee, Sarah is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of her people. Personally, I love it when you meet a leader who uses their success to elevate others. The Quick Service Restaurant industry is fast moving and deals with the public every day. We all want what we want when we want it… and there are lots of times that people in the service industry don’t receive the respect they deserve. Sarah focuses on providing essential skills and creating opportunities for her team members to really grow themselves. Expanding from one to five franchises in a short amount of time is impressive. Doing it while achieving ambitious sales targets and empowering individuals to succeed in their careers and personal lives is a testament to how Sarah lives her values. Those values transcend all areas of her life including raising three teenagers and actively supporting community organizations that are directly focused on people in need. So why did Sarah join our Women Presidents’ Organization entrepreneurial peer group? “I initially joined and continue to rejoin WPO because the support and guidance is invaluable. The support of the individuals in this group has directly impacted my growth, confidence, and competence as a business leader. The attention to business goals has helped me to greatly improve my productivity and focus on driving results." Sarah's journey is a testament to the power of joining a WPO Chapter full of successful, driven, caring entrepreneurs who have a professionally facilitated forum with access to entrepreneurial connections globally. ✨ Shout out to janet trude, WPO alumni extraordinaire, for the connection to Sarah 😊 Great members, refer other great members.  🌟👥 🌟 Looking to grow your leadership and your business with other entrepreneurs who get it? Message me to learn about becoming a member of the Women Presidents Organization. Camille Burns Tomi Jane DeTorres Sara Charbonnet Carly Ward, MPA Women Presidents Organization Shelby Taylor Krista Walcroft Tara Gignac Jacquie Rushlow teza lawrence Sandra Stewart Tiffany Mullin Anne Marie Perrault Melanie Cook Gillian Vincent Dawn Hennessey Jessica Russell CITP #BusinessLeadership #Networking #CommunitySupport #Productivity #Growth

How the Kirkwood-Des Peres Chamber of Commerce Supports Local Businesses | Interview with Chris Ley In this insightful interview, I had the privilege of speaking with Chris Ley, Executive Director of the Kirkwood-Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce. We explored the vital role the Chamber plays in fostering a thriving local business community. Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or simply curious about how chambers operate, this discussion offers a deep dive into the value of connection, collaboration, and community support in the Kirkwood-Des Peres area. Key Highlights: ✅ Networking Opportunities: The Chamber creates a space for businesses to form meaningful connections. From monthly networking events to special initiatives, local professionals benefit from opportunities that drive growth. The Chamber also supports businesses in Warson Woods, Glendale, and Oakland, extending its impact beyond Kirkwood and Des Peres. ✅ Community Engagement: Acting as a bridge between businesses and the community, the Chamber organizes impactful events like festivals, parades, and community projects, helping businesses integrate and contribute to the area’s vibrant culture. ✅ Chris Ley’s Passion for Community Building: Chris shares how the Chamber is more than an organization—it’s a community. By joining, businesses become part of a collective mission to strengthen the local economy and make the Kirkwood-Des Peres area a great place to live, work, and grow. If you’re a business owner in the area, or interested in connecting with the local community, this interview is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. Watch the full video to discover how the Kirkwood-Des Peres Chamber of Commerce can help you achieve your business goals! 💡 What’s your favorite way to connect with your local Chamber? Share in the comments! Follow me for more insights on local businesses, real estate tips, and community highlights! Kirkwood - Des Peres Area Chamber of Commerce #ChamberOfCommerce #KirkwoodDesPeres #LocalBusinessGrowth #NetworkingOpportunities #SupportLocalBusiness #CommunityEngagement #EntrepreneurshipJourney #SmallBusinessTips #BusinessCommunity #LeadershipMatters

Exciting news! The Hispanic Heritage Foundation and Bacardi U.S.A., Inc, have announced the recipients of the 2024 Visión Verde grant. 10 Latinx/Hispanic entrepreneurs from the beverage alcohol service, sales, and hospitality industries across the United States have been selected to receive $10,000 each to bring their sustainable projects to life. “Latino small businesses continue to grow at an accelerated rate in the United States move our economy and job growth going forward,” said Antonio Tijerino, President and CEO of HHF. “Entrepreneurship is in our blood and despite challenges, we continue to make a significant impact through vision, creativity and ganas. Latino entrepreneurship is good for our community, our country and we want to make sure it’s also good for our globe, and through the innovative Visión Verde program with Bacardi, we want to support Latino business not only grow but become more sustainable as part of their business model. These 10 Latino businesses are an example of what is possible and needed.” Meet the 2024 Visión Verde recipients: https://lnkd.in/ebh8yST6 #VisiónVerde

Come learn more about the Dulles Chamber and how it can help you grow your business!

The Chamber of Commerce serves as a vital connection between businesses and the community, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment that allows local businesses to thrive. When a business owner decides to join the Chamber of Commerce, they are not only investing in their own business, but also in the community as a whole. One of the primary benefits of joining the Chamber of Commerce is the opportunity to network with other local business owners and leaders. This networking allows business owners to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and support each other in their endeavors. This collaboration can lead to new partnerships, increased business opportunities, and a stronger sense of community among local businesses. In addition to networking, the Chamber of Commerce also provides numerous resources and support for local businesses. These resources can include access to funding opportunities, business development workshops, and marketing assistance. By taking advantage of these resources, business owners can improve their operations and increase their chances of success. Another important aspect of the Chamber of Commerce is its advocacy work on behalf of local businesses. The Chamber works to ensure that the interests of local businesses are represented in local government and works to create a business-friendly environment. This advocacy can lead to policies and initiatives that support local businesses and help them to grow and thrive. Ultimately, by joining their local Chamber of Commerce, business owners are investing in the future of their community. A strong and vibrant business community leads to a stronger and more prosperous community as a whole. By working together, local businesses can create a brighter future for themselves and the community in which they live. Join your local chamber. #Chamber #ChamberOfCommerce #ChamberPros

Business Is Booming For Black Entrepreneurs Thanks To The Detroit Lions' Winning Streak, Yet They Are Being Left Out Of The Economic Conversation. By SHANIQUE YATES - AfroTEC As the Detroit Lions’ path to Super Bowl LVIII continues, the place dubbed the “Motor City” has seen an influx of fans trekking to the downtown area, patronizing local restaurants to cheer on their NFL team. Per a report from Detroit journalist Phil Lewis, the New York Times recently released a story exploring the local economic boost that has resulted from the Lions’ winning streak, yet not a single Black-owned business is mentioned. That’s while Black people make up 77.8% of Detroit’s population, per the U.S. Census. What’s more, the omission of Black-owned businesses isn’t because the city doesn’t have any, according to Lewis’ blog, What I’m Reading. In fact, one business was reportedly interviewed for the NYT piece, Cutter’s Bar & Grill. Located in the Eastern Market neighborhood, the pub was opened in 2004 and has been home to Detroit fans ever since. When Detroit historian and news reporter Ken Coleman brought attention to the omission of the city’s Black businesses in a Facebook post, a manager at the pub commented that she had actually interviewed with the NYT. “I’m very disappointed to hear this,” Chimika Harris said in her comment. “The NYTimes did an interview with me for this on Friday.” For the past 20 years, Charles Nolen, the owner of Cutter’s, recalls being a big motivator in getting team supporters, especially the younger generation, to the downtown area, alongside other Black-owned businesses such as Bert’s Marketplace. #StartupToScaleUp #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Changemakers #LearningFromTheBest #entrepreneurship #BusinessOwners #diverseentrepreneurs #diversityandinclusion #Entrepreneurs #disabled #disabledentrepreneur #inspire #mindset #business #NYAE2024 #neurodiversity #longtermhealthconditions #businessprogram #creativity #Dyslexia #Dyspraxia #education #Dyscalculia #Diversecreative #TDC #ADHD #training #learning #disabilityawareness

When they close down a business after 42 years It was heartbreaking to see my usual tea shop closing down. Both sisters have been running this together for 42+ years and decided to take a break for good. This has been my usual place to go for my favourite Hot Honey Lemon, Coffee Si Siew Dai, or Hot Milo whenever I am working from the office. There has been so many short conversations and memories with these two sisters over the last 15 months. When asked why they had been doing this business for so long, they mentioned they enjoyed serving people’sfavourite drinks. When asked why they decided to close down, they mentioned they haven’t taken a break for many years except for the Chinese New Year holidays; and margins went down recently with so many new drink shops around now. When asked about what they intend to do next, they mentioned they just want to take a break for a few months, see the world, take good rest, and decide later on their next adventure. While I am sad that my favourite shop will no longer be there for my favourite drinks, I am grateful for their service and decision to take a break before they take the next big step. Entrepreneurs keep on inspiring at every stage of life. Reflecting on their journey and decision, I thought about what they could have done: 1. Add new drinks like bubble Tea, Fusion drinks to the menu that the young folks are willing to pay for and consume more of. 2. Expand the outlet to another location and diversify for future growth, step by step. 3. Move to another location where there is demand and not too much competition. 4. Train a younger generation of staff who can take the legacy forward. I shared few of these with them in recent conversations. It seems they are pondering these suggestions. SMEs have been badly hit in the last 4~5 years, despite government support. Connect and follow: https://lnkd.in/g568Qp-g #EntreprenuersJourney #Partnership #NavigatingHeadwinds #SkyHighTower #LBFalumni #LifeLongLearning

"Tommy and Tommy B conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community engagement, and strategic marketing." https://spoti.fi/3YD6REF