Bob Hendrickson

The GINCC has been part of the community for 10 years now and our membership allows us to continue to support and promote businesses on the West End of Marquette County. Currently we have around 200 members in good standing and would like to see that grow to 250 by the end of 2021.

The GINCC was integral in 2020 with providing up-to-date information to our business community of Federal programs that have kept many small businesses solvent due to COVID restrictions. We were also able to provide safe community activities by coordinating outdoor events with COVID prevention protocols in place.

Our mission: “Dedicated to building great businesses, great neighborhoods and great places to experience Western Marquette County.” During these times, we want to assure you that our mission is the same but how we go about fulfilling it is evolving.

We are a member driven organization that bridges businesses with the community, champions the buy local philosophy, promotes the West End of Marquette County as a whole to visit, live and explore, along with embracing the historical roots that make this area great.

April typically signifies the coming of spring. A clean slate of opportunities and challenges.

Here at the GINCC we’re also looking forward to the opportunities ahead. Renewing partnerships with member businesses, welcoming new members and sharing stories of success while working on solutions to local challenges.

We eagerly await when we can start hosting Business After Hours again. Most likely the first gatherings will take place in outdoor settings. In addition to BAHs the GINCC hosts ribbon cuttings, open houses and additional special events to provide media exposure and recognition for chamber members.

We have good working relations with several media, economic and community organizations that are dedicated to building economy and community. We connect our membership with these resources and promote the importance of supporting our local businesses.

One thing we’ve learned through the past twelve months is a chamber of commerce is a conduit to other businesses, organizations and services geared to keeping businesses in business and supporting our local economy. We don’t have all the answers or solutions but can put our members in touch with someone who can help.

To learn more about the GINCC, visit our website at www.gincc.org, give us a call or stop in. Office hours are 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. We are at times out of office on Chamber business. Please call ahead to confirm a visit, 906-486-1111.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Bob Hendrickson is the executive director of the GINCC. He currently resides in Negaunee with his wife, Laura, and daughter, Sierra. He enjoys mountain biking, skiing, fishing and hunting along with family time.