Small businesses across the country are being celebrated during National Small Business Week, May 3–9, as organizations and communities highlight the role entrepreneurs and small business owners play in driving the regional economy. The Fox Cities Chamber is using the week to spotlight programs and resources designed to help small businesses connect, grow, lead and navigate the challenges that many face.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our regional economy,” said Becky Bartoszek, President and CEO, Fox Cities Chamber. “They create jobs, bring energy and character to our communities, and drive innovation across the Fox Cities. Small Business Week is an opportunity to recognize their impact and reaffirm our commitment to helping them succeed.”
According to the Chamber, supporting small businesses remains a key focus throughout the year through networking opportunities, educational programming, marketing exposure, and cost-saving benefits.
One of those initiatives is the Chamber’s Connect Free membership, which provides qualifying small businesses access to Chamber resources and connections at no cost. The program is designed to help business owners build visibility, engage with the broader business community, and establish relationships that support long-term growth.
The Chamber also offers quarterly Fox Talks seminars focused on practical business topics, including marketing, operations, financial management, leadership, and emerging trends such as artificial intelligence. The sessions are designed to provide business owners with actionable strategies they can implement immediately.
Additional opportunities available to small businesses through the Chamber include:
The Chamber also provides access to cost-saving programs, including discounted health insurance options through Network Health and other member-exclusive benefits aimed at helping businesses manage expenses and remain competitive.
“As the business landscape continues to evolve, small businesses need access to resources that help them adapt and grow,” said Bartoszek. “Whether it’s leadership development, AI education, workforce initiatives, or simply building stronger business connections, we want entrepreneurs to know they have support here in the Fox Cities.”
National Small Business Week, recognized annually by the U.S. Small Business Administration, celebrates the contributions of small businesses and entrepreneurs to local communities and the national economy.
“Being part of the Chamber has given us the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with other local businesses and become more connected to the community we serve,” said Jake K., Branch Manager at Infinity Exteriors Fox Valley, and member of the Chamber’s Small Business Sponsor Circle. “As a small business owner, having a network of people who genuinely support one another makes a huge difference. The Chamber has helped create opportunities for growth, collaboration, and visibility while also reinforcing the importance of supporting local businesses. We’re grateful to be part of an organization that invests so much into helping businesses succeed and strengthening the Fox Cities community as a whole.”
Fellow Small Business Sponsor Circle member Kimberly Baehman, Owner, Nutritional Healing echoes that sentiment.
“Being part of the Fox Cities Chamber has given Nutritional Healing more than visibility; it’s given us connection, collaboration, and a true sense of community. As a small business owner, having a network that supports your growth while encouraging you to support others is invaluable. The Chamber reminds us that small businesses don’t thrive alone; we thrive together!”
Business owners interested in learning more about Chamber resources, events, the Connect Free membership program, or the Small Business Sponsor Circle can visit www.foxcitieschamber.com for more information.
About the Fox Cities Chamber
The Fox Cities Chamber is a nonprofit business-to-business membership organization that unites the regional business community for greater economic impact. Serving Outagamie, Calumet, and northern Winnebago Counties, we are the second largest Chamber in Wisconsin and were named National Chamber of the Year in 2024. We also received a Wisconsin Innovation Award in the nonprofit category for our free membership level for small businesses.
Our organization proudly captures the energy of one of Wisconsin’s most dynamic regions and transforms it into innovative programs and services to champion employers, economic development, and quality of life. The Fox Cities Chamber celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2024. For more information, visit https://foxcitieschamber.com/.