Driving Economic and Community Growth in Bay County: Insights from Bay Future and SBDC

This episode of 'Hey Bay City' centers on the vital efforts of Bay Future and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in fostering economic and community development in Bay County, Michigan. Jim Reaume, President and CEO of Bay Future, Inc., discusses the organization's critical role in the economce development of Bay County.

The conversation covers the challenges of housing and childcare shortages, the need for balanced and sustainable growth, and the significant economic impact of major investments like the Mersen project and Michigan Sugar's facilities. Collaborative efforts with educational institutions to equip the workforce, the availability of shovel-ready sites, and the success stories of businesses like Vantage Plastics are highlighted.

The SBDC, led by consultant Michelle Judd, is noted for its pivotal support to over 200 local businesses through expert consulting on setup, financial planning, and marketing.

This episode underscores the strategic planning and behind-the-scenes dedication necessary for maintaining community prosperity and economic stability.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:04 Jim's Background and Journey
02:58 Role and Impact of Bayfuture
05:56 Challenges in Economic Development
18:43 Workforce Development and Training
24:23 Exploring Bay County's Shovel Ready Locations
25:54 Challenges and Opportunities in Site Development
29:01 Vantage Plastics: A Success Story
32:56 Michigan Sugar's Innovative Approach
36:12 Supporting Small Businesses with SBDC
43:48 The Importance of Economic Development

In this engaging episode, Jason Story from the Midland Business Alliance talks about his 7 step framework for attraction and retention. Jason and Phil explore how defining and understanding each step—Attract, Acquire, Integrate, Train, Develop, Retain, and Sustain—can shed light on effective strategies for community growth and workforce stability.

This conversation is filled with practical insights and thoughtful analysis, offering viewers a comprehensive roadmap to address these pivotal issues. Join them as they navigate through theory and real-life applications, aiming to foster a thriving, cohesive community.

00:00 Introduction and Continuity
00:31 Exploring Attraction and Retention
02:04 Defining Attraction and Retention
04:03 The Role of Community in Attraction
06:17 Marketing and Community Engagement
11:51 Acquisition Phase 19:05 Integration and Welcoming
28:45 Training and Equipping for Success
34:48 Business and Educator Partnerships
35:31 Understanding KSAOs: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Attributes
37:55 Training vs. Development: Present and Future
39:26 The Importance of Retention
51:27 Sustaining Success Over Time
01:06:11 Practical Applications and Future Conversations

For more stories, podcasts, and communtiy information, head to www.heybaycity.com!

Join John Kaczynski from Saginaw Valley State University as he delves into the nuances of attraction and retention in the Great Lakes Bay Region! John shares his personal and family anecdotes to highlight the significance of quality of life and sense of community. From discussing historical migration patterns to the modern-day challenges of attracting college students, graduates, and retirees, John offers a comprehensive overview of strategies aimed at fostering a vibrant, welcoming community.

John talks about the importance of hospitality, the role of transportation and housing, and the collective effort needed to create a thriving regional identity.

00:00 Introduction
00:27 Exploring Attraction and Retention
01:01 Personal Stories and Community Ties
01:22 Historical Context and Family Roots
04:18 Sense of Belonging and Regional Identity
06:27 Challenges and Opportunities in Higher Education
17:27 Mobility and Infrastructure Initiatives
30:00 Creating a Culture of Hospitality
30:50 A Story of Hospitality in Indianapolis
33:49 The Power of Perception and Kindness
34:43 The Importance of Community Ambassadors
35:41 Designing Communities for All Ages
36:07 Telling Our Story: Media and Education
36:45 Celebrating Local Schools and Achievements
38:12 The Value of Regional Assets
46:50 Creative Solutions for Community Growth
52:09 The Role of Hospitality in Community Success
01:00:11 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements