Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Benefits

Welcome to the South Sioux City Chamber of Commerce. Being a chamber member is an important step in growing your business. It helps increase positive perception with consumers, increases your visibility, and also gives you opportunities to meet other business leaders. By choosing to be a chamber member, you are not only investing in your business but also the community as well. Join the other 280-member companies and become a member of the Greater Sioux land community!

Members of the South Sioux City Chamber of Commerce work together to reinforce a strong local economy. They work on important issues that build community and strengthen business environment as well as host different community events for all to enjoy. We support the business community through a variety of member benefits. Some benefits include an array of programs and services to choose from and include:

1. Make Money - Generate sales by utilizing the Chamber to market to a targeted audience and develop new relationships. By joining the Chamber, you will get to promote your business, network with others, and increase your visibility.
2. Reduce Costs - Gain access to members and programs that will help in reducing costs necessary to operate your business. You will receive exclusive member savings!
3. Save Time - Work smarter, not harder! Reach out to more people in less time by getting connected with our members, get access to information, gain expertise from other business owners, and enjoy a Chamber orientation to introduce you to all the members.
4. Get Involved - When you join, you’ll discover that meeting others in business who can refer you to key contacts you’re trying to reach, is a huge benefit of a membership.
5. Face to Face Connections - Get out there and shake some hands. Meet new people and re-establish old relationships. You can't do it from behind your desk. Pick one of our networking events, Friday Coffee Hours, Promotions Committee, Ambassadors, Legislative Committee, Lunch & Learns, and make connections that count!

Being connected to business professionals, elected officials, and community leaders is important to the success of any business. The Chamber hosts a variety of events throughout the year that provide networking opportunities, education, and exposure. Connecting face to face builds your professional network, will help you generate leads, and give you the exposure your company needs.

Every member of the South Sioux Chamber of Commerce enjoys a comprehensive and cost-effective package of benefits and privileges designed to get your business noticed. If you are ready to join the Chamber, contact us today or visit our website to sign up! 

Mark Your Calendar for Small Business Saturday!

It may not feel like too long ago when you were laying on the beach on a lazy summer Saturday working on your tan. But there’s no denying that the month of November is coming to a close. Before we know it, we will be gathered around a dinner table, sharing a traditional (and delicious) Thanksgiving dinner with those closest to us. And you, of course, know what the arrival of Thanksgiving means; it means that the holiday season, or, more specifically, the holiday shopping season, has officially arrived.

If you haven’t started making your list and checking it twice, now is the time to plan ahead and think about who you will be shopping for and where you will be spending everyone’s favorite day to shop: Black Friday. While we’re sure you can get plenty of items from your list that can be bought at a major chain store, isn’t this the year to make your Black Friday just a little more special? Wouldn’t it feel great to know that while you are purchasing that sweater for your sister, or that watch for your spouse, to also know that you are supporting a locally owned stop?

Plenty of holiday deals and specials are ready for you not only on Black Friday but on Saturday, November 24th, otherwise known as Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses and communities across the country. Founded by American Express in 2010, this day is celebrated each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. In the eight years since it’s official conception,  U.S. consumers have reported spending an estimated $85 Billion at independent retailers and restaurants. In 2018, you can get out and support the places you love in South Sioux City with the people you love on Nov 24.

Every Thanksgiving, we express our gratitude for the many blessings we have in our lives while enjoying a mouth-watering home-cooked meal. Every Thanksgiving also signifies the beginning of the most wonderful time of year.  The month of December is filled with festive celebrations, watching holiday movies with a mug of hot chocolate, and making plenty of shopping trips to make sure your Christmas tree is surrounded by thoughtful gifts.

As you plan out your Black Friday and the remainder of your December shopping, be sure to include small businesses and locally owned shops. Visit the South Sioux City’s Chamber of Commerce website for a full list of businesses that you can shop at during Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and all December long. We look forward to seeing you out shopping!

How Networking Helps Your Business

 

When it comes to your small business, networking can be a great way to get your name out into the community and help generate new business. These new clients can then spread the word about your new business, and generate even more buzz about the work you're doing in the community. Here are a few ways networking can help your new business.

1. Increased Business: as stated above, going to networking events can help spread the word about your new business and generate new clients and revenue. This is all good news for you as you’re trying to make it as an entrepreneur and business owner.
2. Opportunities: there are all kinds of new opportunities awaiting you at networking events. Whether it be joint ventures, new client leads, speaking engagements, and even sponsorship deals, these are all new opportunities to get exposure for your business.
3. Advice: having like-minded people at events can often lead to a great number of learning opportunities. If you’re new in the business world, or new at starting your own business, networking events can be a great way to gather information on the dos and don’ts of your industry.
4. Confidence: just because you own your own business doesn’t mean you have all the confidence in the world. Going out, networking, and talking with others who are in the same position you are can give you the confidence and tools to go out and try new things knowing others have had success with them.
5. Connections: the saying goes, “it’s not WHAT you know, it’s WHO you know.” This rings true when you have a business you’re just starting out with. Go to events and make connections with other people in your town or city, and help get your name and business name out there to the community.

If you’re looking to network and gain connections in the South Sioux City area, the South Sioux City Chamber of Commerce proudly hosts weekly Chamber Coffee Hour events during the fall. Each Friday morning from 9:30-10:30AM we invite you to come network with other professionals in the area. If this sounds like the event for you, please visit our event calendar for more information.

In addition to the weekly Chamber Coffee Hour, we will also be hosting our Speed Networking Happy Hour on November 15th. It can provide a perfect networking opportunity to make new business contacts and relationships with Chamber members. You can use it to promote your business or network with other professionals. If either you or your company is looking for a special seat at the table, fill out our sponsorship form. The registration for the event is available on our website. We hope to see you there!

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References

http://amazingbusiness.com/top-9-benefits-of-business-networking/

http://business.southsiouxchamber.org/events/details/chamber-coffee-hour-09-28-2018-18828

Preparing for College

Getting ready for college can be overwhelming. With so much to do to prepare for leaving home, it is important to plan ahead. Planning ahead will not only ensure success in school but will also save you money and stress. If you, your son, or daughter, are about to enter college this fall, here are a few tips:

The Final Year:

As many people will tell you, your senior year is very important. Not only is it the year that you apply to school, but it’s also is the last thing colleges will see on your transcript.  Fight the urge of “senioritis” and take a schedule that will challenge you, trust admissions will notice. Second, if you haven’t already, become good friends with your guidance counselor. These professionals can keep you up to date on all the application requirements, deadlines, and possible last-minute courses and outside activities that might look ideal on your application. Every school is different and requires various components of their applicants. Take testing for example, many colleges require different tests, whether that be the SAT, ACT, subject tests, etc. Counselors will help you manage that information depending on your school of choice. In addition, they can help you find scholarship information, which can come from the school itself or an outside organization.

Be Prepared:

Lastly, take time to visit the schools. Organize tours and meetings with professionals related to your career path. Be sure to ask questions about things like campus housing, Greek life, student organizations, intramural sports, etc. If visiting the school isn’t possible, ask your counselor about any college fairs that might be going on!.

Next Steps:

After you choose a school, there are other important things to consider. Apply for housing as soon as possible. Some of the best choices may go faster than you think so this isn’t a step you can be lax about.  Additionally, have several conversations with your parent or advisors about how tuition will be paid. Make sure everyone knows when payments are due and how to pay them. The sooner this is covered, the less stress there is for everyone.

Other Considerations:

When considering schools, other things you might want to note might be, what major/degree options are available, and what professors are teaching classes. While you don’t need to know your major just yet, it is important to know your options. Enroll as early as possible. The best classes with popular professors fill up fast, so act soon. If a class is “waitlisted” or “full” you can always email the professor directly about enrolling. For a more comprehensive list of college tips, visit some of the links in the sources below.

South Sioux City Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is dedicated to our mission of increasing the quality of life in the greater Siouxland Area. For more information, please visit our website or call us at (402) 494-1626.

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http://www.collegeprep101.com/uploads/1/1/7/2/11721368/senior_year_checklist.pdf

https://www.parenttoolkit.com/college-and-career/advice/4-year-college/checklist-making-a-plan-the-summer-before-college

http://www.ratemyprofessors.com/

Reasons to Attend a Networking Event

Some people don’t like attending networking events, they find them uncomfortable and have a hard time finding topics to keep the conversation going. However, if you go into an event with a plan and goal, you can turn it around to work in your favor.

Choose Your Events Wisely

There are many different types of networking events out there, so before you decide on an event you want to go to, put some research into it and find the best one that fits your career and goals. It’s best to choose an event that happens regularly so you can attend often and build your relationships. Some fields, such as marketing or medical fields, have very specific networking events geared to helping you network within your field. If you feel more comfortable attending those first before a more general event, start with one of those.

Watch How Others Network

If you’re nervous about networking and aren’t sure how to best network with others, look and listen to how other professionals act and converse with others at the event. Listen to other professionals when they introduce themselves and talk about what they do. Always be in learning mode when attending professional events and learn from others in your profession.

New Business Relationships Can Mean New Business

Attending networking events and making new relationships in your field can mean new business relationships and more business and revenue. The more you talk with others about your business, the more likely they’ll want to work with you more in the future. Remember that the event is only the beginning, what really counts is the follow-up. After you’ve made new business relationships, make sure you follow-up with them to keep your name relevant. 

 

References

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140908162020-2584116-10-reasons-to-attend-business-networking-events/

https://www.aib.edu.au/blog/career-development/7-reasons-why-you-should-attend-a-networking-event/

Attend Our July Speed Networking Lunch

South Sioux City Chamber of Commerce prides itself on hosting events that are beneficial to all community members, and our July Speed Networking Lunch event is no exception! If you’re a local business owner in town, or just want practice in a networking setting, here’s your chance.

South Sioux City Chamber of Commerce is hosting their next networking event on July 19th, from 12-1:30 pm. This is a great opportunity to make next business contacts and connections within the community and to talk to other like-minded professionals in the business. Stop by during your lunch hour and share your business cards with other attendees.

The event will be hosted at the Delta Hotels by Marriott South Sioux City Riverfront, which is located at 385 E. 4th Street, in South Sioux City. Admission is $15 for chamber members and $25 for non-members. We’d like to thank Powell Broadcasting and LegalShield for sponsoring our event and for being a supporter of the South Sioux City Chamber of Commerce.

Wondering how a networking event would be beneficial to you? Here are some reasons you should attend:

• Networking events allow you to meet people you probably would have never met otherwise. It allows you to make new business contacts from around your area and grow connections with new people in the community. People who have a lot of knowledge, no matter what it’s about, tend to like to share that information with others who are willing to listen. This is a perfect opportunity to learn some new things, not only about running a business in a certain industry but the area you’re located in.

• Attending networking events that are put on by a specific group, such as a Chamber of Commerce, allows you to meet key members of the community. If you make a good impression, these members are more likely to spread the word about you and how the work you’re doing is important.

• Not only do you get to network and meet new business connections, but talking to others who either own a business or have experience in the business world is a great way to learn about different ways to run your company and promote your business.

If you’d like to attend our next networking event, you can find all of the relevant information listed above on our Chamber of Commerce website. We can’t wait to network with you!

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References

http://southsiouxcitycoc.blogspot.com/2017/11/reasons-for-attending-networking-events.html

Summertime and Livin’ is Easy: Cardinal Festival Days offer something for everyone.

Memorial Day is the unofficial kick off to summer and festival season! Whether it’s music, dancing, food, car shows, activities for the kids or just simply exploring the area, Cardinal Festival Days has a little something for everyone. The ninth annual event is June 8th and 9th in South Sioux City and features exciting events throughout the day. The event begins with at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, 8th Chamber Coffee Hour at the Riverview Outdoor Center. The downtown Block Party celebrations begins at 6:00pm featuring the local favorite band - Top Down. There will be a Beer Garden and local food trucks.

The fun continues all day Saturday starting bright and early with the annual Cardinal Festival Soccer Tournament at 8:00 a.m. Events following the tournament include South Sioux City’s Cooperative Learning Gardens Tours at 9 a.m., 1030 5th Avenue (behind Tri-State Communications). The High School All-Class Social begins at 1 p.m. at the school with, 50 years of Year Books, history and snacks. The parade kicks off at 4 p.m. from Klasey Park.

A non-judged Show and Shine car show will allow festival participants to view beautiful and unique classic cars. Dash plaques and goody bags will be given to the first 75 entries in this exciting event. The event is set to start at 5 p.m. Kids will love playing in the bounce houses and will be entertained by magicians starting at 5 p.m.. Everyone can try their luck at some amazing prizes during FREE Bingo from 5-8 p.m!

Rounding out a fun-filled day will be a family drive inn movie at dusk followed by the Fireworks Extravaganza! If this doesn’t get you excited for the summer, we don’t know what will! Mark your calendars and get ready for some fun with your family!

 

What: 9th annual Cardinal Festival Days
When:
Friday, June 8th, 2018
Downtown (1st Avenue behind the new fire station), South Sioux City
Saturday, June 9th, 2018
Riverview Outdoor Center, 1280 Riverview Drive, South Sioux City

For more information and a complete lineup of events visit: http://visitsouthsiouxcity.com/visitors/events/cardinal-days/
https://www.facebook.com/Cardinal-Festival-Days-390808517630258/
 
The South Sioux City Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting growth and prosperity to our local businesses! Call us today to see how we can help you grow your business through networking and other activities. Be part of the community and Join Today by calling (402)494-1626 or visit us online http://www.southsiouxchamber.org.

Embark on Art in the Park...

 “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” - Thomas Merton

Art has a way of drawing people together (pun intended) while building community pride and appreciation for culture. Mark your calendar for the first annual Art in the Park, May 12th at Crystal Cove. Art in the Park, is the first  Arts festival in South Sioux and is a project through the Leadership Dakota County. Christine Wolf, Deb Copple, and Gabe Gill, who are members of the 2018 Leadership Dakota County class, have organized the free, family-friendly event which will feature visual artists from the region, local non-profit groups, children’s art and activity center, street performers, food trucks and more. 

The festival was opened up to all artists and craftspeople within accepted medium categories ensuring the event will have a little something for everyone. Just a few of the featured artists will include:

• Vonglan Pottery from Norfolk, NE

• Kristy Tremayne From Homer  Custom made Santa Claus’

• Sue Morfeld – Jewelry

• Steve’s Photos – Local, Regional, International Landscapes, wildlife and historical landmarks.

• NYE Street Studios, Features Unique perspective photography of Nebraska, other states and overseas.

• Jay Lewis – Western Art.  Drawings, Paintings, Wood Sculptures, 2D and 3D Mixed Media

• Siouxland Artists – Painting, Glass and Jewelry.

•  Lakeport Pottery - Lynn Johnson from Sioux City.

• Expressive Arts - from Akron, IA.

• Johny Binkard from Ponca - Watercolor, Wearable art.

Not only do art festivals pull the community in, the economic benefit cannot be denied. According to Arts & Economic Prosperity, the United States nonprofit arts industry generated $134 billion in economic activity during 2000, including $53.2 billion in spending by nonprofit arts organizations and $80.8 billion in event-related spending by arts audiences.

Introducing your children to art has also been linked to an increase in development, including, motor skills, cultural awareness, language development, decision making, visual learning, and, Inventiveness. 

 
According to a report by Americans for the Arts, art education strengthens problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. The experience of making decisions and choices in the course of creating art carries over into other parts of life. “If they are exploring and thinking and experimenting and trying new ideas, then creativity has a chance to blossom,” says MaryAnn Kohl, an arts educator and author of numerous books about children’s art education.

 
Furthermore, studies have shown a correlation between art and improved academic performance.  

If that hasn't convinced you enough to stop out and enjoy this amazing event, what if we mentioned there will be balloon animals, face painting, and a food truck with funnel cakes, kettle corn, spiral potatoes, and lemonade! See you there! 

Crystal Cove
W 39th St & Timberline Drive
South Sioux City, NE 68776

The South Sioux Chamber of Commerce loves spotlighting community events and showcasing our beautiful community.  With long-standing roots in our community, our mission is to increase business, quality of life, and employment in the greater Siouxland Area. If you are interested in becoming a member, or want to learn more about upcoming events please visit http://southsiouxchamber.org. 

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Sources:

https://www.pps.org/article/how-art-economically-benefits-cities

http://www.pbs.org/parents/education/music-arts/the-importance-of-art-in-child-development/