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Download the presentation from the Jan. 12 MMAC/M7 Business of MKE webinar. 
We've adopted a new monthly format for our Tuesday webinars in 2021.
Since the first stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, MMAC and M7 have partnered with the Medical College of Wisconsin and a wide range of Milwaukee Region subject matter experts to provide actionable, trusted information for business leaders during our 11 a.m. Tuesday webinars. In 2021, we look forward to an end to the COVID-19 pandemic and the emergence of a new normal. There will be new opportunities to capitalize on, emerging trends to prepare for and long-standing challenges to confront. Once a month, join MMAC President Tim Sheehy, Medical College of Wisconsin President and CEO Dr. John Raymond and a wide range of business and community leaders to present actionable information on issues that are shaping our region’s interconnected health and economy. If you're already registered for the previous Business Strategies During the Pandemic series, you should be all set. Otherwise, registration is free and available online. Replays of past webinars are available on MMAC's YouTube channel.
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 MMAC board approves strategies to further engage region’s employers in reducing racial disparities
MILWAUKEE – The Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce’s Board of Directors has approved a plan to improve the region’s competitiveness by reducing racial disparities among its African American and Hispanic/Latino populations. Specifically, the plan is focused on supporting employers in developing and advancing talent, improving educational outcomes, and growing corporate partnerships -- all aimed at raising prosperity and moving forward as a Region of Choice for all. To measure progress towards the goal of a more inclusive and competitive economy, MMAC is releasing data reported in aggregate from more than 100 companies with a combined total of 120,000 employees in the region. This data establishes a 2020 baseline for both overall employment and management employment of African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos. The companies providing this data have pledged to increase employment and management of African American and Hispanic/Latino employees, while sharing best practices for creating more inclusive workplaces. Current employment levels of companies that have signed the Region of Choice Pledge By 2025, these companies have pledged to increase overall employment of African American and Hispanic/Latino talent by 15% and management employment by 25%.
The three objectives approved by the Board include:
“Racial disparities are perhaps the greatest single factor holding the Milwaukee Region from reaching its full potential,” said MMAC President Tim Sheehy. “Employers participating in the Region of Choice pledge acknowledge their responsibility to be part of the solution. They also recognize what study after study tells us: Building more diverse teams leads to better decision-making and ultimately boosts a company’s bottom line.” Supporting actions for each objective will be refined as the work evolves, they include: 1: Improve the recruitment, retention and advancement of African American and Hispanic talent. MMAC’s survey of 1,100 diverse managers, along with focus groups and executive interviews, provided several key takeaways, including that corporate culture is a key barrier to the recruitment, retention and advancement of Black and Brown employees. Recommendations include:
2: Increase educational attainment and career development opportunities for African American and Hispanic talent The region’s working-age population is projected to grow by less than 1% through 2040. During that time, the region will become a minority-majority community. Eliminating racial gaps in educational outcomes is critical to meeting the workforce needs of the region’s employers.
Identifiable by ownership race, 95% of the region’s 25,000 businesses are White-owned, while 3% are African American-owned, and 2% are Hispanic/Latino-owned. Corporate partnerships have the capacity to grow African American and Hispanic/Latino business wealth.
https://www.mmac.org/diverse-talent.html. Download the presentation from the Dec. 15 Business Strategies During the Pandemic webinar:
Governor Evers and Wisconsin State Legislature:
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the threat of predatory lawsuits, seeking possibly bankruptcy causing damages, for alleged COVID-19 exposures is a major concern of small businesses and many other entities, even if they “did everything right” by complying with public health orders and taking all necessary precautions. We appreciate the past efforts of the legislature and Governor Evers at the beginning of the pandemic to protect healthcare workers and those businesses that donate personal protective equipment. We also are happy to see Speaker Vos proposing liability reforms, as outlined in a December 1 Legislative Fiscal Bureau memorandum. That memo contains some encouraging concepts and we are interested in providing input on the statutory language to ensure that struggling Wisconsin businesses, non-profits, schools, and homeowners receive meaningful—and easy to comply with—protections from predatory lawsuits, provided they take adequate precautions to keep their premises safe. In the same vein, the undersigned organizations encourage the legislature to pass, and governor to sign, meaningful liability reforms based off of LRB-6434/2 authored by Senator Kapenga, Representative Born, and Representative Knodl. The legislation would create a safe harbor for all property owners/occupants who are good actors against frivolous lawsuits alleging a plaintiff was infected with COVID-19 at a specific premises. The bill is not business community specific and would protect homeowners, non-profits, schools, universities, and any other premises including outdoor events and festivals. The safe harbor would not protect bad actors. An entity would lose the liability exemption if they knowingly violated a public health order or spread COVID-19 by acting in a reckless, wanton, or intentional manner. Wisconsin is not alone in enacting premises liability protections. At least 13 other states have also done so, including neighboring states Iowa and Michigan. The legislature and governor need to act quickly to protect businesses, schools, non-profits, and individuals doing the right thing. The signatories respectfully urge the legislature and governor to work together to pass and enact substantive liability protections like LRB-6434/2, which will help rebuild Wisconsin’s communities and economy. Sincerely, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce National Federation of Independent Business – Wisconsin Wisconsin Civil Justice Council Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities Wisconsin Technology Council Wisconsin Association of School Boards Wisconsin Insurance Alliance Wisconsin Builders Association Wisconsin Bankers Association Wisconsin Property Taxpayers, Inc. Midwest Food Products Association Wisconsin Restaurant Association Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce Marinette Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce Stoughton Chamber of Commerce Portage County Business Council, Inc. Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry The Wisconsin Credit Union League Burlington Chamber of Commerce Wisconsin Institute of CPAs Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce Bowling Centers Association of Wisconsin Waukesha County Business Alliance Wisconsin Dairy Business Association Wisconsin Defense Council American Property Casualty Insurance Association Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce Wisconsin Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association Commercial Association of REALTORS Wisconsin Wisconsin Agri-Business Association Venture Dairy Cooperative Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce Racine Area Manufacturers and Commerce Beaver Dam Area Chamber of Commerce Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association Wisconsin Convention and Visitor Bureaus Mosinee Area Chamber of Commerce Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association Wisconsin Grocers Association Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin Wisconsin Dairy Alliance The Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Association of Milwaukee The Sheetmetal and Air Conditioning Contractors Association of Milwaukee Wisconsin REALTORS Association Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association Professional Insurance Agents of Wisconsin, Inc. West Bend Area Chamber of Commerce Wisconsin Association of Textile Services Wisconsin Amusement and Music Operators Wisconsin Automatic Merchandising Council Tool, Die & Machining Association of Wisconsin Associated General Contractors Independent Business Association of Wisconsin Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association Wisconsin Soybean Association Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association Wisconsin Cattlemen Association Wisconsin Association of Professional Agricultural Consultants Germantown Area Chamber of Commerce Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center Envision Greater Fond du Lac, Inc. Dear Members of the Wisconsin Congressional Delegation,
We write today to ask for your support in securing bi-partisan legislation that provides critical additional assistance to communities throughout our state, including local and tribal governments, businesses, non-profits, and first responders to address the ongoing public health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. We sincerely appreciate the previous three relief measures enacted by Congress and executive action by the President. However, the public health and economic impacts of the pandemic continue to grow. As a result, an immediate and unified response that provides additional support is critical to supporting efforts to contain the virus and mitigate the consequences of this unprecedented crisis. As members of a diverse coalition of leaders in our state, we can attest to the severe economic and public health impacts facing our members, economies, and the communities we support. Without additional federal financial support, the immediate negative consequences will be significant, and will be compounded by severe long-lasting effects. Additional federal aid will enable a continued joint response from the public and private sector, and support partnerships between local governments, businesses, and their communities to mitigate the economic, health, and public safety impacts of COVID-19. For example, Milwaukee County recognized the value of these partnerships early in the pandemic. In addition to direct virus mitigation and recovery measures, the County partnered with businesses and non-profits to address the collateral damage inflicted by the pandemic, especially to communities of color. This partnership resulted in Milwaukee County utilizing roughly one-third of its direct CARES Act allocation to immediately address housing and foreclosure needs, issue small businesses grants, and partner with community groups to address mental health and food assistance needs. This unprecedented situation requires action at scale with the problem. Addressing the issue now with bold solutions will prevent larger systemic economic damage. To enhance the fiscal responsibility of this legislation, reasonable guardrails could require COVID-19 relief dollars be tied to the public health, economic, and community impacts of COVID-19, ensuring resources are utilized in the most effective and efficient manner possible. As evidenced by the diversity of the groups who have signed on to this letter, the effect of delaying further relief will have second- and third-level impacts on business, property owners, and a multitude of other industries throughout the state. We sincerely appreciate your earlier efforts to assist our communities in addressing this crisis. However, we request further action – a bi-partisan solution that provides additional resources to address the public health and economic impacts of this pandemic. Our businesses, employees, and communities depend on the continued support of our federal government in these trying times. Respectfully, Advocate Aurora Health Apartment Association of South-Central Wisconsin, Inc. Apartment Association of Southeastern Wisconsin, Inc. Ascension Wisconsin Children’s Wisconsin Commercial Association of REALTORS Wisconsin Community Advocates, Inc. Cooperative Network Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin Forest County Potawatomi Community Froedtert Health Greater Milwaukee Committee Hunger Task Force, Inc. League of Municipalities Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee Local Public Health Officers of Milwaukee County Medical College of Wisconsin Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Milwaukee County Commission on Aging Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley Milwaukee Mental Health Task Force NAIOP Wisconsin Next Door VISIT Milwaukee Wisconsin Apartment Association Wisconsin Association of Local Health Departments and Boards Wisconsin Bankers Association Wisconsin Counties Association Wisconsin Credit Union League Wisconsin Mortgage Bankers Association Wisconsin REALTORS Association Wisconsin Restaurant Association Download the presentation from the Dec. 1, 2020 MMAC Business Strategies During the Pandemic webinar:
 A thriving democracy is critical to a free market economy. To serve the citizens of our local, state and federal governments, we applaud those who entered the arena for public office. In Wisconsin, with the election behind us, the validation process underway and the peaceful transfer of leadership in front of us, the task now turns to finding ways to advance a stronger Milwaukee Region, State of Wisconsin and United States. The public discourse in elections and the robust give and take of the legislative process are both hallmarks of our democracy. But this year, of all years, differing policy views must find the common ground needed to make progress. The pandemic wave continues to swamp our health care system, drowning the resurgence of our economy, its small businesses, and the jobs of those who rely on consumer activity. We want our duly elected leaders working together on this crisis for the benefit of Wisconsin’s economy and the health of our citizens. Jonas Prising Chair, MMAC Chairman and CEO, ManpowerGroup Tim Sheehy President MMAC Download the presentation for the Nov. 17 MMAC/M7 Business Strategies During the Pandemic webinar:
Download the main presentation from the Nov. 3, 2020 MMAC Business Strategies During the Pandemic webinar:
And download the health update from Dr. Weston at the Medical College of Wisconsin:
In response to concerning rises in positive COVID-19 cases in the City of Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Health Department is announcing revisions to its Moving Milwaukee Forward Plan. These changes include some new restrictions on activities and operations that you should be aware of. Highlights of these changes are included below.
It should be noted that these revisions were made by the Health Department only after extensive consultation with MMAC and other impacted parties. We are very grateful to Health Commissioner Marlaina Jackson, Deputy Commissioner Claire Evers and their entire team for their commitment to working collaboratively to find the least disruptive steps possible to respond to the recent spikes in the virus locally. Changes:
Schools that have more than 3% of their on-site population test positive for COVID over a 14-day period will be reviewed by the health department for possible shift to virtual instruction or modification of their operating plan (this process is largely analogous to how outbreaks are handled at places of business). Also, the department announced last Friday that it will be taking a more aggressive enforcement approach to establishments in violation of their safety plans or of the city’s orders. Read the full text of the order.
Click here to download the presentation from the Oct. 20 MMAC Business Strategies During the Pandemic webinar with Tim Sheehy, Dr. Raymond and Milwaukee Region higher education leaders.
MMAC remains encouraged by Foxconn’s investment to date in an advanced manufacturing facility and high-performance computing center. At more than one million square feet, this development is home to the high-tech, high-talent jobs and innovation that are welcome additions to Wisconsin’s economy.
The state and the region have already benefited from significant investment and job creation, and Foxconn has benefited from the infrastructure investment to support its future growth. We will continue to work to support Foxconn’s growth, and encourage the development of an agreement between Foxconn and Wisconsin that is mutually beneficial. As noted by WEDC, “there is a path open for incentivizing additional development on a win/win basis.” MMAC supports this outcome. STATEMENT FROM THE MMAC
The Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce acknowledges the urgent need to mitigate the surge in COVID-19 infections across our state. The measures introduced today by Governor Evers are well-intentioned, but are a blunt instrument that knocks down too many business establishments in metro Milwaukee that have gone to great lengths to develop comprehensive operational safety plans and have had them approved by the Milwaukee Public Health Department. These locations are among the safest places for individuals to work and play in the state. To impose new limitations on them fails to recognize the due diligence these establishments have put into keeping their employees and customers safe. And while we are always on guard against a surge, the Milwaukee Region’s infection and hospitalization rates remain relatively stable. At the same time, we thank Governor Evers for his actions to get CARES Act funding to small businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19. In echoing Governor Evers’ message earlier this week, MMAC communicated to thousands of area employers to “continue to reinforce with your employees that behavior outside the workplace can and does affect their health, the well-being of their family and friends – and, ultimately, the ability of our health care system and our economy to function properly. WEAR A MASK, MAINTAIN PROPER SOCIAL DISTANCE AND WASH YOUR HANDS.” Slides from the Oct. 6 MMAC webinar.
Download the presentation from our Sept. 22 Business Strategies webinar.
Click here to download the presentation for MMAC's Sept. 8 Business Strategies During the Pandemic webinar.
 Celebrating Milwaukee Region companies’ responses to COVID-19 pandemic MILWAUKEE -- The Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC) is recognizing 65 Milwaukee Region organizations and individuals as Focus on the Future Award honorees for their work to meet challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Honorees will be celebrated in a virtual event on Sept. 18, from noon to 1 p.m., and in a special edition of BizTimes Media. Registration for the event is available online. “Our business community has faced unprecedented challenges in 2020,” said Stephanie Hall, MMAC Vice President of Membership and Small Business. “Through it all, these 65 companies, organizations and individuals have shown us examples of the Milwaukee Region at its best, and give us hope for the future. Through the Focus on the Future Awards, MMAC wants to recognize those who have risen to their best during the most difficult of times.” The Focus on the Future awards are presented by First Midwest Bank, and sponsored by Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren S.C.; Sitzberger & Company SC; and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in collaboration with Aurora Health Care. BizTimes Media is the MMAC’s media partner for the awards.  MILWAUKEE -- UniFirst Corporation on Friday donated 10,000 protective face masks to the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC) and VISIT Milwaukee, who will donate these supplies to local businesses.
MMAC and VISIT Milwaukee teamed up earlier this summer to donate free protective masks to Milwaukee residents. Now, with this donation by UniFirst, they’ll extend their support to the business community. As state shutdowns are lifted and the economy begins to reopen, many small business owners are struggling to source the personal protective equipment needed to meet government guidelines, keep employees and customers safe, and increase consumer confidence. This donation by UniFirst is part of a company-wide initiative to support business revitalization in UniFirst markets around the country. “For MMAC members, wearing masks should not a political decision. It should be an economic decision,” said Steve Baas, MMAC Senior Vice President of Governmental Affairs. “The sooner we can slow the spread of COVID-19, the sooner we can get our economy open for business at full speed again. We are grateful to UniFirst for their generous contribution of masks to help our members businesses keep their workers and workplaces safe.” Safe reopening plans provide parents, students with educational options
MILWAUKEE – The Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC) supports new safe school opening guidelines that Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett announced today. “This is a great step forward for parents and children in the city,” MMAC President Tim Sheehy said. “The Mayor and the Health Department have worked tirelessly to develop guidelines that allow city schools to open and operate safely in a variety of formats this fall. The city’s guidelines strike the appropriate balance between the health and safety needs of students, teachers and families with the educational, psychological and developmental needs of a generation of young people in our city.” The guidelines announced by the Mayor today provide protocols to allow schools to reopen this fall in virtual, hybrid or in-person learning formats. The re-opening plan sets out criteria for safe operation of in-person instruction and articulates how schools must respond if they experience an outbreak of COVID-19. Schools who wish to conduct in-person instruction will have to submit an operational plan for approval by the City Department of Health that accommodates the safe school guidelines announced today. “One of Milwaukee’s unique strengths is the way it has empowered parents to choose the best educational setting for their children,” Sheehy said. “The safe school guidelines unveiled by the Mayor today apply that strength in the context of the current COVID crisis by giving parents the ability to choose from a variety of school settings the one that they believe most effectively balances the physical and educational needs of their child.” Company is latest to invest in Kenosha County MADISON – Gov. Tony Evers today joined the owner and president of Advent Tool & Manufacturing, Inc., as well as local government and economic development officials, to announce that Advent is relocating its headquarters and production operation from Antioch (IL) to the new Salem Industrial Park, located in the Village of Salem Lakes.
“This is great news for the Village of Salem Lakes, and the entire southeast region of our state, and will bring new opportunities to our communities,” said Gov. Evers. “I want to thank Advent, WEDC, the Milwaukee 7, and all the local officials who helped make this a possibility. The partnerships and relationships these folks have been able to build, truly exemplify why Wisconsin is such a great place to live and work.” |
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