Helping Your Business Thrive in the Current Economy

Thursday, 18 February 2010 23:05

Written by Administrator

In the present economic climate, individuals and businesses are facing choices, making changes and keeping a close eye on expenses. The Chambers of Commerce are dedicated to their vision of a strong economy and growing opportunities for their members and the entire community. They take their commitment very seriously and are forging ahead with a positive attitude and innovative programs.

“There’s no doubt that 2009 challenged us,” says Virginia Gibbs, President of Fayette County Chamber of Commerce. “It was a year of unparalleled belt-tightening and uncertainty like few of us have ever experienced. And while our Chamber sadly lost members whose businesses were unable to survive the economic storm, we continue to gain new members in every business category imaginable.”

She adds that she’s been very encouraged that so many people are working together. “We see members whose businesses complement each other joining together for joint marketing and sharing valuable business instruction and tips with others.”

Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce President Candace LaForge Boothby points to the actions of Chamber committees and the good that they’re doing. “Our Economic Prosperity Committee is charged with influencing and supporting economic prosperity activities and initiatives. They’re working with our ETC program (Entrepreneurs Thrive in Coweta) and the Coweta Airport Authority working closely with our Business & Community Advocacy Committee and the Coweta Development Authority to help foster a brighter economy for everyone in the community.”

Both Chambers also emphasize the value of the many programs for their members. Virginia proudly mentions to the social media training offered by the Small Business Development Center in Fayette County, as well the local SCORE Chapter, a free resource for business counseling and advice on a wide variety of key topics.

She says, “We have many web tools to help businesses gain exposure at FayetteChamber.org, and our speed networking sessions give professionals an opportunity to learn the nuances of networking.” Additionally, the Fayette Chamber hosts the Community Expo, the county’s largest trade show, each fall. Programs like Leadership Fayette and Partners in Education provide businesses with opportunities to make a difference in the community.

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber can also boast of the excellent networking opportunities available through their monthly gatherings—Business After Hours, Networking at Noon and Early Bird Forums. Some of their annual special events include the Industry Roundtables, Golf Classic, Bowling Adventure and Big Expo trade show, Coweta’s largest networking event held in autumn.