A major highlight of the meeting was the introduction of a new CRM system by Priscilla Mayowa, the newly appointed Business Assistance Specialist. Mayowa, who has a background in nonprofit leadership and has previously interned with the city, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the software, which is intended to streamline the city’s business engagement processes. The CRM system, developed by Executive Pulse, will serve as a centralized database to document interactions with businesses and store critical information such as addresses and employee numbers. The software aims to enhance communication and collaboration among city departments while generating insights to support the local business community.

Mayowa explained that the CRM system was recommended in 2023, leading to a Request for Proposal (RFP) process in 2024, and resulting in a three-year contract. The software is already widely used by government entities and is expected to improve the city’s ability to track and support businesses of all sizes. The system will integrate existing data from spreadsheets and requires ongoing data maintenance, with plans for an intern to assist in this effort.

During the discussion, questions were raised about the CRM’s capabilities and potential future features. One commissioner inquired about the software’s integration with the city’s website and its connection to local tourism efforts. The potential for adding features like drip campaigns and artificial intelligence for data analysis was also discussed, with Mayowa acknowledging these possibilities for future updates.

The commissioners expressed interest in using the CRM to facilitate business surveys and enhance partnerships between local businesses and educational institutions. These collaborations could potentially strengthen workforce development and better meet the needs of the local business ecosystem. Discussions also touched on the importance of using the CRM to implement targeted marketing strategies and attract new businesses to Bloomington. One commissioner noted that the CRM could act as a funnel to engage potential entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of understanding the motivations behind businesses choosing to locate in Bloomington.

Further insights were shared regarding recent discussions in the Bloomington Economic Partnership, which convenes quarterly to address business challenges and brainstorm solutions. A recent meeting explored why businesses establish themselves in Bloomington, with factors such as ample parking, a business-friendly climate, and proximity to major infrastructures being highlighted. This information was compiled into a document used during a trade mission to Switzerland and Germany.

During an update from city administration, the mayor recapped a trade mission to Switzerland and Germany, which included nearly 60 participants, with only a few being public representatives. The trip was described as beneficial, particularly a visit to a major company’s headquarters in Zurich. This visit provided valuable insights into economic models, especially in higher education and the medical technology sectors. The German counterparts expressed a keen interest in learning more about Bloomington, which was considered a positive outcome of the mission.

The mayor also mentioned a gathering of Bloomington CEOs, where discussions covered immigration policies, tax regulations, and workforce development. The opportunity for CEOs to engage in peer group conversations was seen as valuable. Additional updates included the city council’s approval of the levy and budget, which was submitted to Hennepin County, and the Broker Breakfast event.

At the Broker Breakfast, attended by 41 commercial brokers, a need for further education within the commercial real estate community was identified, particularly regarding the process of obtaining permits. Plans to address these educational gaps in the coming year were discussed. The Bloomington Economic Partnership also focused on workforce development mapping. The initiative seeks to provide an overview of available programs and emphasizes collaboration with educational institutions.