Q3 2024
INVESTORREPORT
The Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce and One Macon identified key initiatives aimed at accelerating our community's growth. This joint effort, known as Forward Macon, focuses on four main priorities: building a skilled workforce, attracting and retaining top talent, fostering startups, and revitalizing neighborhoods.
PILLAR I - IMPROVE WORKFORCE
Implement GreaterCareerWorks.org, a web-based app that links recruitment, skill-building, and career navigation into one collaborative system.
15,092 to 16,713 +10.7%
902 to 998
+10.6%
13,575 to 14,300
+5.3%
Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce continues to operate and update the Greater Career Works platform (greatercareerworks org) and continues to see most metrics grow
Working to launch Bibb County School District's student internship website as part of Greater Career Works
Provided update and Greater Career Works refresher presentation to Macon-Bibb County Commission and mayor during Lunch Out with the Mayor event
Presented Greater Career Works during Macon Bibb County Industrial Authority Industry Partners Luncheon
PILLAR II - ATTRACT & RETAIN TALENT
As part of Choose Macon, the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce will create and implement a talent attraction plan that builds on the region’s cultural and business narrative.
Hosted the first ever MAC singles meetup at Hotel 45 after finding companionship to be a major factor in employee retention
Hosted a welcome event for new teachers beginning work in for Bibb County School District providing inspiration,
relocation information and an introduction to Macon's lifestyle assets
Hosted three monthly Leadership Macon class days focusing in economic development, DEI and education
Launched comprehensive ad campaign including billboards, digital and audio ads highlighting advantages to living in Macon
PILLAR
Q3 2024
Startup-Macon continued to host its free networking meetings and saw an average attendance of 15 at each. In addition to its own programs, StartupMacon supported and promoted other events by ESO’s to engage another 83 individuals including Wednesdays for are for Entrepreneurs These monthly events include:
BANC (Business and Non Profit Center) and SCORE's “How to Start a Business” class on the second Wednesday of the month at 5 pm at the Washington Memorial Library Startup-Macon's free networking meetup the third Wednesday of the month at 5 pm at Just Tap’d SparkMacon's fireside chat with local business owners each 4th Wednesday of the month at 6:00PM
Startup Macon hired an Entrepreneur Catalyst, Andrew Eck, who connects entrepreneurs to the resources they need to be successful.
PILLAR IV - REVITALIZE NEIGHBORHOODS
The Community Engagement Project Manager, Dr Sundra Woodford, managed by United Way of Central Georgia, serves as a neighborhood catalyst implementing a systemic, comprehensive revitalization plan for the Pleasant Hill neighborhood
Conducted financial literacy sessions for over 60 participants in Pleasant Hill and Fort Hill neighborhoods in partnership with MidSouth Community Federal Credit Union and Wealth ASAP
Completed safety audits and cleanups in Pleasant Hill, engaging 18 volunteers to collect 1,160 lbs of debris across 16 streets
Progressed the Pleasant Hill Neighborhood Strategic Plan, with new programs and a community website set to launch in 2025
Hosted an enrichment café at LH Williams Elementary, engaging 26 parents and children in discussions about local education and health initiatives
Forward Macon focuses on economic development, community engagement, and enhancing the quality of life in the Macon area by addressing local challenges, supporting job creation and promoting sustainable growth, ultimately leading to a stronger and more vibrant community.
Dear Forward Macon Stakeholder,
We present to you a progress update that marks the work being accomplished thanks to Forward Macon funding.
As you will see from the report, the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce continues to support workforce development and talent attraction and retention through several community-based initiatives, including the Greater Career Works digital platform and the Choose Macon marketing strategy. The Chamber continues to partner with the Bibb County School District and local industries to make the most of these opportunities for businesses to meet their talent and workforce needs
In addition to the work of the Chamber, Spark Macon is supporting entrepreneurship efforts, and the United Way of Central Georgia houses the neighborhood initiatives focused on Pleasant Hill
Previous reports of Forward Macon accomplishments can be found here
In addition to the status updates you’ll find from the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce in this report, you will also see a snapshot of our current Forward Macon financials, as part of our fiveyear capital campaign.
Thank you for your support as we work collaboratively to move Macon forward
Sincerely,
Jessica Walden
President & CEO, Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce
Forward Macon, Inc., Director
Robbo Hatcher H2Capital
Forward Macon, Board Chair