Our 4th interview in our 2020 ACCE Chamber of the Year Finalist Series is with James McCoy from the Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce in Georgia. The Forsyth County Chamber is responsible for the area’s economic development and tourism in addition to their Chamber duties. 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 Forsyth Chamber 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.
James covered three highlights from their Chamber of the Year synopsis. First, is a focus on how the Forsyth County Chamber was able to align the goals for their Chamber, economic development, and tourism based around their Chamber mission. Second, the Forsyth County Chamber went through a name change as well as new branding and logo. Third, was a focus on new community improvement districts which is allowing for their area to be much more attractive to business and tourism.
When James talked about what makes the Forsyth County Chamber stand out, he was quick to mention the unity and effectiveness that comes from the synergy of having their Chamber, economic development, and tourism aligned and working towards the same goals. James also mentioned that their area is a popular spot for the sport of cricket so that has been an area of focus for both business and tourism. They also have been targeting commercial film projects to their area.
When discussing how the Forsyth Chamber plans to lead through the recovery from the economic impact of COVID-19, James mentioned the website that they created and branded within 48 hours from when everything started to shut down. It is called Together 4 FOCO. This website became a great resource for their community. He also talked about the need for operating capital for businesses and helping to navigate through EIDL and PPP loans. The Forsyth County Chamber has also started to host virtual job fairs to help with the employment situation. They use a platform called Blue Jeans for their job fairs. They have also been taking advantage and promoting the open access educational opportunities that their local colleges and universities are offering for certificate programs to help make the people in their community more employable.
As James shared his piece of advice for the Chamber Champions listening, he mentioned the importance of surrounding yourself with a great team (including your board). James also talked about the importance of continuing to learn who you are. Learn your strengths and weaknesses and to monitor them regularly.
If you would like to connect with James, he can be reached below:
Mobile: 770-842-4774
Email: jmccoy@focochamber.org
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