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Locals are the backbone of businesses in the Keweenaw Peninsula. No one knows that better than the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber works to promote small businesses opening their first brick-and-mortar storefront as well as welcomes regional businesses to the community.
“Yeah, we’re in our fourth annual membership drive. We do it in April. It’s kind of halfway through the year, but looking for the outlooks for the rest of the year where we can come in and help support, and have growth in the area.” – Katie Schlief, Chamber Manager, Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce
Angela Luskin with Upper Peninsula Health Systems – Portage and former chamber board member says that the chamber has been a fantastic partner to work with on many community events such as Bridgefest. As a lead organizer for the summer’s largest festival in the Keweenaw, the chamber also helps get many businesses involved in one way or another.
“Currently, Lexi Jauqes, our growth and outreach coordinator at Portage is serving in that capacity too. And that allows us to be hands-on and involved in a lot of the great events and programs that the chamber is putting on. For instance, in 2023 and again in 2024, UP Health System Portage is the title sponsor, and the main sponsor for Bridge Fest.” – Angela Luskin, Community Health Coordinator, UPHS – Portage
Last year when Upper Peninsula State Bank moved into Houghton they enlisted the chamber’s assistance in getting the word out. With the Chamber’s help, the bank was able to host a grand ribbon cutting with fun games for kids, and a little cookout. Bank President and CEO Dave Williams says that he sees the chamber in the Copper Country as a premiere service to the area’s business community.
“I have a part of the ribbon in my office because it was such a memorable occasion for us. It was a lot of fun. But they organized it. They got the word out for us. And as much as we were trying to do, they amplified our efforts a lot in that whole function. And they do that for all of their members. And it’s important when somebody’s new like that, to have sort of that big splash to get your name out there. And they did a great job for us. And they do a great job for many, many other businesses, especially startups.” – Dave Williams, President and CEO, Upper Peninsula State Bank
Throughout April, the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce has hosted its annual membership drive. During the month new businesses and individuals interested in joining the chamber can receive a discount on their first year of membership dues. Those interested in learning more about the Chamber of Commerce or want to learn more about the benefits of joining the chamber should contact Chamber Manager Katie Schlief for more information. Learn more about the April Membership Drive here.
