2013

04 Workforce06 Business Growth08 Advocacy10 Next Up 12 Board of Directors13 Chamber Staff14 Chamber Investors

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Jason Miney Photography

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annual report 2014

message from the

PRESIDENT & CEOGrand Rapids is amazing. These days, our city is touted as a happy place to work, a fantastic place to raise a family, and a top pick to visit in the U.S. There is growing diversity and burgeoning economic vitality here in West Michigan. And members of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce have been at the heart of it all.

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Rick BakerPresident & CEO

We are exceedingly proud of all our members and their many accomplishments in 2013. Chamber members have been expanding their businesses, launching new products, hiring more people and attracting new, diverse talent. They have reached out to legislators and elected officials, making sure the voice of West Michigan business is heard. They have received awards and recognition for their business outcomes, their company’s culture, and their role in the community. Some of our members have even been showcased on national TV.

We congratulate all of our members’ successes, and sincerely thank the business community for working with and through the Chamber this past year. It is because of the committed support and continued engagement of our members that we are able to act as your ally, advocate, and change agent.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff at the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, we are pleased to share with you the stories, statistics, and successes of 2013 in this annual report. Working alongside our members, the Chamber has accomplished much in support of growing businesses and a great Grand Rapids. As we launch 2014, we look forward to another year of making our community truly amazing.

ATTRACTING TALENT With a Top Ten ranking on Forbes 2013 “Happiest Cities To Work In Right Now,” Grand Rapids is proving itself as a magnetic community with an increasingly diverse workforce—attracting and retaining top talent.

“Every newcomer to Grand Rapids has a story. I personally relocated to Grand Rapids 23 years ago and have seen this city transform,” said member Mary Smith, Corporate

Relocation Manager for Greenridge Realty, Inc. “Grand Rapids is a great place to live and work.”

Smith said Grand Rapids draws people here with outstanding family-oriented arts and culture, excellent educational opportunities from preschool to graduate studies, and access to outstanding world- renowned medical facilities.

“We have such a great downtown that is helping retain students after graduating from local universities, and the strong tech community here is also a huge benefit,” added Tamara Iakiri, who works in talent acquisition at OST (Open Systems Technologies).

As a growing firm with open positions, OST actively partners with local colleges, high schools, and even elementary schools to nurture tomorrow’s workforce. The company also places a high value on employee development—leveraging networking and co-learning opportunities and offering strong internship and mentoring programs.

“From a business perspective, it’s really important for us to foster the talent, career skills, and tech expertise we need,” said Iakiri.

Johanna Wilberding, YMCA Vice President of Human Resources, agreed and noted that hiring young and diverse talent is part of fulfilling their mission as an organization that strengthens community and promotes social responsibility. “It’s important for our employees to mirror our membership base and the community we serve,” she said. “We live in a diverse world and we need a talented workplace that reflects that.”

Realizing the power of diversity—through distinct personalities, capabilities and ethnic backgrounds—is what helps our community become inclusive and creates an environment where innovation flourishes. – Jill Wallace, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids, Inc.“ ”

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annual report 2014

266servedthrough our Diversity and Inclusion trainings

580participantsstrengthened their leadership skills through Center for Community Leadership (CCL) development programs and events

488attendeesbenefited from our talent attraction, engagement, and retention programs (cultural tours, welcome dinners, etc.)

90professionals

attended our first annual Diversity & Inclusion Forum in November

pluswelcomed

110job seekers

participated in the three-day ReadyNow! employability event with more than 12 companies seeking to fill positions

OutPro, a local LGBT professionals group, as a program of the Chamber

WORKFORCE & TALENTIn 2013, the Chamber worked alongside businesses as they welcomed, connected, and engaged diverse talent in the community. From leadership development to Facing Racism—from newcomers to long-time residents—the Chamber is creating a magnetic community with a strong workforce.

We love that the Chamber is about building strong leaders and businesses that will in turn build a strong community.

– Kelley Losey, Director of Cascade Consulting Group at Cascade Engineering, Inc.

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BUSINESS IS BOOMINGGrand Rapids businesses are growing at a phenomenal rate. Led by a diverse economy and a strong high-tech presence, the region ranked No. 2 in the U.S. for job growth* and No. 4 on Forbes “10 Best Cities for Employment” in 2013. Plus, 22 West Michigan companies were named to Inc. 500|5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies.

“Grand Rapids is a booming city attracting families at an exponential rate and experiencing rising median incomes. We saw the expansion opportunity in Grand Rapids, and

we wanted to attack the market here,” said Steve Barnes, co-founder of Genius Phone Repair. Since 2011, the fast-growing high-tech fix-it shop for consumer electronics has expanded to six locations across West Michigan and Lansing—employing 50 people via stores and a distribution company.

Together, growing companies create a vibrant economy. In 2013, 1,876 people were placed into permanent positions through Axios and their Office Staffing and Staffing Inc. divisions. In just 17 months (July 2011 to December 2012), Mary Free Bed experienced an incredible growth wave—adding 267 staff members with more hiring slated for 2014

when their 190,000-square-foot expansion opens. In 2013, downtown’s retail incubator MoDiv (The Shops at Monroe and Division) saw businesses expand while high-end clothing retailer Ally’s Boutique moved to Grand Rapids to capture opportunities.

Grand Rapids is even growing in Detroit with companies like Meijer building a new store and Atomic Object, Mindscape at Hannon McKendry, and Lambert, Edwards & Associates opening offices there—fostering a brighter Michigan future for all.

*Source: Data from CareerBuilder and Economic Modeling Specialists International interactive map titled “Industries That Drive America’s Metros” and lists from Forbes and Inc. magazine.

Economic development is contagious. A strong local economy feeds off of itself and adds momentum for all stakeholders. – John Zavelkink, CEO of Columbian Logistics Network“ ”

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annual report 2014

delivered 98 events & programs

8568 attendees

98 ribbon cuttings

t Michael Haid, Right Management Great Lakes Regiont Ann Harten, Haworth, Inc.t Stephen Moore, The Wall Street Journalt JK Symancyk, Meijer, Inc.t Kim Bode & Adrienne Wallace, 834 Design & Marketing

business & community leaders at Business Matters Series

6 EPIC Awards recipients

5 ATHENA Leadership Forums

attended 6 New Member Connections events475

participated at the Minority Business Showcase

175

1200networked at 12 Business Exchange Lunches

events & programs 63

BUSINESS GROWTHMore than 80% of Chamber members are small companies with 50 or fewer employees—plus, the area’s largest employers invest in the business community through the Chamber. Why? Because businesses need the confidence, connections, and resources the Chamber provides. In 2013, we served as an ally for growth in Grand Rapids.

featured

“As an ally for small business, the Chamber offers many services that allow us to grow in West Michigan.”

— Khalid Karadsheh, Co-owner of Mediterranean Island

PUBLIC POLICY MATTERS Advancing the economic vitality of West Michigan depends upon the right business environment. Fortunately, Grand Rapids businesses are developing legislative relationships and offering the input needed to influence the future.

If we have questions concerning our industry or regulations, the Chamber will work to get the answers. – Gary Troost, General Manager of Valley Truck Parts“ ”

“Public policy is enormously important to business,” said Tom Bylenga, President of Star Truck Rentals, Inc.—a Grand Rapids-based family enterprise of 150 years. “Tax and regulatory

changes may impact our day-to-day business and long-term economic opportunities,” he said, noting that “we have been able to derail or modify bad policy.”

“If we want good public policy, we have a responsibility to help shape it. It means getting in the trenches and talking with our legislators face-to-face,” agreed Hugh Hufnagel, Principal at Next Hill Consulting and a 40-year veteran of healthcare management.

Businesses like Advantage Benefit Group work hard to build fruitful relationships with elected officials. “It makes a big difference when we have dialog and an open pipeline of communication with our governmental representatives,” said Robert Hughes, President. “We’re not a stranger

to them, and they’re willing to listen about how legislation affects our business and our employees.”

When Valley Truck Parts hosted Lt. Governor Calley and several Michigan legislators in April 2013, they leveraged the opportunity to share about the trucking industry as well as the company’s growth and job creation. Likewise, Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR) found it important to address hazardous waste legislation and showcase their high-tech recycling facilities to Rep. Amanda Price.

“There is great value in being heard. Elected officials work for those with a voice,” said Brodie Ehresman, ATR’s General Manager of the North East Region of U.S. and Canada. “Every vote is an opinion and every discussion is an opportunity.”

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annual report 2014

1760members connected to elected officials through hosted advocacy events and issue roundtables

Inaugural West Michigan D.C. Fly-In brought the voice of West Michigan business to Congress

Street Summit showed the business case for road funding to state legislators, legislative staff & local officials

Annual West Michigan Business Day at the Capitol met with Lt. Gov., Speaker of the House, and dozens of legislators

Annual Spring & Winter Advocacy events featured Congressmen Justin Amash & Bill Huizenga and U.S. Chamber & Amway Chair Steve Van Andel, 230+ attended each

2013 KEY ADVOCACY ISSUES CHAMBER STANCE ENACTED SUCCESSEarly Childhood Expansion SUPPORTED

NITC Permit SUPPORTED

BCBSM Conversion SUPPORTED

Asset Management for Stormwater SUPPORTED

Unemployment Conformity and Fraud SUPPORTED

Common Core SUPPORTED

Personal Property Tax Clean up Bills SUPPORTED

Medicaid Expansion w/Reform SUPPORTED

235 attended 2013 Health Care Summit featuring DCH Director Jim Haveman

Impact of the Affordable Care Act Forum and 3 health care reform work-shops offered ideas & info

In 2013

No other business organization in West Michigan brings the voice of business to the legislative table like the Grand Rapids Area Chamber. Our relentless advocacy supports businesses of all sizes and types. Our shared agenda shapes the public policies designed to create a business environment that drives economic success.

ADVOCACY

developing business & talent t Launching a new CCL leadership program, Leadership: An

Inside Out Perspective

t Kicking off Institue for Healing Racism Alumni program

t Collaborative partnership with West Michigan Minority Contractors Association

mark your calendart West Michigan Business Day at the Capitol: March 4

t EPIC Awards: May 15

t Grand Rapids House Party: June 5

t ATHENA Awards: September 18

addressing public policyt Personal Property Tax reform

t Main Street Fairness passage

t Proposed changes to minimum wage

t Skilled workforce shortage and education reform

t Funding for roads, bridges, and harbors

t Major regional infrastructure projects & freight study

t Costly health care mandates & reform uncertainty

t Completion of Healthy Michigan Plan

t Protection of Certificate of Need

NEXT UP Below are some of our upcoming 2014 plans. Stay tuned for additional information.

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annual report 2014Ten percent of past revenue came from business acquired because of my involvement in the Grand Rapids Area Chamber. Being a member has been a WIN for my business!

— Cindy Locklin, President/CEO of Busy Bea’s Services

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How will you engage the power of your Chamber?The Chamber is working tirelessly to foster economic prosperity and drive business growth in our magnetic region. We’re ready with the resources, connections, and leadership you need. Be part of it.

Share your knowledge. By participating in one of our committees, you can add your voice to the conversations that shape business, share expertise, and get first-hand knowledge of the issues and initiatives that impact your business growth. Involvement can range from policy roundtables to event planning.

Become a visible sponsor. Show your support of the business community and get the exposure your company needs with Chamber sponsorship. Share your marketing message with more than 2,700 member companies

representing 175,000 employees through event and program sponsorship packages designed for every budget.

Shine through the Chamber. From website and newsletter ads to enhanced Business Directory listings and ribbon cuttings, we have many ways to help you promote your story, boost your brand, and build business credibility as a Chamber member.

Discover more. Contact us.

BOAR

D O

F DI

RECT

ORS

Doug Dozeman*

Warner Norcross& Judd, LLPChairperson of the Board

Stacie Behler*

Meijer, Inc.Chairperson Elect

Bill Benson*

WilliamCharles Search Group, Immediate Past Chairperson of the Board

Jeff Connolly*

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Treasurer, Vice Chair Budget & Finance

Steve Heacock*

Spectrum HealthVice Chairperson,Governance

Jerry Kooiman*

MSU, College of Human Medicine, Vice Chairperson,Public Policy

Mike Mraz*

Rockford Construction Company, Vice Chairpersonat Large

Michael Verhulst*

Summit Landscape Management Inc.Vice Chairperson at Large

Jim GreenLacks Enterprises, Inc.

Bryan HarrisonAmway Corporation

John IrwinHuntington Bank

Shelly IrwinWGVU/NPR/PBS

Joe JonesGrand Rapids UrbanLeague, Inc.

Birgit KlohsThe Right Place, Inc.

JD LoeksCelebration! Cinema

Janet MasonWZZM 13

Matt SernauLake MichiganInvestment Services

Doug SmallExperience GrandRapids

John WeissGrand Valley Metropolitan Council

Nelson SanchezRoMan Manufacturing

Lynn AfendoulisUniversal ForestProducts

Deb BaileySteelcase Inc.

Joan BuddenPriority Health

Lew ChamberlinWest Michigan Whitecaps

Joe GavanC-Suite Strategic, LLC

* Denotes members of the Executive Committee.

Rick Baker is a member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors.

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annual report 2014

CH

AMBER

STAFFRick BakerPresident & CEO

Mark Allen Senior Director, MembershipDevelopment

Ellie FreyDirector, Family Business Alliance

Janet WyllieVP, Business Growth Initiatives

Mercedes CowperPrograms & EventsCoordinator

Allie BushPublic Policy Coordinator

Josh LungerPublic Policy Coordinator

Wes TrimpeMembership Development Representative

Latricia TriceSenior Director, Marketing & Communications

Lea DemaagdExecutive Assistant

Terry Davidson IT Systems Administrator

Andy JohnstonVP, Government & Corporate Affairs

Joni JohnsonDatabase Coordinator

Sonya HughesVP, Inclusion Leadership

Noelle FrostPrograms & EventsCoordinator

Karen ThelenGraphic Designer

Diane CislerSponsorship & Advertising Account Manager

Hannah NequistCommunity Leadership Program Coordinator

Carol WhiteChief Financial Officer

Kim McLaughlinDirector, Community Leadership

Chris HowardMembership DevelopmentRepresentative

Janet BehrensSenior Staff Accountant

Ashlie JonesCustomer Service/ Receptionist

AliciaMarie BelchakCommunications Specialist

Rachel BartelsProgram Manager,HelloWestMichigan

Janet HentgesMembership Development Coordinator

Cindy BrownExecutive Director,HelloWestMichigan

Ciciley MooreInclusion Program Coordinator

Christine CameronDirector, Silent Observer

• Amway• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan• Fifth Third Bank• Meijer, Inc.• Spectrum Health• Steelcase Inc.

• a.j. Veneklasen, Inc.• AAA Michigan• ADAC Automotive• Adtegrity.com• Aldi• America's Transportation Resources, LLC• Aquinas College• AT&T Michigan• Autocam Corporation• Autodie LLC• Bank of America • BDO • Beene Garter LLP • BISSELL Inc.• Blackmer, A Dover Company• Blue Care Network of Michigan• Bouma Corporation• Bucher Hydraulics, Inc.

• Foremost Insurance Company• Lacks Enterprises, Inc.• Mercy Health Saint Mary’s• Metro Health• SpartanNash• Warner Norcross & Judd LLP • Wolverine Worldwide, Inc.

• American Seating Company• Amway Grand Plaza Hotel• Cascade Engineering, Inc.• Consumers Energy• DP Fox Holdings, LLC/Fox Motors• GE Aviation• Grand Rapids Community College• Haworth, Inc.• Mercy Health Physician Partners• Merrill Lynch• Miller Johnson• MLive / The Grand Rapids Press • Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services• PNC Bank• Pridgeon & Clay, Inc.• Varnum LLP• Westwater Group/Huizenga Group

MAJOR CHAMBER INVESTORS We value and appreciate all of our members. The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce would not be the premier business organization it is and has been for the last 126 years without the ongoing support of our members. We wish to extend a special thank you to our Visionary, Investor, Partner and Trustee level members.

visionary

investor

partners trustees

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annual report 2014

• Calvin College• CHASE• Cherry Street Health Services• Comcast• Comerica Bank• Comlink• Country Fresh, LLC• Daniel & Pamela DeVos Foundation• Dave Cole Decorators, Inc.• Davenport University• Dematic Corp.• Eaton Aerospace Actuation Systems

Grand Rapids • Ernst & Young LLP• ETNA Supply Company• Farmers Insurance Group• Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber,Inc. • Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C.• Founders Bank & Trust• Four Winds Casino Resort• GMB Architecture & Engineering• Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids, Inc.• Grand Valley State University• Grandville Printing Company• Great Lakes Heavy Haul, Inc.• Grotenhuis• Hearthside Food Solutions, LLC• Heartland - Greenview

• Herman Miller, Inc.• Hope Network• Huntington Bank• Hylant of Grand Rapids, LLC• Imperial Design Companies• Irwin Seating Company• J & H Oil• Knape & Vogt Manufacturing

Company • KPMG LLC• L - 3 Avionics Systems• Lake Michigan Credit Union• Law Weathers• Little River Casino Resort• Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation

Hospital • Mercantile Bank of Michigan• Michigan State University

College of Human Medicine• MVP Sports Clubs• Paul Goebel Group• Plante Moran, PLLC• Priority Health • ProCare Systems, Inc.• Rhoades McKee PC• Rockford Construction

Company, Inc.• RoMan Manufacturing, Inc.

• Schupan & Sons Inc.• Smith Haughey Rice &

Roegge, PC • Superior Asphalt, Inc.• Teleperformance• The Rapid• Total Plastics Inc.• University of Michigan Business

Engagement Center• UPS• Van Andel Institute• Walgreens• Williams Distributing Co./Williams • Kitchen & Bath• Windstream• WOOD TV8/WXSP/WOTV• X-Rite, Incorporated• Zondervan Corporation

trustees cont.

111 Pearl St. NWGrand Rapids, MI 49503

616.771.0300 grandrapids.org

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Your Change Agent