Content Marketing for Rural Businesses
Owning a small business in a rural community presents its own set of challenges that are unique to less populated regions. For example, foot traffic is lower in storefronts and buyers are less consistent. This is why small, rural businesses need to implement an effective content marketing strategy that considers these challenges. Content marketing allows […]
How A Mentor Can Help You Start And Grow Your Business
As an entrepreneur, you are tasked with endless responsibilities that pull you, mentally and physically, in every direction. It is easy to get lost in your to-do list rather than staying focused on the bigger picture. Having someone who has been in your shoes before and is willing to guide you through the ups and […]
Boone County Development Agency Welcomes New Office Administrator
On June 6th, Jackie Valasek of Albion joined the Boone County Development Agency as Office Administrator. In this role, she will manage daily office needs, provide support for existing BCDA programs and connect community members and partners with the appropriate BCDA committee and contract staff members, Dani O’Brien and Tina Stokes. New office hours include […]
Boone County Emerging Leaders Hosts Session on Improving Public Speaking Skills
On May 25th, Boone County Emerging Leaders, a Boone County Development Agency (BCDA) program, offered the third of four sessions on improving communication. This session, Public Speaking 101 – I Can Do This, provided participants with knowledge and tools to speak with confidence both in the workplace and in their volunteer work. Public Speaking 101 […]
Boone County Emerging Leaders Hosts Second of Four Sessions on Improving Communication
Last week, Boone County Emerging Leaders offered the second of four sessions focused on improving communication among the young adults living or working in Boone County. The session, titled Difficult Conversations: How to Give Feedback with Candor and Kindness, explored strategies for approaching uncomfortable or challenging conversations with professionalism. Molly Brummond, assistant dean of student […]
Boone County’s Emerging Leaders Want to Teach You How the Best Leaders Communicate
As we navigate inflation, a workforce shortage and the everyday obstacles that come with being a leader, effective communication is more important than ever. To better serve your customers, employees, co-workers and everyone in between, it is essential to be able to articulate your vision and point of view, especially when others are dissatisfied. The […]
Business Transition & Valuation Session Recap
Last week, BCDA welcomed Odee Ingersoll from the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) for an informational session on Business Value & Transition for Boone County business owners. “Ingersoll is the Director of NBDC – University of Nebraska at Kearney, and the statewide Nebraska Center for Business Value and Transition. He has 22 years of experience […]
Emerging Leaders Session 1: Rising Strong
Last week, the Boone County Emerging Leaders welcomed Molly Brummond to kick off the first session of their 2023 program series: Communicating with Impact. Brummond is the assistant dean of student development at the University of Nebraska College of Law and has helped countless young adults establish more effective communication skills. During the Communicating with […]
Cedar Rapids State Bank is Banking on Community with Petersburg Expansion
Growing a business is challenging in any area, however, expanding an organization’s footprint in a rural area takes on a more literal meaning. To offer its banking and lending services to a wider population, Cedar Rapids State Bank recently constructed a branch on Highway 14 in Petersburg. Why Petersburg is a Good Fit for Cedar […]
Energizing the St. Edward Community Through Diverse Programming
While the St. Edward Public Library is a quiet and welcoming place to find a great book, the space has also become a hub for elevating the sense of community. Director, Vickie Fritzges, continues to see and fill needs by creating a unique assortment of programming that brings people together to learn and build friendships. […]