2017 April Issue
Some benefits to using the Business Model Canvas
The Business Model Canvas is an entrepreneurial tool that enables you to visualize, design, and reinvent your business model. It was developed by Swiss business theorist and author Alexander Osterwalder. For many startups, using the tool can help them develop a clear view of their value proposition, operations, customers and finances. As a…
Read MoreIBJ Newsmakers: Collinsville Economic Development Commission holds annual development event
IBJ Newsmakers Collinsville Economic Development Commission holds annual development event The Collinsville Economic Development Commission held its ninth annual, “An Evening with the EDC” event on March 23 at the Gateway Center. EDC chairman Kevin Weinacht said the event began as a way to promote the city to potential developers. “This event is a…
Read MoreGrowing travel program helps agency meet demands
By DENNIS GRUBAUGH ALTON — Pamela Kaizer follows a routine when she wraps up each new adventure in Senior Services Plus’ travel program. The travel coordinator asks participants what they thought of their trip, hoping to gain feedback for later. She also thanks them on behalf of others who couldn’t make the journey. Profit from…
Read MoreSeveral pieces of legislation advance in Illinois Senate
Automatic voter registration back SPRINGFIELD – State Sen. Andy Manar has re-introduced legislation to bring automatic voter registration to Illinois, a move that would simplify the process, clean up voter rolls and save tax money, he said. Last year, Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner vetoed the effort even though it had bipartisan support in both…
Read MoreMoran Economic Development utilizing full tool box to help cities grow
By ALAN J. ORTBALS New life is being breathed into the long-dormant Discovery Business Park in Dupo, according to Keith Moran, president of Moran Economic Development. Moran works with numerous municipalities in Southern Illinois to assist them with their economic development needs. A decade ago, the development arm of St. Louis builder Clayco had optioned…
Read MoreCollinsville creates new TIF district to revitalize Southwest corridor
By ALAN J. ORTBALS Last year Collinsville added its newest TIF district, the Southwest Corridors TIF which encompasses land along Collinsville, Bluff and St. Louis Roads. It was created to provide infrastructure and public improvements to support existing development, encourage new private investment, catalyze new private commercial and industrial development and promote property improvements. It’s…
Read MoreDowntown revitalization continuing in Alton with help of TIF
By ALAN J. ORTBALS Downtown revitalization remains a top priority for the city of Alton. Although it has received more than $100 million dollars of investment since the TIF district was created in 1994, it’s still an area in transition. “Our local economy is still in the process of transforming from our industrial past to…
Read MoreTIF helped turn blighted Owens-Illinois Glass plant into gleaming Alton Center Business Park
By ALAN J. ORTBALS In the late 1990s I was the executive director of the Southwestern Illinois Development Authority, a regional economic development agency that assisted development across Madison and St. Clair counties. The Owens-Illinois Glass Co. was one of Alton’s oldest manufacturers. From its beginnings over a century ago, the plant grew to employ…
Read MoreConstruction Roundup
Contegra Construction Co., Knapheide Truck Equipment Center, Wentzville, Mo.
By RITA DUCKWORTH When clients know what they want, a job can go smoother for a builder. Such was the case with Contegra Construction Co.’s recent project for Knapheide Truck Equipment Co. The Edwardsville-based construction company completed a Truck Equipment Center for Knapheide in Wentzville, Mo. “They are a knowledgeable client,” says Project Manager…
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