2021-2022 Annual Report | 1 03 | Chamber Board of Directors 04 | Talent & Education 10 | Membership 15 | Economic Development Message from the President/CEO Message from the Chairman of the Board of Directors 20 02 FEATURED
It’s been an honor to be Chair of the Greater Green Bay Chamber these past two years.
I became Chair in September 2020. We were coming off a summer in which it seemed the pandemic was waning. Then the fall and winter arrived and with it the reemergence of the virus and all its negative implications.
The Chamber was able to pivot during the COVID crisis and provide our busi nesses and communities with the support they needed.
During this last year, the Chamber was able to do even more as businesses came back but were dealing with inflation, labor shortages and supply chain issues. I’ve been so impressed with what this Cham ber has accomplished - and is accomplish ing - and I hope you are too.
A chamber of commerce is nothing without its members. To each of you who have maintained your membership with us, I say thank you. You are the heart of who we are. We’re pleased to report most of our members have maintained their membership and our Chamber is growing. This speaks to the type of leaders we have in the business community who are
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Pat Schillinger, Vice President State Legislative & Local Affairs, WPS/WEC Energy Group
willing to continue investing in the Cham ber because they know the vital role we play in enhancing our community for everyone. We appreciate the continued trust you are placing in us.
We will continue working to keep your trust.
The Greater Green Bay Chamber focuses on economic development; both retaining the great businesses we already have and investing in programs to assist new, startup businesses. Our goal is to improve the economic well-being and quality of life of our communities.
We partner with our local school dis tricts to assist the next generation of workers with the necessary educational and vocational tools necessary to com pete in the workforce of the future.
The Chamber’s board of directors re views, approves and leads the direction of the Chamber, and I want to thank the members of the board who volunteer their time, knowledge and resources to assist us. We have a strong board of direc tors. However, it’s the strong staff – led by our great President, Laurie Radke – who do all the heavy lifting of ensuring the goals we have in economic development,
education, workforce development and government affairs are met. We can all be proud of the outstanding talent we have at the Chamber doing all this work on our behalf every day.
Back in 2017 the Chamber led the development of the Greater Green Bay Economic Development Strategic Plan alongside 400 community members. Back in July of 2021 with the support of community members and TIP Strategies the plan was updated and the goal moving forward is to take it to the next level for the community. We hope you will join this effort.
Thank you for the trust you’ve place in me as board chair. Thank you to our board members for serving with us, and thank you to Laurie and her staff for your dedicated work. And, a special thank you to every one of our members for stand ing with us as we battle through these challenging times.
While there are still challenges ahead, we know we are going to come out of this stronger than ever!
Here’s to another great year at the Chamber and for the Greater Green Bay business community.
2 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chairman of the Board
Pat Schillinger, Vice President State Legislative & Local Affairs, WPS/WEC Energy Group
Chair-Elect
Mike Kirschling, Division Corporate Counsel, Prevea Health
Treasurer
Inga Arendt, Partner, CPA, Wipfli LLP
Steven F. Baue
President and Owner, ERC: Counselors and Consultants/Steve Baue, LLC
Mark Graul
Owner, Arena Strategy Group
Dave Pisani
Executive Vice President of Operations, ACP CreativIT LLC, Camera Corner Connecting Point
Vinith “Vinny” Poduval
Senior Vice President & Chief Innovation Officer, Schreiber Foods
Aaron Popkey
Director of Public Affairs, Green Bay Packers, Inc.
Laurie Radke
President/CEO, Greater Green Bay Chamber
Brighid Riordan CEO, Nsight and Cellcom
Erik Swan
Senior Vice President, Corporate Banking Team Leader, Commercial Banking, Associated Bank
Michael Alexander
Chancellor, University of WisconsinGreen Bay
Peter Augustine
President, Körber Tissue North America
Paul Belschner
President/CEO, Base Companies, LLC
Cole Buergi
Vice President, Leonard & Finco Public Relations, Inc.
Brian Charlier
President and Chief Executive Officer for HSHS St. Vincent Hospital and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center; and Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Prevea Health.
Mayor Eric Genrich City of Green Bay
Mike Hartjes
Vice President, Actuarial Risk Management, Humana
Jeff House
President and CEO, Oneida ESC Group
Thom Jackson
Executive Vice President - General Counsel, Schneider
Ryan Krumrie
Partner, Hager, Dewick & Zuengler, S.C.
Stephen Murley
Superintendent of Schools, Green Bay Area Public School District
Troy Murphy
Lead Vision/Teaching Pastor, Green Bay Community Church
Chris Roble
Principal, CliftonLarsonAllen, LLC
County Executive Troy Streckenbach Brown County
Randy Van Straten
Vice President of Business and Community Health, Bellin Health
2021-2022 Annual Report |3
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021-22 CONTINUED
TALENT & EDUCATION
A successful, vibrant community relies heavily on the change to availability of qualified people who can meet the current and future needs of business and industry. The talent & education team is committed to the cultivation of a culture of growth and opportunity for individuals to increase the attraction, development, and retention of talent.
Youth Apprenticeship helps students prepare for the workforce
Youth Apprenticeship is a work-based learning program for area high school juniors and seniors that serves as a talent acquisition strategy for local employers. This program connects the students with business and industry to provide experiential learning while connecting employers to their potential future workforce.
Students 135 Employers 100
TALENT & EDUCATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mike Alexander, University of Wisconsin Green Bay
Jeff Bard, Aurora Health Care
Vicki Bayer, Green Bay Area Public Schools
Sarah Beckman, Achieve Brown County
Connie Boerst, Bellin College
Kellie Bohn, Seymour School District Carla Buboltz, Wrightstown School District
Kim Desotell, GRACE School System
Jo-Ellen FairbanksSchutz, Luxemburg-Casco School District
Scott Fritz, Kewaunee School District
Luke Goral, Denmark School District
Tom Hedge, Foth
Adam Jackson, Humana Lisa Kogan-Praska, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Green Bay
Steve Kreuger, Law Firm of Conway, Olejniczak & Jerry, S.C.
Dennis Krueger, West De Pere School District
Annette Krutz, WEC Energy Group
Bec Kurzynske, M3 Insurance
Damian LaCroix, Howard Suamico School District
Karmen Lemke, Diocese of Green Bay
Monica McClure, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast WI
Kim Pahlow, Syble Hopp School
Bill Panella, Rasmussen UniversityGreen Bay
Melanie Parma, Somerville Architects & Engineers
Dave Pisani, Camera Corner Connecting Point
Kathryn Rogalski, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Missy Schmeling, Emcompass
Jamila Seaton, United Health Care
Artly Skenandore, Oneida Nation
Jill Sobieck, Brown County United Way
Allison Space, Pulaski School District Anthony Steffek, Davis Kuelthau Attorneys at Law
Chris Thompson, De Pere School District Colleen Timm, CESA 7
Kurt Weyers, Ashwaubenon School District
Chad Wiegand, Schreiber Foods
Jay Zollar, WLUK-TV Fox 11
4 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
Architecture and Construction Hospitality and Tourism Health Care Manufacturing
INDUSTRIES:
TOP
Current Young Professionals is a membership-based program of the Greater Green Bay Chamber. It seeks to provide high-quality professional development, along with community and social engagement opportunities to help empower young profession als and assist them in fostering a deeper connection to Greater Green Bay. Programming is designed with individuals aged 21-40 in mind, but events are inclusive for all regardless of age.
Future 15 & Young Professional Awards
Future 15 and Young Professional Awards was created in 2007 to honor those who advance the mission of the Current Young Professionals program and who are growing and ex celling in their respective career fields. Additionally, the event recognizes Greater Green Bay young professionals who are achieving noteworthy accomplishments and contributing to the overall quality of life in Greater Green Bay.
• Victoria Black, AmeriLux International
• Craig Ford, St. Norbert College
• Brittany Maas, Foundations Health & Wholeness
• Rachel Maes, City of Green Bay
Highlights:
• Launched a new monthly program, CYP Plays that gathers YPs to enjoy activities that keep you active and having fun.
• Brought in a National Speaker, Alonzo Kelly, in April to do a DEI Workshop.
• 2022 Current Week had 217 unduplicated young professionals participate.
• 2022-23 program year events hosted over 1,700 participants.
New program launched aimed at engaging summer interns
• Marissa Michalkiewicz, Outagame County Recycling & Solid Waste and Giveadaam Ventures, LLC
• Andrew Mulloy, St. John the Baptist School
• Raquel Lopez, St. Norbert College
• Kelsey Lutzow, Community Living Solutions
• Marcus Perez, NWTC
• Erin Roethlisberger, Capital Credit Union
• Marc Schaffer, St. Norbert College
• Jamila Seaton, UnitedHealthcare
• Allison Thut, On Broadway, Inc.
• Parker Wolf, Breakthrough
• Tara Yang, Main Oriental Market
Rising Current is a new opportunity as part of our existing Current Young Professionals program. It provides summer interns a chance to connect and engage in various community activities during their sum mer internship, May – August. Interns involved in Rising Current also had the opportunity to connect with existing Current Young Profes sionals members.
Young Professional of the Year:
Next Generation Best Place to Work
Tara Yang, Main Oriental Market
Young Entrepreneur of the Year:
Mallory Cornelius, VaryAbility
2021-2022 Annual Report | 5
Young
Current
Professionals
93 Corporate Members 7 Sold Out Events
Individual Members 47 In-Person Events YP professional development hours delivered in the last year. 2022 FUTURE 15 RECIPIENTS:
1,611
Leader’s Luncheon
The annual Leaders Luncheon brings together community leaders and young professionals in a celebration of pro gramming accomplishments from the past year.
Invited community leaders are placed at each table to allow an opportunity for young professionals to meet and interact with those who have significantly more leadership experience. Additionally, leaders learn about the needs of area young professionals, important issues and program initiatives related to the mission of the Current Young Professionals program.
This long-standing community leadership program, convenes a cohort of profes sionals from a variety of business sectors to engage in monthly sessions that expose participants to various areas of our community, challenge their thinking, and inspire them to get involved in improving the quality of life for Greater Green Bay.
VIEW PROJECTS FROM THE 2022 CLASS
Completed Community Projects: 2022 was the program’s 38th year.
Leadership Green Bay
47
Graduates 1,405 Total Alumni More than 400 Companies with alumni in the program 180
6 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
Find Your Inspiration continues to inspire Greater Green Bay 8th graders
Find Your Inspiration is a career expo event for 8th grade students, aimed at exposing them to the many different industries and career paths available prior to them selecting their high school electives.
Participating businesses can educate the students, while providing a hands-on look at their industry or career.
3,000
Students
exhibitor businesses with all 12 career clusters represented
The concierge program was such a blessing to our family. We relocated from California unsure what this move would mean for us but trusting we would be welcomed into the community with open arms. Our concierge made us feel welcome and a part of a new community, as if we were her own family. Thank you, Green Bay.
We are here to stay!
- Tracey Fuller
Celebrating
One Year of the Greater Green Bay Community Concierge
Program
The Greater Green Bay Community Concierge program is designed to help your candidate or new hire discover the many facets of the area and jumpstart their engage ment in the community. They are provided with the necessary information and diverse experiences to feel right at home in Greater Green Bay.
Since its inception we have:
Partnered with 17 local organizations in efforts to help attract and retain top talent
Provided 47 customized community tours with introductions to a variety of local businesses.
Organized 5 community gatherings for our new residents to meet and connect with other professionals
Supported over 100 individuals with their integration into the Greater Green Bay community
Implemented a Team Up Community Tour that escorted 16 individuals from varying industries around Greater Green Bay, providing them valuable information on what there is to see and do in the area. Provided company specific Team Up Tour for Bellin Health Psychiatry Residents and Physicians
1 YEAR
ANNIVERSARY VIDEO
PROGRAM
2021-2022 Annual Report | 7
Golden Apple Awards
The Greater Green Bay Chamber’s Golden Apple Awards annually recognizes high-quality educators in Greater Green Bay in areas of professionalism, leadership, and innovation. We strive to improve awareness and the importance of quality education within our community.
2022 GOLDEN APPLE RECIPIENTS:
29th Golden Apple Awards Recipients:
• Cora Blackburn – Glenbrook Elementary School
• Mark Bonetti – Preble High School
• Weeya Calif – Foxview Intermediate School
• Mary Handrich – Denmark High School
• Minerva Salas Escamilla – Nicolet Elementary School
• Lauren Schumacher – Luxemburg-Casco High School
• Char Wilson – Pulaski Community Middle School
• Tom Barnhart, Jeremie Meyer, and David Stroud – Ashwaubenon High School Technology Education Team
2022 Teachers of Distinction:
• Leigh Banks, Cormier School and Early Learning Center
• Theresa Bender, Suamico Elementary School
• Cora Blackburn, Glenbrook Elementary School
• Mark Bonetti, Preble High School
• Weeya Calif, Foxview Intermediate School
• Nancy Chybowski, Langlade Elementary School
• Kristal Delbecchi, Keller Elementary School
• Ryan Deprey, L.E.A.P. / Kewaunee Lake Shore Alternative School
• Ryan Deprey, Lineville Intermediate School
• Becky Erdmann, Hemlock Creek Elementary School
• Mary Handrich, Denmark High School
• Kaitlyn Herzog, Preble High School
• Jake Imig, Parkview Middle School
• Jessica Johnson, Wrightstown Middle School
• Katie Kohtala, Danz Elementary School
• Clarissa Louis, Algoma High School
• Molly Lucareli, Webster Elementary School
• Cassandra Pelnar, Saint Mary’s
• Jessica Rinka, St. John Paul II Classical School
• Minerva Salas Escamilla, Nicolet Elementary School
• Bryant Scherer, Doty Elementary School
• Michael Schmidt, N.E.W. Lutheran High School
• Abby Schultz, Lombardi Middle School
• Lauren Schumacher, Luxemburg-Casco High School
• Taylor Schumacher, Bay Harbor Elementary School
• Amy Stover, Notre Dame De La Baie Academy
• Teresa Terzich, Sullivan Elementary School
• Krista Vande Ven, McAuliffe Elementary School
• Eric VanRemortel, Kennedy Elementary School
• Char Wilson, Pulaski Community Middle School
• Marisa Witterholt, Edison Middle School
2022 Teacher Teams of Distinction:
• Ashwaubenon High School AHS Technology Education Team: Tom Barnhart, Jeremie Meyer and David Stroud
• Howe Elementary School Fifth Grade Team: Paul Hannemann and Emily Villwock
• Luxemburg-Casco Schools EL Team: Laura Hooker, Jodi Kinnard, Nicole Marinin, Karen Tineo and Crystal Trejo
• Meadowbrook Elementary School First Grade Team: Chelsi Kuffel, Majriela Macedo, Maria Riebe, Sara Van Eperen and Jessica Westenberger
• Washington Middle School Fine Arts Music Team: Keith Griffin, Nick Pichla and Joe Baltus
• West De Pere High School Foreign Language Team: Angie Davidson, Becky Deeg, Julie Flynn, Erin Gutschow, Laurie Lambert and Jodi Nickels
8 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
The initiative was created as a way to address the current and future talent needs of Greater Green Bay businesses and industries. There has been a surge of open positions with no one to fill them throughout Northeast Wisconsin; the solution is to reach out to potential employees and show them why moving their career and life to Greater Green Bay is a good idea.
Your Move Green Bay was designed to be a tool to local re cruiters and companies to use when reaching out to new and potential talent, as well as for residents to share with family,
friends and coworkers living outside of the area. The website, launched in October 2021, highlights testimonials from lifetime residents, those who moved back to the area after leaving and brand-new transplants. The goal of the site is to showcase what makes Greater Green Bay unique and a pleasant place to grow your career and your family. The pages include stories from veterans, entrepreneurs, Millennials and information about local businesses, industries, neighborhoods and seasonal activities.
Billboard was placed on Hwy. 42 facing North, visible to driv ers heading home from Door County. The billboard was up from June 27 – August 29, a prime vacation time for visitors to the area.
EDUCATION CAMPAIGN –Instagram & Tik Tok (Feburary – June 2022 ) • Under $1.00 Cost per click. • Featured by Tik Tok as a top performing ad. • All traffic went to an Education Careers landing page that was a part of the Your Move Green Bay website. Average time on the page was 7 minutes, 8 seconds. More than 1.3 million impressions across the targeted social platforms. More than 15,000 targeted landing page viewers.
Your Move Green Bay
2021-2022 Annual Report | 9
AFFAIRS The Chamber’s consultative approach to government affairs work focuses on convening key players to work on solving problems and improving opportunities in our com munity. Staff expertise includes real world public service at all levels of government and is uniquely qualified to help members with their concerns and issues when interacting with their elected representatives. This past year legislative and grassroots efforts focused on the need for housing, talent sourcing, improved trade, the protection of the en vironment, and passenger rail service being extended across Wisconsin. From
Wisconsin Representatives Kristina Shelton and Joel Kitchens discuss an issue at a Greater Green Bay Chamber (BYO) Lunch With Legislators event. By the numbers: MEMBERSHIP Convening and building businesses together. 95 86,652 1,075 Number of new Chamber members: (In 2022 fiscal year.) Member business employees: (In 2022 fiscal year.) Number of member businesses: (In 2022 fiscal year.) CHAMBER MEMBER EMPLOYEE COUNT Number of employees 0 1-5 6-20 21-50 51-100 100+ 133 members 133 members 65 members 352 members 280 members 122 members MEMBERS BY INDUSTRY TYPE Others | 17.7% Professional/Scientific/Technical Services | 14.9% Health Care & Social Assistance | 9.6% Finance/Accounting/Insurance | 9.1% Retail/Retail Trade | 7.7% Accommodation & Food Service | 6.6% Arts/Entertainment/Recreation | 6.2% Manufacturing | 6.0% Non-Profit | 5.5% Advertising/Marketing/PR | 4.3% Education Services | 1.4% 0 20 40 60 80 100 14.9 % 17.7 % 9.6 % 9.1 % 6.6 % 6.2 % 6.0 % 5.5 % 7.7 % 1.4% 4.3% 10 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
GOVERNMENT
left to right: Joe Shacter, Amtrak’s Senior Manager-State Corridors, and Derrick James, Amtrak’s Senior Manager of Government Affairs meet with Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich.
Community Snapshot
This annual online-only publication provides an analytic look at Greater Green Bay, that includes data on top employers, education, demographics, and more. Both businesses and community mem bers alike can utilize this resource to assist in business and talent attraction efforts.
MEMBER SURVEYS
To help us assess our programs, events, and benefits, we invited our members to participate in a survey in April.
Survey responses will be used to assist in organizational planning, guiding us to a successful future while also delivering members the value they expect.
What brings you the most value as a Chamber member?
The 2022 edition of Community Snapshot included a refreshed design and page layout. The revamped Table of Contents breaks the publication into identifiable ‘Live’, ‘Work’, and ‘Play’ sections. Additionally, each ad and website is linked allowing the reader a more interactive experience.
Who/what can it be used for?
• HR recruiters/Talent Development Managers
• Realtors
• Businesses looking to expand in Brown County
Cost-saving programs | 0.22%
Community support | 15%
Talent development | 4%
do you
out about Chamber events, programs, and initiatives?
How
find
Social media | 46% Member2Member e-newsletter | 34% Membership Matters e-newsletter | 32% Word of mouth | 28% The Business News | 15% Chamber website | 29% Collective Impact magazine | 15% Other | 9% 54% 46% 34% 32% 28% 15% 29% 7% 13% 7% 15% 0.22% 15% 9% 4% READ IT! 2021-2022 Annual Report | 11
Networking/relationship building | 54%
Business development | 7%
Professional development | 13%
Marketing | 7%
Collective Impact
New changes made:
• New paper stock
• Members telling their story through editorials
• Immersive digital experience with click throughs on ads and website links
• You can now pick up a copy at Bosse’s Newstand in downtown Green Bay
Success found in collaboration of print and digital
An enhanced promotion plan encourages readers to read the magazine in whatever format suits them. The digital expe rience now includes all websites, QR codes, and advertise ments linked to benefit both readers and advertisers.
VIEW ALL ISSUES HERE:
Community Conversations premiered its first episode on January 25, 2022. The series, which releases a new episode every month, was created to build awareness about the people, purpose, and activities of our region. Each episode is hosted Chamber President & CEO, Laurie Radke, and features an impactful community leader who shares stories about their life, their business, and their professional journey.
The Chamber has a total of seven episodes that premiered during the fiscal year. Guests have included:
• Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach
• Steve Van Remortel, Founder/CEO of MyTalentPlanner, Inc. and Stop The Vanilla, LLC.
• Bobbi Webster, Director of Public Relations for Oneida Nation
• Susan Finco, President of Leonard & Finco Public Relations
• Mark Skogen, President of Festival Foods
• Mark Murphy, President and CEO of the Green Bay Packers
REFRESHED WEBSITE
To further our efforts of building prosperous businesses and a thriving community, we were excited to launch our newly designed website in November 2021.
What you’ll find
As a convener in the community, the digital presence of the Chamber needs to clearly communicate the role our organization plays and to enable our members to better under stand our purpose.
The redesigned site includes a more seamless and aesthetically pleasing user experience, plus improved functionality and navigation.
Other website improvements
As an access point for Chamber members
and community residents alike, the refreshed website allows viewers the opportunity to gain knowledge on the many events, program ming, initiatives, and committee offerings the Chamber has available.
Revamped website imagery showcases our thriving community including its historic downtowns, waterfront, nature trails, and iconic Green Bay Area landmarks. Guided by engaging written content, the enhanced images capture the energy and prosperity of our community and its residents.
Our website is the vehicle for telling our story and the website refresh provides the frame work for communicating that to the public, thus enhancing the value and experience of
our members. We believe the site is an excel lent resource for employers in Greater Green Bay and will complement their existing efforts to benefit the community as a whole.
We encourage you to visit the site, peruse up coming events, read our blog, and learn more about enhancing your membership with the Greater Green Bay Chamber.
GreaterGBC.org
12 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
Fiscal Year Events:
Talent Day
Sept. 7-8, 2021
Annual Dinner Sept. 28, 2021
Driving GrowthGreater Green Bay Economic Development Strategic Plan Update Nov. 11, 2021
Virtual Workshop: Focus on Control Dec. 2, 2021
Future 15 & Young Professional Awards Feb. 24, 2022
Find Your Inspiration- Spring March 8, 2022
Greater Green Bay Made March 30, 2022
Golden Apple Awards Program April 20, 2022
Job Fair April 28, 2022
Business Recognition Luncheon June 7, 2022
41st Annual Golf Classic Aug. 15, 2022
Welcome Back Packers Luncheon Aug. 24, 2022
NEW EVENTS
Greater Green Bay Made - March 30, 2022
This event is an opportunity to learn from a recognized in dustry leader about innovative manufacturing products and ideas being developed throughout Greater Green Bay and allows attendees to view a demonstration, interact with a product, or sample a product made in our community!
Celebrating Manufacturing Month
Significant research has shown that manufac turing is the driver of a healthy and vibrant economy. For every dollar of manufacturing val ue created in the United States, $3.60 in additional economic activity is generated.
Additionally, every manufacturing job created in our country leads to approximately 3.4 non-manufacturing jobs to take a prod uct from start to finish. In Greater Green Bay we are fortunate so many great manufacturers have chosen to build, develop, and make many of the products we use and rely on every day. Manufacturing impacts our lives directly and indirectly in so many ways.
Each October, the Greater Green Bay Chamber celebrates Manufactur ing Month. It is the chance for us to highlight the many contributions that man ufacturing makes to Greater Green Bay, our state, and our nation. As our region has seen the expansion and growth of its manufacturing sector, it is good to be reminded of what we often take for granted.
The October 2021 celebration event consisted of:
• 8 videos posted to YouTube featuring event sponsors and manufacturers. A video from Chamber President and CEO was also shared, where she highlights the importance and impact that manufacturing has on Greater Green Bay.
• Multiple editorials from Chamber members in the Chamber’s Fall 2021 Collective Impact magazine
• Multiple social posts across Chamber social channels promoting the month and featured videos.
Talent Day - Sept. 8, 2021
In response to the challenges facing Greater Green Bay, and other communities across the country, to meet the tal ent needs of business and industry, the Chamber launched a new multi-day event called Talent Day. Special guest speaker and recognized author, Chris Czarnik, served as the highlight of the event, along with an update to the community on new initiatives and the unveiling of a community brand and talent attraction website, Your Move Green Bay.
RIBBON CUTTINGS/ GROUND BREAKINGS
Ceremonial big scissors in hand, Chamber staff, alongside ambassadors and other invited guests, celebrated as the ribbon was cut for more than 30 businesses in Greater Green Bay. These groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings are an opportunity to help Chamber members commemorate their success, growth, and helps bring awareness to their business.
2021-2022 Annual Report | 13
Chamber’s Annual Dinner is a special event each year where we gather together to honor Chamber members and the many volunteers who make the Chamber successful. Recipients of the Daniel Whitney, Chamber Ambassador of the Year, and nationally recognized ATHENA Leadership Award are also honored.
The
Business Recognition
recognized Greater
individuals’ and companies’ achievements, growth, innovation, and exceptional business practices.
Business Recognition Luncheon Business Person of the Year: Garritt Bader Cornerstone Award: GLC Minerals Entrepreneurial Award: ChemDirect Growth Award: Pilotsmith Inc. Special Accomplishment Award Pandemic Response: Healthcare Collaboration ATHENA Leadership Award: Bobbi Webster Daniel
Award: Jim Knopf Ambassador of the Year:
AWARD RECIPIENTS AWARD RECIPIENTS 14 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
The
2022
Luncheon
Green Bay
The Chamber’s Annual Dinner
Whitney
Kasha Huntowski
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Greater Green Bay Chamber is committed to improving and diversifying the area’s economic vitality and growth.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Paul Belschner, Base Companies LLC
Cole Buergi, Leonard and Finco Public Relations
Sarah Burdette, Town of Ledgeview
Keith Chambers, Village of Pulaski
Brad Charapata, BMO Harris Bank
Randy Charles, AK Pizza Crust
Dr. Preston D. Cherry, Concurrent Financial Planning
Travis Coenen, Village of Wrightstown
Randy Crevier, Wells Fargo
Larry Delo, City of De Pere
Urban Hub Programming
One of The Urban Hub’s goals is to provide programming to the entrepreneurs in our region. The Blueprint Green Bay startup accelerator was one of those impactful programs. The Blueprint Green Bay provided entrepreneurs of color, female and veteranowned businesses and startups in the Greater Green Bay area and the surrounding region with mentorship, technology training and the opportunity to secure seed funding via two focused cohorts (an idea session and a market validation session).
The program helped businesses that are:
• In SaaS, mobile technology, health, smart manufacturing, fintech
• Located in Northeast Wisconsin
• Incorporated or not
• Angel or pre-seed
• With funding or not
• Currently raising or not raising funds
The program had a rigorous and demanding schedule. Those accepted into the program’s cohorts met each week during their 12-week session, ending in a Pitch Night where startups displayed their products and/or services to the surrounding community to secure grant funding from the initiative. We know there is a need for these types of programs in our ecosystem. We look forward to offering more value through accelerator programming at The Urban Hub.
Keith Deneys, Town of Pittsfield
Mathew Dornbush, Cofrin School of Business, University of WisconsinGreen Bay
Paul Evert, Village of Howard Ann Franz, NEW Manufacturing Alliance
Eric Genrich, Mayor of Green Bay
Robyn Gruner, AT&T WI
Eric Guzowski, Chase Bank
Joel Hansen, Pomp’s Tire Service, Inc.
Dean Haen, Brown County Port & Resource Recovery
Dan Heiser, Donald J. Schneider School of Business & Economics, St. Norbert College
Meridith Jaeger, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Carol Karls, Immel Construction
Alex Kaker, Village of Suamico
Mary Kardoskee, Village of Ashwaubenon
Aaron Kramer, Village of Hobart
Brad Lange, Village of Allouez
Dan Miller, Wipfli LLP
Thomas Miller, Aurora BayCare Medical Center
Troy Parr, Oneida Nation
Marty Piette, Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport
Aaron Popkey, Green Bay Packers
Josh Ronsman, Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP
John Roth, Town of Scott Mark Schwei, Consolidated Construction
Susan Selner, Village of Denmark
Lennie Shefchik, Paper Transport Inc.
Tom Sigmund, NEW Water
Neil Stechschulte, City of Green Bay
Anna Steinfest, AFF Research, LLC
Troy Streckenbach, Brown County Executive
Manny Vasquez, NAI Pfefferle/ Pfefferle Management
Lynie Vincent, N.E.W. Plastics Corp. Andrew Vissers, Village of Bellevue
Patrick Wetzel, Town of Lawrence
Scott Willert, America’s Service Line LLC
2021-2022 Annual Report | 15
In the past year, the Startup Hub has been able to support over 300 small businesses through their consulting program. That has led the Startup Hub to be at 100% occupancy of manufacturing space for the first time in the Hub’s history. Office space is also at 100% occupancy, following a slight dip due to the initial Covid lockdown.
With the Startup Hub acting as a true incubator, businesses are continually turned over, per normal operation, as they outgrow the Startup Hub and are assisted with finding their new permanent space outside the Hub to continue their growth as a stand-alone small business.
The Urban Hub added 4-5 new members between September 1, 2021 and December 30, 2021. During Q1, Q2, and Q3 of 2022, the Urban Hub saw a 300% uptick in membership, adding 20+ new members. This is attributed to intentional programming, new corporate partnerships & more events hosted. The community is more aware of resources offered through the Urban Hub, resulting in organic growth. The Urban Hub has become a place to convene, to gather, and to engage with like-minded entrepreneurs
“Having a space like the Startup Hub is important because if you have limited resources, if you’re just starting, or if you want to save (money), it’s a good, clean, nice, quiet (envi ronment) that has helped me grow and gave me a reality I thought I’d never have as a small business.”
- Tee Sims, BPB Productions LLC
“There is such a wonderful cross section of industries repre sented at the Urban Hub. It’s really nice to feel connected.”
- Eliza Cussen, Divorcist
“The Urban Hub provides me piece of mind, knowing I can grow my business in a way that I feel good about as a business owner.”
- Stephen Utech, illumyx
“The Startup Hub has allowed me to establish my business. As my clientele and business grew, the Startup Hub was able to accommodate my needs and I was able to expand several times.”
- Greg Maloney, Promoting Abilities
“Having a space like the Urban Hub in the community really sets the stage for someone wanting to start a business without com mitting to a long-term lease and expenses which a lot of startup businesses cannot afford at the startup phase. It also offers many networking opportunities to get your business name out there.”
- Andrew Schmitt, Spearhead Food Consulting
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Groundbreaking for the largest speculative building in Brown County history
the development also allows for future expansion of an additional 160,000 sq ft. for a total of 260,000 sq ft.
Over the past several years, area partners including the Greater Green Bay Chamber have heard regularly from the manufacturing community about their struggles to find existing buildings that can accommodate their expansion needs within Brown County.
4554 County Highway DDD
Property Features
• Well-located industrial/distribution space available for lease in Wrightstown
• Proposed 100,000 SF building expandable to 265,000 SF
• Construction to start March 2022.
• 32’ clear height
To help alleviate the growing need for industrial buildings, Consolidated Construction Co., Inc. in partnership with NAI Pfefferle and a local develop ment group are breaking ground on a new 100,000 sq. ft. development project
• Rail access
• Low utility prices
Details
Bordered by I-41 to the west and Wrightstown Road/ Golf Course Drive to the north, this prime location is in a fast growing area in Wrightstown. Building
being built strategically on Highway 41 in Wrightstown.
Upon completion, the building will have potential for a variety of light and heavy industrial uses. Divisible to 30,000 sq ft.,
LEASE RATE $5.75/SF NNN BUILDING SIZE 100,000 SF (DIVISIBLE TO 30,000 SF) OFFICE SIZE TBD WAREHOUSE SIZE 30-100,000 SF ACRES 16.17 ZONING INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY VILLAGE OF WRIGHTSTOWN
For more information :
“We believe expansion of existing businesses is at the core of communi ty growth,” said Kelly Armstrong, vice president of economic development for the Greater Green Bay Chamber. “A spec building like this is extremely exciting for our area and will be vital in allowing businesses to get expansion projects to market faster in Greater Green Bay.”
What is FDI?
Adam Meyers 920.560.5091 • adamm@naipfefferle.com Tom Fisk 920.560.5090 • tomf@naipfefferle.com 1192 Hansen Road, Suite 201 Green Bay, WI 920.884.5000 naipfefferle.com
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the U.S. — the largest host econo my—increased by 114% (in 2021) to $323 billion during this same time, with cross-border mergers and acquisitions almost tripling in value to $285 billion. Japan, Canada, and the UK are among the countries with the largest FDI positions in the U.S. Foreign direct investments, whether on a global or nation scale, are increasing. States and regions receiving FDI often experience new job growth, an influx of cutting-edge technology, and benefit from new sources of innovation, all of which advances economic development in recipient states and regions.
Soure: Radice, Carol. “FDI: A Foreign Affair.” Business Facilities, March/April 2022, pp. 60-68.
The Greater Green Bay Chamber has a number of strengths to its advantage for drawing foreign direct investment to our region.
Those strengths include:
• Low cost of living
• 1.1 million people within a 50-minute drive
• Transportation hub
• Foreign trade zone
• Tax credits and other incentives
Additionally, Greater Green Bay is:
• #1 U.S. state in paper production
• 2nd largest manufacturing concen tration in the U.S.
• 14x the national average in paper and packaging industry concentration
• 21% employment in manufacturing
Wrightstown, WI FOR LEASE 100,000 SF Warehouse/ Distribution Building
Luigi Lazzareschi, CEO of the Sofidel Group and Kelly Armstrong, Vice President of Economic Development, Greater Green Bay Chamber
2021-2022 Annual Report | 17
companies with a presence in Greater Green Bay have signed the CEO Action Pledge.
We are looking to engage existing participating organizations and create forums where they can invite companies and their networks who have not yet signed the pledge, to learn more and come along in this journey.
- Lisa Jossart, VP Commuinty Investment and Partner Distribution, CONNECT powered by American Family Insurance
Taskforces & Working Groups
Business Development Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Downtown Taskforce
• Cultural Trail Working Group
• Downtown Design Studio
• Arts Strategy Steering Committee
Alignment & Conferences
Diversity, Equity & Inclusiveness
• CEO Action Pledge
• Board Diversity Working Group
• Housing Working Group
• Small Business Working Group Transportation &
Logistics
Talent
150+ taskforce members! STRATEGIC PLAN
18 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
Downtown Taskforce member testimonial
I volunteer on the Downtown Taskforce in order to help further the advancement of Downtown Green Bay. Ideas and inspiration arrive in many different ways, and for our taskforce, visiting other cities and meeting their leaders is one of those ways in which we find out about new ideas and how they became realities. These trips and meetings are made possible by the Chamber’s focus on our initiative, and the like-minded volunteers who, along with myself, have a desire to see the best for our community.
- Garritt Bader, GB Real Estate Investments, LLC, Downtown Taskforce
Tundra Angels was created as a Green Bay-based angel network whose funding caters to entrepreneurs, specifically early-stage, high-growth potential companies at the pre-seed or seed stage.
In its two years under the Chamber, Tundra Angels grew, expanding from six founding members to more than 29 investors and made a total of 10 investments in nine companies statewide.
Business Retention & Expansion
The Greater Green Bay Economic Development Strategic Plan focuses on the support of existing businesses in our community. The Chamber’s economic development team has taken an active role in the support of existing businesses through the work of the business retention and expansion (BRE) program led by Eric DeKorne.
The BRE program is an integral part of economic development because up to 80% of new job growth and investment comes from existing businesses in the community. The BRE program supports and builds relationships with local businesses and connects them to resources for continued growth.
The Greater Green Bay Chamber is pleased to welcome Maria Padilla
as the Diverse and Small Business Manager
The Greater Green Bay Chamber is pleased to welcome Maria Padilla as the Diverse Small Business Manager. This role is the result of a partnership between the City of Green Bay and the Chamber. Designed to focus on the region’s minority-, woman-, and veteranowned businesses, this position will work to connect resources to businesses fostering a
sustainable small business sector.
“I am very excited to be a part of an organization that works diligently to improve the community in a variety of ways,” said Padilla. “In my role, I will focus on making a difference for small businesses in the area by providing the resources needed for longterm success”.
5,816,030 sq. ft. of developed/ redeveloped space expansion projects Capital investment estimates $1,083,801,000 direct jobs created 1,834
Projects: (Since 2020)
2021-2022 Annual Report | 19
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUING SUPPORT
Laurie Radke, President/CEO
As the Chamber embarks on its 141st year, and I begin my 12th year as president and CEO, I’m compelled to take a look backward and a look forward and reflect. I think being mindful of where we’ve been is just as important as thinking about - and planning for - the future.
I look at the Chamber’s mission today, entrenched in talent, education and economic development, and I know we are in sync with the business community. Interestingly, we are not altogether that different in terms of mission or purpose from when we began as an organization.
In the 1890s, the Chamber’s predecessor organization initiated the first industrial park. Post World War II, the Chamber conducted a local employers survey that revealed concern because many more workers would be needed at the end of the war, presenting a talent dilemma.
It’s intriguing how integral the Cham ber has been in the lines of workforce development and economic development since its inception. It’s also deeply fulfilling to realize how long standing the Cham ber’s efforts are to convene, connect and create synergies with businesses, entities
and people. We cannot be a community without people.
People are at the heart of the Chamber: forward-thinking, engaged people who are willing to think bigger and to serve. That starts with our team and extends to 900+ volunteers who give of their time, energy, talents and ideas to make mission-directed work happen. There is nothing more fulfill ing than to witness the outcomes that occur when people come together to focus on shared goals. It’s something I see every day in our conference rooms, at our events, in our Hubs and even in the hallways after meetings.
We have worked hard to listen more than we talk, and to serve as a sounding board to the chal lenges, concerns and opportunities voiced by our members.
I’m excited and heartened to see more of this happening again as we witness
great shifts in employee and workplace priorities. We’re escalating work toward our future as we, along with, our boards of directors, our committee members, our volunteers, our members, and our community organizations plan and move forward on major initiatives and projects.
We’re excited to do more mission-rele vant work by listening, convening, con necting, innovating and serving. We live in a dynamic time, filled with uncertainty. But what is certain is that Greater Green Bay is an amazing community, and it all starts with the people. The need to be here for our members is just as relevant as when a handful of businesses came together for a united purpose in 1882.
We continue to be Chamber strong, working on behalf of our business community and the commu nity at large in this dynamic world we live in. We look forward to serving you, it is certain you can count on us.
20 | 2021-2022 Annual Report
People are at the heart of the Chamber: forward-thinking, engaged people who are willing to think bigger and to serve.
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