Berkeley Chamber of Commerce Blog

The Berkeley Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the debut of our Small Business Network, sponsored by Berkeley Electric Cooperative. This is an excellent opportunity for both new and existing businesses. We will be meeting the second Tuesday of every other month, bringing in professionals to help guide small businesses and discuss strategies to help these businesses grow even during these challenging economic times.

When a business is going strong, sometimes we become complacent and it can be difficult to identify new ways to increase customers and revenue. The positive aspect about a “down” time is it affords business owners the opportunity to re-evaluate their business unit. Has technology changed? Can you broaden your market? Are their ways to diversify your offerings? Our Small Business Network is designed to help spark important questions such as these, while allowing the opportunity to learn and brainstorm new ways to help make your business stronger.

The economy is beginning to level itself. We are currently in the “valley”, so to speak. Now is the time to analyze your businesses strengths and weaknesses. Now is the time to stay ahead of the game. And, if you are considering opening a business, NOW is actually an excellent time to do so. Some of the most successful companies were founded during tough economic times. Kellogg’s, for instance, was born during a tough economic time. Now, still going strong over 100 years later, the company is “the world’s leading producer of cereal and a leading producer of convenience foods, including cookies, crackers, toaster pastries, cereal bars, fruit snacks, frozen waffles and veggie foods. Kellogg products are manufactured in 17 countries and marketed in more than 180 countries around the world.”**

Opening a business now places you ahead of those who are “waiting” for the economy to peak. When the economy does “peak”, you will have already established yourself, learned your market, developed your strategies and be ready to take full advantage of a future economic “boom”.

Our first meeting is Tuesday, May 12th from 11:00am – 1:00pm at the Berkeley Electric Cooperative community meeting room (2 Spring Hall Road) in Goose Creek. Feel free to bring your lunch, a variety of drinks will be provided. We are very excited to offer this program to help our new and emerging small businesses grow. I look forward to seeing you there!

** According to www.kellogs.com