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Business Owner

Local First

Download the White Paper

No One Gets Left Behind: A Shared Strategy for Strengthening PD16’s Small Business Economy

This white paper outlines why small business sustainability must be treated as essential economic infrastructure in Planning District 16. It provides data, local context, and a practical framework for elected officials, institutions, and business leaders to work together to strengthen retention, local spending, and regional resilience.

Partner Recognition Tiers

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Founding Partner

Gold Tier — Limited Time

Reserved for organizations and businesses who sign the Local First Pledge before our official launch on February 20, 2026. Founding Partners receive permanent recognition, a gold-accented badge, and acknowledgment at our 10-Year Celebration Event.

Become a Founding Partner
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Program Partner

Silver Tier

Program Sponsors fuel the engine that drives small business success in PD16. Your investment directly supports workshops, training sessions, and events that connect them to the resources they need.

Learn About Champion Partnership
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Community Champion

Standard Tier

For local businesses and individuals who put their money where their values are. Community Champions directly fund Hub programming that help small businesses thrive.

Sign the Pledge
Business Networking Event

Take the Local First Pledge

Ready to commit? Sign the Local First Pledge and join a growing movement of businesses, organizations, and leaders building a stronger Planning Dist

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Sign the Local First Pledge and join a growing movement of businesses, organizations, and leaders building a stronger Planning District 16.

Business Meeting

PD16 Small Business Advisory Council

The PD16 Small Business Advisory Council is a structured, solutions-oriented forum designed to ensure that small business voices are included in regional economic development, policy discussions, and institutional decision-making.

 

The Council will consist of 8–12 small business owners representing diverse industries, business sizes, and communities across Planning District 16. Members serve two-year terms and provide input on issues such as retention strategies, workforce challenges, procurement practices, and hub programming.

Interested in serving?

Applications for the inaugural Advisory Council will open in early 2026. Express your interest now to be notified when applications go live.

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