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Why be a member? Simple. The CDF offers programs with an impact...
- Workforce Development Programs…new Lean Manufacturing training being offered.
- Education Development…area schools implementing programs that respond to the area employment needs.
- Legislative action…CDF works on issues that affect your business on the local, state and national levels: Highway 78 Interstate designation, 3-county Alliance (Lee, Union, Pontotoc).
- Job Development...broadening the tax base, attracting new investments, rebuilding the community.
- Lee County Council of Governments, county officials and municipalities working together.
- Industry-Education Day.
- Annual Economic Symposium.
- Business Referrals.
- MEGAPOP - Mississippi Economic Growth Alliance & Point of Presence
- Natchez Trace Parkway Association.
- Tupelo Furniture Marketing Association.
"Yes, and that's great, but what about me?" you ask... Sure, you have your reasons, and of course, they are valid. But allow us to take a few minutes and address your concerns, issue by issue, about some of the most common reasons people give for not joining:
- Case #1 - "NO TIME FOR IT"
I don't have time to keep up with everything that is happening either, such as city zoning issues and legislation. Being a part of the CDF relieves me of that problem. CDF keeps track of local and state government issues that could affect my business for me. By financially supporting the CDF and the members who do track the issues, I stay informed without being bogged down in research.
- Case #2 - "TOO MANY ORGANIZATIONS"
The CDF is a partner to every business and every citizen. As long as you are in business in Tupelo/Lee County you are benefiting from its activities and you can assist with the operating expense.
- Case #3 - "I'M A PROFESSIONAL MAN"
The CDF is in the business of "smart" growth for Tupelo. Your business prospers as Tupelo's economy grows. Helping financially support the effort to increase opportunities for Tupelo, increases your economic opportunities. You cannot afford not to invest.
- Case #4 - "JUST A BRANCH OFFICE"
This is your home, and you as a branch office benefit from CDF activity, which is all the more reason you should contact your home office and secure its membership. Your first job is to make yourself a part of the community, and the way you do this is by identifying yourself with the leading community organizations.
- Case #5 - "I CAN'T AFFORD IT"
No town or business ever stands still; you either proceed or recede. We are not asking you to give away money, but make an investment which will help your business progress. The membership dues (tax deductible contribution) amounts to a few pennies a day…such a small amount that you can't afford not to belong.
- Case #6 - "I'M JUST A LITTLE GUY"
The best way to increase your business is to support the Community Development Foundation…more residents, more industries, more tourists, more people shopping in your town will mean more business for you. The CDF is working to promote all of these things. (In addition, it affords valuable contacts with your fellow citizens and businessmen.)
- Case #7 - "I'M NOT INTERESTED"
You may not be interested in the day-to-day operations of CDF, but I know you want to succeed. Investing in CDF is a way to support the economic recruitment arm of the community. As CDF succeeds, Tupelo succeeds and your business will to.
- Case #8 - "MAYBE LATER"
Other cities are actively competing for trade, new industries, new business, better housing, better streets, more parking, and everything else that will make them better, more prosperous and more pleasant places in which to live and work. Your "later" may be too late. Join us TODAY for a better Tupelo/Lee County TOMORROW.
For more information on CDF membership, please call 662.842.4521 or email chamber@cdfms.org.
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