Economic Development Week: 5 Reasons to Join the Montgomery County Action Council

Montgomery County Action Council (MCAC) is excited to celebrate Economic Development Week (EDW) from May 6th - May 10th. EDW, established by the International Economic Development Council, highlights the importance of economic development in our region and across the globe.

“Economic development is crucial to Montgomery County's growth and prosperity,” says Melissa Johnson, Executive Director of MCAC. “We develop countless initiatives throughout the year to attract new businesses and support existing ones. We also strive to make Montgomery County a great place to live while highlighting everything this region has to offer.”

If you aren’t part of the Action Council, now is the time to join. Discover how our team supports Montgomery County and why your membership will contribute to the local community. Here are five essential elements that make up economic development. 

1. Site Selection and Business Recruitment

A significant part of economic development is working with companies to expand their operations to Montgomery County. Not only do we offer recruitment incentives to encourage businesses to move to the area, but we also help them with site selection so they can find facilities and parcels that are perfect for their operations.

“We love all of our employers in Montgomery County and also know there is room to grow,” says Johnson. “New businesses will benefit current employers by growing the overall talent pool and bringing in new partners to work with. This is why we encourage any Montgomery County business owner to join the Action Council.” 

2. Hiring and Talent Development

Companies across the United States all share the same struggle: hiring qualified talent. Not only does the Action Council support the residents of Montgomery County, but it also represents the entire laborshed. We support 382,186 workers within a one-hour commute.

“Our goal is to connect the existing workforce to quality jobs and training opportunities,” says Johnson. “We also strive to grow the workforce of Montgomery County by attracting new talent to our region.”  

3. Networking

Business attraction and talent development will help you grow your organization, but you can also enjoy the immediate benefits that come with joining MCAC.

We feature all of our partners in our member directory and try to showcase valuable businesses on our website and social channels throughout the year. We will do our best to promote your business in Montgomery County and encourage residents to use your services.

MCAC also offers networking opportunities throughout the year. Get to know your fellow business owners and form long-lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships. 

4. Education

MCAC works carefully with the Kansas Small Business Development Center (Kansas SBDC) to make sure our local businesses have the training and development resources to grow.

“Entrepreneurs need to be experts in their industries while also having accounting, marketing, HR, and management skills,” says Johnson. “We help local business leaders develop the skills they need to succeed.”

MCAC also helps small business owners secure loans and guides residents who want to start their own businesses. 

 5. Quality of Life

Potential employees don't just move for work. They pack up their bags and relocate to desirable regions where they can live, work, and play. The quality of life of Montgomery County contributes to its economic development. Not only do restaurants, bars, and recreational facilities contribute to the local economy and create jobs, but they also make this area a wonderful place to live.

“Quality of life efforts range from promoting local fishing and camping spots to making sure housing stays affordable in the area,” says Johnson. “The efforts of MCAC touch all aspects of work and life in Montgomery County.” 

Support Montgomery County Action Council Today

Everything MCAC does is made possible through its members. Not only do your financial contributions support our efforts to bring businesses to the area and support local talent, but your involvement and input are priceless. When you join the Montgomery County Action Council, you will have a voice in shaping the future of our region.

Sign up today to become an MCAC member. Individuals can join for only $50 a year while small business membership starts at $150. We can't wait to move forward with you.

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