As you know, President's Day is right around the corner. It is not only the cause of a three-day weekend for some, but a chance to reflect on the history of our nation's presidental and governmental history. One of the main priorities of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce is to connect you - the business owners, managers, and professionals - to the leaders in legislature, at both a local and state level. The Government Affairs Division holds regular events focused on policies and laws, public safety, city updates and more. If you have the slightest interest in learning more about the Chamber's advocacy work, please reach out to Julie and she can help you get started!

 

On that note, save the date! We are excited to announce that the annual St. Cloud Area Chamber Washington DC Trip is coming up April 24 - 27th. This is a great opportunity to travel to our nation's capital and meet with legislators on their turf. Stay tuned for more details about this exciting trip!

The Central MN Farm Show takes place February 28 and March 1 in downtown St. Cloud at the River's Edge Convention Center. There are opportunities to volunteer, exhibit, and more!

Lunchtime Learning takes place over the lunch hour on Wednesday, March 1 featuring the topic Quickbook Tips, Tricks & Reports: Advice from an Expert - Register online now to attend! 

Here are a few more important dates to put on your calendar, but don't forget to check out our full events calendar for even more.

With the goal of keeping members informed and up to date, these news bites feature local, regional and national news items that relate to the business community in Central Minnesota. 

 

LOCAL

Black Business Exposition 2023: Join the Higher Works Collaborative at the 4th annual Black Business Expo on February 17th at the Park Event Center. Learn more

 

St. Cloud Live is live: Forum Communications, home of several Minnesota print and digital news outlets, recently launched St. Cloud Live. Check it out

 

Cost of Living Report: The 2022 Cost of Living Report for the St. Cloud area has been released - view it here.

 

2022 Development Highlights: The City of St. Cloud has released their 2022 Development Highlights video - watch it here.

 

STATE & NATIONAL

Grants to improve air quality: The MN Pollution Control Agency has grants available for projects that aim to reduce air emissions. Learn more

 

Regional Economic Conditions Survey Results: You spoke up in the Federal Reserve's Business Conditions survey, now hear the results on February 24th. Learn more

 

DEED Youth at Work Grants: The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is seeking proposals from qualified organizations to provide workforce development and employment training opportunities to economically disadvantaged or at-risk youth ages 14-24 through the Youth at Work Competitive Grant program. Learn more

 

How to choose a tax professional: Anyone can be a paid tax return preparer as long as they have an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). However, tax return preparers have differing levels of skills, education and expertise. Here are some tips on choosing the right one.

A big welcome to all of the members who joined the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce in the month of January, 2023! We are so glad that you part of this organization. 

• Active Central MN
• Baby's on Broadway
• Green Acres Animal Rescue
• JP Morgan Chase Bank
• Minnesota Center for Employee Ownership
• Thies & Talle Management
• Two Men And A Truck
• Virnig Manufacturing

Featured Committee: Sauk Rapids Chamber

The Sauk Rapids Chamber promotes a healthy business environment in the community of Sauk Rapids, working in cooperation with member businesses, local government, the public school system, and other community organizations.

About Sauk Rapids Chamber

The Sauk Rapids Chamber, a division of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce meets from 11:30 a.m. ? 1 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of the month. Arrive at 11:15 a.m. and take advantage of a little extra networking time.

The planning committee meets separately once a month to focus on planning, promotion, and more. Committee members help hosts prepare, search for speakers, market the Sauk Rapids Chamber, and much more. 

Sauk Rapids Chamber Committee Members

• Sarah Forystek, Vye - Chair
• Brandon Voit, Falcon National Bank - Vice Chair
• Megan Bistodeau, Gate City Bank
• Julie Braun, SOS-Smart Organizing Solutions
• Sheri Moran, Gabriel Media
• Andrea Tiebel, St. Cloud VA
• Jennifer Ramos, Jennifer Ramos Agency/Am Fam
• Sam Lieser, Purpose Driven Realty
• Brenda Sickler, Theisen Dental

Would you like to learn more about joining this committee?

Contact Sarah, Chair of the Sauk Rapids Chamber Committee with any questions!

We are in the thick of winter right now, which means you might just have your mind on a getaway. If flights to Florida aren't in the budget right now, don't fret - there is tons of fun to be had in your backyard! Visit Greater St. Cloud (a partner of the Chamber) offers tons of great resources for having fun in the St. Cloud area.

• Grab your snow shoes and hit up a snow trail.
• Tap into the past with a visit to these historic places in St. Cloud.
• Explore on a budget with these free (& cheap) things to do.
• Entertain the whole family at these family friendly attractions in Greater St. Cloud. 

Plus, check out even more resources below. Have a great staycation!

St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

1411 West Saint Germain Street, ste. 101

St. Cloud, Minnesota, 56301

 

320-251-2940

StCloudAreaChamber.com