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NETWORK

Networking At Noon

The St. Cloud Area Chamber’s Business Development Council brings important and useful information to business people over the lunch hour through a series of lunchtime lectures. Take part in this educational networking event which includes audience introductions, lunch, a presentation, time for questions, networking, and a business card exchange.

Spring 2025 Classes

Save your seat today! All classes will be held in-person at the Chamber office. No refunds will be offered for cancellations made within 48 hours of the event. Please register at least two days before class so we can include you in the lunch count! Click on the titles of each event to register.

February 5: The Blueprint for Great Teams: Learn How to Build Yours

Sponsor:

Great teams don’t just happen—they’re built with intention and strategy. In this lunchtime learning session, hear from Jay and Tina Mrozek, owners of Blacklight Adventures, as they share how they’ve cultivated successful teams, overcome challenges, and fostered collaboration. Gain actionable tips on recruiting, retaining, and creating a positive team culture to help your business thrive.

This session is ideal for business owners and managers looking to strengthen their teams and drive success. Lunch is included, so join us for valuable insights and practical takeaways!

Speakers:

Tina & Jay Mrozek

Tina and Jay Mrozek are the owners of Blacklight Adventures, a one-of-a-kind entertainment venue that brings people together for family friendly fun. Their success is powered by an incredible team of employees who go above and beyond to make every visit an unforgettable experience.

From creating a welcoming atmosphere to delivering top-notch service, the Blacklight Adventures team is at the heart of the business, ensuring guests enjoy every moment of their adventure. Tina and Jay are passionate about fostering a positive, collaborative environment where their employees thrive, making Blacklight Adventures a truly exceptional place to work and play.

March 5: Keep Them Coming Back: Customer Retention Strategies

Sponsor:

Discover what it takes to turn one-time buyers into lifelong customers. In this engaging lunchtime panel, experts from diverse industries ranging from retail to professional services will share their tried-and-true strategies for building loyalty and keeping customers coming back.

Learn how to foster trust, provide exceptional service, and create experiences that resonate with your customers. Whether you’re a business owner or manager, you’ll walk away with actionable ideas to strengthen relationships and boost retention.

Lunch is included—join us for an inspiring discussion and practical takeaways!

Speakers:

Jessie Sandoval is the owner of Shanti Yoga Center, where she fosters a welcoming space for yoga and mindfulness. With a passion for holistic wellness, Jessie creates an inclusive environment for individuals to grow, find balance, and connect through yoga and meditation.

Ben Sanders is the owner of Dream Home Furniture in St. Cloud, MN. With a focus on quality and personalized service, Ben helps customers find stylish furniture that suits their needs and enhances their homes, making Dream Home Furniture a trusted local business in the community.

April 2: Work Smarter: AI Tools for Everyday Use

Sponsor:

Unlock the potential of artificial intelligence to streamline your work and grow your business. In this lunchtime learning session, our speaker will introduce practical AI tools designed to save time, boost efficiency, and enhance decision-making. Tailored for marketers and managers, this session will provide actionable steps you can implement immediately in your small business. From simplifying daily tasks to enhancing your marketing strategy, discover how AI can work for you.

Lunch is included—don’t miss this opportunity to work smarter, not harder!

Speaker: InteleCONNECT

May 14: Partners in Purpose: Building Strong Business-Nonprofit Relationships

Sponsor:

Looking to strengthen your community impact? Join us for an engaging 45-minute session on building partnerships between business and nonprofits.  Learn practical strategies to form meaningful collaborations, amplify your brand’s values, and create lasting change in your community while supporting the vital work of nonprofits.

Perfect for business leaders and managers, this session will provide insights into building impactful partnerships that support your mission while giving back. Lunch is included—join us to learn how to create win-win relationships that drive positive change!

Speaker:

Nicole Clements is a key team member at the Initiative Foundation in Minnesota, where she works to support community development and local businesses. With a passion for fostering growth and creating positive change, Nichole is dedicated to helping organizations thrive through strategic partnerships and resources that drive lasting impact across the region.

June 4: It’s Still Complicated! Navigating New Laws for MN Employees (Again)

Sponsor:

Minnesota’s workplace laws continue to evolve—are you keeping up? In this lunchtime session, we’ll provide an accessible yet comprehensive overview of the latest legal updates affecting employers. Whether you’re a business owner or HR manager, you’ll gain valuable insights into navigating these changes with confidence.

No need to have attended last year’s session—this event stands alone while building on key themes. For those wanting a deeper dive, stay for an optional second hour of in-depth discussion and practical applications. Lunch is included, so bring your questions and prepare to stay informed!

Speakers:

Betsy Kelly is a Retirement Plan Consultant at NOVA 401(k) Associates, specializing in helping financial advisors and plan sponsors enhance their retirement plan strategies. With experience across the recordkeeper, advisor, and TPA sides of the retirement plan business, Betsey supports a wide range of plans including 401(k), MEPs, PEPs, and defined benefit plans. Based in Blaine, MN, Betsey is passionate about helping advisors grow their business.

Attorney Betsey Lund Ross, a native of Sauk Rapids MN, is an accomplished lawyer and active civic leader in the St. Cloud area. She earned her Juris Doctor from Mitchell Hamline School of Law and has been recognized for her excellence in Employment and Tax Law. As the founder of Lund Ross, P.A., Betsey is known for her leadership and trusted legal expertise, making a lasting impact on both her clients and the community.

Amy Sip is the owner and founder of ASip Consulting, where she provides tailored Human Resources solutions for small to medium-sized businesses. With over 30 years of experience in banking, finance, insurance, and HR, Amy combines deep industry knowledge with a people-first approach to support her clients. Passionate about continuous education, Amy holds degrees in Banking and Finance and Business Administration with an emphasis in HR, and is actively involved in several local professional organizations.

*Optional – Stay from 1pm-2pm for a deep dive into these issues, at no additional cost.

Attend A Class!

Join us the first Wednesday of **every month in the Coldspring Conference Room, 1411 W. St. Germain Street, Suite 101, from 12 – 1 p.m. for lunch and a business presentation. The cost is $25 for members and $35 for the general public, which includes lunch.

Purchase a SEASON PASS for $100 and get in to all 5 sessions – a savings of $25! This is available to members only.

Because we order lunch for all attendees, cancellations must be received at least 48 hours prior to the session or payment will be expected. 

**Spring programs run February – June; the fall programs run September – January. There are no Lunchtime Learning classes in July and August.


HOW TO REGISTER AND SPONSOR:

To register, call 320-656-3826 or email Registrations@StCloudAreaChamber.com. The Lunchtime Learning Program is supported monthly by Chamber member businesses. If you are interested in sponsoring a Lunchtime Learning Program call 320-656-3800 for details.
 

PAST BUSINESS TRAINING PROGRAMS INCLUDE:

QUESTIONS?

Contact the Chamber’s front office by calling 320-251-2940. To register, please use the registrations email above, to avoid your email accidentally going to the junk/spam folder. Thank you for attending!

RESOURCES


Contact

Chair

Paula Capes
Business Development Committee
Falcon National Bank

Chamber Staff

Laura Wagner
Director of Programs & Events
320.656.3831