|
|
|
GROW Nebraska™ 2007 Benchmarks
-
For every $1 invested, $2.62 are returned to the local economy
- Reached an all-time high of 252 members, including 82 new members. Twenty-eight were the result of an existing member's referral.
- Membership sustained an 80% renewal rate.
- The eCommerce site, www.buygrownebraska.org, was launched.
- A year round store and training center opened at Kearney's Hilltop Mall.
- Micro businesses who hadn't previously belonged to REAP could join that program at no additional charge.
- Total sales generated by GROW Nebraska's special retail opportunities were $258,950
- The GROW Book replaced the Gift Guide, profiling 177 members. Print copies were distributed through retail members, the web site and retail opportunities.
- A new database was developed to increase efficiency in tracking data and in the administration of the program's vital and growing web site.
- Staff participated in the Association for Enterprise Opportunity's Regional Flavor Learning Cluster. GROW works with Karen Kollars of the Nebraska Division of Travel and Tourism to increase promotion of agri-, eco-, and cultural tourism in the state.
- Launched the GROW Nebraska Art project. Alison Osborne of Ali-O Jewelry was retained as Coordinator and in May led a delegation of eight artists to the American Craft Retailers Expo in Las Vegas. A web site at www.grownebraskaart.org was established to focus on fine art.
- Continued the summer intern program with three interns.
- Promoted Nebraska entrepreneurs and their products, services and art at a variety of public appearances.
- A new level of membership was introduced for Economic Development partners.
- GROW strives to partner with all organizations in the field and frequently refers members and inquiring parties to REAP, EDGE and other programs throughout the state.
- REAP presented their Women & Company® Microenterprise Boost Program awardees at GROW Nebraska's Spring Membership Meeting.
|
|
