What We Do and Why
The success of any business is directly linked to its ability to build and foster a network of customers, employees, peers, suppliers, and partners. Independent businesses often are challenged with connecting with the resources to build the network and stay fresh with the skills and best practices to operate in an ever-changing business environment. MetroIBA provides members and their teams with the opportunity to build those connections and learn those skills. Our monthly networking events allow members to meet, exchange ideas and forge new relationships. Monthly webinars help members brush up on management skills, lean new practices and keep abreast on changes in the ecosystem.
Our Approach
MetroIBA Annual Meeting!!
Thursday, March 23, 2023 – 5:30-7:30p.m. FREE EVENT!!
Sociable Cider Werks – 1611 Polk Street NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 Sociable Cider Werks
Cash bar – appetizers and snacks
Member Highlight – Julie Ingebretsen – hear from Julie about the challenges and successes the past few years have brought to Ingebretsen’s
Come and meet other members, share a laugh or story and support MetroIBA!!
Register here: MetroIBA Annual Meeting Tickets, Thu, Mar 23, 2023 at 5:30 PM | Eventbrite
Networking
Networking events are held on the second Tuesday of the month and are open to all MetroIBA members. Events alternate between East Metro and West Metro locations, and between early morning and late afternoon events. Check the calendar for exact times and places. Often the events are hosted a member business or other community-based location. Members are encouraged to invite colleagues, employees, suppliers and partners interested in connecting with independent businesses.
Webinars
Webinars are usually held the third Wednesday of the month, during the lunch hour. They are presented by MetroIBA members with an expertise in the topic, or another professional when needed. Members and their staff may attend at no charge, though pre-registration is usually required. MetroIBA archives recordings of past webinars and members can request to see these by emailing info@metroiba.org. Recently completed webinars include:
- Creating an Ergonomic Home Work Space (presented by CHESS, Inc.)
- Financial Paths for Independent Business (presented by BankCherokee)
- Getting Back to Business After COVID Closure (presented by MetroIBA)
- Best practices in Hiring and Firing (presented by Peters Revnew Kappenman & Anderson)
- SEO for Small Business (presented by Romain Berg)
- Using Video to Grow your Business (presented by SKOL Marketing)
- The Revised LLC Act (Presented by Rubric Legal)
- End of the Year Tax Strategies for Small Business (presented by ROR Tax)
Networking Gallery
Help Desk Our Knowledge is Your Knowledge
MetroIBA has a unique and rich network of business owners, government agencies and partner organizations that can provide information and answer questions. Let us know how we can help answer your questions and provide resources. Submit your questions here and we will get back with an answer as soon as we can. Thanks for making our community stronger!
Ask A Question
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Imagine your worst case scenario as a small business owner, and you will be transported into the world of Ebony Davis. Davis, a hair stylist with over 22 years of experience, worked hard, enough to realize the dream of opening her own salon in the Lyn Lake area of South Minneapolis 3 years ago. (Read Full Story)
Member Stories