Chamber Updates

A Workforce in Flux Formally established in 1894, Labor Day is a federal holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September each year. “Labor” is a key part of our regional economy and critical for business success, today is a wonderful day to reflect on that. Historically, Labor Day started as a recognition of “Organized…

Ozarks Startup Weekend Designers, developers, and entrepreneurs, now is your opportunity to shine and turn concept into action with the Ozarks Starup Weekend event next month in Springfield. The Ozarks Startup Weekend, hosted by Codefi, is an intense 54-hour event designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to bring their startup ideas to life. Scheduled for September 13-15,…

Next Stop, the Windy City The new terminal at Cape Girardeau Regional Airport, code CGI begins operating this week and will be a nice new change for passengers. But the new terminal isn’t all that is new as CGI announces a change to air service and a return to the Windy City for Cape area…

Changing U.S. Labor Laws Two new changes to U.S. Labor Law may impact some business budgeting and staffing. Now is a great time for businesses to learn more and adjust their plans and practices moving forward. The first change in Labor laws took effect on July 1st, and updates limits and requirements on overtime pay.…

Entrepreneurs Wanted Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of any community and a driving force for the local economy. Through the variety of locally owned businesses, communities develop their own unique identity. If you have ever thought there is a need or an opportunity for a new or different business concept here in Southeast Missouri, now may…

Preparing for Back to School Missouri Tax Free weekend takes place August 2-4 in 2024 and helps kick-off the back-to-school shopping season for families and students in Missouri. For business, now is a great time to connect with a new audience of shoppers. With students at all levels just a few weeks away from starting…

Be an Advocate for Business this Election Season Election season is upon us, and the ads, mailers and yard signs are impossible to miss. As a business leader in your community raising your voice in advocacy on policy issues can be critical to long-term success. Engaging in the political process as a business leader can…

Inflation Numbers Continue in a Positive Trend for Business Since the pandemic it feels like we have been in a relentless upward march of prices that affects everything from groceries to gas. New numbers released last Thursday revealed that consumer prices dropped 0.1% from May. On an annual basis, inflation eased to 3% last month from 3.3% in…

SBDC offers Zoom Workshop Opportunities for Business The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides free consulting and low-cost training to small businesses across the United States, helping entrepreneurs with business planning, financial analysis, and marketing strategies to foster growth and success. It’s a valuable resource network supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration and local…