Are you making the most of your Chamber membership? Being part of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce means more than just joining a network?it’s about gaining real exposure for your business. From hosting events to using our online tools, there are countless ways to connect with the community and elevate your brand.

 

One of the best opportunities is coming up?the St. Cloud Area Business Showcase on April 8th! As a Chamber member, you can purchase an exhibitor booth and share your products and services with hundreds of local community members. It’s your chance to make meaningful connections, increase your visibility, and grow your business.

 

Don’t miss out on this powerful platform to shine. Secure your booth today!

Waite Park Chamber is hosted by Audio Video Extremes on Wednesday, March 19th. Doors open at 11:15AM, and the program starts at 11:45AM - register now to attend!

Sauk Rapids Chamber is on Thursday, March 27th from 11:15AM - 1PM. Join us for Sauk Rapids' State of the City Address - register now to make sure you don't miss out!

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.

• New Member Mixer at Bravo Burritos (3/18/2025)
• Waite Park Chamber Meeting hosted by AVX (3/19/2025)
• Chamber Connection: Aslan Health (3/21/2025)
• Sauk Rapids Chamber Meeting - State of the City Address (3/27/2025)
• Chamber Connection: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central MN (3/28/2025)
• Lunchtime Learning: Work Smarter: AI Tools for Every Day Use (4/2/2025)
• Chamber Connection: AGC Agency 4/4/2025 (4/4/2025)

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

AdFed seeking nonprofit applications: On April 11, the Advertising Federation of Central MN is hosting the 12-Hour Student Design Challenge where students from across MN design solutions for an area non-profit. Non-profits interested in participating can apply here.

 

St. Cloud Area Quarterly Business Review: This upcoming St. Cloud Area QBR Review will dive into the latest insights from the St. Cloud Area Business Outlook Survey. Register now.

 

Help shape the future of Downtown St. Cloud. The City of St. Cloud is creating its new Downtown Plan, a roadmap for the City to direct growth, development, and investment in the Downtown over the next 10 years. Your participation is key in the creation of the plan - learn more.

 

Reminder: the referrendum is coming. On April 8, 2025, St. Cloud Area School District 742 will ask voters to decide on two questions to improve school safety, prepare students for future-ready learning and our community’s workforce, and create a multipurpose indoor athletic space. Question 1 must pass for question 2 to be approved. Learn more

 

STATE & NATIONAL

Labor force and jobs gains: Minnesota employers added 9,600 jobs in January, the largest monthly gain since March 2024, and the labor force grew by 4,800 people, according to data released today by DEED. Read more

 

Interest rates stay the same: The Internal Revenue Service announced interest rates will remain the same for the calendar quarter beginning April 1, 2025. For individuals, the rate for overpayments and underpayments will be 7% per year, compounded daily. Learn more

 

MN Paid Leave Newsletter: Minnesota will be the 13th state to launch a statewide Paid Leave program. Stay up to date on its implementation with this newsletter.

 

Unemployment insurance, explained. The Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank is hosting an event exploring the role of unemployment insurance in the labor market on April 9th. Register now.

• Central MN Realty
• Inspired Health & Wellness
• Javelia Morrison-Galimore
• Key Title & Closing Services, LLC
• Lifewave Lindberg Team
• Minnesota Rainbow
• Multiple Material Arts PLLC
• Permanent Choice Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis Center
• Shepherd's Watch Security, LLC

The wait is over! We are thrilled to announce the 2025 St. Cloud Area Business Award Winners.

Since 1988 the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce has been recognizing excellence in business with our annual Business Awards Luncheon. Over 85 different businesses and professionals have received recognition at these awards. We take pride in honoring the success of Greater St. Cloud organizations.

On the Cover: The Community's College

Lori Kloos, president of St. Cloud Technical and Community College, knows firsthand the value of a technical school education.

 

Feature: Get a Hobby!

More than just a way to fill time after work, hobbies are a healthy way to learn and grow -  both personally and professionally

 

Special Focus: If These Walls Could Talk

The preservation of historical commercial properties is important for our heritage and for your bottom line. 

Also inside this issue: 

• Costs Matter: MN Chamber's top legislative priorities. 
• Who Owns You? Thoughful management of your website and social media is crucial. 
• Sign Me Up: Recurring revenue models are a win-win.
• Eye on the Prize: Understand your financial planning goals.
• Worth the Work: Specialized training in high school has its benefits. 

COMING IN MAY: Tech and Innovation Directory + Hospitality Feature

Reach out to Melinda for more information, the deadline to reserve your spot is March 17th.

St. Cloud Area Business Showcase features a variety of Chamber member businesses all under one roof at the River’s Edge Convention Center on April 8, 2025 from 4:30-7:00 p.m. The event is open to Chamber members and the public.

 

Grow your network and gain awareness in the community with an exhibitor booth! PLUS: Sponsorship opportunities are also available for additional exposure. Click below to learn more and sign up!

St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

1411 West Saint Germain Street, ste. 101

St. Cloud, Minnesota, 56301

 

320-251-2940

StCloudAreaChamber.com