Local small businesses thrive through networking
By Charles Christian
Small businesses in St. Joseph are finding creative ways to grow by exchanging ideas and supporting one another.
The local Chamber of Commerce, which is sponsoring special events for Small Business Week, estimates that over 75% of its membership consists of small business owners. This week, special workshops on starting a new local business and understanding customers are part of the offering from the Chamber, along with special emphases for customers.
Local entrepreneur Kardell Sims said networking opportunities like the special emphases during Small Business Week, as well as monthly gatherings like entrepreneur group Cup of Joe, help smaller businesses thrive.
“These things help me a lot,” Sims said. “I’m not originally from St. Joseph, so when I moved up here around six years ago, Cup of Joe was the first place I came, and I got to meet other entrepreneurs.”
Even experienced entrepreneurs like Ken Beach, who is now in his mid-70s and is still involved in small business consulting after over 50 years in sales, said training events like Cup of Joe and other small business gatherings allow him to keep up with local changes and trends while connecting with local business owners.
“You get to hear how people started their businesses and where the business is now,” Beach said. “We also share questions and concerns. So we can give and receive advice that can help new businesses grow.”
Beach added that his own business has benefited from networking with other small business leaders in St. Joseph.
“It doesn’t cost anything,” Beach said. “There’s not a membership fee or roster, so people can just come and go as their schedules allow.”
Workshops this week have included an open house at Innovation Stockyards on April 29, a learning and networking event at B.O.S.S. Coffee at the Maryville Public Library on April 30, a workshop at the Chamber on starting a small business on April 30 and a workshop entitled, “Understanding Your Customer” at the Chamber on May 2. In addition, Cup of Joe meets every Wednesday from 9 to 11 a.m. at East Hills Public Library.
