Farming and agriculture is one of the largest industries in the state of Minnesota. There are over 67,000 farms in the state, generating $106 billion+ in economic impact annually and supporting 388,134 jobs. Minnesota ranks 4th compared to other states in terms of total agricultural exports, ranking 1st in sugar beets, oats, wild rice, red kidney beans, and turkey.

(Source: MN DEED)

 

Agriculture is a part of who we are in Central Minnesota. It's a part of our heritage, our business landscape and our lifestyle. The Central MN Farm Show is a celebration of farming, with over 250 exhibitor booths, six different agriculture scholarships for local students, several free daily ag seminars, giveaways, networking, and much more. Celebrating its 57th year of cultivating growth in Central MN, the farm show is free to attend and open to the public. Come learn about emerging farming trends including AgTech, sustainability, different crops, and more as you network with the ag industry. 

 

The Central MN Farm Show is February 27 + 28 at the River's Edge Convention Center. Visit CentralMNFarmShow.com to learn more!

Waite Park Chamber is hosted by Stay Clean Detailing on Wednesday, February 21st. Register online or by callng the office now to be included in the lunch count!

Sauk Rapids Chamber is hosted by St. Cloud VA Health Care System, sponsored by H & S Heating, A/C, and Electrical on Thursday, February  21st. 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.

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

Coming soon: $5.5 million, hopefully. The Ledge Amphitheater in Waite Park is asking for $5.5 million to add lights to its recently completed parking lot and permanent restrooms on its west end, which would replace the porta-potties. Learn more

 

2023 City of St. Cloud Development Highlights. 2023 saw continued growth and development around St. Cloud. Watch this video recap to learn more.

 

Waite Park fire department community survey: The City of Waite Park is asking for input on the future of the city's fire service. Take the survey here before February 23rd to voice your thoughts. 

 

STATE & NATIONAL

Hire talent, get grants. The Minnesota Technology Association is looking to distribute 300 small business grants, each worth up to $2,500, through our SciTech Internship Program by May 31. Learn more

 

A complete guide to filing your business taxes. As a business owner, understanding your federal, state, and local taxes is vital to your overall success. Here is everything you need to know about filing business taxes.

 

Generations of Minnesotans. With a growing population exceeding 5.7 million people in 2022, there are now at least six generations living together in the state of Minnesota. So, what does that mean?

 

Economic update: The U.S. economy added 353,000 jobs in January, making it 14.8 million jobs since 2021. With the unemployment rate at 3.7%, this continues the longest stretch of the jobless rate staying below 4% in more than 50 years. Learn more

 

Top three troubling legal trends to watch in 2024. As we embark on a new year, trial lawyers continue to employ their well-worn tricks. In 2024, many concerning legal trends are on the horizon. Check them out.

 

DEED child care funding: DEED announced record funding to expand working families’ access to affordable, quality child care in communities across the state: two rounds of Child Care Economic Development grants totaling nearly $12.5 million will be issued this year. Learn more

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• American Cancer Society
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• Waxing the City St. Cloud

Want to know more about how things work in St. Paul and Washington, D.C.? Ever wonder why laws, regulations and issues move like they do, and how you might access the process? Come join us at the Government Relations' Business Advocacy Bootcamp!

 

This is your chance to level up your advocacy skills and make a real impact. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this bootcamp is tailor-made to help you sharpen your skills and broaden your influence.

 

What's in store for you...

Learn from the pros.

Get insider tips from experienced professionals who know the ins and outs of government relations.

 

Hands-on experience.

Dive into interactive workshops that simulate real-world scenarios, giving you practical skills you can use right away.

Connect and collaborate.

Meet other passionate advocates, policymakers, and influencers, and build relationships that matter.

 

Customized learning.

From crafting compelling messages to mastering advocacy techniques, our sessions cover everything you need to know

When you complete the bootcamp, you'll earn recognition as a St. Cloud Area Chamber Certified Government Relations Advocate ? a badge of honor for your commitment to excellence in advocacy. Don't miss out on this chance to make your voice heard and shape the future of policymaking. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now and start your journey to advocacy greatness!

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

5:00pm - 7:00pm

Radisson Hotel St. Paul Downtown

This exclusive event provides an opportunity to engage with Minnesota's legislative delegation and state leadership in a relaxed setting. Hosted by the St. Cloud Area Chamber, the Evening at the Capital reception provides you an opportunity to have meaningful conversations on the issues impacting your business. Transportation is included in your registration as well.

The 2024 Community Profile and Membership Directory is now available! This is the number one resource for doing business in Central MN. Pick up your copy at our office, or view the directory online!

Find an update? Let us know so we can include it in the July supplement.

Annually, St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce members travel to Washington D.C. to engage with Minnesota's congressional delegation. These trips provide an exceptional opportunity to converse with federal officials and the U.S. Chamber administration about issues impacting businesses in Minnesota. Participants consistently regard this as one of the most valuable and enjoyable Chamber events of the year. Plans are in progress now for the 2024 trip and we look forward to welcoming you.

Interested? Want to learn more? Ready to book? We'd love to have you!

St. Cloud Area Business Showcase highlights a variety of Chamber member businesses at the River’s Edge Convention Center on April 9, 2024 from 4:30-7:00 p.m. The event is open to Chamber members and the public. Enjoy great food samples, a cash bar, fun exhibitor games, door prizes, and more! Vendor booths and sponsorship opportunities are still available, but going fast! 

St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

1411 West Saint Germain Street, ste. 101

St. Cloud, Minnesota, 56301

 

320-251-2940

StCloudAreaChamber.com