Goal:  Strengthen and broaden downtown’s economic base.

Objectives:

1.                  Compile market data and develop useable market profile information.

Activities:

·         Go through the “Step by Step Downtown Market Analysis” booklet and University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension website (http://www.uwex.edu/ces/cced/downtowns/).

·         Identify current market data that already exists.

·         Create comprehensive building/business database.

·         Conduct a Customer Survey (phone or in person) partner with High School FBLA.

·         Conduct a “female focus” shopping challenge (contact WSMSP for information).

2.                  Develop and coordinate a recruitment plan for downtown.

Activities:

·         Develop protocol for potential business contacts with City, Chamber, and EDD.

·         Develop a one page spec sheet using market data for potential new businesses.

3.                  Develop incentives to encourage investment in the district and to assist existing and new businesses.

Activities:

·         Work with local banks to create a low interest loan pool. Provide information on Main Street Tax      Credit Incentive Program (B&O credit) to area banks & CPAs.

·         Disseminate information on other incentives (tax credits, design assistance).

4.                  Work with the City and other governmental organizations to develop “business friendly” partnerships (e.g., Port of Chelan, City of Chelan, Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce).

Activities:

·         Explore potential for a small business incubator in downtown Chelan with Port of Chelan.

5.                  Develop business retention program.

Activities:

§  Develop a “peer to peer” assistance program (i.e., work with Wenatchee or Ellensburg about forming groups to do site visit).

§  Provide information in newsletter on topics of interest to downtown businesses (e.g., marketing, customer service, etc.).