February 2021 | Vol 16 Issue 2
GROWING BUSINESS. ACTIVATING LEADERS. BUILDING COMMUNITY.
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
A Letter from the Chairman The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 99th year as the trusted source for growing business, activating leaders, and building community in our region. We continue to build a strong reputation of being influencers for responsible growth, catalysts for positive change and conveners of the community facilitating collaborative solutions for today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.
Our mission work is making a big impact on economic development, downtown development, workforce recruitment and retention (developing the next generation workforce pipeline), government affairs (advocating for business-driven public policy), community development (leadership and education programs), small business and entrepreneurial development (resources and education), destination marketing and management (attracting visitors and building a world-class destination) and long-range community strategic planning (focusing on quality of place). Over the past four years, I have witnessed our Chamber go through an evolution with its Chamber 3.0 initiative. This was an intentional effort for us to be more cohesive internally and externally, to invigorate our programming and mission work, and to influence outcomes that benefit our community’s quality of life. In 2019, we finalized our “Roadmap to 2022” (our 100th anniversary date) that included a new Vision 100 Community Action Plan, a three-year Strategic Plan (2020-21-22) and a redefined Vision, Mission and set of Core Values to ensure we are relevant, necessary, and competent in a new decade of rapid change. In a word, PERSERVERANCE sums up 2020. Our Core Values proved to be more than just words as they were constantly put to the test during the pandemic. We persevered because we brought these core values to life – we lived them. As a result, they helped shape our Chamber’s culture and character for years to come. We became stronger and more resilient than ever before. I am so proud of each division’s hard work; the results were impressive despite the obstacles presented to them. Through it all, we survived the year with NO LAYOFFS, MITIGATED our losses, and NEVER QUIT with our events and programming as we creatively pivoted from inperson to virtual to hybrid engagements. Below are some selected highlights from last year.
2021, Independence Plaza in Lowell began groundwork for its phase one opening in Summer 2021, and a groundbreaking was held at Pinnacle Commons in Uptown. Despite the challenges our community faced with COVID-19, at year-end, total sales tax collections in Rogers hit $20,578.555, an increase of 1.5%. Our unemployment rate decreased from a high of 8.2% in April down to 4.0% in October (the most current reporting period). Downtown Rogers saw the opening of 20 new businesses in 2020 and 119 jobs were created downtown in the professional services segment. The newly redesigned Railyard Park and Butterfield Stage projects were on track for on time completion in Spring of 2021. The Community Development division increased minority participation in leadership programs by 25 percent last year (Leadership Benton County, Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders and ARVEST First Leadership). The team also launched the LENS SERIES, a new Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) training program for small-to-medium size businesses, hosting four learning events. Visit Rogers was awarded at the 2020 Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism the Henry Award for Community Development. The team also booked over 25,000 future room nights. As you can see, from shutdown to recovery and reopening safely last year, we made the best of it together. And, on behalf of the entire Chamber, I would like to sincerely thank our community, members, partners, and investors for your continued support of our mission work. We could not do what we do without you. In this Annual Report, you will find more details for our 2020 accomplishments and highlights. I encourage you to review it and engage with us this year as we continue working together to create a cohesive and connected community where people want to visit, live, invest, work, and play.
Angie Tucker-Ridley 2020 Chairman of the Board Tucker’s Furniture and Appliances
The Government Affairs division developed the Northwest Arkansas Regional Legislative Agenda collaborating with the NWA Chambers, the NWA Council, and the Arkansas State Chamber. This, along with the Chamber’s leadership, will guide business-friendly legislative priorities in 2021. The Economic Development division reported, at the end of the year, that Rogers had begun over $200 million in private capital investment with 65 large-scale projects in the works. Topgolf opened, the Walmart AMP completed its $17.2 million expansion ahead of schedule, Transplace was on track to open it new Regional Operations Center in
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The Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce is one out of just 132 chambers of 7,000+ nationwide accredited with Five Stars.
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
Vision Statement
The center of world-class business, welcoming communities, and opportunities for all.
Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
Mission Statement
We are influencers, catalysts and conveners; the trusted source for growing business, activating leaders and building community. The center of world-class business, welcoming communities, and opportunities for all.
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
Goals & Key Focus Areas Goals & Key Focus Areas 2020 - 2021 - 2022 | Journey to Our 100th Anniversary
GOAL:
EXCITING & UNIQUE BRAND
2022 | 100th Anniversary
KEY FOCUS AREAS: Segmentation and Brand Strategy Rebrand Launch at 100th Anniversary GOAL:
GOAL:
GOAL:
KEY FOCUS AREAS: Keeper of the Vision Campaign Add 3200 S.F. Upstairs
SUSTAINABLE FUNDING STRATEGY KEY FOCUS AREAS: Dues vs. Campaign Investing Keeper of the Community Vision Bottom Line that Increases Reserve
UPGRADED FACILITIES
GOAL:
MEMBER/INVESTOR BASE KEY FOCUS AREAS: Customer-Member-Investor Path Mission-Focused Next Gen Development
STRONG STAFF KEY FOCUS AREAS: Continuing Education Professional Development Hiring the Best Qualified for Open Positions GOAL:
COHESIVE LEADERSHIP KEY FOCUS AREAS: Community Business
GOAL:
SOUND STRATEGIC PLANNING KEY FOCUS AREAS: Driven by Vision-Mission-Core Values Political Center ROI Centric Transparent Vision 100 Influence Inclusive
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Arts & Entertainment Downtown
2020 | The Journey Starts Here
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
2020 Goals ProgramStrategic of Work UNVEIL VISION, MISSION, VALUES TO MEMBERSHIP
IMPLEMENT VISION 100 INTO STRATEGIC PLANNING
BUDGET & FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Strong Move to Balanced Budget Grow Reserves Transition to Dues vs Campaign (Sustainability) Grow Investors from Members
IMPLEMENT A COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP COALITION
Focus on Better Communication and Cooperation Citywide
CONTINUE TO REFINE, AND REDEFINE RETENTION EFFORTS
DOWNTOWN ROGERS, INC.
DOWNTOWN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
TALENT PIPELINE
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION (DEI) COUNCIL IMPLEMENTATION
CHANGING THE POLITICAL PARADIGM USING A PRO-BUSINESS, CENTRIST PHILOSOPHY
START DUE DILIGENCE PROCESS ON THE BUILDING EXPANSION
DATABASE / SOFTWARE ACCLIMATION (ACCRISOFT FREEDOM)
DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A LOWELL COMMUNITY STRATEGY AND CONTRACT FOR SERVICES
DEFINE AND PROMOTE ROGERS’ ROLE AS AN ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION
Leadership Benton County Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders ARVEST First Leadership Increase Engagement as Employee Retention Tool
Maintain at least 85% Retention Rate and Strive for 90%
Infrastructure Housing Professional Services Retail & Entertainment
Long term Strategy for Funding and Programming Butterfield Stage and Frisco Park Farmers Market Strategy
529 Promise Initiative Training & Recruitment Community Engagement Quality of Life
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
Executive Committee
Chairman of the Board
Angie Tucker-Ridley Tucker’s Furniture & Appliances
Chairman-Elect
Erin Kiefer Assembled Products
2020 Directors
Treasurer
Mike Power First Security Bank
Past Chairman
RIDC President
President/CEO
Greg Fogle Nabholz Construction
Jerry Vest Regions Bank
Raymond Burns, CCE
2021 Directors
Leah Acoach, FHB Ventures Danny Beck, Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield Joe Donaldson, Sam’s Furniture Brad Hicks, J.B. Hunt Transport Inc. Stennett Thompkins, AAA Insurance David Vaden, Ernst & Young LLP
Tom Allen, Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners Ron Branscum, Strategic Business Consulting, Inc. David Kimball, Benchmark Group Jerra Nalley, Runway Tanya Smith, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Melissa Turpin, Honeycomb Kitchen Shop
Daizy Andrade, University of Arkansas Dr. Marlin Berry, Rogers Public Schools Jerry Carmichael, 3C Retail Solutions Ever Cuellar, First Security Bank Larry Cooper, Embassy Suites NW Arkansas Russ Daniel, McLarty Daniel Group Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp. Sandy Edwards, Crystal Bridges Museum David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade Cathy Foraker, AT&T
David Foster, APAC-Central, Inc. Bradley Hardin, AEP/SWEPCO Ron Hayes, First United Methodist Church Dan Hendrix, Arkansas World Trade Center Greg Hines, Mayor, City of Rogers Tom Hopper, TallChamps, LLC Corry Hull, BHC Insurance Dr. Evelyn Jorgenson, NWACC Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center Chris Moore, Mayor, City of Lowell
2022 Directors
Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Sotheby’s International Realty Dean Fisher, Glad Manufacturing, Inc. Angela Grayson, Precipice IP Denten Park, Northwest Health Curt Stamp, Cox Business Knight Weis, Signature Bank of Arkansas
Ex-Officio Directors Barry Moehring, Benton County Judge Bianca Montoya, Bike NWA John-Michael Scurio, George’s Eric Pianalto, Mercy of Northwest Arkansas Gregg Stanfill, Arvest Bank Chris Sultemeier, Retired Walmart Dick Trammel, Chairman Emeritus Josh Vasquez, United Bank Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods Amiee York, Black Hills Energy
Division Chairs
Community Development - Leah Acoach Membership Services - Tanya Smith Economic Development - Tom Allen
JAN The Chamber hosted a watch party at John Q. Hammons Convention Center (now known as the Rogers Convention Center) in Rogers for U.S. Chamber’s 2020 State of American Business.
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6
Audit Committee
Government Affairs - Jerry Carmichael Convention & Visitors Bureau - Larry Cooper
David Vaden Ron Branscum Knight Weis
JAN The Chamber hosted a ribbon cutting for Downtown Rogers Art on the Bricks Art Walk at Rogers Experimental House.
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TIMELINE: January 2020
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
2020 Accomplishments
7
th
OVERALL
10
th
BEST
BEST
7,000+
4
th
MOST
Accredited
Only 132 5-Star
22
nd
2nd
BEST
3
rd
8th
BEST
5th
BEST
BEST
BEST
BEST
40
th
BEST
10th BEST
JAN Ozark Regional Transit and City of Rogers announced partnership to provide zero-fare, on-demand public transit to residents and visitors.
20
12th
FASTEST GROWING
21st
11
th
207
BEST
Chambers
BEST
7th
2nd
JAN The Chamber hosted Chamber Night Reception at Rogers School Board of Education providing members opportunities to learn more about local school administrators and meet school board members.
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TIMELINE: January 2020
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce
Core Values
Passion
We are proud to work here; we are committed to creating an optimistic and balanced culture through passion, enthusiasm and dedication.
Integrity
We are the trusted and dependable source. We are honest and accountable in all endeavors and do the right thing because we are guided by a set of moral principles.
Service
We exceed expectations by providing knowledgeable, thoughtful solutions, and leading by example.
Community
Togetherness
We better our community through servant leadership, encouraging compassionate relationships, and collectively working toward a common goal.
We believe that through diversity, collaboration, and teamwork we create an inspired, open, and welcoming environment that leads to the greater good.
FEB Visit Rogers launched its new online musician-based streaming series, Amplify, at Arkansas Arts Academy in Downtown Rogers.
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8
FEB Northwest Arkansas honored award recipients and community leaders at Chamber’s 98th Annual Celebration of Business & Community; Chamber unveiled new Vision, Mission, Values coinciding with new RogersLowell.com website redesign acting as a gateway to its brand.
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TIMELINE: February 2020
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
FEB
11 & 13
The Chamber’s Government Affairs division and Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders sponsored two State Representative Primary Election Forums at NorthWest Arkansas Community College.
FEB
18 & 25
The Chamber hosted Chamber Night Receptions at Lowell City Hall and Rogers City Hall providing members opportunities to learn more about local government and meet elected city officials; Lowell Mayor Chris Moore and Rogers Mayor Greg Hines delivered State of the City Addresses.
TIMELINE: February 2020
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Membership in the Chamber is a direct investment in the work we do to grow business and build community. Our Member Services division helps you understand how to connect, invest and grow with us. Whether you are a community partner, member, or both, we provide “over-the-top” customer service by offering valuable information, services and programs to deliver value and return on your investment with the Chamber.
2020 Goals | Membership Services 1. Increase Annual Member Investment
Shelle Summers, IOM Senior Vice President of Membership Services ssummers@rogerslowell.com
Jeff O’Neill Director of Special Events jeff@rogerslowell.com
Jacque Eakins Account Executive jacque@rogerslowell.com
Marni Rogers, IOM Member Relations Manager marni@rogerslowell.com
2. Provide Five-Star Customer Service, Retain and Gain New Members 3. Provide Value-Added Member Benefits 4. Develop a Plan to Become a Data-Driven Sales Team Read the
2020 Program of Work
Full Report
Over 600 Guests Came Together to Celebrate Accomplishments in 2019 on February 8 at the John Q. Hammons Convention Center (Now the Rogers Convention Center)
New Member Portal Launched a New and Improved Web Portal in January for Members to Access Self-Service Tools and Manage Accounts
Number of Members Contacted by Chamber Staff in 2020 (TWO ROUNDS IN MARCH AND MAY) to Check on Them and Offer Help and Assistance during COVID-19
$533,456
Total Value of Chamber Memberships at the end of 2020
MAR Visit Rogers was awarded Henry Award for Excellence in Arkansas Tourism at 46th Annual Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism; Executive Director J.R. Shaw won Tourism Person of the Year.
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10
2000+
MAR The Chamber finalized 2020-21 edition of The Good Life Destination Guide and shipped copies to state-wide welcome centers and other distribution points across Arkansas.
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TIMELINE: March 2020
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
56%
TOP REASONS MEMBERS JOINED THE CHAMBER Involvement/ 1. Community Increasing Visibility
163 & 2,052
Number of Businesses that Joined the Chamber in 2020 and Total Member Count at the end of 2020
5,004
Total Number of the Chamber’s Member Representatives at the end of 2020
The Largest Percentage of Businesses Who Joined in 2020 are Located in Rogers and Lowell vs Other Cities in NWA
Networking/ 2. New Business Connections
72%
Marketing/ Advertising/ Publicity Opportunities
3.
4.
Supporting the Chamber’s Mission/ Improving the Quality of Life in NWA
The Largest Percentage of Businesses Who Joined in 2020 are Located in Benton County vs Other Counties in NWA
100+
101
Number of MEMBER ENGAGEMENT CONTACTS by Member Engagement Committee in 2020 (52 Face to Face); the Remaining were Virtual Visits due to the Pandemic Health Guidelines
25 90% 2020
Number of Golfers Who Attended the Socially Distanced 4-Person Scramble September 21 at Shadow Valley Country Club
Number of Rogers Schools Visited during the Thank A Teacher Celebration Parade
(by Caravans of Members and Sponsors) to Welcome Teachers
and Administrators Back to Classrooms
Provided 78 BUSINESS-BUILDING NETWORKING EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES in 2020 which allowed members to GROW THEIR PROFESSIONAL NETWORKS and GENERATE BUSINESS LEADS.
Overall Member events 5 Retention Rate
MAR The Chamber launched comprehensive COVID-19 Resources Page on RogersLowell.com to assist businesses and employees in combating the coronavirus.
23
11
9
events
events
45
events
MAR The Chamber began a call campaign contacting over 2,000 members to check in and offer help and assistance as businesses were forced to shutdown due to COVID-19.
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TIMELINE: March 2020
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Our Marketing Communications division’s work impacts the Rogers-Lowell Area, Chamber members and partners, and the business community. They deliver easily accessible and up-to-date information about local businesses and our community by sharing stories about the Chamber’s mission, accomplishments, strategic programs and major events. They also help to unify communications and messaging into “one voice” for our community.
2020 Goals | Marketing Communications
Brad Phillips Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications brad@rogerslowell.com
1. Unify Strategic Communications and Messaging into “One Voice” to the Community
Justin Freeman Marketing Communications Specialist justin@rogerslowell.com
2. Monetize Chamber’s Digital Assets Suite to Generate Incremental Revenue 3. Advertise and Promote Chamber’s VisionMission-Core Values, Accomplishments, Strategic Programs, and Major Events (Trade and Cash)
Coronavirus Crisis Communications | “One Voice to the Community”
4. Grow Social Media and Interactions with Target Audiences (Customers, Members, Investors and Community) 5. Position Chamber as the “Voice of Business” by Informing Target Audiences with Timely and Relevant News and Information 6. Promote RogersLowell.com to Increase Traffic
From the Beginning of COVID-19 Health
Crisis, the Chamber Worked with Members, Partners, and the Community to Navigate through the Shutdown, Recovery, and Safe Reopening Phases
7. Deliver In-House Agency Design Expertise and Creative Production Services to Support Success of Each Chamber Division and Save Money for the Chamber
2020 Program of Work
In January, The Chamber Released its Newly Designed and Branded Website; at the end of the Year, 30% of New Member Sales Originated from the Website
Introduced to Members at the Annual Celebration of Business & Community in February with Videos
Full Report
APR The Chamber hosted U.S. Small Business Administration Regional Advocate Rhett Davis for a Regulatory Reform Forum to share how regulations impact small business.
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Launched New RogersLowell.com
NEW VISION, MISSION & CORE VALUES
Read the
02
Nick Smith Creative Services Director nick@rogerslowell.com
APR Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson announced proclamation requiring Arkansas Businesses to post sign at facility entrances regarding COVID-19 safety precautions; The Chamber distributed copies to members.
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TIMELINE: April 2020
APR T # s s s g t
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
Listening to Our Members
COVID-19 Resources Web Page
To focus our Time and Resources most Effectively during the Pandemic, the Chamber Surveyed Members in April Created to Provide Immediate to Learn Their Needs and Then Got to Business Assistance and Safety Work Delivering Help Guidelines to the Business Community
Open for Business
The Road to Recovery
Open for Business Playbook
Released Important Information in May and
PLAYBOOK
June to Prepare Our Members to Get Back
ESS YOUR BUSIN FOR REOPENING OF COVID -19 IN THE AGE
#WeMeanBusiness Campaign Launched in April to Showcase Our Members’ Creative Entrepreneurism in Social Media and Promote How to Do Business with Them
Chamber-to-Community Webinar Series This Back to Business NWA Themed Series (Live Sessions Recorded for On Demand Playback) Offered Webinars Designed for
to Work Safely While Approaching it with a
Launched in May to Help Prepare Businesses
Small Businesses, Entrepreneurs and NPOs on
Positive Attitude Instilling Hope, Inspiration
to Safely Serve Their Customers and
Topics Related to Resuming Operations and
and Community Togetherness
Accommodate Employees’ Needs
Recovering from COVID-19 Challenges
Publications Go Digital
This New Format Saved the Chamber Significant Printing and Postage Costs, Enabled Better Design Flexibility and Interactive Content and Added New Advertising Options for the Chamber Voice of Business newsletter and The Good Life Destination Guide
The Chamber launched #WeMeanBusiness social media campaign, sharing 100+ members’ stories and helping them gain business during the pandemic.
APR
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$66,000 Revenue Generated from the Chamber’s Digital Advertising Assets in 2020 (Digital Newsletter Ads, eNews Banner Ads, Website Banner Ads, Social Media Marketing Premium Packages and Digital Ad Packages in The Good Life Destination Guide)
The Chamber hosted its Spanish Webinar Series reviewing PPP and EIDL COVID-19 assistance programs for businesses in Spanish.
TIMELINE: April 2020
APR
17
The Chamber sent out member survey to plan for COVID-19 recovery period by receiving feedback from members on how to help alleviate their concerns and needs going forward.
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Our Accounting and Finance division prepares useful, relevant, and clear financial information and statements for the Chamber in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the U.S. Working with both internal customers and external partners, they provide the right data to the right people at the right time to facilitate our organizational success. They also support the human resource needs of the organization.
2020 Goals | Accounting & Finance
Vickie Grotts, IOM Vice President of Accounting & Finance vickie@rogerslowell.com
1. Provide Quality Financial Data; Understandable, Reliable, Relevant Financial Analysis and Reporting
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2. Influence Team Cohesiveness, Invigorating the Fabric of Our Organization
&
Delivered Three
Clean Audits
and Facilitated Submission of
6 Six Tax Returns
3. Maximize Benefits of Accrisoft Freedom (New Association Database Platform) 4. Complete Development of RDF – Community-Based Scholarship Program Management Software
1
Read the
Facilitated One
Annual IRS
& Form 5500 and
2020 Program of Work
5
Full Report
8
Five Annual Reports
New Hires & and Two Terminations in
Health Benefits
2
Managed Chamber’s Health Benefits Program and Facilitated 24 Immunizations
Processed Eight
Human Resources Role
MAY The Chamber and Visit Rogers partnered on a social media campaign to celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week and Economic Development Week in Arkansas by highlighting local businesses and how they impact Northwest Arkansas.
06
14
Loretta Gomez Finance Manager loretta@rogerslowell.com
TIMELINE: May 2020
MAY The Chamber celebrated and congratulated more than 1,100 high school students in Rogers with 44th Annual Academic Awards.
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
24,000
Transactions Processed for the Chamber’s Business in 2020
2&1&1
Facilitated TWO ANNUAL ARKANSAS CHARITABLE REGISTRATIONS, ONE ARKANSAS FRANCHISE TAX REPORT and ONE WORKER’S COMPENSATION AUDIT
17 & 9
Managed SEVENTEEN BANK ACCOUNTS and NINE INVESTMENT ACCOUNTS including the Chamber’s 401K
New Database Platform
Deployed New Accrisoft Freedom Database and Managed Existing Database for Backup during Transition Phase
Community-Based Scholarship Program
Developed, Deployed and Implemented New Website and Database to Help Better Manage and Administer Scholarships with Students and Donors
MAY The Chamber President/CEO Raymond Burns and Executive VP J.R. Shaw appeared on the Chamber Voice of Business Podcast to discuss how the Chamber provided resources to the community and members during the road to COVID-19 recovery.
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TIMELINE: May 2020
MAY The Chamber introduced Back to Business NWA Series of C2C (Chamber-to-Community) webinars focused on tips and strategies to help businesses recover and get back to operating safely during the pandemic.
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Our Customer Service division has a reputation of delivering excellent customer service to external and internal customers. They ensure cohesion within the Chamber and Community through effective communications, processes and procedures. In addition to supporting the Chamber’s goals, they help our visitors, members, new residents and board members get information they need to know.
2020 Goals | Customer Service
Katie Burns Vice President of Operations katie@rogerslowell.com
Ashley Matsumura Customer Relations Manager ashley@rogerslowell.com
1. Define Roles and Duties as Head of Operations as it Pertains to Internal Customer Service 2. Provide Excellent External Customer Service Read the
2020 Program of Work
Full Report
Safety and Recycling
Implemented a New Disinfecting System and Recycling Program for the Chamber’s Office
5-Star Customer Service Kept the Office Open Safely (Even When the Front Lobby Closed) and Provided a High Level of Service by Helping the Community with Essential Information, Resources and Encouragement during the Pandemic
Member Outreach
PPE Help
Helped Chamber’s Members and Partners by Creating and Contacted Hundreds of Distributing a List of Personal Members via Personal Phone Protection Equipment (PPE) Calls to Check on Them during Available from Suppliers the Pandemic
JUN The Chamber introduced its Back to Business NWA Marketing Kit special social media promotional package for members, offering affordable advertising to help businesses gain traction and make up for lost revenue.
JUN The Chamber launched Open for Business Playbook, providing specific measures and essential information for business categories to aid in a safe, thoughtful reopening for members.
03
03
ness
usi Open for B OK PLAYBO
16
SS BUSINE YOUR -19 COVID PENING FOR REO IN THE AGE OF
TIMELINE: June 2020
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
Opening Doors to Higher Education
Led the Development of the Community-Based Scholarship Program’s New Website and Database to Better Connect Community Partners, Students and Donors Check Out the Website:
www.RogersScholarships.com
JUN The Chamber hosted modified version of Annual Chamber Picnic with COVID-19 safety precautions, thanking members and community partners for their support with food and drinks.
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TIMELINE: June 2020
JUN The Chamber announced partnership with U.S. Chamber of Commerce on a national initiative to address inequality of opportunity and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts.
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The Voice of Business
We’re bringing in the new year as the premiere advocacy organization for business and we take our leadership role of being the Keeper of the Community Vision and Voice of Business seriously.
Chamber Voice of Business Blog
This online channel connects you to relevant and compelling content from subject matter experts (SMEs) across Northwest Arkansas. Chamber team and guest writers deliver information related to their professional expertise on a variety of topics. We welcome your ideas for feature blog articles.
ROGERSLOWELL.COM/BLOG/
Chamber Voice of Business Podcast
Listen to episodes of our podcast while you’re on the go. It covers topics of regional and statewide interest, current events, and legislative events as well as interviews with community leaders, elected officials, newsmakers, community/economic developers and more.
Chamber Voice of Business Newsletter
Our monthly printed newsletter tells the stories you really need to know about the Chamber’s mission, news, programming, members, and community partners. Features include regular sections like the Small Business Corner, Focus on Community, Focus on Industry, Focus on Small Business, and Workforce Development along with a list of new members, ribbon cutting photos and a Quick Reference Calendar for upcoming events
ISSUU.COM/RLACC
Chamber Voice of Business Video
Catch up quickly on the Chamber’s news stories by watching online videos delivered in three categories: mission-based focus areas, Chamber events coverage and member spotlights/testimonials.
YOUTUBE.COM/USER/ROGERSLOWELLCHAMBER
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Our Government Affairs & Advocacy division serves as the link between members and local, state and federal government by advocating for pro-business and quality of life issues that are important to Northwest Arkansas. They also engage in activities that produce long-term positive impacts including voter registration and education, engagement of members in the political process and continuously improved outreach efforts.
2020 Goals | Government Affairs & Advocacy 1. Change the Political Paradigm in Northwest Arkansas
Jon Moran Senior Vice President of Government Affairs jon@rogerslowell.com
2. Develop the 2021 Northwest Arkansas Regional Legislative Agenda 3. Work with Governor Hutchinson to lead the NWA Regional Business community effort for successful passage of increased highway funding that will benefit the growth of both the state and region. This will appear as Issue 1 on the ballot in November. Read the
2020 Program of Work
Full Report
2020 General Election Support
Created to Offer an Affordable, Searchable, Delivered Strategic Advice and Consulting to Voter Target Tool for Future Local and Legislative Political Candidates and Candidates Election Officials
15,000
Arkansas Ready for Business Grant Helped Rogers Businesses Maneuver
Views on Facebook of Virtual Candidate Forums for Legislative Races
Applications through Legislative Process for Funds
JUL City of Rogers launched #KeepRogersSafe campaign and passed mask ordinance requiring the use of facial coverings according to Arkansas Department of Health guidelines to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
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20
Voter Database Development
TIMELINE: July 2020
JUL The Chamber awarded 20192020 Educators of the Year, honoring Rogers Public Schools educators for their excellence in education which it has done for more than 35 years.
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
ADVOCACY & OUTREACH
The role of the Advocacy and Government Affairs division at the Chamber is to bring focus to issues that can have a positive influence on business as well as those that may be costly and unfriendly. Sign up to receive weekly Legislative Updates on activities and issues
Advocacy for Issue One
Pre-Election Campaign Helped Pass Issue with
occurring in Little Rock and Washington D.C. that impact on your business. Attend a monthly Government Affairs Committee meeting to hear updates on policy and legislation and discuss government-related issues affecting our region. Read the monthly Chamber Voice of Business newsletter articles and follow us on Twitter and Facebook to receive breaking news, updates on legislative activities, and calls to action.
57% of the Benton County Vote
? Redistricting Committee
Formed to Examine the Redistricting Process and Priorities for the Region
NWA Political Leadership Institute Began Process of Organizing for Classes to Start in 2021
JUL Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders hosted Ready, Set, Run! virtually, a three-part series that brought experts and veteran politicians together to discuss the essentials of running for office.
21
JUL The Chamber began 2020 Virtual Rogers Cycling Festival, a 22-day long opportunity to explore the beautiful trails in Northwest Arkansas with proceeds benefiting nonprofit cycling causes in the area.
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TIMELINE: July 2020
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Programs in our Community Development division impact and enhance the quality of life in Rogers, Lowell and the region. They are committed to expanding our diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to better welcome the growing number of residents, workers, and visitors from all backgrounds. They also support educational programs and help develop our leaders for the future.
2020 Goals | Community Development 1. Impart Best Practices on Current and Future Business and Community Leaders to Positively Impact our Region
Ross Phillips Senior Vice President of Community Development ross@rogerslowell.com
Geovanny Sarmiento Vice President of Community Engagement & Inclusion geovanny@rogerslowell.com
2. Ensure Future and Current Leaders Represent the Entire Community 3. Increase Member Engagement with Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL) 4. Increase awareness of the 2020 Census and the 2020 Election 5. Serve as the Welcoming Coordinator for the City of Rogers Help coordinate an educational/outreach program for the 2020 Census
Launched New Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Training
Hosted FOUR PROGRAMS for Small-to-Medium Businesses (SMBs) as part of the LENS SERIES
1500
6. Increase Minority Small Business Membership 7. Improve Graduation Rates for Minority Students 8. Develop and Implement a Lowell Community Strategy and Contract for Services Read the
2020 Program of Work
Full Report
TRUE Northwest Arkansas TRAIN Program Selected along with 20 other Organizations to Build Leaders for DEI
AUG State officials published a 20-page “Healthy School Guide” to help return hundreds of thousands of students, teachers and staff to more than 1,000 school facilities August 24 “in the healthiest way possible.”
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Individuals Reached by Hosting 23 Webinars and Trainings Focused on Leadership Development, Personal and Professional Growth and Philanthropic Opportunities
AUG The Chamber presented modified version of Annual Thank-a-Teacher Celebration, converting it into a socially distanced parade where staff drove by schools in caravans and gave away prizes to teachers to thank them for all they do.
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TIMELINE: August 2020
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
197
50
25,000
Number of People Reached in the
#ListenNWA Social Media Campaign Highlighting Stories from the Region’s Minorities – Posts had over 8,500 Engagements
NUMBER OF YOUNG
NUMBER OF YOUNG LEADERS
PROFESSIONALS WELCOMED as
GRADUATING from the
New Members of the Northwest
Leadership Benton County and
Arkansas Emerging Leaders
Arvest First Leadership Programs
(NWAEL) Program
$351,868.54
Total amount of Community-Based Scholarships provided to 175 Students with the Support of 68 Donors
200
120
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS in the Spanish Seminar Series “How to Start A Business in Arkansas”
Number of Minority Entrepreneurs that Received Guidance and Assistance
Nonprofit Volunteer Database Created by NWAEL to Help
Showcase Volunteer Opportunities in the Region
98% Overall Response Rate for the
City of Rogers 2020 Census Count Achieved by Community Outreach Efforts that also Yielded a 72% Self Response Rate
AUG Northwest Arkansas Business Journal announced 2020 Forty Under 40 Class, featuring several Chamber members among the honorees.
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COVID-19 Minority Community Outreach Outreach Helped Slow the Disproportionate Positive Cases among Minority Communities
AUG Annual Walmart NW Arkansas Championship LPGA tournament held in Rogers without spectators; Austin Ernst won grand prize; event partners contributed more than $180,000 to local organizations.
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TIMELINE: August 2020
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 New job creation and business expansion impact businesses by creating meaningful opportunities to sell goods and services to new businesses and residents. Our Economic Development division works with industries both large and small to increase job growth and business expansion. They also work with individuals to support and increase our growing small business community.
2020 Goals | Economic Development
$120 Million
Steve Cox Senior Vice President of Economic Development steve@rogerslowell.com
1. Be a Business-friendly Community focused on Business Growth and Commercial Development in Rogers and Lowell 2. Invigorate Commercial Development in Lowell
Value of Investment for
Pinnacle Village in Uptown at
3. Create Workforce Development Opportunities in Our Community 4. Engage the Small Business Community 5. Engage Minority Communities within Northwest Arkansas with Programs and Offerings 6. Continue to Create Quality of Place Initiatives to Attract a Diverse, First-Class Workforce
Groundbreaking in 2020
600+ 70%
APARTMENT UNITS UNDER CONSTRUCTION at Year-End for Opening in 2021
Read the
PERCENTAGE OF JOBS RECOVERED
as of November 2020 due to Jobs Lost to COVID-19
2020 Program of Work
Full Report
$20,578,554.71 $200 Million TOTAL SALES TAX COLLECTIONS in 2020, an Increase of 1.5% over 2019
SEP The Chamber and Visit Rogers honored Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to reflect on the history, culture, contributions and accomplishments of Hispanic Americans, by meeting with Hispanic leaders in the community and highlighting how they celebrated the month with a social media campaign.
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24
The Value in Private Capital Investment (65
LARGE-SCALE PROJECTS) at Year-End in Rogers SEP
15, 16, & 21
TIMELINE: September 2020
The Chamber’s Government Affairs Division hosted Legislative Candidate Forums live on Facebook featuring candidates running for races in Benton County, which were recorded and published on the Chamber Voice of Business Podcast.
600
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
Number of Businesses Assisted Seeking Resources and Guidance from the Chamber
HIGH
Launch Your Future
8.2%
Helped Rogers Public Schools Rebrand and Launch its New Career & Technical Education (CTE) Program
COVID-19 Business Resources
LOW
4.1%
Provided Essential Information and Resources via RogersLowell.com Web Page
Unemployment in Rogers Peaked at 8.2% in April and fell to 4.1% as of November 2020
Small Business & Entrepreneur Tools
Launched Chamber Tutorial Videos, Online Small Business Toolkit, and digital Entrepreneur’s Guide
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT...
Walmart AMP Completed its $17.2 Million Expansion A Year Ahead of Schedule
Topgolf Opened in Rogers
SEP
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Hustle In Heels – LADIES LEAD NWA hosted a Dream BIG luncheon at the Supply Chain Hall of Fame at Northgate Plaza in Rogers, teaching participants about personal branding and getting ahead in their career.
Transplace was on Track to Open its New Regional Operations Center in 2021
Independence Plaza in Lowell began Groundwork for its Phase One Opening Summer 2021
SEP
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Groundbreaking was held for Promenade Commons in Uptown
The Chamber’s Spanish Seminar Series featured Empezando un Negocio en Arkansas – Starting a Business in Arkansas – teaching essential startup steps and more in Spanish to those interested in starting a business.
TIMELINE: September 2020
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Our Downtown Development division is the primary point-of-contact for economic development in Downtown Rogers and provides resources and help implementing the Downtown Rogers Initiative Plan. They focus on increasing the number of businesses, employees, and residential properties in the downtown core. They also cultivate strong relations with existing businesses and government entities, identifying opportunities to activate underutilized properties, connecting potential partnerships and facilitating business relations to maximize resources for downtown and the surrounding community.
2020 Goals | Downtown Development 1.
Karen Wagaman Vice President of Downtown Development karen@rogerslowell.com
Increase Multi-Family/Mixed-Use Residential Development Downtown Rogers
2. Attract Supplier, Professional Services and Light Manufacturing Employers and Jobs to Downtown Rogers
The Chamber Participated in Planning Phases of the Alley Renovation and Activation for Downtown Rogers
3. Establish the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce as the Primary Point-of-Contactfor doing business in Downtown Rogers
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4. Connect All Activities to the Mission of Economic Development and the Master Plan with at Least Six Public Announcements 5. Showcase Why Downtown Rogers is an Ideal Place to Conduct Business, Raise a Family and Enjoy Quality of Life Amenities and Activities 6. Develop and Promote Downtown Rogers as a Destination Location for Arts, Music and Other Experiences 7. Build Community Value through Effective Activation of Under-Utilized Properties Read the
2020 Program of Work
Full Report
Presented by |
Happening October 1-31, 2020 | You Can Still Register!
The NWA Employment Showcase is a newly revamped event replacing the 2020 NWA Fall Job Fair. An engaging, online format improves upon the existing job fair format by taking it online and showcasing available jobs and careers in our region for the entire month of October.
Employers
Number of New Businesses Opened in Downtown Rogers in 2020
Chamber-to-Community Webinars Responded to the Information Needs of Small Businesses by Delivering 20 C2C Back to Business Webinars on Essential Topics
OCT The Chamber launched the NWA Employment Showcase, a revamped event replacing the 2020 NWA Fall Job Fair, where employers submitted online job openings with videos and other media on a custom web page for the entire month.
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Downtown Planning
OCT Visit Rogers awarded with ConventionSouth Annual Readers Choice Award for the second time, which honors Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) that provide exemplary service for group events.
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Hosted at RogersLowell.com, participating businesses can submit a custom video describing available positions, company culture, ideal candidates, and other relevant information, or post a pre-recorded Zoom interview about the positions with Chamber staff (for a small additional fee).
Webspaces • Showcase your company’s recruitment video (up to 60 seconds). • Feature a short blurb about your company's work culture, jobs available, and other supporting information for job seekers. • Link to your company's job listings on your website, or a direct link to an application website such as indeed.com or linkedin.com.
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Job Seekers The online NWA Employment Showcase will provide job seekers direct links to job postings for quick and easy access. They will also be able to learn about dozens of career opportunities and unique companies in our area all on one easy-to-navigate web page format.
TIMELINE: October 2020
OC
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
404 120+ NUMBER OF JOBS CREATED in Downtown Rogers for the Professional Services Segment
NUMBER OF LOCAL ARTISTS who Engaged in the
NUMBER OF STORIES FEATURING AND Art on the Bricks Art Walk in 2020 PROMOTING DOWNTOWN (Virtual Event from April BUSINESSES in the Chamber through December)
Arts & Entertainment Destination
Voice of Business newsletter in 2020
#ShopNWA Support Local
Showcased the Local “Creative Economy” by Highlighting Downtown Rogers Arts & Entertainment Activities in Press Collaborated with DTR, Inc. and Visit Rogers to Launch the Releases to Media Shop Local Campaign with Downtown Rogers Merchants
CT The Chamber selected to be a part of TRAIN Cohort 2020, a TRUE Northwest Arkansas Initiative that seeks to build early leaders for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) work in the region.
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OCT Arkansas Governor Asa OCT Hutchinson proclaimed the week of October 19-23 as Chamber of Commerce Week in Arkansas; the Chamber participated in social media campaign to highlight how and Chamber AnnouncestoNew Virtual Halloween Parade why a chamber is important Friday, October 30, 2020 the success of a community.
19
30
Title Sponsor
5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. | Little Kids program 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. | Big Kids program
Applications are due by October 16, 2020* *Please note this deadline is based on availability. Applications will no longer be accepted once the virtual parade is at capacity due to time constraints. We encourage you to apply early as this is a new type of event, we cannot anticipate the application response rate.
Downtown Rogers Inc. and the Chamber hosted first-ever DTR Halloween Presentation via social media, sharing spooky videos from the community.
Join us for this spooktacular new event - the 1st Virtual Halloween Parade. Engage in the thrill of Halloween with the community. Show Rogers and surrounding areas some fun entertainment that can be shared again and again fooooreeever (insert evil laugh) Ha Ha Ha HA!
There is ample eternal opportunity for exposure to a diverse audience during both our children’s hour presentation and big kid presentation that freaky Friday evening. Support public programming, gather your team, family or friends (six feet apart of course), throw on your scariest or funniest costumes and send us your festive videos!
TIMELINE: October 2020
Click this ad to read rules, regulations, and unit descriptions. The DTR Virtual Halloween Parade Presentation will take place on Downtown Rogers Inc.'s Facebook Live.
www.facebook.com/DowntownrogersInc
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Downtown Rogers (DTR), Inc. creates experiences designed to bring our community together in the downtown district to celebrate the past and embrace the future. They work hard to make downtown a destination where people can explore our historic brick streets and buildings and enjoy fun, recreational activities. It’s all about uniting the downtown area’s unique mix of creatives, artisans, cuisine, and entertainment.
Shey Bland Executive Director | Downtown Rogers, Inc. shey@rogerslowell.com
2020 Goals | Downtown Rogers, Inc. 1. Position Chamber/DTR Inc. as the Go-To Source for What’s Happening in Downtown Rogers 2. DTR is Where You Want to Be 3. Gain Stronger Support from the Community for Program Funding 4. Develop and Sustain the DTR Market 5. Bringing People Together Downtown through Food and Music 6. Making DTR a Northwest Arkansas Holiday Destination
Ike Reichenbach DTR Market Manager | Downtown Rogers, Inc. ike@rogerslowell.com
Sheree Barnes Operations Manager | Downtown Rogers, Inc. sheree@rogerslowell.com
Read the
2020 Program of Work
Full Report
16,000
Total Number of Social Media Followers at the end of 2020 for DTR, Inc. and DTR Market
What’sGood App
The DTR Market Launched its New App Repositioning the
Farmers Market to Help Customers Shop Online and Pickup Orders Safely at the Market Each Saturday
NOV Election Day held in the United States, The Chamber released its voting guide with helpful links on candidates and issues for the General Election.
03
28
NOV NWA Young Professional (YP) Summit held its 5th annual event virtually with the theme Agents of Change through partnership with Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders and Rotary Clubs of NWA.
11
TIMELINE: November 2020
NOV Hustle In He LEAD NWA h Women in Pu Forum, teach about a care service and support and women in pu
12
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
8,300
TOTAL NUMBER OF PEOPLE REACHED IN SOCIAL MEDIA for Live Coverage and Replays of New Virtual Formats for the Halloween Community Celebration (DTR Halloween Presentation) and Christmas Parade (DTR Christmas Special)
Community Partnerships Partnered with FOOD LOOPS (Residential Compost)
and SEEDS THAT FEED (Donating Unsold Produce to Local Food Banks)
Serving Community Needs
The DTR Market Provided Access to Local Foods for Customers Who Depend upon WIC, SFMNP and SNAP Programs
eels – LADIES hosted the ublic Service hing participants eer in public how to engage, d encourage ublic service.
159
Total Responses from the Community for the Frisco Festival Survey to Get Feedback and Ideas for the Future Frisco Festival being Held in the New Railyard Park in 2021
NOV Chamber, Visit Rogers and Downtown Rogers Inc. unveiled #ShopNWA campaign on social media to promote shopping locally and supporting small businesses during the holidays.
19
TIMELINE: November 2020
NOV Chamber SVP of Community Development Ross Phillips selected to 2020 40 Under 40 class by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE).
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2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021 Visit Rogers creates economic opportunity for our community by attracting meetings, conventions, tournaments, events and leisure visitors to the city of Rogers and Northwest Arkansas. Overseen by the Rogers Advertising and Promotion Commission, Visit Rogers is our Destination Marketing Organization responsible for marketing the city to visitors.
2020 Goals | Visit Rogers 1. Market Rogers as a Premier Destination for Leisure Travelers, Conventions and Sporting Events 2. Promote Rogers as a World-Class Destination through Digital, Print, and Social Media Marketing Strategies 3. Promote Rogers as a World-Class Destination through Public Relations and Media Campaigns 4. Provide Incentives and Services to Existing and Potential Customers that Ensure Successful Events and Enhance Return Business Opportunities
J.R. Shaw, IOM Executive Director/Executive Vice President | Visit Rogers jr@rogerslowell.com
Kelly Parker, TMP Marketing Communications Manager | Visit Rogers kelly@rogerslowell.com
Luke Wiggins Meetings & Conventions Sales Manager | Visit Rogers luke@rogerslowell.com
Ronnie Webb, Jr. Destination Sales Manager | Visit Rogers ronnie@rogerslowell.com
Luz Palmerin Sales & Marketing Coordinator | Visit Rogers luz@rogerslowell.com
5. Provide Destination Marketing Excellence to Rogers and the Northwest Arkansas Community 6. Support Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce Goals and Objectives Read the
2020 Program of Work
Full Report
DEC Artists Octavio Logo, Mantra and Lakwena completed artwork project on the water towers for the new Railyard Park development in Downtown Rogers.
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DEC The Arkansas Economic Developers and Chamber Executives (AEDCE) highlighted Chamber VP of Community Engagement & Inclusion Geovanny Sarmiento and the work he does to enhance Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts and police relations among the minority community in our region.
D
01
TIMELINE: December 2020
0 DTR
Christma
A Resilient Brand
In-State Television Kept the Visit Rogers brand alive despite 52.41% Co-Op Loss in Total Revenue in 2020 by Serving Partners, Campaign
Communicating with Stakeholders Frequently, and Continuing to Sell and Market Rogers
25,686
Number of Future Room Nights Booked for Rogers Hotels in 2020
Advocacy for the Hospitality Community
as
Created Two Commercials for the AR Tourism Campaign Targeting Northwest Arkansas and Central Arkansas Markets
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Celebrated by Profiling Rogers Hispanic Businesses and Communities
Visit Rogers was at the Forefront of Advocacy in 2020 Meeting with Governor Hutchinson and Secretary Hurst, Communicating with Legislators, and in Social Media and Website from Distributing Essential Information Supporting Dedicated Industry Relief Funding mid-September to mid-October
DEC Downtown Rogers Inc. and the Chamber presented the DTR Christmas Special, featuring local festive videos made by the community via social media.
04
2020 Annual Report | FEBRUARY2021
DEC The Chamber introduced 2021 Entrepreneur’s Guide, featuring resources, services and opportunities for small business development.
24
TIMELINE: December 2020
DEC The Chamber worked with its Small Business Council to conduct 2020 Small Business Needs Survey focusing on identifying needs of Chamber member businesses that employ less than 100 people.
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