2. Business Retention and Expansion

6. What it is Why it is important How it works What makes it successful Business Retention and Expansion

7. A Community-based economic development strategy with a focus on: “Taking Care of” “Nurturing and Supporting” Businesses in the community What it is

8. “An ongoing cooperative effort between business, local government, agencies, other organizations and people in the community with the purpose of identifying opportunities and actions to assist local businesses in expansion, the retention and creation of jobs and the diversification of the local economic base, as well as the implementation of defined actions to improve the local business climate.”

9. Short Term Objectives Builds relationship with existing business Demonstrates and provides support for local businesses Addresses urgent business concerns & issues Improves communications Retains jobs where there is risk of closure

10. Long Term Objectives Increases competitiveness of local business Job creation and new business development Establish & implement strategic action for local ED Strong viable economy

11. Why it is Important It’s a program that works! 40-80% of new jobs created come from existing businesses Contributes to the local economy Strategic business intelligence More cost effective approach to Economic Development

12. Why it is Important Early Warning System Business Attraction Strategy Improved business climate

13. Communities cannot afford not to be involved in taking care of their existing business sector!

14. Your Community’s Best Companies Are Your Competitor’s Best Prospects

15. How it Works Volunteers Interview Guide Training

16. CORE QUESTIONS What is their take on the outlook for their industry. What are the companies success stories? What is the companies growth strategy? What part will this facility play in those plans? Are there new products in development? Has the company looked at the possibility of suppliers closer to the facility?

17. Resource Network Economic and Business Professionals Inside and Outside the Community Expertise and Resources

18. RESPONSE Recognition and promotion Securing & maintaining adequate labor Infrastructure problems Expansion and improvement with industrial buildings and sites Finance and Expansion Government regulations and municipal services Sources of raw materials and TA

19. What Makes it Successful? Strong and Committed Leadership Partnerships Community Readiness Human and Financial Resource Business Service Providers - Engaged

20. Why Invest in BR+E? Demonstrates that you CARE! Builds Networks Learning Experience Brings Community Together Gets Results

21. RESULTS: Companies are saved Companies are helped Critical issues are identified Resources are allocated Policies influenced

22. Questions