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6.b Business Visitation Optionsmemo Scandia EDA Business Visitation Program To: Neil Soltis From: Chris Eng Date: December 18, 2018 Re: Business Visitation Options for Discussion and Consideration There are a number of reasons for undertaking a Business Visitation program. Here are a few: To demonstrate support for local businesses (an opportunity to connect the community with the businesses) 2. To identify and potentially assist in addressing any immediate business concerns (identify any red flag warnings) 3. To establish and implement future EDA work plan action steps (identify priority projects), and 4. To build community capacity to promote business growth and economic development (evaluate results, distribute results, build a marketing and promotional program around the results). Informal business visits/meetings with the EDA Members, Council and Mayor as well as city and CDA staff is a simple way to accomplish the EDA's objectives and involves the least time intensive and lowest cost approach. Business visits are usually conducted with no formal surveys or report. Essentially this option provides a way for the city to say "welcome (to new businesses) and thank you for doing business in Scandia. Q: Are there any concerns or topics that you want us to assist you with"? If you did want to did a simple survey, here are some sample questions for consideration: Questions for the business survey could include: 1. Please tell us about your primary products and services? 2. How many employees currently work at this location? FT PT 3. Is your business currently considering? (circle all that apply) a. Downsizing b. Selling c. Merging with or acquiring another business d. Moving e. Closing f. Expanding at this or another location g. None of the above 4. Are you currently experiencing any challenges with? (circle all that apply) a. Attracting or retaining talent b. Employee education or training c. Transportation for products d. Transportation for employees e. Housing for employees f. Financing g. Municipal utilities, code enforcement or other regulation h. Private utilities (electric, gas, highspeed broadband) i. Other 5. Is there anything the City or EDA can do to help your business grow and expand? `A