Business Connect Info 2023

What is the Business Connect Program?

The GFLGLCC’s Business Connect Program is basically a “matchmaking” service for your company.

How does it work?

The new Business Connect program takes a direct “hands-on” approach to providing value to our corporate level members and partners. Eligible members interested in participating in the program will first personally meet with the President / CEO of the Chamber or one of its Board Members to identify their business goals and objectives, their ideal client type and their industry focus. That, along with other key drivers will then be analyzed in the context of the GFLGLCC member base to determine the strategic relationships that make the most business sense. From there, personal introductions are made between members.

OK! But how does it really work?

To demonstrate exactly how the program works, consider this fictional example:

An eligible member who provides a line of allnatural, organic toiletries is interested in expanding their business. During the initial planning meeting, it is decided that the best opportunities to grow their business through the Chamber are via hotels and resorts.

With 40+ hotel and resort chamber members, the focus shifts toward identifying those that could mutually benefit from an introduction. It is concluded that an email will be sent to all 40+ hotel and resort members from the Chamber on behalf of the member, followed up with phone calls to a short list of 10 that have the most promise.

How do we arrive at this short list?

By considering things like the ability of local management to make purchasing decisions for in-room amenities or gift shop inventories, any “intelligence” related to change that’s happening or anticipated that could result in a requirement for new product options, etc.

Once the 10 have been identified, the goal is to ultimately facilitate an in-person or virtual introduction with as many of them as possible. This might occur at one of the monthly mixers, at a quarterly breakfast or luncheon, at some other local event or at a brief meeting (in person or virtually) scheduled specifically for the purpose of a meet and greet.

The example doesn’t end there. Through the analysis, let’s say that there are also two hotel management and consulting company members identified. By facilitating an introduction to those two members, additional opportunities may open up via their networks!

As is demonstrated by the specificity of that fictional example, all program details will be custom tailored to each individual member that goes through the program. Great care will be taken to make meaningful introductions that have the potential to benefit both sides. For this reason, the specific number of introductions and approach to facilitating the connections will vary from member to member.

Why Was I Selected for the Pilot Program?

First and foremost, your company qualified because you are a Premier level member and above. Secondly, based on our understanding of your business as well as the demographic and needs of our membership base at large (including our Corporate Partners), we believe there is a potential opportunity for all parties involved that warrants more discussion.

How Much Does it Cost?

NOTHING! The Business Connect Program is just one more of the value-added benefits that are being offered as part of your membership fee. However, given the specific, custom and hands-on approach required to make the program a success, we do ask that you invest the appropriate time in the process for discussions, introductions, follow-ups, etc.

For more information, contact Keith Blackburn at Keith@gflglcc.org.