Business Expansion And Retention (BEAR) is a CCEDC economic development strategy that proactively connects with existing businesses to understand and respond to their needs. Special attention is given to our small businesses that employ 150 individuals or less. These existing small businesses and their workforce are key measuring sticks of the Chippewa Valley’s economic health.  It is important that CCEDC continues to build positive relationships with our local businesses, connect with them regularly, and follow up with them when problems are identified. CCEDC aims to proactively address small issues before they arise and become big issues that may impact critical business activities. This is what BEAR Discussions are all about! These (BEAR) discussions center around improving relationships with local governments, educational institutions, and supply chains.  CEDCC would like to thank Klaus Bauer of Huebsch Services and Scott Zielski of SMARTcare Software for the great discussions and insight during the last (BEAR) discussion with HSHS St. Joseph Hospital Advisory Council. If you are interested in participating in the next BEAR discussion on February 25th, 2021 from 12:00-1:00 P.M. with Star Blends and Bob Oliver of Stout Outreach Manufacturing Center just let us know. Remember that (BEAR) discussions are limited in size to enhance the dialogue and feedback, so space is limited. Contact us at (715)-723-7150 or at ccedc@chippewa-wi.com.