One of the most challenging aspects of starting a new business is getting honest, constructive feedback on your idea. It's easy for friends to say, "I love it", "I'd buy that" or "Go for it". But any business consultant or counselor will tell you that's not enough. You should instead find out if the market you intend to serve needs or wants your product. This month's blog post explores some easy, low-cost ways to do that. Jason Camis COVID has been with us for almost one year and businesses are still figuring out what customers want. As COVID vaccinations become more prevalent and restrictions begin to ease, businesses will certainly be tempted to pay less attention to the health and safety of their customers. But data shows that consumers expect many of the efforts that businesses have put forth to stick around if they are to renew their economic activity. This month's guest post by Christina Metcalf highlights a few of the areas that Jason Camis Have you ever thought about serving on City Council? If so, now is your chance. Due to a recent council member's resignation (moving outside of the city limits), applications are being taken to fill that council seat for the remainder of the term. City Council Members (5) and the Mayor make up the Governing Body.
The Governing Body utilizes four, long-term, "strategic goals" to guide their decision-making: Promote Economic Development, Increase Infrastructure/Asset Management, Maintain/Improve Quality of Jason Camis Stacy Boyajian, former co-owner of Gardner Pharmacy, joined the Chamber in the fall of 2019. COVID-19 definitely threw a wrench in her plans, but seeing 30+ new members join the Chamber in 2020, a difficult year by all accounts, gives her hope that 2021 will be better than ever and Gardner will continue to flourish for years to come. Stacy Boyajian There's always time to reflect on the past year, but there's never a day as important as TODAY to look to the future. What seeds will you plant today that you'll look back upon in 2022? Jason Camis Little Building Blocks Early Childhood Development Center broke ground on their new facility on South Gardner Road this week. This will double their capacity and offer new, unique learning opportunities for children ages 0-5. They are locally-owned and operated and their significant investment will allow them to serve the workforce in Gardner for years to come. The new facility should be up and operational by the summer of 2021. Jason Camis The holiday season is not only a time to celebrate, but a time that we can all step up and help our neighbors in need. Thankfully there are a lot of resources available in our community. Share these resources far and wide and if you have the ability to help out someone in need this holiday season, make it happen. Jason Camis KEEP THE CHEER HERE is a campaign to encourage the community to try and shop local and shop small this holiday season. Doing so pays dividends for our community in more ways than one. We know you can't buy everything from a small, locally-owned business, but you can certainly shift some of your spending in that direction. Jason Camis Everyone can (and should) be a tourist in their own community and region this year. Thankfully, Northeast Kansas and the Kansas City region have a lot to offer. Check out a few of the resources to find activities and have some family fun. Jason Camis Consumer confidence is still lagging, but there are bright spots too. Business owners should pay attention to how they can make consumers feel safer when seeking out shopping experiences this holiday season. Jason Camis.jpg)
Think You have a Great Product or Service Idea? Here’s How to Know for Sure.
Six Changes for Businesses During COVID That Are Here to Stay
It's Your Turn to Step Up and Serve
Optimism with a Sense of Gratitude
What Seeds Will You Plant in 2021?
Local Daycare Expansion Means New Opportunities
The Community Needs Your Help This Holiday Season
KEEP THE CHEER HERE This Holiday Season
Be a Tourist in Your Own Town (or Region) This Holiday Season
And The Data Says...
Sharing Our Thoughts on Creating a Better Community
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