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Membership FAQ
Below are "Frequently Asked Questions" for our members and potential members. Please contact Jaci Sprague at jsprague@greatermankato.com or 507.385.6643 for any additional questions or to join.
I am ready to join, where do I sign up?
You can join Greater Mankato Growth by filling out the online membership application.
I'm a small business with just a few employees? What level is best for me?
"One size fits all" has never been a term that applies to business. Your business is unique and so are its needs. That's why our membership levels aren't based on the size or type of your business. Instead, we encourage you to select the level you want based on what you want out of your membership.
I'm a startup business. Do you offer a membership level specifically for entrepreneurs or startup business?
Yes, if your business is a non-corporate startup business within its first through the third year of operation, you may qualify for our engaged entrepreneur rate. You can enjoy all the benefits of the Engaged level membership for the price of a Basic level. For more information to see if your business qualifies, contact us today (Not applicable to existing members)
I am not affiliated with any business, am retired or am a government official. Is there a membership option for me?
If you fall into one of these categories and want to stay connected with the business community by receiving communication, attending events and volunteering we offer an Associate Membership for $196 per year, which include all the same benefits of being an Engaged Member. Contact us for more information.
I'm interested in meeting people and sharing more about my business. What types of networking opportunities are available to members to help grow their business?
The key benefits of membership at the Engaged level or higher are being able to attend events such as our popular Business After Hours. On average you'll be able to network with approximately 125-150 business professionals who just like you are interested in growing their business and making new professional business connections.
Can I upgrade my membership to a different level to receive additional benefits and include more representatives?
Yes, you can upgrade your membership at any time. The upgraded amount will be prorated through the remainder of the year. Members at the Engaged level or higher are able to host and sponsor events and programs. Simply contact our office and we will assist you.
How many representatives and business directory listing does my membership include?
The number of representatives and business listings varies according to your membership level. Please refer to the Membership at a Glance Chart for more information.
How long am I signing up for when I join?
Our membership agreements run from January 1 - December 31 of each year and automatically renew. (Contact us to cancel your membership.)
I am joining Greater Mankato Growth mid-year, how do I know the amount due for the membership?
Our memberships are prorated to allow businesses to join at any time. Our membership documents contain options for annual, semi-annual or monthly investment amounts.
Is my investment a deductible business expense?
Membership investments are deductible* for most members as an ordinary and necessary business expense. Greater Mankato Growth is a nonprofit, Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), classified as a 501 (c) 6.
*A portion, determined annually, of your membership investment is not deductible as a result of the lobbying activities in which the organization engages.
Do you have individual memberships available?
Individual memberships are only available to those who have no business affiliation, are retired or are elected officials.
What are your options for billing?
Members are able to select from a variety of option including automatic monthly payments, semi-annual or annual payment. (Monthly payments must be via credit card or ACH bank transfer.)
What can a new member expect?
Once your membership has been activated, the main representative for your account will receive an email from our office with your username and password. If you haven't already done so be sure to send us the following for your customized business directory listing:
- Business Logo - High res jpeg or eps file
- Business description using keywords about your business
- Links to your social media sites
- Any additional categories that fit your business - select from those listed here
What else can I expect as a new member?
- An announcement of your business in eNews, our weekly electronic newsletter, as one of our newest members with a link to your website. Our eNews communication is sent to approximately 2,200 business representatives every Tuesday.
- An announcement of your business as a new member on our social media outlets including Facebook and Twitter.
- Live announcement of your business as a new member at the following months Business After Hours event. You'll want to be present to be recognized and welcomed to the membership!
- A scheduled visit with our volunteer group, the Cavaliers, which includes a photo that will be submitted to the Minnesota Valley Business Magazine for publication.
Who can I contact directly to assist with my membership needs?
Jaci Sprague, Director of Business & Community Relations
507.385.6643 | jsprague@greatermankato.com
