Businesses are the heart of our communities. Understanding how important they are to all of our residents in Boulder and Broomfield Counties, the Northwest Chamber Alliance (NWCA) announced today that efforts to assist businesses and employees throughout Boulder and Broomfield Counties have begun and will continue for as long as needed.
“We know that many businesses have taken a direct hit from the fires, with a total loss of inventory, equipment, and records. Others will suffer indirectly through anticipated long-term business disruptions,” said John Tayer, CEO of the Boulder Chamber of Commerce.
“Businesses not directly impacted at this time may see a loss of customers, available staffing, loss of vendors and a general disruption in standard business activity. Long-term disruptions are anticipated,” noted Scott Cook, CEO of the Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce.
As a way to determine the immediate needs of our regional businesses, the NWCA is conducting a survey of all of their members and business contacts. The NWCA will also be identifying future anticipated business issues as a way of connecting those who need support and those who have support to provide. Additionally, the official NWCA website, https//northwestchamberalliance.com, will serve as a central clearinghouse for business support, guidance and resources. Each individual Chamber is working through the NWCA to maximize efforts and to reduce overlap.
Corine Waldau, Senior Director of Economic Vitality with the Boulder Chamber said, “The effects of the fire compound the challenges businesses already face in recruiting and retaining talent, due to elevated COVID numbers. With testing sites and one of our major hospitals closed due to the fires, we know we need additional masks and COVID tests. The NWCA will be working with appropriate organizations to advocate for these COVID response resources.”
The NWCA encourages those who wish to provide immediate help to contact one of the organizations that has established funds that will be working with those directly impacted. The NWCA coalition will continue to meet on a regular basis to update its response plans as more information becomes available. All efforts will be made to provide information in both English and Spanish to ensure that all members of the local business community receive what is available. “We will find our way through this together,” said Deana Miller, Executive Director of the Superior Chamber of Commerce. “We are here for our community now, and in the future. Thank you to everyone who has, and will step up to help Superior in our time of need.”
Amber Thiel, Executive Director of the Louisville Chamber of Commerce added, “We are heartbroken, devastated and still in shock, much like the rest of the community. At the same time, we are feeling optimistic and fueled with energy to help our friends, families, business owners and others effectively pull through this and find the resources they need to get back on their feet. Thank you all for the amazing sense of community you have given us. We will get through this, together and with time.” For more information visit northwestchamberalliance.com
About the Northwest Chamber Alliance
The Northwest Chamber Alliance was formed in 2016 as a coalition focused on regional issues that impact economic vitality and quality of life. It is currently comprised of the Boulder Chamber, Boulder County LGBTQ Chamber, Broomfield Chamber of Commerce, Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, Latino Chamber of Boulder County, Louisville Chamber of Commerce, Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce, and Superior Chamber of Commerce, representing approximately 3,700 businesses and 380,000 employees. These businesses range from large international corporations to small businesses, startups, nonprofits and public institutions.