Category: Blog

Welcome The Newest CBICC Members!

Posted on by Jules Slater

At CBICC, we believe that a strong business community is built on collaboration, innovation, and support. Every new member brings unique expertise and energy to Centre County, helping drive economic growth and community engagement. This month, we’re excited to highlight three outstanding organizations that are making a difference in business, leadership, and local outreach.

Pink Zone

What started as a single basketball game has grown into a powerful movement. Pink Zone began in 2007 when the Penn State Lady Lions, dressed in pink uniforms, hosted an awareness event that raised over $20,000. Today, Pink Zone continues to champion breast cancer awareness and provide direct support to patients and their families. Through partnerships with healthcare leaders and fundraising efforts, the organization has raised over $3.2 million to aid local and national cancer support initiatives. Learn more about Pink Zone’s mission.

C3 Workplace

For nearly 30 years, C3 Workplace has been helping small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals grow by providing flexible office space, business training, and back-office support services. Their goal is to meet businesses where they are and equip them with the resources they need to scale successfully. With a strong belief in the power of collaboration, they foster a community-driven model that helps businesses connect, learn, and thrive. Learn more here.

Resilient Vision Consulting

Empowering lives through compassionate guidance, Resilient Vision Consulting is dedicated to supporting individuals affected by sight loss, low vision, and trauma. By fostering emotional and physical resilience, they ensure a brighter path toward healing and growth. Their services include personalized support tailored to each individual’s unique vision needs, helping them navigate challenges and thrive. They also provide expert guidance for families, caregivers, and organizations through practical advice, training, and speaking engagements to promote inclusivity and understanding. Learn more about their services here.

Join Us in Building a Stronger Centre County

We’re proud to welcome these incredible new members to the CBICC community. Each organization plays a vital role in making Centre County a thriving place to live and work, and we’re excited to support their success.

Thinking about joining CBICC? Connect with us today to learn more about the opportunities and resources available to your business. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Learn more about joining the CBICC network. CBICC network.

 

Geisinger Bellefonte poised to open ConvenientCare on March 10

Posted on by Jules Slater

BELLEFONTE, Pa – After opening for primary care, lab and imaging services in November, Geisinger Bellefonte, located at 226 Buckaroo Lane, will begin offering walk-in care for medical needs on Monday, March 10.

The Geisinger Bellefonte ConvenientCare walk-in clinic will feature six exam rooms and be staffed by three advanced practitioners who treat a variety of urgent, non-life-threatening medical issues. The clinic will be open seven days a week.

ConvenientCare clinics provide quick care for common illnesses; allergies; cuts that require stitches; insect bites or tick removal; ear, urinary and other infections; skin rashes; and sprains and strains. They’re ideal for anyone who can’t wait to see a primary care physician or who isn’t ill or injured enough to visit an emergency room. The clinics also offer physicals and immunizations.

Geisinger Bellefonte’s lab and radiology services are offered seven days a week in a comfortable environment for adult and pediatric patients, and patients can self-schedule through MyGeisinger by visiting geisinger.org/mygeisinger or by using the MyChart app to save their spot in line. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Geisinger Bellefonte ConvenientCare hours are Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (final patient accepted at 7:45 p.m.); Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (final patient accepted at 5:45 p.m.); Closed: Most major holidays.

To learn more about Geisinger ConvenientCare, call 814-353-1030 or visit //geisinger.org/urgentcare to see wait times, reserve a spot and save time. To learn more about Geisinger primary care, visit //geisinger.org/primarycare.

About Geisinger

Geisinger is among the nation’s leading providers of value-based care, serving 1.2 million people in urban and rural communities across Pennsylvania. Founded in 1915 by philanthropist Abigail Geisinger, the nonprofit system generates $10 billion in annual revenues across 126 care sites — including 10 hospital campuses — and Geisinger Health Plan, with more than half a million members in commercial and government plans. Geisinger College of Health Sciences educates more than 5,000 medical professionals annually and conducts more than 1,400 clinical research studies. With 26,000 employees, including 1,700 employed physicians, Geisinger is among Pennsylvania’s largest employers with an estimated economic impact of $15 billion to the state’s economy. On March 31, 2024, Geisinger became the first member of Risant Health, a new nonprofit charitable organization created to expand and accelerate value-based care across the country. Learn more at geisinger.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation

Posted on by Jules Slater

Content contributed by Chamber Today

  • Small businesses are driving innovation—embracing trends that fuel growth and resilience.
  • Sustainability is a competitive edge, as eco-conscious consumers demand greener products and practices.
  • E-commerce continues to grow, with social commerce and omnichannel strategies reshaping the landscape.
  • AI adoption is accelerating, streamlining operations, improving customer engagement, and enhancing decision-making.
  • Community-focused strategies build trust—hyperlocal marketing and partnerships strengthen customer loyalty.

635 words ~ 3 min. read

Small businesses have always been the heart of innovation, adapting quickly to change and shaping industries in unexpected ways. Now, a new wave of transformation is taking place—one driven by sustainability, evolving e-commerce strategies, artificial intelligence, and deeper community engagement. The businesses that embrace these trends won’t just survive; they’ll thrive.

Sustainability: More Than a Trend, a Competitive Edge

For years, large corporations have led the sustainability conversation, but today, small businesses are proving they can drive change just as effectively. Consumers increasingly seek out brands that align with their values, and sustainability is at the top of their priorities. According to a NielsenIQ study, 78% of consumers say a sustainable lifestyle is important to them.

For small businesses, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Those that commit to sustainable practices—whether by adopting eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste, or sourcing from ethical suppliers—are building long-term trust with their customers. More importantly, sustainability is no longer just a feel-good initiative; it’s a business advantage. Customers are willing to pay more for products they believe are making a difference, and small businesses that embrace this movement will attract and retain loyal buyers.

E-Commerce’s Continued Evolution

Online shopping has been growing for years, but in 2025, the landscape is shifting once again. It’s no longer just about having a website; it’s about being where the customers are—on social platforms, mobile devices, and in seamless digital experiences that connect online and offline shopping.

Social commerce, in particular, is becoming a dominant force. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest aren’t just for marketing anymore—they’re full-fledged shopping destinations. Consumers are making purchasing decisions in real-time, influenced by creators, peer reviews, and interactive content. According to Statista, global e-commerce sales are expected to reach $7.4 trillion in 2025, and small businesses that invest in social selling, mobile-friendly platforms, and omnichannel experiences will be the ones who capture that growth.

For small business owners, this means rethinking their approach. A well-optimized website is still essential, but so is an active presence on social media, easy checkout experiences, and strategies that connect digital and physical storefronts. The businesses that get this right will stay ahead of the curve.

AI for Any Business

For many small business owners, artificial intelligence once seemed like a tool reserved for tech giants. But now, AI is more accessible than ever, offering cost-effective solutions to streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and make smarter business decisions.

AI-powered chatbots are handling customer inquiries 24/7. Automated marketing tools are crafting personalized email campaigns with just a few clicks. Even customer service and inventory management are being optimized with AI-driven insights. The businesses that embrace these tools aren’t just saving time; they’re improving customer experiences and freeing up resources to focus on growth.

Platforms like Shopify Magic, ChatGPT, and HubSpot’s AI-powered CRM are making it easier for small businesses to integrate AI without needing a dedicated IT team. The key is to start small—automating one or two repetitive tasks—and gradually expanding AI’s role in the business. Those who do will be more agile, more efficient, and better equipped for long-term success.

Community Engagement: The Power of Local Connections

In a digital world, small businesses have a powerful advantage that big corporations often struggle with: the ability to build deep, meaningful relationships within their communities. More than ever, consumers want to support businesses that align with their values and contribute to something bigger than just profits.

Small businesses that invest in their local communities—by supporting local causes, partnering with nearby businesses, and engaging in hyperlocal marketing—are earning lasting customer loyalty. A Harvard Business Review study found that 64% of consumers prefer to buy from brands that share their values. When a business is seen as a key part of the community, customers become advocates, spreading word-of-mouth recommendations that no marketing budget can buy.

The Future Belongs to Those Who Innovate

The small businesses that will thrive in 2025 are the ones that recognize these shifts and take action. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a business advantage. E-commerce is no longer just a website—it’s a dynamic, social, and omnichannel experience. AI isn’t out of reach—it’s an essential tool for efficiency. And community engagement isn’t just goodwill—it’s a strategic move for brand loyalty. 

The question isn’t whether these changes are happening—the question is whether small business owners are ready to embrace them. The future of business is here, and it belongs to those willing to innovate.

Further Reading:

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The [NAME] Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC. 

The CBICC Network Just Keeps Growing – Say Hello to Our Newest Members!

Posted on by Jules Slater

February, 2025

Centre County continues to grow, and so does our vibrant business community! At CBICC, we’re committed to fostering connections that support businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs in their journey toward success. Our latest members represent a diverse range of industries, from technology and communications to apparel and nonprofit outreach. We’re excited to introduce them and showcase their impact on our region.

Verizon

A leader in telecommunications and technology, Verizon is committed to keeping businesses and individuals connected with reliable wireless, broadband, and digital solutions. Their investments in innovation and infrastructure help drive economic growth and technological advancement in our region. Learn more at Verizon.

DocFinity

Specializing in enterprise content management (ECM) and workflow automation, DocFinity helps businesses streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance digital transformation. Their cutting-edge solutions empower organizations to manage information securely and effectively. Discover more at DocFinity.

Town Pride

More than just apparel, Town Pride celebrates the communities we love with custom-designed, high-quality clothing and accessories. With a mission to bring people together through shared hometown pride, they’re creating meaningful connections across Centre County and beyond. Explore their designs at Town Pride.

The Jared Box Project

Bringing smiles to children in hospitals across the country, The Jared Box Project is a nonprofit dedicated to providing boxes filled with small toys, games, and activities to young patients. Founded in Centre County, their mission spreads joy and comfort to children facing medical challenges. Get involved at The Jared Box Project.

Join Us in Building a Stronger Centre County

We’re proud to welcome these incredible new members to the CBICC community. Each organization plays a role in shaping the future of our region, and we’re excited to support their success.

Thinking about joining CBICC? Connect with us today to learn more about the opportunities and resources available to your business. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Learn More About Joining CBICC

Local Business Partnerships Strengthen Communities and Drive Growth

Posted on by Jules Slater

Content contributed by Chamber Today

  • Strategic partnerships expand reach – Small businesses can attract new customers, reduce costs, and strengthen their local presence by collaborating with complementary businesses.
  • Joint events boost visibility – Pop-up shops, community festivals, and charity partnerships create opportunities for cross-promotion and increased customer engagement.
  • Shared marketing maximizes impact – Social media takeovers, email marketing swaps, and joint discounts help businesses reach wider audiences without increasing advertising costs.
  • Co-working and shared spaces reduce expenses – Businesses can lower overhead costs by sharing retail locations, office spaces, or market stalls while enhancing customer experience.
  • Success stories highlight collaboration benefits – Partnerships like breweries and food trucks or bookstores and coffee shops demonstrate how businesses can thrive together by providing complementary services.

~ 507 words / 2.5 min read

Small businesses looking to expand their reach and strengthen their customer base are finding success through local collaborations. By forming strategic partnerships with other businesses and organizations, owners can tap into new audiences, reduce costs and contribute to a thriving local economy.

Finding the Right Business Partner

Successful collaborations often involve businesses that complement, rather than compete with each other. A coffee shop, for example, may partner with a bookstore to host book signings, creating a mutually beneficial arrangement that brings in customers for both. A fitness studio might team up with a health food store to promote wellness programs, offering discounts to each other’s customers.

Leveraging Events and Promotions

Local businesses can increase visibility and engagement by organizing joint events. Some popular strategies include:

  • Pop-up shops – A bakery can be set up inside a boutique, providing shoppers with refreshments while increasing exposure for both businesses.
  • Community festivals – Restaurants, retailers and service providers can join forces to sponsor or participate in local events, drawing in larger crowds.
  • Charity partnerships – Businesses that collaborate with nonprofits or local organizations not only contribute to a cause but also boost customer loyalty and trust.

Such initiatives create opportunities for businesses to cross-promote and introduce their brands to new audiences.

Collaborating on Marketing Efforts

Marketing can be a significant expense for small businesses, but shared promotional efforts help reduce costs while maximizing impact. Local businesses can work together through:

  • Social media takeovers – Partnering businesses can feature each other on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, increasing engagement.
  • Email marketing swaps – Businesses can promote each other in their newsletters, introducing their products and services to a wider audience.
  • Exclusive discounts – Offering customers a deal when they visit both businesses encourages spending across multiple locations.

Exploring Shared Spaces

Another effective collaboration strategy involves sharing physical space to cut costs and increase visibility. Co-working environments, pop-up markets and joint retail spaces are becoming increasingly popular among small business owners.

For instance, a yoga studio and a wellness clinic might share a lease, offering their clients a one-stop destination for fitness and health. Similarly, food halls that feature multiple vendors allow small restaurant owners to reach new customers without the financial burden of operating a standalone location.

Success Stories in Local Collaboration

One well-known example of local business partnerships is the collaboration between breweries and food trucks. Many craft breweries lack kitchen facilities, so they invite food trucks to set up outside their establishments. This arrangement brings in more customers, benefits both businesses and creates a vibrant atmosphere for patrons.

Independent bookstores and coffee shops have also successfully partnered to attract customers. By allowing book lovers to enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing, both businesses see increased engagement and longer customer visits.

The Bottom Line

For small businesses, collaboration is more than just a marketing strategy—it’s a way to strengthen the local economy and build lasting relationships with customers. By forming strategic partnerships, hosting events and sharing marketing efforts, businesses can maximize their resources and drive mutual success.

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The Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.