Chambers of Commerce Supporting Local Businesses

We continue our look at small business owners in this episode, but with a twist.

We talk about the value of our local chambers of commerce in supporting local businesses. These organizations can create not only successful entrepreneurs but also lend to successful communities with a thriving economy!

David Polakowski is the President/CEO of the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership. His background includes business ownership being a business owner, working in government in economic development, and in the nonprofit world.

The Tri-Village Chamber Partnership (TVCP) represents the Village of Marble Cliff, the City of Grandview Heights, and the City of Upper Arlington, Ohio. These three suburban communities, located in the west/northwest area of Columbus, constitute a total population of around 40,000 residents. They are dynamic communities with great school systems, libraries, and active governments.

Five years ago two chambers representing this area combined to form a new entity, and today the TCVP has over 400 members. David gives a better picture of what was going on and how this combined effort of the TVCP leads to greater economic progress in the area.

The role of a business owner takes on so many different forms in today’s economy. Individuals can open their own shop, buy a franchise, sign on to companies as independent workers, or become consultants. All of these options show potential, even in our new normal. We talk about the overall skills David sees as most important for business owners.

We have gone through many changes in our economic landscape over the past two decades. We came back from 9-11, made it through a major recession, and now trying to conquer a pandemic. All of these had a major impact on businesses. David gives some insight into 2022 and how businesses should prepare.

One major change over the past year or so was the quick but constant need to pivot to new circumstances in businesses. Technology played a huge role. Everyone learned Zoom. Restaurants had to change their products and services. Other employers had to deal with online ordering and delivery. And still, others still had to figure out how to market their business and stay relevant. How was the TVCP supporting local businesses during this time?

The Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is a great opportunity to network with business leaders throughout Central Ohio, all are welcome! Watch the TVCP events page for details and registration on https://business.chamberpartnership.org/events

If you are outside of the Central Ohio area, here are some ideas on where to network:

• Check your nearest Chamber of Commerce (see links below to find local chambers) for their networking opportunities – you may not have to be a member to attend, although there could be a fee.
• Think about volunteering with a local organization of professionals. Here in Central Ohio we have 2 groups you may want to check: Columbus Gives Back https://columbusgivesback.org/ or BESA https://www.besa.org/
• Check local nonprofits that provide networking events. In Central Ohio you may want to check
• Networking Professionals of Columbus  https://www.networkingprofessionalsofcolumbus.com/ 
• Columbus Young Professionals Group https://www.cypclub.com/
• EVOLE Women’s Networking https://www.evolvewomensnetwork.com
• Check online event groups like MeetUp www.meetup.com
• Google is a great resource to find your local organizations!

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.