''Paddling Upstream Against the Current'' Membership Meeting

The Chamber’s Business Education Committee is sponsoring our April membership meeting. At this event you will hear from three successful business owners who were able continue profitable operation during the 2008-2009 recession. What is interesting about their presentations is that these individuals are in business sectors that were hit hardest by the downturn. These business leaders will give insightful analysis into the strategies that allowed them to prosper during the worst downturn since the Great Depression. Many of the concepts discussed can be transferred into your business operations.

 

The three panel presenters are: Maureen Steinwall the CEO for Steinwall Inc. a manufacturing company in Coon Rapids. Steinwall Inc. is a plastic molding company and was recently awarded the Supplier of the Year by John Deere Company for their financial investment in customer service during the down economy.

 

Bill Hillsman the owner of North Woods Advertising is also a panelist. Mr. Hillsman was recognized with the EFFIE Award the most prestigious award given out to an advertising company. North Woods is known for their innovative shoestring advertising efforts. Hillsman is recognized for his low cost ad campaign for Jesse Ventura. That effort was recognized as a “break the mold” award winning effort. Hillsman’s ideas for low cost promotion are a value for any business hoping to secure additional customers.

 

The final panelist is Mary Peterson, owner of Greater Midwest reality in Blaine. Mary is a past recipient of the MetroNorth Chamber Entrepreneur of the Year. While many real estate companies suffered during the economic downturn, Mary was able to strategically focus her business efforts in ways that helped her continue to generate profits.