May 23, 2014
05/27/14 The BEAR Program will launch in June, 2014 with great anticipation. The Marshall County Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) Program is a collaborative effort between the seven local government partners and Marshall County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) to implement the first area-wide structured program using industry standards to access area businesses.
“It’s important to talk to area businesses to see how we can assist them with their future expansion plans”, said Bill Davis, Chairman of the MCEDC Board of Directors. “It’s important to understand what they need from economic development and then provide as much assistance as they need so they can continue to be profitable.” The Bear Program will support area leadership in the development of economic development strategies and incorporates best practices and while utilizing industry standard such as:
-professional business retention strategies
–a sophisticated interview structure
-state-of-the art tracking and reporting system
The BEAR team consisting of local volunteers from area communities will undergo training before conducting one to one interviews with top company officials. Information gathered through a BEAR survey and a following discussion will help economic development leadership fully understand critical factors affecting area business and their long term success.
Additionally, the program will aid in the assessment of the business climate for Marshall County.
Companies participating in the program can expect to receive access to a wide variety of resources dedicated by area resource providers and just as important a high level of customer service.