Thank you to our Newest Sponsor
Freedom First Credit Union!
GBA Underwriter
October Newsletter: Director's Letter
Leadership & Collaboration
I have been thinking a lot about Leadership & Collaboration recently, as I continue to connect with awesome business owners, organizational leaders, and visionaries all over Greenfield. One thing is clear...we all care deeply about our small city, and want to see it flourish.
Lately I've been spending most of my time planning Vintage Days - our Second Annual celebration of all things Vintage in Greenfield. Events like these have a clear purpose of bringing people downtown, encouraging folks to shop, explore, and mingle, and drawing attention to the great Vintage vibe that Greenfield has all the time. Working closely with our businesses, and the team in our Economic Development office, as well as the tireless efforts of the GBA Board and partners across sectors, I am struck by the creativity and tenacity that lives here in Greenfield.
It's not all puppies and rainbows, as they say, especially as we note the resignation of another great City Employee, citing (in part) constant negativity and harassment from some members of the local community; nonetheless, what we want to draw attention to here is the AMAZING, visionary leadership we get to work with at the Franklin County Chamber, Greenfield Farmer's Market, Franklin Community Co-op, Pioneer Valley Symphony, the 20+ businesses that have hopped in on Vintage Days activities....and that's just naming a few!
Big things are happening in Greenfield, and while it may not be the first time you've heard that, we encourage you to join the efforts, jump on the positivity Trolley, and be the growth YOU want to see.
Opportunity to Improve Your Business Signage!
There is a new round of Storefront Improvement Grants up for grabs! If you've been thinking about updating or replacing your signage or awnings, adding some exterior lighting, or freshening up your windows, this is the time. Grant funds cover design, fabrication, and delivery of new elements, though installation costs will have to be covered by the business.
There are some great local sign makers and vendors, and a lot of materials and designs to choose from. Take a walk downtown and you can see the last Storefront Improvement grant dollars at work, with new signage at People's Pint, Hens & Chicks, All About Beads, Ice Cream Alley, Alchemy of Avalon, Parker on Main, and more. See something you love? We're happy to connect you with the owner to get more info.
Consider vendors like Hale Custom Signs in Gill, Hired Hand Signs in Sunderland, Godfrey Signs in Cummington, and more. We're here to get you the info you need.
Get more info & APPLY: https://greenfield-ma.gov/departments/community_and_economic_development/current_projects_.php
DEADLINE TO APPLY: October 31
2nd Annual Vintage Days is Here!
It's that time of the year...
HOLIDAY LIGHTS SPONSORSHIP!
Purchase your star TODAY to light Greenfield up through the dark winter months. Remind customers about your business during the holiday season, and show your support for Greenfield!
Need an INTERN?!
After a hiatus, Greenfield Community College is reviving its internship program, with newly hired David Brown at the helm. If you've been considering an intern, he's just the person to reach out to. David seeks to make the process simple, and will connect with you on the specifics of what your business needs. "GCC students are nontraditional and driven, and we feel confident that we can find a student to suit the needs of any business in town," Brown says.
Interns are a great way to give your business capacity a boost, while helping a student in your community learn and hone new skills. Shoot David an email today, and get connected for next semester! You can reach him at brownd@gcc.mass.edu.
Find us at this year's
Halloween Celebration!
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Tell us your spookiest business tales, grab an apple from Clarkdale Fruit Farms (or some candy), and enjoy the costumes walking by.
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INTERESTED in offering Trick or Treating at YOUR store or organization? Let us know and we'll get you a window decal to let the kids know where to stop.
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Brought to you by the Greenfield Recreation Department!
The rains continue, and our agricultural businesses, in Greenfield and beyond, continue to fight for recovery after historic rainfall and subsequent flooding. Consider hosting a fundraiser, donating a portion of proceeds, or volunteering your time, as we pull together as a business community to support this crucial sector.
You can also consider a donation to CISA’s Emergency Farm Fund, which provides no-interest loans to farms in the wake of extreme weather events, The Fund is currently accepting applications for loans up to $25,000 for farms impacted by the July flooding and rain or the damaging freezes earlier this year.
Local farms impacted by these devastating weather events can find more resources here: https://www.buylocalfood.org/resources-for-farmers/july-2023-flood-resources/
