Business Retention and Expansion Program

What is business retention and expansion?

Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) is an economic development strategy focused on supporting and growing existing businesses within a community. Here are some key aspects of BRE:

1. Proactive Engagement: BRE involves actively connecting with local businesses to understand their needs and challenges.
2. Addressing Issues: By identifying and addressing issues that businesses face, communities can help them stay open and even expand.
3. Strengthening Connections: BRE programs aim to strengthen the relationship between businesses and the community, encouraging growth and stability.
4. Economic Viability: Supporting existing businesses is often more cost-effective and time-efficient than attracting new ones.

What can I expect as a business during a business retention and expansion program meeting?

As a business owner, here’s what you can typically expect during a Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) meeting:

1. Introduction and Purpose: The meeting will usually start with an introduction of the BRE team and an explanation of the purpose of the meeting, which is to understand your business needs and challenges.
2. Discussion of Business Operations: You’ll be asked about your business operations, including your products or services, target market, and any recent changes or developments.
3. Identifying Challenges: The team will inquire about any challenges or issues you’re facing, such as workforce needs, regulatory concerns, or financial constraints3.
4. Support and Resources: The BRE team will provide information on available resources and support programs that can help address your challenges. This might include grants, training programs, or networking opportunities.
5. Feedback and Suggestions: You’ll have the opportunity to provide feedback on the local business environment and suggest improvements that could benefit your business and others in the community.
6. Follow-Up Actions: The meeting will conclude with a discussion of any follow-up actions, such as additional meetings, connecting you with specific resources, or addressing immediate concerns.

Overall, the goal of a BRE meeting is to support your business’s growth and success by addressing your needs and fostering a positive business environment.

Resources offered during a BRE visit:

• Strategies Business
• Start-Up & Entrepreneur Support
• Workforce Development Assistance
• Strategic Planning
• Marketing & Attraction
• Finance Assistance & Incentivizing
• Real Estate Development & Reuse
• Credit Analysis
• Commercial, Industrial, & Residential land database
• Data & Statistics

How can you prepare for a BRE meeting as a business owner:

Preparing for a Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) meeting can help you make the most of the opportunity. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Review Your Business Operations: Be ready to discuss your business’s products or services, target market, recent changes, and overall performance.
2. Identify Challenges and Needs: Think about any challenges you’re facing, such as workforce issues, regulatory concerns, or financial constraints. Be prepared to discuss these in detail.
3. Gather Relevant Documents: Bring any relevant documents, such as financial statements, business plans, or marketing materials, that can provide a clear picture of your business.
4. Prepare Questions: Think about any questions you have for the BRE team. This could include inquiries about available resources, support programs, or specific issues you’re facing.
5. Be Open and Honest: The more transparent you are about your business’s needs and challenges, the more effectively the BRE team can assist you.
6. Consider Future Plans: Be ready to discuss your future plans and goals for your business. This can help the BRE team understand how they can support your long-term success.

By taking these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your BRE meeting and gain valuable support for your business.

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