Business Matters
Karin Hopkins
As the new executive director of the Tuskegee Area Chamber of Commerce (TACC), I see the climate improving for businesses in this community. Call me an optimist and you will be completely accurate. However, this optimism is bolstered by facts. Consider this; Competing against more than 140 other cities, Tuskegee was the chosen one for Leonardo DRS. We could gain this powerful corporation as a business neighbor if the company wins a bid that is now before the U.S. Air Force. We should see this experience as a major turning point. Tuskegee is now in the big leagues with the city’s name in headlines all over the country and throughout the world for something that is 100% positive.
This type of publicity would cost a fortune if we had to pay for it. Indirect advertising is just as effective as fancy television commercials; slick magazine ads or clever social media campaigns that are intended to draw a massive amount of attention. For our community, this is a moment in time that is ripe with opportunity. So the Chamber is taking a leadership role concerning community engagement for the Leonardo DRS project. You will hear more about these community engagement strategies in upcoming days. The Chamber is also looking inward and addressing its own issues. We realize we can do better and we are striving to improve.
The Chamber is assessing its governing bylaws, administrative processes, Website functionality, social media presence, quality of services and value to its members. Speaking of members, the Chamber recognizes that members are the lifeblood of the organization. If you were previously affiliated, please come back. If you are a potential new member, we welcome you with open arms. Applications are available at the Chamber office located at 802 Crawford Street in Tuskegee. You may call the office at 334.727.6619. If you want to test-drive the experience before joining, regular Chamber meetings are held the 4th Monday of each month. If you want to receive Chamber communications, send your name and e-mail address to karin@echoboom.media and I will add you to the Chamber’s notification list. In the interest of full disclosure I share with you that I wear many hats.
In addition to serving as executive director at the Chamber, I am also co-founder of ECHOboom, a digital media company that celebrates Tuskegee. As a small business owner myself, I empathize with my entrepreneurial peers. We share the joys of investing in our dreams and we also share the related struggles. Installed as the Chamber executive director in April 2017, I have spent the majority of time thus far on internal affairs. Working closely with the Chamber leadership, it is clear that the primary goal is to be a hub for the local business sector throughout Macon County, trusted as a resource concerning collaboration, advocacy and synergy. Since we know this community well, we know there is intelligence and passion here that can move mountains. That’s why the Chamber is open to ideas and suggestions as we tackle a wide spectrum of Business Matters.
Karin Hopkins is executive director of the Tuskegee Area Chamber of Commerce and also co-founder of ECHOboom, a digital media platform. Contact her at ourchamberworks@gmail.com.
