Greater Mankato Growth (GMG) is Mankato’s regional chamber of commerce and economic development organization. City Center Partnership, Visit Mankato, and GreenSeam along with Greater Mankato Growth make up the four business units.
APX Construction Group is a business member of GMG. In addition to our membership, we are actively involved on several levels. From a business perspective, here’s why we believe it’s important to align ourselves with the local chamber organization.
Inside this blog:
Business + Professional Development
Greater Mankato Growth offers countless networking opportunities for member businesses throughout the year. Including the monthly Business After Hours series hosted at different businesses each month. These events are so valuable for our team. Each month we have an opportunity to visit a business we may have never been to before and learn more about their story. We also have the opportunity to network with other like-minded professionals at these events.
In addition, Greater Mankato Growth offers several opportunities for professional development. Including sessions on company culture, career advancement, and fostering a collaborative work environment. The premiere professional development program, GMG Leadership Institute, has developed area leaders for 40 years. APX Executive Vice President, Mitch Rohlfing and Vice President of Sales + Marketing, Jamie Jacobs graduated from the program in May of 2022. Jessica Blais, Business + Community Relations Manager will join the program in September of 2022.
The Young Professionals program provides opportunities to make new connections. This group of 21-40-year-olds participates in social and professional development events each month. APX has two team members who are active in the Young Professionals program through GMG.
APX Construction Group has found many benefits in investing in the development of our team members.
Community Engagement
Greater Mankato Growth believes in launching businesses into the community on the right path. The Greater Mankato Growth Ambassador and Cavalier programs consist of dozens of community volunteers who represent GMG at ribbon cuttings, groundbreaking, and new business openings.
At APX, we believe that small businesses are the backbone of our community. We are proud to have a team member represent on each of the Ambassadors and Cavaliers. They represent our company while welcoming new businesses to the community as well as celebrating new locations with existing businesses.
Additionally, annual events like Greater Mankato Growth on the Green, Greater Mankato Growth Business Awards and Hall of Fame, and the Annual Meeting dinner are excellent ways for members to celebrate each others’ successes throughout the year.
Another way Greater Mankato Growth engages the Mankato community is through free music events in City Center Plaza. On Thursdays in June from 11-1, Songs on the Lawn provides entertainment, food trucks, and vendors. On Thursdays in August from 5 to 7 in the evening there are adult beverages, entertainment, food, and games. These events provide connection and community in the heart of downtown.
Talent Retention
Greater Mankato Growth helps local businesses recruit and retain top talent. On their website, employers can find a Living and Relocating to Mankato Toolbox. This resource includes a 360° Virtual Tour and promotes what it’s like to work, play, and live in the Greater Mankato area.
Conclusion
Greater Mankato Growth (GMG) plays a pivotal role in driving economic development and community success in the Mankato region. As a key business member, APX Construction Group is proud to align with GMG and its affiliated organizations—City Center Partnership, Visit Mankato, and GreenSeam. Our active involvement underscores our commitment to the local business community and highlights the importance of partnering with the regional chamber of commerce. We believe that by engaging with GMG, we contribute to a thriving business environment and strengthen our connections within the community.