The Branch County Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to be a partner in Branch County's HomeTown Competitiveness initiative. What is HomeTown Competitiveness?
HomeTown Competitiveness is a unique approach to rural development that was created in Nebraska. Based on four pillars - entrepreneurship, charitable assets, youth and leadership, HomeTown Competitiveness is a locally-based framework built on Branch County's strengths, not someone else's idea of what we need! Watch the local presentation here. (Must have Microsoft PowerPoint to view.)
If you would like to request a presentation to your local organization, please e-mail Hillary Eley.
The four organizations heading up the HomeTown Competitiveness initiative in Branch County are: Branch County Area Chamber of Commerce, Branch County Community Foundation, Coldwater Downtown Development Authority and Branch County Economic Growth Alliance.
If you would like to donate to the HomeTown Competitiveness Fund within the Branch County Community Foundation, contact Colleen Knight or make a secure donation through PayPal here:
What's Happening in Branch County?
HTC Blog Launched!
In an effort to keep everyone updated continuously, the Branch County HomeTown Competitiveness intiative has launched a blog. Check it out here!
Jack Schultz - Boomtown USA Comes to Branch County
Ever wonder what makes some rural communities thrive? Jack Schultz knows! Jack is the author of "Boomtown USA: The 7 1/2 Keys to Big Success in Small Towns" Through the generosity of Michigan Gas Utlities, Jack Schultz was in Branch County sharing the 7 1/2 keys! Jack also shared his views of what he sees for the future of Branch County, and he had plenty of positive remarks! To check out Jack's blog and read what he had to say about Branch County, click here. To request a copy of the book, "Boomtown USA" email Hillary Eley here.
Business Transition Workshop
Business Transition Workshop - "A Smooth Transition" was a great success on Tuesday, May 15! With over 30 attendees, this hands-on, interactive seminar assisted current business owners, future business owners and professional advisors in navigating through the waters of business transition. For a copy of the hand-out "Destination Succession" click here.
HomeTown Competitiveness Endowment Boost!
Southern Michigan Bank and Trust has become our first "HomeTown Competitiveness Hero" by establishing the HomeTown Competitiveness Fund within the Branch County Community Foundation! Click here for the full story!

Barbara Rosene, Coldwater DDA Director and Hillary Eley, Chamber President accept
the initial donation to the HomeTown Competitiveness Fund from Southern Michigan Bank & Trust's John Castle and Kurt Miller.
More Information...
If you would like more information on the HomeTown Competitiveness program and how Nebraska has taken this approach to build successes in rural communities, please visit the following sites:
WK Kellogg Foundation
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