Lakeland Business Guide 2019 Chamber Guide_2019 | Page 40

also includes a free six-month trial membership to the Chamber, so new business owners can start networking and getting involved in the Chamber. The Chamber has also started a Mid- Level Management Training Program in partnership with Emily Rogers, which allows Chamber members to send one or two of their employees to develop their management and leadership skills. The Early Declared Internship Program, in partnership with Southeastern University’s Honors School, was started last semester to give students the opportunity to explore their intended careers and gain valuable work experience. There are plans to partner with all of the colleges and universities in the area to focus on workforce development and providing skilled employees for local businesses. In the community event category, the Chamber hosted the first SwantoberFest last September, which was a fun evening of Oktoberfest-themed fun in Munn Park. The event included music, food and drinks, kids’ activities, contests, and an opportunity for Chamber members to showcase their businesses. The Chamber will also be hosting the first Longest Table Lakeland event early this year, along with a number of community partners. The event will provide an opportunity for people across our community to gather together over a shared meal. One large-scale concept the Chamber has started looking at is a Business Resource Center, modeled after the National Entrepreneur Center in Orlando. When complete, it will be a “one-stop shop for all things small business.” There will be multiple small business service providers under one roof, sharing common space, and able to help small businesses grow and succeed. Some of the organizations who could be in the space include SCORE, SBDC (Small Business Development Center), 40