Alliance aims to grow businesses in community

Elizabeth Tyler, executive director of the Gluckstadt Madison Business Alliance, says their purpose is to grow businesses and strengthen the sense of community.

“We’re passionate about that and we love to hear ideas from our members and see what we can come up with,” Tyler said. “Every business is important to the city.” 

Tyler said the Alliance acts as Gluckstadt’s chamber of commerce and they host ribbon cuttings among other various types of events across the city. 

“Our biggest ribbon cutting was for Gluckstadt City Hall, which also celebrated the one-year anniversary of Gluckstadt becoming a city,” Tyler said. “All ribbon cuttings are important because most of our businesses are small, and you can meet the owners on a personal level. They are not big corporations like Walmart. I feel that’s very unique.”

The Alliance recently held their first annual Celebration Luncheon which honored people with award such as Business of the Year, Ambassador of the Year, and Citizen of the Year. They also published their first membership directory, which is focused on building the city, and have a monthly networking group called “Business Builders.”

The Alliance plans on holding their first annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast soon (date to be determined) along with a golf tournament on May 5. 

Tyler noted the Alliance is also collaborating with Madison County economic development leaders and chambers to help promote Law Enforcement Appreciation in May and plans to do a big women’s event called “Unwind” this fall.

“Unwind” will feature seminars, booths, and a fashion show,” Tyler said. 

For more information about the Gluckstadt Madison Business Alliance, visit their website at www.gluckstadtba.com.