Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/809553
A P R I L / M A Y 2 0 1 7 M A C O N M A G A Z I N E | 59 Every year, the Chamber's Board of Directors gathers for two days to set the strategic priorities for the upcoming Chamber year. It is a very interactive and introspective look at where we are today as an organization and subsequently, where we want to be over the next few years. From this meeting, our Strategic Plan is formulated and work of the Chamber moves forward. Top priorities in our Strategic Plan always include economic development and workforce development initiatives both of which have a major impact on our overall economy. Each year, there are a number of activities and programs surrounding both of these areas which help us raise that very important bar. One exciting program that we think will help those areas long term is the new Young Entrepreneurs Academy. YEA! is a nationwide program that teaches middle and high school students everything they need to know to start and run a business. This first class comprised of twenty-three aspiring entrepreneurs from public, private and home schools began the process last August, and will complete the program with a "Shark Tank" event in April and a Trade Show in May. Macon is proud to be the first Chamber in Georgia to launch the Young Entrepreneurs Academy. In partnership with several organizations, the Chamber and MEDC also helped fund the pilot of an Accelerator Program in Macon-Bibb. The purpose is to help develop and promote high growth, early stage startups that plan to make Macon-Bibb their home base while also promoting an environment where startups can thrive. Since sixty percent of our members are small businesses, we think this will be a great addition to the small business support system. As you review last year's work in these pages, you'll see that it was a good year for Macon-Bibb. New jobs, new programs, and so many positive things happening in our great community! With your support, the Chamber will proudly continue to promote Macon as the Best Place for Business. Mike Dyer President and CEO Focused on the Future