Business Growth Awards showcase companies that benefit from many local factors
This year, more than ever, the Business Growth Award finalists commented on the interrelationship between their company’s success and the overall health of the region’s economy and business community.
While some firms are being hit hard by such factors as gas prices and a slumping housing market, overall businesses are reporting a high level of success in their respective areas due to the continued influx of homeowners to Southwest Washington and an evolving marketplace that supports new innovations in technology, retail, construction, health care and other sectors.
Megan Patrick’s page 1 story detailing the strengthening partnership between the Columbia River Economic Development Council and the Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council is emblematic of the effort to create a holistic economic system in the region. "Working together," says CREDC chief Bart Phillips, "we can offer the full meal deal from site location to workforce acquisition."
Another piece of the puzzle that rose up strongly this month is the business community’s continually amazing philanthropic efforts. In one week – really, in one meeting – the Vancouver Rotary Club, which is mainly comprised of Southwest Washington business owners and managers, exceeded its Hunger Awareness Month goal of $18,000. In one meeting. Taking care of the area’s less fortunate residents creates a more prosperous environment for everyone.
Other factors, such as sensible land use planning and a continued focus on sustainability – or that which sustains high paying jobs and long-term business prosperity – will always play a pivotal role in the growth of Southwest Washington.
The Vancouver Business Journal would like to congratulate all of the finalists in this year’s Business Growth Award categories, but – more than that – recognize the environment that is creating this sense of prosperity and forward movement.
We would also like to thank our readers for their helpful and positive feedback on North Bank, a new magazine focused on Southwest Washington’s emerging urban lifestyles. We are proud of the effort and excited to be filling a niche focused on living, working and playing in the region’s downtown centers. Subscriptions to North Bank are free, and we will be going quarterly this fall. VBJ subscribers, of course, get a copy with their newspaper.
Getting the word out about the vibrant city centers in this area is North Bank’s mission.
If you would like more copies of North Bank for your office, store, community center or other public display area, or you have an event, shop or restaurant you would like to see covered, please contact us at 360-695-2442.
