FEBRUARY 2024 | Vol. 19 Issue 2
ANNUAL REPORT
2 02 3
What’s INSIDE This Issue? 05����������� Vision & Mission Statements 06����������� 2023 Strategic Goals 08����������� Goals & Key Focus Areas 09����������� Mission 5 Breakdown 10������������ Executive Committee & Board of Directors
04
12������������ Chamber Core Values Letter from the Chair
14 ����������� Member Services Division Highlights 16������������ Marketing Communications Division Highlights 18������������ Accounting & Finance Division Highlights 20 ���������� Customer Service Division Highlights 22 ���������� Government Affairs Division Highlights 24 ���������� Community Development Division Highlights 26����������� Economic Development Division Highlights
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28����������� Downtown Development Division Highlights 2023 Regional Recognition
30����������� Destination Marketing & Management Division Highlights
317 West Walnut Street Rogers, Arkansas 72756 P: (479) 636-1240 F: (479) 636-5485
Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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CHAMBER STAFF J.R. Shaw, IOM
Raymond Burns, CCE
Ross Phillips, IOM
President/CEO
Chief Operating Officer
Executive Director/ Executive Vice President | DESTINATION Rogers
rburns@rogerslowell.com
ross@rogerslowell.com
jr@rogerslowell.com
Shelle Summers, IOM
Vickie Grotts, IOM
Steve Cox, IOM
Senior Vice President of Member Services
Senior Vice President of Accounting & Finance
Senior Vice President of Economic Development
ssummers@rogerslowell.com
vickie@rogerslowell.com
steve@rogerslowell.com
Brad Phillips
Geovanny Sarmiento
Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications
Senior Vice President of Community Engagement
Vice President of Operations
brad@rogerslowell.com
geovanny@rogerslowell.com
katie@rogerslowell.com
Karen Wagaman
Sara Lynn Geiger
Vice President of Downtown Development
Vice President of Government Affairs
Creative Services Director
karen@rogerslowell.com
sara@rogerslowell.com
nick@rogerslowell.com
Luke Wiggins, TMP
Katie Burns
Nick Smith
Skylar Rutherford
Maggie Matuschka
Director of Sales | DESTINATION Rogers
Special Events DIRECTOR
Marketing Communications Manager
luke@rogerslowell.com
Maggie@rogerslowell.com
skylar@rogerslowell.com
Marni Rogers, IOM
Lorraine Ducharme
Susana Silva
Finance Manager
Senior Director of Member Relations and Database Administration
lorraine@rogerslowell.com
marni@rogerslowell.com
Account Executive Susana@rogerslowell.com
Nyasha Bgoni
Dane Clark
Samantha Rojas
Marketing Communications Manager
Sales & Services MANAGER | DESTINATION Rogers
Sales & Services Manager | Destination Rogers
Nyasha@rogerslowell.com
dane@rogerslowell.com
Samantha@rogerslowell.com
Meredith Alvarez
Sherry Banning
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER
Customer Relations Specialist
meredith@rogerslowell.com
SHERRY@rogerslowell.com
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A LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN 2023 was an exciting time to be a part of the Rogers Lowell Chamber. It was the first year of our Vision/NEXT 3-Year Strategic Plan, the forwardthinking initiative that’s inspiring us to imagine the next 100 years for our community and to re-imagine the Chamber ensuring a future where we continue to be: • Relevant to the next generation (NextGen) of servant leaders so we attract and activate them with both the Chamber and our community. • Competent in an era of rapid change, so we remain necessary by solving important business and community challenges with our mission-work. • Sustainable with our long-term funding from our customers, members, and investors so we may continue to build upon the solid foundation we created in the last 100 years.
Vision/NEXT inspired innovation and change last year including our new brand identity, a new emphasis on outreach to future leaders, and a new communications platform that streamlined communications enabling us to better tell the Chamber’s missionwork stories in a brevity format. We successfully raised the bar on our communications with you and challenged ourselves to share only what’s vital and worthy of your time and attention. • Future ready: As a result, we are positioned better for the future and our momentum growing with more exciting innovation and change on the way over the next couple of years.
Serving Business & Community Together: For 100 years, generations of business and community leaders have helped the Chamber build a strong reputation of being influencers for responsible growth, catalysts for positive change, and conveners of the community to facilitate collaborative solutions. Our brand messaging is built upon this. • Our brand promise: “Passionate people serving together to create a thriving community for all” is the single most important thing that the Chamber promises to deliver to our members, customers, partners, and investors. It’s what they expect from every interaction with us. It inspired our new tagline: “Serving Business & Community Together.”
Mission-work making a big impact: Your investment in our mission-work impacts not only the success of your business but also the community’s quality of life. It helps sustain our momentum for the next 100 years in these key focus areas called the Mission 5. • Advocacy & Government Affairs (advocating for business-driven public policy that positively impacts businesses of all sizes). • Community Development (activating leaders and delivering programs that build a cohesive and welcoming community). • Destination Marketing & Management (attracting visitors and promoting our world-class destination). • Economic Development (developing the next generation workforce pipeline and fostering sustainable growth downtown). • Small Business and Entrepreneurial Development (curating resources and educational opportunities and opening the doors to new connections for small businesses to succeed).
The year at-a-glance: Here are some highlights and accomplishments from last year: • The Rogers Lowell Chamber launched its new, vibrant, and modern brand identity and tagline “Serving Business & Community Together” developed with feedback from legacy members, partners, investors, and future business and community leaders. • In workforce development, over 4,000 students were exposed to indemand careers through the Chamber’s programming in 2023. • Over $800 million in private capital investment was announced in Rogers last year including Mercy, USL Soccer, Pinnacle Springs (Whole Foods), and UAMS. • Rogers had collected $29 million in sales taxes at the end of year, an increase of 8% over last year. • In Rogers-Lowell, 1,600 jobs were created in 2023, representing 5% growth over 2022. • The unemployment rate in Rogers at the end of the year was 2%, down from 2.5%. • Downtown Rogers had 11 new employers open with 28 employees in the supplier, professional and light industrial sectors; staff helped to attract investments such as large-scale developments in Mixed-Use and Single/Multi-Family Residential development. • Community Development outreach by our staff yielded 26 new minority Chamber memberships; they helped 150 minority entrepreneurs with business resources, and 30 with mentorship services. • Destination Rogers efforts helped 2023 room tax revenue surge to over $1.65 million, an increase of 12% over 2022; the division also rebranded and launched a refreshed website. • Chamber Membership grew by 245 businesses, for a total of 1,969 member businesses in 2023.
Dig deeper: In this Annual Report, you’ll learn more about our 2023 accomplishments and highlights. I encourage you to review it and explore how you can engage with us this year as we continue working together to create a cohesive and connected community where people are excited to visit, live, invest, work, and play.
One more thing: Remember to purchase your tickets for the Annual Celebration of Business & Community. This year we’re featuring a brand-new luncheon format from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 7 at the Rogers Convention Center. Looking forward to seeing you there!
Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Mike Power
2023 Chairman of the Board Chief Operating Officer, Benton County at First Security Bank
4
Vision Statement
The center of world-class business, welcoming communities, and opportunities for all.
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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3-Year Plan
Downtown Development2 STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS1
Infrastructure for Business & CommunitY Growth3
Small Business Resources, Education & Promotion10
Government Relations & Partnerships4
Business & Community Outreach9
Tourism Economic Impact5
NextGen Leaders Outreach8
WORKFORCE Third DEVELOPMENT6 SPacemaking Initiatives Supporting Quality of Life7
Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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1) Position the Chamber to a New Generation by Communicating Effectively & Telling our Chamber’s Stories
6) Talent Acquisition, Career Pathways & Attainable Housing 7) Promote 3rd Space & Attractions/Amenities
2) Business Attraction, Job Creation, Residential Multi-Family & Mixed-Use 8) Define Pathway into Chamber Leadership & Community Service, 3) Support Roads, Parking, Public Attract & Activate Transportation, Water, Sewer, 9) Increase Diverse Representation & Internet & Education Promote Engagement 4) Build Trust and Engagement with 10) Curate Content and Essential Legislators/Public Officials & Resources for Starting, Running & Represent Voice of Business Growing Business 5) Generate Tourism Revenue with Destination Sales & Marketing
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2023 Strategic Goals for Divisional Program of Work
Strategic Goal
Why It’s Important
(Ten Goals for 2023 Program of Work)
STRATEGIC • Busy, Smart Professionals Expect Engaging Content Delivered Efficiently Helps Chamber Cut through Noise to Get People to Pay Attention to What Matters COMMUNICATIONS •• Brevity Optimized Communications Increases Transparency, Boosts Engagement and Builds Trust • Telling the Chamber's Mission Stories is More Effective Despite Shrinking Attention Spans
WORKFORCE • Trains NextGen Workforce & Builds Pipelines Skills Gaps Between Employers & Education DEVELOPMENT •• Closes Helps Businesses Fill Open Positions Quickly to Innovate, Compete & Grow • Creates Career Pathways & Opportunities for All
DOWNTOWN • Attracting Investment Increases Density for Commercial & Residential Properties Living and Working Downtown Create Vibrant Community DEVELOPMENT •• People Third Space Experiences Redefine Downtown as a Destination • Adequate Infrastructure Helps Downtown Grow & Prosper
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS • Builds & Sustains Trusting Relationships that Increase Engagement Chamber a Seat at the Table with Decision-Makers & PARTNERSHIPS •• Gets Accomplishes Outcomes Benefitting Business & Community • Helps Chamber Fulfill Mission-Work & Engage Members with Legislators
TOURISM • Increases Revenue for Leisure & Hospitality Industry a Return on Investment from Destination Marketing Spend ECONOMIC IMPACT •• Generates Drives Quality of Place Initiatives for the Destination • Champions & Sustains Destination's Quality of Life
NEXTGEN OUTREACH • Defines Pathway to Chamber Engagement & Leadership (Millennial and Gen Z)
• New Programming & Events Increases Activation with Chamber • Ensures Chamber & Community Remain Relevant • Builds Pipeline for Future Business & Community Leaders
MINORITY OUTREACH • Spirit of Inclusivity Ensures All Voices & Opinions are Heard (Business & Community)
• Increases Chamber Engagement with Minority-Owned Businesses • Improves Diverse Representation • Creates a Welcoming Community & Opportunities for All
NEW BRAND LAUNCH • New Identity Better Positions the Chamber for the Future
• New Destination Rogers Identity Positions Rogers as a Destination to Visit, Live, Work, Invest & Play • New Chamber Brand Promise (Tagline) Speaks to Long-Term Meaning of our Branded House • Transitioning New Brand to All Touchpoints Create a New Image Starting with the Chamber's Office
CENTER OF • Vital to Helping Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs Start, Run & Grow Business Value for Chamber Membership SMALL BUSINESS •• Creates Delivers Relevant Education and Professional Development Opportunities
(Resources, Education & Promotion)
• Enables Small Businesses to Increase Visibility and Awareness in the Community
CHAMBER FUNDING • New Revenue Sources Help Sustain Funding for the Chamber's Mission 5 Work
• New Membership Dues Structure Generates Incremental Revenue Growth • Accountability for Budget Performance Helps Leadership Achieve Financial Goals • Accurate & Transparent Financial Analysis & Reporting Ensures Fiscal Oversight
Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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ADVOCACY & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS • Serves as the regional link between business and government by defining legislative priorities that help our local economy grow. • Ensures the voice of business is heard and represented on local, state and national legislative policy issues. • Advocates for business-driven policy that impacts businesses of all sizes (taxation, regulation, infrastructure, etc.). • Engages the community in the political process including registering to vote, contacting legislators, hosting educational forums and organizing Calls to Action. • Influences long-term prosperity and quality of life for our region.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT • Activates the next generation leaders with programs to prepare them for the challenges and opportunities facing our region. • Delivers unique programming that builds a vibrant, cohesive community, that embraces togetherness and welcomes all. • Champions Social Equity & Innovation (SEI) initiativesthat are sources of competitive advantage for business and our region. • Engages local education and healthcare leaders to address issues affecting our quality of life. • Convenes the minority community to listen, help bridge gaps and create a place where everybody feels safe and valued.
DESTINATION MARKETING & MANAGEMENT • Markets our vibrant area to leisure, meetings, sports and relocation markets generating tourism revenue that funds investment in building the destination’s strength and quality of place. • Activates quality experiences for both visitors and residents. • Champions destination stewardship by balancing responsible economic development, sustainable tourism and quality of life. • Aligns the community by building public support around a shared destination vision and keeps the community and marketplace engagement fresh and relevant. • Defines and promotes Rogers as an arts and entertainment destination in the region.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT • Creates a pro-business, pro-growth economic environment to attract new business and help businesses of all sizes to prosper. • Works with industries both large and small to create jobs and increase business expansion. • Provides development resources and assistance with state tax incentives, site selection, economic data and marketing research insights. • Develops talent pipelines by assessing skills gaps and filling them by connecting educators with industries to ensure skills taught align with the current and future workforce needs of our community. • Drives increased sales tax collections that fund quality of place amenities that influence retention of employers and their employees in the region. • Provides resources and support for implementing the Downtown Rogers Initiative Plan designed to prepare downtown for sustainable growth.
SMALL BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT • Provides essential resources and just in time education to help start, run and grow small business. • Opens the door to new connections for small business to succeed. • Engages the Small Business Council that serves as the voice of small business to guide support and programming. • Partners with organizations that are invaluable resources for small business and entrepreneurial startups. • Advocates for small business and offers opportunitiesto influence civic, social and economic initiatives supporting growth. • Offers a variety of affordable advertising and sponsorship opportunities to increase visibility and awareness.
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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chairman of the Board
Mike Power First Security Bank
Chairman-Elect
Treasurer
Past Chairman
Tom Allen Cushman & Wakefield | Sage Partners
Michael Parker Nabholz
Erin Kiefer Assembled Products
Member-at-Large
Josh Vasquez Generations Bank
President/CEO
Raymond Burns, CCE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2023 Directors
2024 Directors
2025 Directors
Kristen Boozman, Portfolio Sotheby’s
Bruce Barkley, KHBS/KHOG Eric Pianalto, Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas Gaven Smith, J.B. Hunt Transportation, Inc. Stennett Thompkins, AAA Insurance Brandy Tuft*, Forvis Josh VasquezCD, Encore Bank
Brent Massey, CEI Engineering Associates, Inc. Brad Crain, Arvest Bank Benton County Jaclyn Henderson*, Regions Bank Carey Lingenfelter, Ozark Juniors Volleyball Club Michelle Wynn, Child Care Aware of NWA Jason Adams, Benchmark Group
International Realty
Dean Fisher, Glad Manufacturing Company Angela GraysonGA, Precipice IP, PLLC Mat Mozzoni, Cox Business Patrick Kerrwood, Northwest Health Knight Weis*, Signature Bank of Arkansas
Ex-Officio Directors Andrea Allen, Onyx Coffee Lab Daizy Andrade, University of Arkansas Andrew Branch, NWA National Airport-XNA Austin Bryan, Hogan Taylor Larry CooperDM, Embassy Suites NW Arkansas Brad CrainED, Arvest Benton County Ever Cuellar, First Security Bank Mike Dodge, Carroll Electric Coop. Corp. Keri EarwoodMS, Shelter Insurance David Faulkner, Pinnacle Hills Promenade David Foster, APAC - Central, Inc.
Adam Griffis, George’s Inc. Bradley Hardin, EP/SWEPCO Mayor Greg Hines, City of Rogers Joey Msall, Black Hills Energy Tom Hopper, TallChamps, LLC Corry Hull, BHC Insurance Lane Crider, Beaver Water District Emily Ironside, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Peter Lane, Walton Arts Center Mayor Chris Moore, City of Lowell Barry Moehring, Benton County Judge
Lulu Peredo, Runway Group Dr. Jeff Perry, Rogers Public Schools Rafael Rios, Yeyo’s Mezcaleria & Taqueria at the 1907
Dr. Dennis Rittle, Northwest Arkansas Community College
Dr. Jim Rollins, Northwest Technical Institute Matt Taliaferro, Boys & Girls Club of Benton County Denise Thomas, World Trade Center Arkansas Dick Trammel, Chairman Emeritus Jeff Wood, Tyson Foods
– Division Chair (CD - Community Development, MS - Member Services, ED - Economic Development, GA - Government Affairs, DM - Destination Marketing) – Audit Committee Member
XX *
05
10
JAN
2023
09
Rogers Lowell Chamber (formerly Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce) announces new brand identity
JAN
10
Year in Review
TIMELINE JANUARY Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
10
15
Arkansas swears in first female governor at Arkansas General Assembly
2023 REGIONAL RECOGNITION 7,000+ Chambers | 207 Accredited
Only 141 5-Star HEARTLAND FORWARD MOST DYNAMIC METROPOLITANS RANKS NORTHWEST ARKANSAS: #34 Most Dynamic Metros in the U.S. A 2019 REPORT BY THE US CONFERENCE OF MAYORS RANKS NORTHWEST ARKANSAS: 7th overall for Most Economic Growth through 2024 95th overall in Gross Metropolitan Product $33.2 billion in Gross Metropolitan Product for 2020
U.S. NEWS AND WORLD REPORT BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN 2022-2023 RANKS NORTHWEST ARKANSAS: #13: Best Affordable Place to Live #10: Best Place to Live #4: Best Place to Live for Families #15: Fastest Growing Places in the U.S. 8 NWA high schools rank in top-10% in the nation NWA: 6 out of 10 best high schools in state Rogers: 2 of top 10 best high schools in the state
THE 2023 MILKEN INSTITUTE’S BEST PERFORMING CITIES LIST RANKS NORTHWEST ARKANSAS: #9 Best Performing City #13 5-year Job Growth #21 5-year Wage Growth #29 Short-Term Job Growth
FORBES BEST PLACES FOR BUSINESS & CAREERS RANKS NORTHWEST ARKANSAS: 10th Best Place for Business and Careers (all cities) 2nd Best Place for Job Growth (mid-sized cities) 3rd Best state to start a business 2024
NEWGEOGRAPHY.COM RANKS NORTHWEST ARKANSAS: 2nd Best Mid-Sized City for Job Growth 10th Best Overall City for Job Growth
US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR OF LABOR STATISTICS RANKS BENTON COUNTY: Largest 2nd Quarter Yearly Wage Gain in 2019
2023 ONLINE STATISTICS FOR CHAMBER PROPERTIES
81,313 19% 8,653,578 6%
AU DI EENCE NCE
5
JAN
17
IMPRESSIONS
INCREASE
289,256
ENGAGEMENTS
INCREASE
20
25
Chamber hosts Chamber Night at Rogers School Board event
JAN
25
Chamber Relaunched the Voice of Business Podcast in a new format that put a focus on panel discussions, local news, and a dual-host setup
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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
We better our community through servant leadership, encouraging compassionate relationships, and collectively working toward a common goal.
Togetherness
We believe that through diversity, collaboration, and teamwork we create an inspired, open, and welcoming environment that leads to the greater good.
05
FEB
01
10
New multifamily development in Downtown Rogers breaks ground FEB
03
15
FEB
13
Blue Zoo aquarium opens in Pinnacle Hills Promenade
FEBRUARY Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
12
Chamber announces new Mountie Mentor program
5
20
25
FEB
28 FEB
26
Destination Rogers attends Arkansas Governor’s Conference
FEBRUARY FEBRUARY2024 | w w w. R o g e r s L o w e l l . c o m
Rogers Mayor Greg Hines issues Annual State of the City Address
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245 1 $64K $ 3 new members, value
d at
2023 Goals | 1.
2.
3.
4.
to
TOP
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.
Member Retention & Engagement: Research shows that members who are receiving the benefits they said they wanted (reasons for joining) will engage and remain members for longer. We will track retention rate and engagement for members. Increase Annual Investment Revenue: Financial stability allows the Chamber to sustain our mission work. New membership sales and campaign contributions will be tracked to assure budgets are met. Invite NextGen via Personal Communications to Engage and Participate in Membership, Programs, and Events: We must educate and engage NextGen about our mission-work so they understand the importance of the Chamber and our mission for success in future. We will track attendance at programs and events to measure the increase in attendance after implementing strategic plans for engagement. Widen Appeal to NextGen by Developing New Programs and Events for our Portfolio: We must include NextGen in planning for new events and programs so they buy into our work and then will engage and financially support the programs. We will track financial success of new programs and events to measure the effectiveness of new programs.
Revenue producing events
25%= 7 ber increase in Cham gram Ambassador pro
05
MAR Chamber hosts the first Spotlight Series of 2023 with representatives from the Walton Family Foundation educating the attendees about grant writing, Foundation priorities for 2023, and the year ahead
10
MAR Chamber hosts Tee Off at Topgolf event to spotlight the region’s Topgolf facility and encourage early spring networking
02
09 MAR Draft Day NWA kicked off at Rogers High School
06
MARCH Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
14
RLC
15
1,969 $742K
otal members, valued
88%
at
membership retention
MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE personally visited
257 members
71
WOO
Ambassadors
5
exceeding their goal
20
25
MAR First 2023 K2J Connect event held focusing on Workforce Development
17
MARCH FEBRUARY2024 | w w w. R o g e r s L o w e l l . c o m
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YAY
2K = $454
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.
RLC WEBSITE PROPERTIES
733K 440K 365K
2023 Goals | 1.
2. 3.
4. 5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Optimize Communications with the Smart Brevity Platform to Deliver Target Audiences Engaging Content Efficiently across all Internal and External Channels. Launch New Chamber Brand Identity and Build Awareness at All Touchpoints. Monetize Chamber’s Digital Advertising Assets with the Member Services Division to Generate Incremental Revenue for the Chamber. Media Plan: Advertise and Promote Chamber’s New Brand Identity, Mission 5 Work and Events/Programming. Grow Social Media Engagement (Likes, Comments, Shares & Clicks) with Target Audiences (Customers, Members, Investors and Community). Produce Deliverables to Position Chamber as the “Voice of Business” and “Trusted Source” by informing target audiences with timely, relevant, and essential News, Information and Resources. Rebrand Master Brand Website to Feature SubBrands Better and Promote RogersLowell.com to Increase Traffic and Convert Visitors to New Members via the Online Application Form. Deliver In-House Agency Design Expertise and Creative Production Services to Support Success of Chamber’s Divisions and Save Money for the Chamber. Go Downtown Rogers: Provide Marketing Communications Support to Build the Sub-Brand’s Presence and Awareness Destination Rogers: Provide Marketing Communications Support for the Sub-Brand’s New Brand Identity Launch, Group Sales Efforts, Social Media Campaigns, Website Content, Newsletter Production, and Content Creation Calendar for Key Target Audiences (Groups and Meetings, and Leisure).
total page views
total website sessions
01
Educators of the Year were honored throughout April. The honorees this year were Sabrina Sidani from Bonnie Grimes Elementary School, Laura Loyd of Rogers High School, and Ileana Davis of Elmwood Middle School
$
Fin Sm
total website visitors
05
APR
relative production
hours of visual design work
10
APR
06
15
City of Rogers’ Railyard Park and Butterfield Stage receives Rogers-Lowell Spirit Award at Annual Celebration APR
06
APRIL Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Annual Celebration: Over 800 business and comm leaders came together April 6 at the Rogers Conve Center to celebrate the Rogers Lowell Chamber’s (RLC) 2022 accomplishments and learn more about forward-thinking initiative, VISION/Next, that is ins innovation and change across our organization
16
4K 305=$182K $52K 81K $182K 8.6M 223K RLC SOC IA ALL
hours of video work
value
sold in advertising
relative production value
DIA PROFILE E S LM
negotiated
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in media trade
impressions
nalized deploy m ent of ces n e v r i B t y t e r i f a o d m r external au Optimized communi tly cations to efficien ences e n r g e a v i g l e i n d di g co nt ent to target au
5
20
APR
19
engagements
25
Destination Rogers hosts Tourism Talk Reimagining and Rebuilding Our Leisure and Hospitality Workforce
munity ention
t our spiring
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9
certificates of deposit
10
checking savings o money m accounts
Our Accounting and Finance division prepares useful, relevant, and clear financial information and statements for the Chamber in accordance with generally accepted accounting standards (GAAS) 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.
2023 Goals | 1. 2.
3.
Provide Quality Financial Data: Understandable, Reliable, Relevant Financial Analysis and Reporting. Chamber Audit Committee, Provide Detailed Transparent Reporting While Ensuring that Financial Statements Comply with GAAP Rules for Nonprofits. Manage Health And Wellness Benefits For Our Staff.
t
05
MAY RLC and the City of Rogers hosted a site visit from representatives of Frisco, Texas to discuss urban planning, downtown revitalization, and comprehensive growth plans for our city.
01
10
MAY Conversations with Legislators event held by the RLC’s Government Affairs division
05
MAY Danyelle Musselman gave a motivational talk during the Hustle in Heels pop-up luncheon
09
M AY Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
18
15
g or market s
2
1 = 22 line of credit
investment accounts
bank accou
nts
3
outside audits annually
6
annu
al re
rns u t e r tax
5
5
port
s
20
25
MAY Chamber celebrates National Travel & Tourism Week
22
MAY ULI Northwest Arkansas invited Karen Wagaman (Vice President of Downtown Development) and Geovanny Sarmiento (Senior Vice President of Community Engagement and Inclusion) to speak about Main Street Trends: Supporting Downtown Businesses
25
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MANAGED COMMUNI SCHOLARSHIP PRO
7 4 $ 1 = 66
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.
scholarships
donors
2023 Goals | 1. 2. 3.
Provide Customized Service for Each Chamber Division to Support our Mission 5. Provide Customized Service for All Chamber Stakeholders. Provide Customized Service for All Visitors and Residents in Our Community.
Y A Y 05
10
JUN
09
Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL), a program of RLC, presented its bi-annual Board Service Certification program for emerging leaders
JUNE Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
20
15
ITY-BASED OGRAM
$349K distributed to local students
400 meetings scheduled
WOO
357
events added to community calendar
5
20
JUN
15
Networking with a Purpose is hosted by RLC connecting members with non-profits in the area
JUN
20
25
Leadership Benton County met with elected officials during their Little Rock trip for Government Affairs education JUN
21
Destination Rogers hosts hotel forecast with hotelier community
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!!!!!
14
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.
s with r e t t e l s w eNe ve updates legislati
2023 Goals | 1.
2. 3.
Build Trusting Relationships that Allow Us to Serve as the Regional Link between Business and Government. Ensure the Voice of Business is Represented on Local, State, and National Legislative Policy Issues. Engage the Community in the Political Process including Registering to Vote and Hosting Educational Forums.
05
JUL
01
10
Chamber staff selected to serve on regional task force with the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Arkansas State Chamber, and Excel8 to improve childhood care in Arkansas
J U LY Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
22
15
51%
EVENT SUCCESS
average open-rate
LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP
56
people in attendance
READY? SET. RUN!
8
! VOTE
! VOTE
VOT E!
participants currently running for office
5
20
JUL
18
USL announces a new team and stadium coming to Northwest Arkansas in 2025
25
JUL
22
Luke Wiggins, Director of Sales with the Chamber’s Destination Rogers division, was named Partner of the Year by the Arkansas Society of Association Executives (ASAE)
J U LY FEBRUARY2024 | w w w. R o g e r s L o w e l l . c o m
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3
YAY
20%
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 social equity and inclusion (SEI) 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.
increase in Chamber Minority Membership
2. 3.
4. 5. 6.
Define Pathways to Chamber and Community Engagement & Leadership for NextGen Leaders. Ensure Chamber & Community Remains Relevant and Inclusive. Increase and Activate NextGen Leaders with Programming through Northwest Arkansas Emerging Leaders (NWAEL). Monetize Chamber’s Spanish Seminar Series Quarterly Educational Opportunities. Increase Chamber Engagement with Minority Small Businesses. Create a Welcoming Community & Opportunities for All.
WOW
6
03
3
SEI trainings for Chamber members
05
AUG
15
increase i sub
2023 Goals | 1.
leaders ed Leadership
SVP of Communications and Marketing Brad Phillips and Creative Services Director Nick Smith presented the Chamber’s new brand and workshop at the ACCE Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah
Ne focu
10
AUG
10
15
About 2,000 Rogers Public Schools administrators, teachers, and support staff gathered at Rogers High School for the 8th annual Thank-A-Teacher Celebration Presented by Sam’s Furniture AUG
11
AUGUST Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
24
Mt. Hebron, Arkansas’ biggest ADA park, hosts ribbon cutting with the Rogers Lowell Chamber
32
ducated through p Benton County
CO
5%
in eNewsletter bscribers
3
24
NNECT
students to t Arvest Firs Leadership
6
extGen us groups
5
20
AUG
19
25
Brooke Brewer was named first-ever Athletic Director of NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC).
AUGUST FEBRUARY2024 | w w w. R o g e r s L o w e l l . c o m
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D E
minorit y particip an leaders ts to hip role s
0 0 0 3
rticipa
a students p
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.
867 66%
2023 Goals | 1. 2.
3.
4.
on-s seniors had interviews
Create Workforce Development Opportunities in Our Community. Be a Business-friendly Community focused on Business Growth and Commercial Development in Rogers and Lowell. Invigorate Commercial Development in Lowell through business expansion and new retail opportunities through $5 million in new capital development. Engage the Small Business Community.
r hir were eithe in hirin p u d e v o m
05
10
SEPT Rogers Cycling Festival is held in Downtown Rogers bringing in cyclists of all ages to the trails around Lake Atalanta and Rogers-Lowell
09
SEPTEMBER Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
26
15
SE
1
0+ 98
ated in
SPRING JOB FAIR
FALL JOB FAIR
84 250 300 business participants
business participants
attendees
attendees
7 $800M 2% % $29M
YAY
site
announced development projects
Rogers with lowest unemployment rate in Arkansas
red or ng process
Record-setting Rogers sales tax
5
20
EPT NWA Community Showcase is held in Downtown Rogers showcasing the diverse and inclusive community that is Rogers and Lowell
SEPT Angela Oxford with the Walmart Foundation speaks at RLC Spotlight Series about everything the Walmart Foundation is doing and the best ways to establish a third space in your community
16
25
20
SEPT Bikes blues & BBQ is held using Rogers as its headquarters bringing thousands of bikers to Northwest Arkansas
20
SEPTEMBER FEBRUARY2024 | w w w. R o g e r s L o w e l l . c o m
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3
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.
incr
2023 Goals | 1. 2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Increase Multi-Family/Mixed-Use Residential Development in Downtown Rogers. Attract Supplier, Professional Services and Light Manufacturing Employers and Jobs to Downtown Rogers. Establish the Rogers Lowell Chamber as the Primary Point-of-Contact for Doing Business in Downtown Rogers Connect All Activities to the Mission of Economic Development and the Master Plan with at Least Six (6) Public Announcements. Showcase Why Downtown Rogers is an Ideal Place to Conduct Business, Raise a Family and Enjoy Quality of Life Amenities and Activities. Develop and Promote Downtown Rogers as a Destination Location for Arts, Music, Dance and Other Interactive Experiences. Build Community Value through Effective Activation of Underutilized Properties.
letter: s w e N e ly k Wee
401
amed
sses n e in s u b R T D
05
10
OCT
06
Chamber Golf Tournament is held at The Creeks Golf Course in Cave Springs
OCTOBER Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
28
!!!!!
15
84
300%
introductio n
s
CONNECTING
190+
rease in multi-family housing
Y A Y
business o wners
39 x 5 18 ses
elea news r
rage e v o c ws ved ne
Recei
5
20
OCT
18
25
RLC celebrates National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day
OCT
26 OCT
25
Leadership Benton County Class of 2023 graduates
Chamber hosted its Taste of Rogers event in Downtown Rogers bringing 2 dozen restaurants/ chefs/food gurus to sample their wares to over 100 attendees
OCTOBER FEBRUARY2024 | w w w. R o g e r s L o w e l l . c o m
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N GOALS N 120% N !!!!!
Destination 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, Destination Rogers is our Destination Marketing Organization responsible for marketing the city to visitors.
WOO
126% 122%
2023 Goals | 1.
2.
3.
4.
of leads sourced
Maintain and Grow Group Sales Efforts Targeting Meetings, Conventions and Corporate Events by Increasing Sales Metrics 6%. Support Sales Efforts Through Digital and Social Media Marketing Strategies for the Meetings Market. Align Destination Marketing Messaging with Rogers Lowell Chamber Communications in Support of Community Driven Programming. Maintain Strong Partner Relations and Assure Shared Mission of Marketing the Destination.
of NEW leads sourced
room nights sourced
05
NOV
02
The 2024 Board Planning Retreat was held at Hilton at Branson Landing in Branson, MO.
10
NOV Destination Rogers hosts Q4 Hotel Forecast
08
NOV Chamber hosts the RLC Sporting Clays Classic at Gunsmoke Sporting Clays in Garfield, AR
03
NOVEMBER Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
30
YAY
15
NEW NEW NEW NEW BRAND NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW WEBSITE NEW NEW NEW LAUNCHED
LAUNCHED
40
400
community businesses & pa rtners
students
5
20
25
NOV The Chamber joins with the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber to host the Joint Business After Hours event, bringing dozens of business leaders out to network before the holidays
16
NOVEMBER FEBRUARY2024 | w w w. R o g e r s L o w e l l . c o m
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Now celebrating with a luncheon!
• Join us for:
• Brand-new luncheon format from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. • In response to our members’ feedback this format makes it more convenient for busy professionals to attend.
Get your $125 ticket here! • Sponsorships also available
• Keynote speaker Jon Harrison: Unleashing the Power of WE (Workforce Engagement) • Announcement of Community Awards: Elbert S. Graham/Elza Tucker Award, Dick Trammel Good Neighbor Award, and Rogers-Lowell Spirit Award. • Recognition of 2023 Small Business of the Year Award.
05
DEC
01
The City of Rogers recently opened the Uptown Overpass with a ribbon-cutting ceremony
DEC
02
10
DEC
04
15
The Rogers Lowell Chamber receives the Community Impact Award from Rogers Public Schools (RPS)
Popular holiday tradition Sips on the Bricks makes a comeback in Downtown Rogers, now hosted by NWA Emerging Leaders
DEC
05
DECEMBER Chamber Voice OF BUSINESS MAGAZINE
32
Government Affairs team volunteers alongside Northwest Arkansas legislators in sorting toys for the Toys for Tots program
5
FEBRUARY EVENTS The Rogers Lowell Chamber hosts a variety of events to help build your network and learn. Below are the upcoming events to note. For more event details and to register, visit us online at www.RogersLowell.com/events.
FEB
FEB
FEB
06
07
WEDNESDAY
Location | Dance with me Studio by Aura Address | 210 E Chestnut Ave | Rogers
EVERY
Presented by | Equity Business Solutions Host Sponsor | GEICO Location | Golden Corral Address | 2605 W Pleasant Crossing Dr. | Rogers
Location | Miller, Butler, Schneider, Pawlik, and Rozzell, PLLC Address | 224 S 2nd St. | Rogers
FEB
FEB
FEB
08
09
13
Luncheon topic | Your Elevation Era Location | Kindred North Address | 10889 Arkansas 72 | Centerton
Location | Downtown Rogers
FEB
15
topic | Solving Workforce Housing Location | Supply Chain Hall of Fame Address | 5111 W J.B. Hunt Dr. | Rogers
FEB
FEB
15
15
Presented by | Promenade Commons Host Sponsor | Galaxy Home Recreation Address | 599 N 46th St. | Rogers
Location | Kaleidoscope Collective Address | 109 W. Walnut St., Rogers
FEB
27
Presented by | Moser Corporation host sponsor | Fast Lane Entertainment Address | 1117 N Dixieland St. | Lowell
FEB 20
Presented by | Nabholz Location | Rogers City Hall Address | 301 W Chestnut St. | Rogers
20
25
Presented by | Nabholz Location | Lowell City Hall Address | 216 N Lincoln St. | Lowell
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ANNUAL REPORT 2 02 3 Contact
PHONE
ONLINE
ADDRESS:
PHONE:
EMAIL:
Rogers Lowell Chamber 317 W. Walnut St. Rogers, AR 72756 United States
(479) 636-1240
info@rogerslowell.com
FAX:
WEBSITE:
(479) 636-5485
www.rogerslowell.com