Purpose Statement

The Small Business Council will be the primary vehicle to connect and help grow the Chamber's small business members. The Small Business Council's focus is to embrace and encourage entrepreneurial business practices, to serve as the voice for small business, and to offer opportunities for development through networking and chamber programs.

Process

This Committee will flush through ideas and move the development and implementation of any new events, initiatives, and programs to the appropriate Chamber department. The Chamber's Traverse Bay EDC will manage and staff the Small Business Council.

Who Should Participate

The person participating in the Small Business Council should be the Owner, CEO, or key decision maker of an organization. Because the members of the Small Business Council will be looked upon by the Chamber and its Traverse Bay EDC for their vision, ideas, and strategic input, it is imperative the members of the Small Business Council are connected to the small business needs of the region.

Meeting Schedule

The Small Business Council will meet every month on the second Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. (excluding July & August - Summer Break - No Meetings AND September meeting will be Thursday, September 18 AND November meeting will be Friday, November 7).   The meetings will be held at the Chamber offices in the first floor Steelcase Business & Education Center.

Chairperson: Steve Merten, Fawcett/Dopke Insurance Agency