Special Reports
North Idaho Alliance Women of Impact: Ready to go back to work?
WOW! What an awesomely fun summer we’ve had in North Idaho! But alas, it seems every year as August closes out, the entire community collective knows it’s time to roll up their sleeves and get ready to “go back to work.” However, after the summer fun comes to an end, going full time back into work mode can be a challenge.
Shop local
Why supporting local businesses is essential for our community
In a world increasingly dominated by big-box retailers and online shopping, it's easy to overlook the treasure trove that is our local businesses. But did you know that supporting local enterprises is one of the most effective ways to build a thriving, resilient community? Let's explore why it's so important to support the local building industry, trades, and other small businesses in our community.
Mid-year update
It’s only mid-August as I write this column, but already I’m hearing summer is waning. For those of us here in North Idaho who wait patiently for months in the damp and cold darkness, we don’t want summer to go by too fast. But it’s also the end of Quarter 1 and Quarter 2: a good time to reflect on what happened so far this year, and where the real estate markets might be headed in Q3 and Q4.
Greater Sandpoint Chamber: The one constant is change
Change can make or break a business. If a business never makes any changes, that business is going to become obsolete and die. On the flip side, a business that is constantly changing things up, without clearly thinking through and planning the impact that the change will have on their systems, customers, and employees will have so many fires to put out! There will be confusion, chaos, and a loss of productivity and sales. Change is not a bad thing, but there are some important steps to take that will help ease the discomfort of it.
North Idaho Alliance Women of Impact: Networking 101
I’m a bit of a networking expert. I’ve been a networker my entire professional career and for years taught the basics of networking.
'History doesn't repeat itself, but it does rhyme'
We are in a real estate market crisis. It’s been 12 years since the last real estate crisis: that one was brought on by the sub-prime mortgage mess.
NIBCA: Housing impact
Clarifying the economic impact of building single-family homes in Kootenai County
When examining the effects of constructing 1,629 single-family homes in Kootenai County, we can project remarkable economic impacts that ripple throughout the community for years to come. Let's break down the numbers to see just how significant these effects are.
Post Falls Chamber: Participate in chamber and community events
Greetings North Idaho Business Journal readers. Summer is here and the energy is high! For those hosting visitors, check out www.visitpostfalls.org or our social media on Facebook and Instagram for local activities. Our Visitor’s Center is also open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., for maps, brochures, and personalized suggestions to enhance your exploration of our community.
Sandpoint Chamber: Pulling together to have a successful year
Here we are, finally, in the heat (pun intended) of our busiest season of the year — SUMMER! The Greater Sandpoint economy gets roughly 43% of its annual revenue from tourism. That’s a significant percent, and the summer season represents a significant portion of those dollars. After this past fall/winter with its late arrival of significant snowfall, resulting in a lackluster ski season, a successful summer business season is critical to our local economy.
North Idaho Alliance Women of Impact: In their words: What does a healthy community mean to you?
What does a healthy community mean to you? This was a question asked at the Onward & Upward Women’s conference.
The financial landscape of community development
Community development is a fascinating journey, one that's both intricate and immensely rewarding. It's a process that demands significant financial foresight and meticulous planning. Let's dive into the nuts and bolts of what makes these projects tick, and why every dollar invested is a step toward a thriving community.
Post Falls Chamber: Making the most of summer
Summer is an extra special time in North Idaho. It is our shortest yet most celebrated season. Summer means celebrations, family time and memory-making. It brings beautiful weather and an extra dose of energy and enthusiasm throughout the community.
Economic development in North Idaho
As the Federal Reserve has pursued its high interest rate policies over the past eighteen months, there have been many economists predicting a recession. We have not seen any evidence of a slow-down in the five counties of North Idaho however, as in-migration, job growth, and regional GDP numbers have stayed strong. The regional economy has continued transitioning from a traditionally resource-based economy to one that is more diversified and resilient. Several factors have contributed to this economic transformation, including population growth, investment in infrastructure, diversification of industries, and strategic economic initiatives.
Greater Sandpoint Chamber: Solving the problem of turnover
Turnover has always been a challenge in the service industry, but lately it has become a major issue in all types of industries. The strategies and methods that were successful in the past are no longer the right ones to use today. Today's environment requires something different, a new strategy and a new method. Here are some key tips on how you can build an environment where employees want to stay.
Hayden Chamber: 'There is strength in numbers'
It is often said, "there is strength in numbers." This strength is of paramount importance to any association and the Hayden Chamber of Commerce is no different.