© 2024 KRCU Public Radio
90.9 Cape Girardeau | 88.9-HD Ste. Genevieve | 88.7 Poplar Bluff
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Every Monday at 6:42 a.m. and 8:42 a.m., Rob Gilligan provides information on what's happening in the area of regional development in Southeast Missouri. Rob is the President and CEO of the Cape Chamber. Local support for "Let's Talk Business" is provided by Carved + Crafted Catering. (573) 651-2569

Economic Development and Tourism Industry

Cape Chamber

Did you know each of you can play an important role in the economic development efforts for our area?

A full economic development effort includes an existing business retention and expansion plan, recruitment of new business, entrepreneurial ecosystem development, AND the business of conventions, visitors, and tourism. YOU can play a direct role in that last category – the Tourism Industry.

Research shows tourism is more than a 16.5 billion dollar business for our state with employment in excess of 308,000 jobs. Yes, 8.3% of all jobs in Missouri are related to tourism. Fourteen percent of visitors are doing business related activities while 86% are leisure travelers. That’s where you come in.

If you are in a business or service club with an affiliation to a regional or state-wide organization, look for ways to bring a convention to Cape. With the recent addition of the Drury Plaza Hotel and Conference Center, we are having much success in this arena.

Individually, think about hosting a family reunion, class reunion, or just inviting out of state friends to enjoy the things our area has to offer. And don’t forget traveling youth sports. If your sons or daughters play in that world, work with your teams to host events here in Cape.

Please call on our Visit Cape team to help you with your efforts. They can assist with hotel arrangements, schedule planning, and other details. They can also provide welcome bags and work with you to insure a great experience for all our visitors.

John Mehner is the former President and CEO of the Cape Chamber.
Related Content