During recent discussions with Chamber committees, the question was asked: "Why do you choose to volunteer with the Chamber?" Answers ranged from sentimental - "I want to give back to the community" - to practical - "it's a great way to network and grow my business."

 

Call us biased, but we know there are many great reasons for volunteering - and many great ways to do so! In fact, did you know that the Chamber has 18+ different committees and groups that meet regularly to help the Chamber function? That's a lot of volunteers, with a lot of different reasons for being involved! 

 

While we received great feedback on a number of levels, one that stood out from the rest was simple, but powerful: "Because I was asked." What a statement! This tells us that many members don't realize they can be a volunteer on almost any committee - whether they've been asked or not. But if that's what it takes, then consider this our way of asking! There are tons of great ways to get involved in the Chamber, and this is our invitation to you to check them out.

 

Not sure where to start? Contact Laura, she will connect you with the committee or volunteer opportunity that best fits your needs. Everyone is welcome!

Waite Park Chamber is hosted by ABRA Auto Body & Glass on Wednesday, June 21 at Pizza Ranch. Register now to attend!

Sauk Rapids Chamber is hosted by Celebrate Minnesota on Thursday, June 22 at the Clearing in Sauk Rapids. Please register now!

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.

• Chamber Connection: Batteries Plus (6/16/2023)
• June Downtown St. Cloud Art Crawl (6/16/2023)
• Waite Park Chamber (6/21/2023)
• Karl's TV and Appliance Ribbon Cutting (6/22/2023)
• Sauk Rapids Chamber (6/22/2023)
• Chamber Connection: City of St. Cloud (6/23/2023)
• Chamber Connection: Fathom Realty (6/30/2023)

With the goal of keeping you 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

Let's talk workforce. All are invited to attend "Automation: Planning for Tomorrow's Workforce Needs" hosted by Falcon National Bank on June 27 to learn more about workforce challenges in manufacturing, and what's being done about it. Register now

 

Share your thoughts. The public is invited to share their opinion on marijuana, tobacco and vaping in St. Cloud parks. Learn more

 

Submit your nomination. Nominations for the GSDC’s Innovation Awards are now being accepted to recognize originality among for-profit and non-profit organizations located in Benton, Sherburne and Stearns counties. Learn more

 

STATE & NATIONAL

When will new policies impact your business? The Minnesota Legislature passed many bills this legislative session. Here's when will those bills become a reality for your business - Learn more

 

Apply for America's Top Small Business awards. The US Chamber of Commerce recognizes small business through the America's Top Small Business Awards, which honor the achievements of small businesses and highlight their contributions to America’s economic growth. Learn more & apply now.

 

Who voted on what? Each year, the Minnesota Chamber tracks the voting record of legislators on bills that affect business. So how did they vote? View the report here.

A warm welcome to all of these members who joined the Chamber in May, 2023. We are so happy you're here!

• Aqeel Equities
• Christiansons by FLUID
• Lakes Area Locks
• Nice Axe/Granite City Jump
• Northern Janitorial Services
• T-Mobile
• White Wolf Custom Apparel & Design

Bags & Brew Beanbag Tournament

We are hosting a 20-team double elimination bean bag tournament at Back Shed Brewing to raise funds for the Chamber Foundation. The Foundation supports workforce development through scholarship opportunities locally.

 

The main bracket winners receive $200 CASH and the second chance bracket winners will receive 2 Growlers. Rain or shine. Each team will receive 2 free drink tickets and a t-shirt for each player. 

Sign Up Your Team

Chamber Member - $150 for 2 person team, Non-Chamber Member - $200 for 2 person team - sign up here. 

 

Registration Includes

• Two player team
• T-shirt
• 2 free drink tickets

Sponsor Bags & Brew

Sponsorships of all kinds are available! Learn more about the below options here.

• Bag Sponsor - $600
• Board Set Sponsor - $450
• Lumber Sponsor - $400
• Food Sponsor - $400
• Score Board Sponsor - $350
• Board Sponsor - $175 for 1, $300 for 2

Visit the link below to learn more & register to play!

WHAT

Join a group of other business leaders from non-competing businesses and professional backgrounds to discuss business issues in an informal, informative setting.

 

WHO

Members of the Chamber who are business owners, chief executives, or partners in a professional firm.

Look out - here comes your last chance at sponsoring the Chamber Open! Opportunities are filling fast - don't miss the chance to enjoy a beautiful day at St. Cloud Country Club full of networking, fun, and exposure to hundreds of Chamber members!

Happy Summer!

Starting on 5/26, the Chamber office will be closed at noon on Fridays through the summer.

St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

1411 West Saint Germain Street, ste. 101

St. Cloud, Minnesota, 56301

 

320-251-2940

StCloudAreaChamber.com