MEDC Lends Support to Genesee Rgl Chamber

The Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce today announced the support of two new team members through a Resource Sharing Agreement with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).

As part of the MEDC's goal to promote collaboration with local economic development organizations throughout Michigan, the state's economic development arm has loaned member's of their staff to enhance the Regional Chamber's efforts to expand, retain and attract new business in Flint and Genesee County.

"Our economic gardening strategy will expand our support and outreach to our local economic development partners," said MEDC President and CEO Michael Finney. "We are putting some of most experienced people, and Bruce and Khalfani are certainly two of them, in locations around the state to work more efficiently, effectively and directly in our communities by sharing information and eliminating much duplication of efforts."

The intent of the Resource Sharing Agreement between the MEDC and the Regional Chamber is to increase the number of resources dedicated to economic development and have state and local communities work collaboratively to improve Michigan's economic landscape one business and community at a time.

"Collaboration and innovation are the keys to a successful economic development strategy," said Tim Herman, CEO of the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce. "We want ass many experienced people at the table with us as possible to help identify new business opportunities for our region. We greatly appreciate this outreach from the state."

The following MEDC staff members are assisting with the Regional Chamber's economic development efforts:

Bruce Seymore. He has served as Business Development Manager with the MEDC since April 2008. He assists with retention efforts for existing companies in Genesee County. During his tenure with the MEDC, Seymore has provided service to companies located in Macomb, Oakland and St. Clair counties, including Bay City, Detroit, Flint and Wyoming.

Khalfani Stephens. He is Business Development Manager with the Urban Team at the MEDC. As a member of the Urban Team, Stephens works closely with designated municipalities or local partners to aid them in their business retention and growth efforts. Stephens assists the Regional Chamber and the City of Flint on the Master Plan and with redevelopment efforts for RACER Trust properties.

Janice Karcher, Vice President of Economic Development at the Regional Chamber said "this is another great opportunity to collaborate with our state partners. We are thrilled to have such great support."