November is National Gratitude Month, a perfect time to express my thanks. I’m grateful for plenty of things, but when it comes to all things Choose Folsom, these are at the top of my list.
Our business community: They say that the people make the place. That couldn’t be truer in Folsom. Our local entrepreneurs, startups, mom-and-pop businesses, and everything in between make our community one I’m very proud to represent. I see it at business events like the recent Future Folsom and Innovation Center Open House, community events like the Folsom Community Service Day in September, and daily when I’m going around Folsom.
Regional partners: They say it takes a village. In our case, it’s a region that works well together. Here are three organizations that illustrate how to work smarter, not harder.
Greater Sacramento Economic Council (GSEC): As the regional economic development organization, Greater Sacramento Economic Council has helped our region attract and grow companies. Their team has provided insights and research, along with a presentation or two, at our events. Barry Broome and his team have supported our collective goal of driving regional business growth and performance.
Innovation District at Granite School: The Innovation District at Granite School was founded by a group of thought leaders who share the common vision of fostering innovation, growth, entrepreneurship, access, education, and opportunity for all in Northern California and the Greater Sacramento Region. Granite School, its headquarters, is the center of its growing ecosystem. Located in Folsom, the school was built in 1870 and was innovative for its time. It’s a fitting location for an entrepreneurial center that focuses on helping launch startups and scale-ups.
While Choose Folsom was one of the founding members, we’re one of many, along with the City of Folsom, Greater Sacramento Economic Council,Sacramento County-Office of Economic Development, the Hwy 50 Economic Alliance, SMUD, Folsom Times, and Volunteers of America.
Hwy 50 EA: The 50 Economic Alliance is a formal partnership of business and government interests along the eastern Highway 50 corridor. Stakeholders in El Dorado County, Folsom, and Rancho Cordova work together to showcase everything our region offers. Our partners are a terrific example of how collaboration can improve the results for everyone.
Choose Folsom team: From events to advocacy, networking to research, the staff at Choose Folsom continues to go above and beyond in everything they do. If you’ve ever attended the Folsom Pro Rodeo, the recent Foothill Wine Fest, or a Meet the Leadersevent, you’ve seen the effort, care, and energy required to ensure they succeed.
Kudos also must be given to the board, which provides the leadership and insights to steer our strategy and direction.
Joe Gagliardi is the CEO of Choose Folsom and the Folsom Chamber of Commerce. Folsom Times is a Chairman’s Circle Partner with the Chamber of Commerce and Choose Folsom.
