Laserfiche WebLink
4. Other programs and activities <br />The following programs support and address the needs of the targeted businesses. <br />Development of marketing packages for attracting new businesses to the area by <br />the Chamber of Commerce in St. Joseph County (SJC). They coordinate programs <br />that help businesses start, grow, or locate anywhere in the county. The Chamber <br />works closely with local government partners, the business community and other <br />regional partners in an effort to have a coordinated, focused and effective local <br />economic development program. <br />Partnership with other local, state and federal sources for financing such as the <br />Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and the Federal <br />Government's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to finance new <br />and existing businesses and to develop alternative sources of capital <br />Incentive options for existing and new businesses through the City's tax abatement <br />program. The City's tax abatement ordinance provides incentives for data storage <br />companies to locate in South Bend. The City has worked in partnership with Notre <br />Dame University to develop Innovation Park and Ignition Park. <br />Development of brownfield sites where access to infrastructure and transportation <br />networks already exist. <br />Programs to encourage private -sector, university and governmental partnerships in <br />regards to technology transfers. <br />The local SBA Small Business Development Center is developing programs and <br />engaging new entrepreneurs who are attempting to capitalize on new technologies <br />developed through university research. <br />Ivy Tech Community College has a program in nanotechnology training, along with <br />other associate degrees for high tech industries. Other local universities are also <br />gearing up to offer courses in nanotechnology related fields. <br />Programs to promote the development of companies directly involved in the <br />production of products and services for the alternative energy industry as well as <br />those who may compliment that industry though the utilization of industry by- <br />products. <br />Recognition of entrepreneurs and small businesses for achievement in growth, sales <br />and community service. The Chamber of Commerce of St. Joseph has an annual <br />luncheon where businesses and entrepreneurs are recognized for economic success <br />as well as service to the community. The State also has programs that recognize <br />new and growing companies that are doing particularly well. <br />Workforce development and career transition programs. The business community <br />through the Chamber of Commerce and other organizations have voiced concern <br />over the lack of potential employees trained in the skill sets they need. In response <br />