Our 1st interview in our 2020 ACCE Chamber of the Year Finalist Series is with Brian Ritter from the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC in North Dakota. The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC is the result of a merger between the Chamber and Economic Development that happened in 2019. In the interview, the main areas that we covered were the highlights of their synopsis that was submitted with their Chamber of the Year application, what makes the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC stand out, their plans on how to lead through the recovery from COVID-19, and words of advice for other Chamber Champions to improve their own Chamber.
Brian covered the two highlights from their Chamber of the Year synopsis. First, is a program called Lemonade Day that encourages the entrepreneurial spirit to the over 600 youth in the community who participate with their own lemonade stand. These youth learn basic business principles as this is promoted through the school districts and other community partners. The second program that he highlighted was around their economic development and talent/workforce development. This program is called Educator Experience. One of the main focuses for this program is around workshops for educators to better understand the employment and career opportunities within the community.
When Brian talked about what makes the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC stand out, he emphasized the importance of the culture of relationships that are built and how to foster meaningful relationships.
The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC plans to lead through the recovery from the economic impact of COVID-19 in three areas. 1) Continue to be an advocate for their business community for things like PPP and other grant and loan programs. 2) They will offer support to their business community through platforms like web series and contests. 3) They will be the trusted resource provider that businesses can turn to for answers. They will continue to look for ways to increase the consumer confidence in their community as well as they provide market updates.
As Brian shared his piece of advice for the Chamber Champions listening, he encourages you to find ways to quantify the value you provide to your members. Brian gave a bonus to his response by prompting us to all listen better and then be willing to adapt.
If you would like to connect with Brian, he can be reached below:
Mobile: 701-223-5660
Email: britter@bmcedc.com
Twitter: @briangritter
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