Special Breakfast Buzz Series Strong Cities, Strong Communities Initiative
How do we make Rockford region stronger, more resilient? What can be done to address workforce needs in our region? What solutions are out there for my small business? Cities and regions are working to make themselves more resilient: better able to prepare, adapt and get stronger in response to internal and external pressures and stresses, in ways that not only allow people, businesses, neighborhoods, and the whole community to maintain essential functions and bounce back relatively quickly, but also to bounce forward toward an improved environment, social and economic health and well-being. You may not know it but there are resources available in our community to address all of these topics. Rockford was selected in 2014 to be a Strong Cities, Strong Communities Initiative community. The Strong Cities, Strong Communities initiative aims to strengthen neighborhoods, towns, cities and regions around the country by strengthening the capacity of local governments to develop and execute their economic vision and strategies. This session will feature key leaders from various federal agencies to outline the vision and programs and services available. The speakers and topics include: • Strong Cities, Strong Communities Antonio Riley, Midwest Regional Administrator, HUD • Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Marium Barker, Federal Project Officer, US Department of Labor • Small Business Core Initiatives and Key Solutions Robert “Bo” Steiner, District Director, US Small Business Administration • Community Reinvestment Act Jason Keller, Economic Development Director, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Due to limited space, Members of the Rockford Chamber will have first preference seating.