Q. Does Business Plus money come from a tax levy?
No, contributions to Business Plus come from businesses, chambers of commerce, the private sector and foundations. Some governmental groups, such as counties and municipalities, help with in-kind contributions of time and staff expertise.
Q. Is the money spent locally?
Yes. Every penny raised by Business Plus, Inc. goes to local economic development business recruitment. Some goes to a “reserve” fund to help build a business recruitment endowment over time.
Q. How does Business Plus decide who gets funds?
Business Plus, Inc. has a 100-percent local investor board, which has an established review process for grants. Amounts vary depending on the number of jobs to be created, and awards are contingent on the company becoming a future Business Plus supporter.
Q. If I give to Business Plus, how can I be assured I’m not giving to a new competitor?
Business Plus intentionally does not provide grants in the retailing sector. Our grants are focused on job-creating business activities in manufacturing and similar business work where companies often work with each other for the common good of a vital and robust business community.
Q. Does Business Plus get involved in politics?
No, we don’t give money to candidates or PACs. Business Plus believes in a healthy business climate and works with other groups such as chambers of commerce on such objectives.
Q. Does economic development mean only manufacturing or do you encourage economic and job growth in other sectors?
Business Plus sees job growth in broad terms, including such rapidly growing sectors as real estate, health care, business systems support and many other modern endeavors. In the next few years, investments in these sectors could well be several hundred million dollars or more in the Magic Valley. Business Plus recognizes and encourages this developing diversity in the Southern Idaho economy.
Q. I have trouble finding qualified employees for my business now. Won’t attracting new businesses mean more competition for workers?
Economic growth often goes in cycles, with periods of contraction and expansion. While Southern Idaho’s economy may be currently in an expansion phase, there’s no guarantee it will continue at the current pace. Wise communities know that economic development is a long-term game. Business recruitment means staying the course, through thick and thin.
Q. What kind of accountability does Business Plus, Inc. maintain with its investors?
Business Plus has an all-local board of investors who meet regularly. The executive committee meets monthly, and the full board at least quarterly. Business Plus has established bylaws and incorporation documents. Its finances are handled by a professional CPA firm and its treasurer is a respected CPA professional. Business Plus sends regular email communications to its members, and its executive director meets regularly with the local media.
Q. How can I get involved?
Business Plus welcomes new members, their participation and their input. The executive director will be glad to meet with any prospective investor, large or small.
Q. Are Business Plus contributions considered business expenses?
Of course. They’re like chamber dues and professional association memberships.
Q. With Unemployment so low, how does Business Plus help find workers?
Beginning in 2008, Business Plus focuses on helping businesses bring new workers to the Southern Idaho area. New, employed residents in the community add to the local economy. Business Plus is sensitive to the need to attract businesses which bring workers with them to the area.
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