Permit No. 29 Champaign, IL
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C h a m pa i g n C o u n t y ’ s t ru s t e d
b u s i n e s s - to - b u s i n e s s p u b l i c at i o n
for
PAID
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CONNECTION
Volume 23 | Issue 4
C O M M E R C E
JULY / AUGUST 2016
more
A PUBLICATION OF THE CHAMPAIGN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Experience the advantages of
SBA Financing. First Mid has a long-standing relationship with the SBA and is consistently one of the top providers of SBA 7(a) loans in Illinois.* These loans have provided area small businesses with funding for: • Business expansion, acquisition or refinancing • Equipment or machinery purchases • Inventory purchases • Building acquisition, construction or remodeling
First Mid is a Certified Lender and Express Lender with the SBA. We can help qualifying businesses take advantage of these flexible SBA terms: • • • • •
Up Up Up Up Up
to to to to to
a 7-year loan amortization on working capital a 10-year loan amortization on equipment and machinery a 25-year loan amortization on commercial real estate a 20-year fixed interest rate on certain eligible projects 90% project financing
2014 - 2015 - 2016
FIRST MID HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED BY THE ILLINOIS SBA THREE YEARS IN A ROW FOR OUR
COMMITMENT TO SMALL BUSINESS!
Mitch Swim
Regional President Commercial Lending 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 mswim@firstmid.com
Mike Krueger
Community President Commercial Lending 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 mkrueger@firstmid.com
Darlene Johnson
Vice President Treasury Management 2229 S. Neil Street • Champaign 359-9837 djohnson@firstmid.com
To learn more about First Mid or to see a complete list of locations, visit us online.
FIRSTMID.COM
Member FDIC • Equal Opportunity Lender *Based on Illinois SBA Lender Performance Reports and the number of closed SBA 7(a) loans.
Champaign County Banking Centers: Champaign • 2229 South Neil • 359-9837 Champaign • 913 West Marketview • 378-8023 Urbana • 601 South Vine • 367-8451 Mahomet • 502 East Oak • 318-3750
thank you sponsors & Golfers!
F L O G I OUT
NG
201 6
Brought to
FIRST PLACE WINNERS
you by:
The 2016 Chamber Golf Outing sponsored by GFI Digital was held at Stone Creek Golf Club in Urbana on June 2, 2016. This year, the event SOLD OUT both hole sponsorships AND golfers. We had 40+ raffle prizes, great contests, company and more. Dish Passionate Cuisine generously provided lunch and dinner for all golfers. Thank you to Orange & Blue Distributing Co., Inc. for providing all refreshments for the participants out on the course and to A T & T for sponsoring the hole-in-one constest. Thank you to all that were involved in making the event a huge success - we could not have done it without you all. HOLE SPONSORS:
DONORS:
Alexander’s Steakhouse Attie’s Bar and Grill Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano Billy Barooz Pub & Grill Birkey’s Farm Sore, Inc. BJ Grand Salon & Spa Buffalo Wild Wings of Savoy Champaign Jewelers Champaign Park District Champaign Surplus D.P. Dough Danville Gardens Einstein Bros. Bagels Engelbrecht Grills First State Bank
Flora Gems High Caliber Training Center Hilton Garden Inn Honda BMW of Champaign Jupiter’s at the Crossing Meatheads Merry Maids Miga Peoria Charter Reynolds Towing Spherion Stocks Office Furniture Stone Creek Golf Club Triple T Car Wash Urbana Park District Wyndham Garden Inn
303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org
FY16 TOP INVESTORS TOP INVESTORS GOLD Busey Carle SILVER BankChampaign, N.A. First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign BRONZE A & R Mechanical Contractors Amdocs Christie Clinic Heartland Bank & Trust Midland States Bank Presence Covenant Medical Center RSM US LLP
CHAMBER STAFF Laura Weis President & CEO LauraW@champaigncounty.org
Stephanie McCullough Director of First Impressions StephanieM@champaigncounty.org
Karly Combest Director of Operations and Member Relations KarlyC@champaigncounty.org
Lindsay Quick Graphic Design and Marketing Director LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org
Garret Hill Public Policy Director GarretH@champaigncounty.org
Ariel Rothrock Events & Programs Manager ArielS@champaigncounty.org
Caryn Isenhower Accounts Receivable & Office Administrator Caryni@champaigncounty.org
Daniel Stebel Membership Sales Director DanS@champaigncounty.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD OFFICERS Jeffrey Baker
IN-KIND CONTRIBUTORS CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Illini Radio Group - MIX 94.5, WIXY 100.3, Rewind 92.5, WYXY Classic 99.1, True Oldies 97.9, Extra 92.1, Hits 99.7 Stevie Jay Broadcasting - Q96-96.1FM, US105.9, Sunny 95.3 & ESPN 93.5 WCIA-TV / WCIX-49 PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE NewsTalk 1400 WDWS, Lite Rock 97.5 WHMS, Classic Hits 107.9 WKIO BUSINESS’S CIRCLE FOX, ABC and CW - TV Crystal Entertainment
150 PERCENT CLUB Awards, Ltd. Carmike 13 Dish Passionate Cuisine Hyatt Place LongHorn Steakhouse Thomas, Mamer & Haughey, LLP TrophyTime W.K. Cooper II Asset Management Corporation
Clifford-Jacobs Forging
Mike DeLorenzo
University of Illinois
Mike Estes
Fisher National Bank
David Farrar
Illinois American Water
Lisa Gengelbach
Wyndham Garden Urbana
Tabatha Helm
Susan Jepsen
Reynolds Towing Service, Inc.
Kurt Lenschow State Farm
Justin Overstreet
Martin, Hood, Friese & Associates, LLC
Rod Roberts
Thunderstruck Design
Dr. Jared Rogers
DSC Logistics
Presence Covenant Medical Center
Tonya Horn
Julianna Sellett
Rogards
Becky Von Holten
Chair, Midland States Bank
Chuck McReaken
First Vice Chair, TSM Ventures, Inc.
Beth Auterman
Treasurer, CliftonLarsonAllen
Jim Lyons
Past Chair, Birkey’s Farm Store
Laura Weis
Secretary, Champaign County Chamber of Commerce
Carle
Zachary Hillard Busey
FINANCIAL SERVICES Provided by CliftonLarsonAllen
All information contained within this publication is property of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and cannot be reproduced without prior expressed or written consent. This publication contains paid advertising; the opinions expressed in those advertisements do not reflect the views of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce. For advertising information, contact the Chamber at 217.359.1791.
Come Wine With Us
brought to you by the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Committee and
BOOTH SPONSORS: BankChampaign, N.A. Agrible The Atkins Group Birkey’s Farm Store Busey Bank There were 24 different booth sponsors and food vendors at the Come Wine With Us event held at Birkey’s Farm Store in Urbana. This event aims to spotlight the local agricultural industry. Over 175 people attended and one lucky winner walked away with 60 bottles of wine supplied by Sun Singer Wine & Spirits in Champaign. Thank you to all of those who attended, the various vendors and sponsors, volunteers and Skeff Distributing for sponsoring the beverages at the event. See photos from the event on our Facebook page.
Carle Center for Rural Health and Farm Safety Champaign County Farm Bureau CliftonLarsonAllen First Financial Bank Flora Gems Granular Illini FS, a division of Growmark Matzner Chiropractic Monsanto Parkland College United Way WIXY 100.3 FOOD VENDORS: Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano Dish Passionate Cuisine D.P. Dough Great Harvest Bread Company Hickory River Smokehouse Sidney Dairy Barn
WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER >> members who joined between May 16 and July 14, 2016 Alexander Lumber Co.
Gibson Teldata, Inc.
CU Heating & Cooling
Gibson Teldata, Inc. is a leading provider of business telecommunications and computer networking systems. Gibson also provides ancillary systems like external sound and paging, video surveillance, card access, security, structured cabling and other business technologies. Gibson is a dealer for Mitel, Avaya, NEC and most major hardware developers. Gibson Teldata has recently entered the Champaign and Danville, IL markets by purchasing the equipment hardware division of MCG (Midwest Communications Group).
1720 W. Anthony Dr. Champaign, IL 61821 217.352.5175 www.alexlbr.com Lumber-Retail 314 Tiffany Ct. Champaign, IL 61822 217.352.4006 www.cuheat.com Heating Contractors
Elliott Counseling Group
407 E. University Ave., Ste. D Champaign, IL 61820 217.398.9066 www.elliottcounselinggroup.com Mental Health Services
244 Eastgate Dr. Danville, IL 61834 217.442.3800 www.bgibson.com Telephone Communication Services
Henson Disposal & Recycling 910 Saline Ct. Urbana, IL 61802 309.530.8822 www.hensondisposal.com Recycling Centers
Connect Hearing celebrated their new ownership with a ribbon cutting on June 14.
Huey’s Home Medical celebrated the opening of their new location with a ribbon cutting on June 15.
Congratulations to Red Roof Inn for celebrating their recent renovations with a ribbon cutting on June 30.
Carriage Crossing celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on July 14.
On July 19, Elliott Counseling Group celebrated the opening of their second location with a ribbon cutting.
Congratulations to BMW of Champaign on the completion of their recent renovations! They celebrated with a ribbon cutting on July 19.
Champaign Garden Inn celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on July 26.
Chemical Maintenance, Inc. celebrated their new ownership and recent renovations with a ribbon cutting on July 27.
Illinois National Bank (INB)
Something You Salon & Spa
Illinois National Bank (INB) opened its doors in Springfield, IL in 1999 with the goal of bringing “community” back into banking. The company’s plan was to use local dollars to fund local projects. In doing so, the community had resources to build and grow businesses and families were able to save and spend throughout their life cycles. Working from the unwavering plan, INB has grown from $24.7 million in assets to almost $900 million today. A big component of that growth has come from offering commercial and mortgage services to more Central Illinois communities. Most recently, INB opened a loan office in Champaign, headed by Justin Gensler, NMLS # 611367. Justin is committed to providing for his community by helping people find mortgage loans that work for them. INB - Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.
Willow Creek Farm
2309 Village Green Pl., Ste. A Champaign, IL 61822 217.530.4351 www.illinoisnationalbank.com/champaign Mortgages
Monsanto – Thomasboro, IL 2139 County Rd. 2500 N. Thomasboro, IL 61878 217.694.4141 www.monsanto.com Agricultural Consultants
1401 S. State St., Ste. A Champaign, IL 61820 217.607.5116 www.somethingyoubeauty.com Beauty Salons 1766 County Rd. 1850 N. Urbana, IL 61802 217.840.1986 www.willowcreekfarmcu.com Banquet Facilities
Willow Creek Farm is located about two miles outside of Urbana proper and lies on 37 acres of gently sloping land amid a smattering of area homes and abundant farmland. It’s a working farm where cows, chickens, goats, horses and sheep range in rotational pastures feeding openly on the healthy alfalfa and hay that Illinois’ soils provide. A small greenhouse and garden area grow seasonal fruits and vegetables for the restaurant’s use. Bees pollinate area crops and provide natural, nutritional honey. Willow Creek is fully licensed including an Illinois egg broker license and through both the Illinois and USDA for meat production. Willow Creek Farm is thrilled to be able to add to the Central Illinois farming heritage and linking the community to our On-the-Farm opportunities.
Interested in starting a business?
Here’s a look at some of the incentives and resources available in local communities.
Other Commun
Savoy
On Our Website Find Tools for Business Success here:
champaign.toolsforbusiness.info
Champaign
Small Business Incentive Program
This program offers matching funds up to $7,500. Applicants must be enrolled as a client at the Champaign County Small Business Development Center and have completed at least one introductory course in starting a business. Applicants must be starting their business within the city limits of Champaign. Following completion of those prerequisites, the applicants can choose the services they need to start their business including: • Marketing Services • Legal Services • Financial and Payroll Services Other incentives available: • Enterprise zones • Tax Increment Finance Districts For more information visit: ci.champaign.il.us/city-incentives/
urbana
Economic Development Incentive Program
Urbana’s Economic Development Incentive Programs encourage the redevelopment of vacant and underutilized buildings, catalyze capital investment in the City’s Tax Increment Financing districts, and foster a vibrant and creative business community in Downtown Urbana.
The Savoy Business Development Center, located at 101 W. Tomaras Ave., has office space available for lease. Included in the lease is the use of a conference room and access to other support services such as reception, clerical, and cleaning. T1 internet service is also available, if desired. Please contact the building manager at 217.352.7744 to answer any of your questions. The Savoy Business Co-Op was recently established to assist businesses located in Savoy with their marketing. To become a member, you can visit “www.gosavoy.com”. You can also contact Bob Householder (217.359.3335 or sk8il@aol.com) to answer any of your questions.
Rantoul:
Economic Development Incentives and Programs include: • Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts • Enterprise Zones • Revolving Loan Fund • Micro Loan Fund • Downtown Storefront Facade Improvement Grant Program • Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) For more information, visit www.village.rantoul.il.us/
Monticello:
Monticello Bootcamp Program offers a $5,000 grant for businesses interested in locating downtown. The prize is awarded through a business plan competition. Pogram begins Septmeber 21. For more information or to register visit: monticellobootcamp.com Overview of Economic Development Incentive Programs
Revised September 2014
Urbana’s Economic Development Incentive Programs encourage the redevelopment of vacant and underutilized buildings, catalyze capital investment in the City’s Tax Increment Financing districts, and foster a vibrant and creative business community in Downtown Urbana. Use the chart below to identify the incentives which are most suitable to your project. All programs are subject to fund availability.
Eligible Districts
Redevelopment Incentives
Business Grants
Downtown and Cunningham Corridor (TIFs 1,2 & 4)
Downtown and Cunningham Corridor (TIFs 1,2 & 4)
Program Name
Redevelopment Incentive Program
Redevelopment Agreement Program
Business Development Grant
Priority Use Eligibility
Up to $25,000
Negotiable
$2,000
$1,000
Other Use Eligibility
Up to $10,000
Negotiable
$1,000
‐‐‐
‐ For the incentive of capital investments
‐ For new buildings, large scale redevelopments, and projects that promise exceptional economic and community outcomes
‐ For new, expanding and transitioning businesses
‐ For new and expanding businesses
‐ Required consultation with SBDC/SCORE
‐ Awarded at business opening ceremony or ribbon cutting
‐ Business Planning expenses covered up front; remainder awarded as a grant
‐ Only available to Priority Use businesses
Program Highlights
‐ Reimburses up to 20 percent of capital costs
‐ Reimbursement percent determined by scoring of project
All programs are subject to fund availability
Information courtesy of http://www.urbanaillinois.us/incentives
ities
‐ City Council approval required
Pick Just One Incentive
Business Opening Grant
May Apply For Both Grants
Combinations Allowed
One Redevelopment Incentive and two Business Grants may be combined on a single project.
Availability
Awards of all incentives and grants are contingent on the availability of funds
City of Urbana | Economic Development Division | (217) 384‐2444 | urbanaillinois.us
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Ready to Grow? But not sure how?
Do you have a specific business challenge that if you could just solve it... it would unlock so many opportunities for your company? We are now accepting applications for our next Economic Gardening Company. Through our partnership with the Edward Lowe Foundation, the Chamber can assemble a specialized team of researchers to provide you with real time data and executable strategies specific to your company’s needs that will take your company to the next level. This is a proven economic development strategy in which the Chamber can help to grow our local companies. To apply, visit: www.champaigncounty.org Applications will be evaluated by a panel of our sponsoring companies.
Out of town or just out of time? Bank on your schedule with Busey’s Mobile App. On the go? Carry your branch with you. Securely access your money anytime, anywhere. Download the Busey Mobile App today to deposit checks, view recent transactions, find a branch or ATM nearest you, transfer funds and even pay people and bills—all on your schedule.
Busey. Your Dream. Our Promise.
busey.com 217.365.4500
Member FDIC
Challenges facing small business owners Written by Lindsay Quick It’s no secret that starting, owning and/or operating a business in Illinois can be difficult.
government agencies is the most difficult thing about running a small business.”
In 2014, the American Economic Development Institute ranked Illinois the 49th worst state for business just ahead of California. The report looked at education levels, taxes and regulations, and government incentives for business. The uncertainty facing the state’s budget and pension problems helped contribute to its poor outlook.1
The grim outlook throughout Illinois is enough to make those interested in starting a business think twice and those currently doing business in the state consider relocating.
Locally, Mike Bruegge, owner of Ashley Furniture Homestore, says that the slow economy has made “business flat with little to no growth.” He went on to say that “dealing with
According to Business News Daily however, “Illinois has a skilled and diverse labor force business owners willing to take advantage of these opportunities and navigate the myriad of challenges will find Illinois to be a fertile ground for growing profits.”2 In Champaign County, companies are finally beginning to see increases in business after the Great Recession. Five years after one of the worst economic downturns the United States has ever seen Champaign County small business owners are beginning to feel comfortable and positive about the future of local business. Brett J. Gibson, president of Gibson Teldata, felt the effects of the recent economic issue in Illinois as well as nationally. However, today he is hopeful that “the trend has changed in a positive direction.”
Betsy Parks, owner of Chemical Maintenance, Inc., notes that “customers tend to be more conservative in buying and are opting for longer payment terms.”
However, business owners that call Champaign County home find that the difficulties are minimalized by the benefits of owning and/or operating a small business.
As the national and local economies progress and recover, small business owners are learning to adapt to changing spending habits.
Parks explains, “the most rewarding thing about running a small business is being able to make a difference in employees lives.”
Aside from the economy, small business owners face a number of other challenges every single day. From finding qualified employees to figuring out the best marketing strategies, small business owners often have a hand in almost every aspect of their business. A common complaint amongst small business owners is having trouble recruiting quality employees.
In larger corporations, being able to directly interact with employees can be difficult. On a smaller level, seeing improvements proves to be incredibly rewarding for owners.
“As a small business owner you need some skills in accounting, legal, human resources, marketing and business planning. You will be much more competitive by having the ability to handle most of these items on your own.” - Brett J. Gibson President, Gibson Teldata Gibson adds, “finding the right people who take the same interest and responsibility to take care of your business and customers as you do is very important.’
R U O T E E M : S T R E P EX
“Seeing individuals grow and develop job skills is the most rewarding thing as a small business owner,” adds Bruegge. For others, freedom and independence is what draws them to being their own boss. “Being able to choose whatever direction I want the business to go in without answering to anyone gives you more opportunities to be successful,” says Gibson. Although small business owners face a number of challenges on a daily basis, including those added by issues within the state government, those working in Champaign County find comfort in their freedoms and the impacts they can have on the individuals who work for them. 1 2
www.illinoispolicy.org www.businessnewsdaily.com
Ashley Furniture Homestore Mike Bruegge Owner 602 W. Anthony Dr. Champaign, IL 61822 www.ashleyhomestores.com 217.356.7200
Thank you to all members that participated as experts and for the work you do to better our local workforce and community.
Chemical Maintenance, Inc. Betsy Parks Owner / Sales Representative 1100A W. Bloomington Rd. Champaign, IL 61821 www.cmiclean.com 217.359.6262
Gibson Teldata, Inc. Brett J. Gibson President 244 Eastgate Dr. Danville, IL 61834 www.bgibson.com 217.442.3800
constructiv
e
valuable
m a r g o r p p i h s r e d a e l e ac engaging
C
Commerc f o r e b m ha County C n g i a p m ha
WHAT GRADUATES ARE SAYING:
OPENING RECEPTION - Destihl
“I really enjoyed the political leadership, Allerton, leadership panel and etiquette sessions. The personality sessions were quite helpful in understanding and relating to others. The breadth of topics covered were helpful to become better rounded.” - Adam Owen, Busey Wealth Management
MYERS-BRIGGS TYPE INDICATOR TEST, PART I
“This program was geared to all types of business and interest. Each week I left with at least one thing that was new and intriguing to me. I certainly benefited from this program from a leadership perspective.” - Caitlyn Mooney, Horve Hospitality
WHAT PRESENTERS ARE SAYING: “I believe the Chamber’s ACE Leadership program offers young professionals in our community the opportunity to establish peer and networking connections. As a result of these interactions, the group will find they are having common experiences and also have a resource when encountering uncharted waters.” - Chris Shroyer, Busey “I would recommend the program to any young professional seeking to enhance their leadership abilities, be exposed to new contacts, and who wants to engage in thought-provoking conversations about ways to make our businesses and communities better.” - Gordy Hulten, Champaign County Clerk
e
Thursday, August 25, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Thursday, September 1, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., (Breakfast included) Cindy Guthrie, Three Degrees of Change
MYERS-BRIGGS TYPE INDICATOR TEST, PART II
Thursday, September 8, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., (Lunch included) Cindy Guthrie, Three Degrees of Change
ADVANCE YOUR CAREER WITH SOCIAL MEDIA
Thursday, September 15, 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (Breakfast included) Mary-Lynn Foster and George Krueger of BIGG Success
ALLERTON CHALLENGE COURSE - Allerton 4H Camp, Monticello
Thursday, September 22, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
LEADERSHIP PANEL
Thursday, September 29, 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (Breakfast included) Local business leaders from various industries and business sizes
DEVELOPING A LEADER WITHIN YOU
Thursday, October 6, 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m., (Breakfast included) Lesley King, Speaker, Trainer, Coach
IMPACT OF YOUNG PROFESSIONALS IN GOV’T
Thursday, October 13, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (Lunch included) Gordy Hulten & Champaign Mayor Deb Frank Feinen
GROUP PRESENTATIONS
Thursday, October 20, 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m., (Breakfast included)
ETIQUETTE LUNCHEON AND GRADUATION - Lincolnshire Fields Country Club
Thursday, October 27, 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. (Lunch included) Beth Reutter, Illini Training *Unless otherwise stated, events are held at the Chamber office.
REGISTRATION FORMS are available on our website at www.champaigncounty.org.
Where will you be on Wednesday? NOW - August 17th During Lunch Hours: 11am - 2 pm
GET 25% OFF Your total bill at participating locations To see who’s participating and learn more visit ChampaignCounty.org and find “Where on Wednesday” in the News Room section.
In Your Business
To learn more about area businesses; how the Chamber can help; and to better promote our members to other members, the Chamber staff and ambassadors have been touring member businesses. For more details and photos from the tour, visit www.champaigncounty.org.
BELL RACING, USA:
Bell began in 1954 when their first helmet was manufactured in a garage behind Bell Auto Parts under the leadership of Roy Richter. Bell introduced the first full-face motorcycle helmet on the market in 1968 and in 1971 they produced the first full-face off-road motorcycle helmet. As well as motor sports helmets, Bell produced helmets for skydiving, skiing, hockey, football, baseball, fire, police and anti-ballistic for military use. In 1980, the company was merged with Riddell to form Bell-Riddell Inc. In 1991, Bell-Riddell’s motorcycle division was sold and became Bell Helmets, Inc. The remaining company was renamed Bell Sports, Inc. In 1999, the auto racing division was sold and split into two separate companies called Bell Racing Company (North America) and Bell Racing Europe (Europe, Asia and Africa). Bell Sports reacquired Bell Helmets in 2002, creating Bell Powersports and in 2005, it reacquired Bell Racing Company, and was itself merged into Easton-Bell Sports, Inc. in 2006. In September 2010, Bell Racing separated from Easton-Bell Sports Inc. and has been known since as Bell Racing, USA. There is common ownership between Bell Racing, USA serving North and South America and Bell Racing Europe serving Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. Bell Racing currently manufactures their helmets at a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Bahrain which employs 115 people and produces 125-150 helmets per day. Bell auto racing helmets are sold world-wide to professional and amateur racers under the Bell Helmets brand name. The helmets are made from advanced materials including aerospace grade carbon fiber and Bell recommends replacing the helmet every three to five years depending on the condition of the product. At the Champaign location, there are currently eight employees who work on sales, marketing, customer service, race support, and distribution. One hundred percent of helmet inspections are also done at the Champaign facility. Bell Racing is known for leading-edge products, excellent customer service and their hands on approach to servicing professional athletes and amateur racers as well as their FedEx exclusive two-day shipping to most of the racing population in the United States. Bell Racing USA has been a member of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce since 2010.
Branch: 21 Champaign
Pub: Chamber of Commerce
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SMALL BUSINESS of the
year
Previous Winners: 2015 Rogards 2014 Bailey Edward Design 2013 Swanson Roofing (The Roofing Dog) 2012 Shatterglass Studios 2011 A to Z Painting 2010 HL Precision Machining, Inc. 2009 do good Consulting 2008 Common Ground Food Co-op 2007 Chief/Bauer Heating & Air Conditioning 2006 Benefit Planning Consultants, Inc. 2005 Browne’s Fine Jewelry 2004 Ragle Dental Lab, Inc. 2003 Mettler Center, LLC
2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990
Curtis Orchard, Ltd. Twin City Tent & Awning Martin Hood Friese & Associates The Lewis Insurance Store (now Dimond Bros. Agency) Flightstar Corporation The Herriott Group Norrell Services (now Spherion, Inc.) UpClose Marketing & Printing Opportunity Specialists, Inc. Chemical Maintenance, Inc. University Sportswear Developmental Services Center Berns, Clancy and Associates
Interested in honoring an outstanding small business? Nomination forms for this year’s award will be available at the beginning of September.
NSF I-Corps Builds Businesses, Skillsets, High Value Networks Learning, networking, and customer discovery. How does a startup improve its chances of viability over the long run? The National Science Foundation (NSF) formed the Innovation Corps (I-Corps) program in 2011 to help technology companies answer this question. I-Corps is an intensive, seven-week experience in which small tech business teams interview potential customers and adjust product concepts to customer demand, to maximize product-market fit. Over 100 teams from UIUC have participated in the Illinois I-Corps Site program, and over a dozen in the national program. The total invested in the resulting businesses reaches into the tens of millions of dollars. Individual participants as well as companies benefit from I-Corps’ dynamic business development training, global networking contacts, career acceleration and broad exposure to business opportunities. I-Corps develops leaders who can better contribute to their own and others’ businesses.
Mentoring opportunities. Each national I-Corps team must have a mentor, typically an experienced member of the local business community, to provide insight and guidance. The mentor participates in training, team presentations, and some travel. Being a mentor does require a time commitment, as is typical for business leaders giving back to the community. With I-Corps, though, NSF foots the bill for training, ongoing support, and travel.
“Our experience was invaluable.” -Tim Hoerr, Serra Ventures & Serra Capital Tim Hoerr, CEO of Serra Ventures, LLC and Managing Partner of Serra Capital, has served as an I-Corps mentor. He says, “Our experience was invaluable, replete with practical ‘hands-on’ guidance for taking our business model from concept to reality. Now the company is seeing great success in selling its cutting-edge microscopy product in the commercial marketplace.” Next steps: The Illinois I-Corps Site is always on the lookout for individuals to serve as mentors. To learn more about what’s involved, contact Jed Taylor (jedt@illinois.edu, 217 244-4035) or Roland Garton (roland.garton@garcoserv. com, 217 355-3559).
the local purchasing challenge
We challenge you to make one simple decision that will transform our local economy; ultimately improving the bottom lines of our members – all without spending any more money than your company currently spends. How? Take the Local Purchasing Challenge. It really is simple. Shopping local is not just a consumer activity. By simply reallocating your purchasing dollars for products and services from a non-local vendor to a local one (again, not spending more), your company will be part of creating significant economic impact in Champaign County. What’s in it for me you ask? The more companies that agree to shift some of their purchasing back to Champaign County means more local companies will see increased sales. As much as you want local companies to buy your goods and services, your fellow Chamber members want you to buy more locally as well. It means better customer service, quicker turnaround and no shipping. More local purchasing means more money in the local economy. It means more money to keep jobs and create jobs. Your commitment to this grassroots effort, along with other local businesses, will make the dollars add up. Again, without spending more than you have already budgeted. In fact, did you know that according to Civic Economics West Michigan that $140,000,000 of new economic activity means 1,600 newly created jobs and $50,000,000 in new wages. Imagine being part of creating 1,600 new local jobs without spending more than you already spend. Take the Local Purchasing Challenge. Help make a difference in our community. It doesn’t get easier than this: Step 1
Identify the categories/line items in your budget where you spend money outside of Champaign County.
Step 2
Commit to reallocating a small portion of that purchasing back to a business in Champaign County. Use the Chamber as a resource to find a local vendor.
Step 3
Take the Challenge and return this card to the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce.
Step 4
Honor the promise.
Step 5
Update the Chamber on your status when asked (quarterly update).
Step 6
Sit back and feel good about your decision to help improve your business and our economy. Watch our local economy and local businesses grow.
Yes, please list and promote our company as a local business committed to purchasing more locally. I understand our actual pledge will not be published. Name ________________________________________________________________________ Business ______________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ E-mail ________________________________________________________________________ Phone ________________________________________________________________________ Between July 1, 2016 and June 30, 2017, our company commits to reallocating purchasing dollars spent with vendors outside of Champaign County to local businesses by (at least) the amount indicated below:
____$10,000 ____$7,500 ____$5,000
____ $2,500 ____ $1,000 ____ $750
____$500 ____$100 Other: $_________
The Chamber will track the collective amount pledged. We will report the numbers back to the membership all while keeping your pledge confidential. Please return form by August 31, 2016.
Have questions? Contact Karly at KarlyC@champaigncounty.org or call 217.359.1791. Please complete this form and fax to 217.359.1809 or mail to: Champaign County Chamber of Commerce 303 W. Kirby Ave. | Champaign, IL 61820
PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce and the Champaign County Farm Bureau are proposing a change, one that if passed, will change the structure of county government in Champaign County to an executive form from its current county administrator style of government. This citizen-led coalition is asking voters two things – first, to sign a petition to place the question, “ Shall the County of Champaign adopt the county executive form of government and elect not to become a home rule unit?” on the November ballot and to also vote ‘yes’ in the voting booth this November. This proposed change is positive for our county for three simple reasons.
plan during his/her time in office. A long range plan could include (but is not limited to) ideas surrounding the county facilities, services offered to citizens, infrastructure and a financial plan for the county. It is time to stop being reactionary and to start planning for the future. Finally, the county executive position will allow the county to have a strong definitive voice with elected officials on all levels and on economic development issues. With the vast resources we have in the county, we need a single representative who can credibly (with authority) interact with our area elected officials and business leaders who may be seeking to expand or locate their businesses to Champaign county. The county is facing an unprecedented time with more mandates and greater challenges in state and federal funding. The people of Champaign County need an executive who can speak on our behalf with the authority granted to him or her by the voters.
First, this will empower the voters of Champaign County to choose their own leader. In today`s structure, the chair of the county board is elected by the current members of the board. Thus, the 22 members control who will lead and represent this county. The current board chair is essentially elected to lead by his/her party. The individual they elect represents one of the 11 districts – not the entire county. In electing a county executive, this individual will be elected countywide -- meaning that all voters will have a voice in who leads our county. The simple fact that the county executive would be accountable to all the voters is refreshing. Additionally, it would not change the number of votes on the county board, which would remain at 22, unless there is tie vote. At that point, the county executive would be allowed to cast a vote, breaking any ties of the board.
With economic development, we must be smart in using our resources, preserving our valuable farmland while balancing it with attracting new jobs to our county. This isn`t easy, but a strong leader can define that needed balance and continue to make Champaign County a great place to live and work.
This leads us to the second point. The executive would set the tone for the board and develop a vision for Champaign County’s future. If passed in November by voters, the first executive would be elected in the next election cycle to a four-year term. This length of term allows for the individual to establish the agenda for standing and special committees and for the full board itself. He or she would also lead the effort to establish a long range/comprehensive
Change isn’t always easy and often change brings questions. Over the next several months, the Chamber and the Farm Bureau will be having conversations throughout the community. In the end, we’re confident that the voters will see the positives to this ballot initiative and will support this effort by voting ‘yes’ in the voting booth in November.
The binding referendum also asks the question about remaining a non-home rule unit of government. In Illinois, only Cook County is a home-rule unit. Should Champaign County become home rule, the board would be given the power to raise taxes without asking the voters. We do not wish to see Champaign County granted the overarching powers that home rule allows. Remaining non-home rule (as asked in the question) will be vital to preserving the voter’s right to decide.
MEMBER ACCOLADES & NEWS BIRKEY’S FARM STORE, INC. Birkey’s Farm Store, Inc. was recognized by Case IH for achieving Pinnacle excellence recognition in all areas of its business inlcuding sales, marketing, operations, parts and service. Only seven dealerships of 548 across North America earned Pinnacle excellence status. Birkey’s locations earning Pinnacle excellence status were Gibson City, Henry, Hoopeston, Oakland, Prophetstown and Urbana which accounted for six of the seven dealerships recognized with this status for 2015. SERVPRO Local entrepreneur, David McGuire of SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana, was recognized with the FOUNDER’S Bronze award for outstanding revenue performance during an Awards ceremony at the 47th Annual SERVPRO® Convention. CHRISTIE CLINIC Christie Clinic welcomed Dr. Nick Karagiorgos to the Vein and Vascular Center. MARTIN, HOOD, FRIESE & ASSOCIATES Congratulations to Jeff R. Livesay for recently being named partner. CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS Consolidated Communications completed the acquisition of Champaign Telephone Company (CTC) and its sister company, Big Broadband Services, a private business communications provider in the Champaign-Urbana, Ill. area. CTC serves approximately 1,500 business customers across the greater Champaign, Ill. area. The acquisition adds 275 fiber route miles and 310 lit buildings to Consolidated’s Illinois network. THE NEWS-GAZETTE Congratulations to John Foreman, president of The NewsGazette, Inc., for receiving the Distinguished Service Award from the Illinois Press Association. ILLINOIS AMERICAN WATER Illinois American Water received the J.D. Power Award for ranking highest in customer satisfaction among water utilities in the Midwest according to J.D. Power’s 2016 Water Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction StudySM. The utility also achieved the highest score in the region for price and communications. FARNSWORTH GROUP, INC. The national full-service engineering/architecture firm, Farnsworth Group, Inc., was certified as a great workplace today by the independent analysts at Great Place to Work®. BUSEY BANK & BPC, INC. Both Busey Bank and BPC, Inc. were named “2016 Best Places to Work in Illinois”
RAMSHAW REAL ESTATE Ramshaw Real Estate is pleased to announce the growth of the home office team to better meet the needs of its growing customer base. Lisa Clarkson was named Marketing Coordinator, Abigail Craig was appointed to Portfolio Manager, and Jennifer Crowley has joined the team as Administrative Support. In addition, Sarah Kasper was promoted to Office Manager after serving as the Business Innovation Center’s Receptionist since March of 2015. They also announced an eight and a half year deal with Tri Rinse, Inc. an environmental contractor. Tri Rinse was founded in 1981 and is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. It will occupy 158,159 square feet, or a little over fifty percent, of the previous Bell Sports, Inc. facility located at 1924 CR 3000 N in Rantoul, Illinois. HEARTLAND BANK & TRUST COMPANY Heartland Bank and Trust Company proudly announces the promotion of Belinda Landry as Community Reinvestment Mortgage Banker to serve local customers. She most recently worked in the bank’s loan servicing support area. In her new role, Landry serves customers in the BloomingtonNormal, Champaign-Urbana, Peoria, and Farmer City communities and is based at the bank’s 405 N. Hershey Road location in Bloomington. She is responsible for assisting customers with residential lending needs, including new home mortgages, mortgage refinancing, second mortgages, home equity loans and lines of credit. Landry specializes in helping homebuyers understand and use down payment assistance and community grant programs. FEHR GRAHAM Fehr Graham announced it has earned a spot on the Zweig Group Hot Firm List for the third year in a row. Fehr Graham ranked #72 on the prestigious list that identified the 100 fastest-growing privately held architecture, engineering, planning and environmental consulting firms in the United States and Canada. Placement on the list is based on both percentage revenue growth and dollar revenue growth over a three-year period compared to the other entrants. GIRL SCOUTS OF CENTRAL ILLINOIS Effective August 1, Girl Scouts of Central Illinois has relocated its local Champaign office and Trefoil Boutique to 1001 S. Wright St., Rm. 1. Trefoil Boutique hours have changed: Monday and Wednesday 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. and Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Street metered parking is available on Wright, Chalmers & 6th Streets at 75 cents per hour. One Girl Scout guest parking space is available near the west door at the back of the building. Free parking is available after 5:00 p.m. in the lot on 6th Street between Daniel & Chalmers and the parking garage on 6th and John. Bus lines include Yellow, Blue, Navy, Brown, Silver and Illini. Have news to share with the local business community? Tell us about to and get featured in the Chamber’s next Commerce Connection. Email Lindsay Quick with your news, LindsayQ@ champaigncounty.org, or submit the news via our website: http:// champaigncounty.org/membership/member_accolades.aspx
new additions to the chamber board: TONYA HORN, Rogards President
JUSTIN OVERSTREET,
CPA, CVA Martin, Hood, Friese & Associates Senior Manager
Welcome and thank you for your service.
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“Mentors to America’s Small Business.” SCORE is America’s premier source of free and confidential small business mentoring. Each year SCORE helps nearly half a million entreprenueurs fulfill their dreams of starting a business and they also help existing enterprises grow and become more successful. The East Central Illinois Chapter (ECI-SCORE) is headquartered at the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce. Its service area includes seventeen counties in east central and southeastern Illinois: Champaign, Clark, Clay, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Ford, Iroquois, Jasper, Kankakee, Lawrence, Moultrie, Richland and Vermilion. ECI-SCORE’s volunteers include experienced business owners and executives who offer their expertise and knowledge to help small business owners and potential business owners achieve success through workshops and free confidential counseling.
Interested in being a mentor?
Our experienced mentors can help you with business basics such as marketing, business planning, and financing. Hands-on workshops are offered regularly on topics including Starting a Small Business, Writing a Business Plan, Financing a Small Business and Non-Profit Businesses. ECI-SCORE helps you learn what you need to know, when you need to know it. SCORE mentors have access to numerous resources from which to gather business information necessary to help you make good business decisions. SCORE mentoring is: • Confidential - Mentors abide by a code of ethics. • Fast - Ask questions 24/7; get answers in 48 hours. • Free - Offered free-of-charge, as a public service. • Convenient - Receive advice by email or arrange a meeting with a mentor.
You get what you give. You’ve been a successful member of the business community. You have created jobs. You have managed people. You have managed finances. You’re a wiz with tax documents. You know the importance of a good business plan. You have benefited from those who have come before you. Now, it’s time to take what you know and share it with the next generation. To get started, visit: www.core.score.org or call 217.359.1791
To get matched with a mentor to help you start or grow your business today visit
score.org
Chuck Eyman Kirk Harney Jan Miller Dan Marker Steve Tock
LOCAL. EXPERIENCED. INVESTED.
MEMBER FDIC HICKORYPOINTBANK.COM
CHAMPAIGN
DECATUR
PEORIA
SPRINGFIELD
Cham ber Sto re Mailing Labels
An exclusive benefit of Chamber membership, we sell mailing labels containing the names and addresses of Chamber member businesses for the purpose of member-to-member communication. Target the local business community. Two lists are available for purchase:
e-Connection
Long list (approx. 2,400 names and businesses): $175 Short list (approx. 1,000 names and businesses): $125
Recently redesigned, our electronic newsletter is sent to nearly 2,000 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County each week. Sponsor an e-Connection and get your business seen by thousands.
Contact Caryn Isenhower to order, Caryni@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
Header sponsorship (one wk.): $100
Email Blast Advertisement Do you have a new product, service or information you would like to share with our entire Chamber membership list? Take advantage of this exclusive offer to send broadcast emails to our entire nearly 2,000 email list. Email Blast Advertisement: $500 Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
Commerce Connection
This is a bi-monthly publication that is distributed to over 2,400 businesses and businesspeople in Champaign County. Content varies, but is always relevant to local business. There are a variety of ad sizes available. Ads start at only $90. Ask about the exclusive cover package that allows your business to gain exposure before the reader even opens the publication. Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@ champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
Email Footer Sponsorship
For a great price, place an ad in every email that is sent out of the Chamber office. That’s an average of over 12,000 emails per week. The best part? Link the footer wherever you would like. Footer (one wk.): $75 (Add footer to the e-Connection for an additional $50.) Contact Lindsay for details at, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
EXCLUSIVE
AFFORDABLE
Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@ champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
Website Marketing With over 7,000 visits/month to the Chamber website, this is where you want to be. Market your business to locals and those looking to move and/or visit here. Want more information? Contact Lindsay Quick at LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org.
Event Sponsorship
From monthly First Friday Coffee and Business After Hours to our annual Golf Outing, the Chamber hosts a number of events each month. By sponsoring a Chamber event, your business obtains great exposure not only at the event itself, but also within all promotional materials (emails, mailings, e-newsletters, Commerce Connection, website, etc.). We have numerous opportunities throughout the year, here’s what’s coming up: Annual Meeting Title Sponsorship - $3,000 (available) Additional information for events such as Business Success and Solutions Seminars is available upon request. Contact ArielS@champaign county.org or call 217.359.1791 with any event sponsorship inquiries.
Online Business Directory Enhancements Enhance your listing on the Chamber’s online business directory. The directory gets hundreds of thousands of views each day--turn your standard (complimentary) listing into an eye-catching, search engine optimized advertisement. Basic upgrade: included w/membership
Value upgrade: $20/year
Deluxe upgrade: $50/year
Contact Lindsay Quick for more information, LindsayQ@champaigncounty.org or 217.359.1791.
Complimentary services: rental of laptop computer; conference space and LCD projector; Certificate of Origin; Notary service; information, assistance and resources.
REACH THOUSANDS ON A SMALL BUDGET.
calendar of events Connect@Lunch
Monday, August 15 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano 2235 S. Neil St., Champaign
Business After Hours
Thursday, August 18 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Adams Outdoor Advertising 1711 Dobbins Dr., Champaign
ACE Opening Reception
Business After Hours
Thursday, September 15 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Hosted by Iroquois Federal at Papa Del’s Pizza Factory 1201 S. Neil St., Champaign
Connect@Lunch
Monday, September 19 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano 2235 S. Neil St., Champaign
Thursday, August 25 ACE - Challenge Course 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Thursday, Septmber 22 DESTIHL Restaurant and Brew Works 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. 301 N. Neil St., Champaign Allerton Park & Retreat Center 515 Old Timber Rd., Monticello
ACE Myers-Briggs Test - Part 1 Thursday, September 1 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
First Friday Coffee
Friday, September 2 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Arbor Rose 503 S. Bourne St., Tolono
ACE Myers-Briggs Test - Part 2
Ribbon Cutting
Illinois American Water Wednesday, September 28 1:00 - 1:30 p.m. 2814 Hundman Dr., Champaign
ACE - Leadership Panel Thursday, Septmber 29 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
Thursday, September 1 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Chamber Office 303 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign
Tickets are $50 and available online at www.parkland.edu/50years or by phone 217-351-2464.
Fast Facts
5.2% Champaign County Unemployment Rate in June 2016
24 business licenses applied for in Champaign County in June 2016
105.0
April 2016 U of I Flash Index for Illinois
451,663 rides were taken on CUMTD in June 2016
5,212 visits to the Chamber’s page, champaigncounty.org in June 2016
7,681 average amount of referrals PER DAY the
Champaign County Chamber of Commerce Online Business Directory received via search engines and online sources in June 2016
2014 The year that the Champaign County
Chamber of Commerce was named the Illinois Outstanding Chamber of the Year
303 West Kirby Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 P 217.359.1791 | F 217.359.1809 www.champaigncounty.org
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