Posted by bakercounty

Considering opening a small business? A major market storefront might seem a dream location, but according to a new survey, 63 percent of experienced small business owners say smaller towns prove bigger boons for entrepreneurs.
A recent survey conducted by Nerdwallet, an independent online consumer resource for financial analysis and information, looked at America's 20 largest cities including New York and San Francisco. While these cities boast deep pools of workforce talent and positive growth prospects, they also are fraught with factors that limit new small business success. These factors include higher tax levels and stricter regulations and licensing requirements, which make hiring and compliance far more difficult for smaller businesses that have limited resources.
Meanwhile, the Semi-Annual Small Business Index by Rocket Lawyer, an online provider of legal services, shows that small cities offer multiple small business-friendly benefits including low taxes, minimal regulations, affordable real estate, lower living costs, and easier access to area federal contracts. Entrepreneurs in small towns are far more likely to refer customers to neighboring businesses. Plus, new businesses in small towns tend to enjoy a more even playing ground, as established competitors in bigger cities are tough to compete with, particularly in terms of inventory, price and turnaround time. And, professional and consumer referral groups like chambers of commerce and Meetup.com offer more targeted and effective networking opportunities.
All of these are factors that make Baker County a great choice for small business entrepreneurs. Check out all the benefits that our small town offers, and consider joining the Baker County Chamber of Commerce - a move that affords you significant networking and training opportunities, plus a member-to-member discount program.

Posted by bakercounty

Well another holiday season is upon us and another year has flown by...let us remember that Thanksgiving is this week and to always be thankful for what this past year has brought us.  The time has also come where the Christmas shopping has begun and we know that a lot of people will be doing there shopping out of town but let’s also support our local businesses on Saturday, November 30th for "Small Business Saturday".  It's during the holiday season that makes living in a small town so memorable, from the streets, businesses and houses decorated with lights, to walking through a decorated Heritage Park Village and the annual Christmas Craft Show and Parade which will be on Saturday, December 7th, 2013 in downtown Macclenny.  There will be craft and food vendors as well as entertainment throughout the day.  The parade will start at dark and there will be fireworks at the conclusion of the parade and Santa will be there as well handing out free bags of candy.  The holidays have always been a time where family and friends come together and catch up after a year of being busy so please come and check out Baker County during your holiday outing’s, I assure you that fun will be had by kids and big kids at heart.  Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas from the Baker County Chamber of Commerce!!!