Growing forward for business
One of the things we have learned from history is that every crisis can be an opportunity and every crisis comes with silver linings. For business, the COVID-19 pandemic has clearly been a very serious “opportunity.” This is as true for the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce as much as it is for any business operation in Northwest Montana and, for that matter, the world. It should come as no surprise that we have had to say goodbye to several members, in-person event programming, and staff positions over the past year.
The wonderful news is that we have navigated our way through and emerged with exciting goals and priorities for our future. This new year will bring a renewed and intentional focus on our programs, initiatives, and plan of work directed at addressing the needs of our membership and providing solutions to ensure their continued growth and success. While the pandemic is not entirely in the rear-view mirror, and we will remain in a recovery mode this year (at a minimum), things are improving – there is a fierce determination to remain healthy and move forward.
In order to deliver successfully on business priorities in 2021 we have had to examine our resources. Due to the continuing health situation, increasing costs and liabilities, and limited volunteer support, the Chamber will not produce parades going forward. We know how beloved and important these events are to our neighbors and residents. Any organization with a tie to mission and with the resources to keep them going can contact us for more information about producing parades. We are happy to share our knowledge with you and serve as a marketing partner.
Programming has returned to our calendar and has started off with a bang. February 9, we launched the Flathead’s premier online networking for business called Coffee Connect. Our launch saw 34+ Kalispell area participants learn about each other’s businesses, reconnect with business associates, and network in a high-energy, fast paced environment. We plan to migrate Coffee Connect to a hybrid, and ultimately in-person, event as things improve. Thinking Thursday has been revamped and is now on-demand driven, focused on asking our members what you need and want, and then delivering experts in those arenas. Our most recent Thinking Thursday had more than 130 participants.
Economic development and workforce initiatives are kicking into high gear. It is imperative that we deliver a forward-facing, well organized, cohesive, and welcoming system for businesses considering relocation to our area. We are working closely with our partners to promote this standard. An “Opportunity Fair” is on deck for the month of April – an online job fair featuring industries each week. A Developers Summit is being planned for May/June to bring those interested in investing in our community together with key stakeholders to address gaps and challenges in building new assets in Kalispell.
Expanding the amazing work of Discover Kalispell and working together to leverage both Chamber and Convention and Visitor Bureaus’ strengths and identities will be key to succeeding in all growth strategies across our community. We do a wonderful job preparing visitors for safe and responsible stays in our area. We can do a better job at urging them to consider working where they play, potentially bringing high paying jobs to the Valley and being a part of much needed workforce solutions. Championing tourism as the key industry which supports, grows, and sustains our small businesses including retailers, restaurants, recreational businesses, and guides, will be an expanded priority.
2021 will see some very exciting long-term projects come to life in Downtown Kalispell. We are excited to play a key role in the ongoing efforts to create an 18-hour vibrant, walkable, and bustling downtown. The Parkline Trail will come to life with three catalytic developments along the trail which are sure to bring exciting new elements to our core.
Interwoven in all these efforts is our advocacy. Workforce and affordable housing is a critical issue. Ensuring a pro-business climate for business to succeed is imperative. Promoting entrepreneurship and innovation with high family-wage jobs is critical to keeping our future bright.
There are many more things underway. We look forward to creating a business organization for the 21st Century and building intentional success for Kalispell and the Flathead. For more information and to learn how to be a part of this future-driven focus, visit kalispellchamber.com.
— Lorraine Clarno is President and CEO of the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce.