How Does Your Garden Grow?

Did you know that most new jobs are created by existing, smaller businesses?  The return on the investment of financial and human resources is far greater when invested in local businesses, than on new business recruitment.  The result is a happy and healthy business climate that will actually make new business recruitment much easier as existing businesses become ambassadors of our community.

The first phase of our Forward Cody Strategic Plan has begun.  Our strategic plan focuses on “taking care of, nurturing and supporting” businesses already existing in the community.  A structured business survey is utilized as a means of beginning a dialogue with local businesses with the intent of identifying trends, issues, concerns and potential opportunities and taking action where appropriate.  It is our goal to improve the competitiveness of local businesses by identifying and addressing their needs and concerns and building on business development opportunities.  Achieving this goal will sustain the viability of Cody businesses.  This will be an ongoing cooperative effort between Forward Cody, government and community leaders, organizations, and individuals within our community.

BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATION          

· Financial opportunities & grants

· Workforce training & development

· Networking opportunities

· Advertising opportunities

There is no cost associated with the surveys.  All data collected will be strictly confidential. 

What we learned when we asked…..

 125 of the 1400 surveys mailed in May have been returned.  61% of those want an onsite interview, an outstanding start!

Qualified workforce and job training were the top areas of concern.  Respondents were unaware of the many business opportunities & grants available. 

Success happens when you get motivated to take charge, promote your company, and protect your assets. If you know of or hear of a business in trouble please let us know.  Forward Cody, together with our partners, may be able to help save a business in need.

Growing a business is similar to tending a vegetable garden. Knowledge, careful planning, organized systems, use of proper tools, continuous care, and dedication give you the very best chance of producing a beautiful and abundant garden that brings forth  fresh products for years to come.

The same is true when it comes to growing your business. By following a specific sequence of steps, just like growing a garden, you can succeed.  Discovering how other businesses are growing, thinking through your marketing strategy, taking an organized approach, using the proper tools to get the word out and focusing on achievement will help you reach your business goals and set you on the right path towards accomplishing business success. 

If you would like to have more information, or to schedule a one-on-one survey, please contact Scott Wagner at 587-3136.