The Business Growth Initiative was launched in late 2006 to

             proactively identify and support businesses that have or are

             positioned to have a significant impact on the area’s economy.

             The initiative establishes stronger relationships with existing

             companies to expand investment and jobs throughout the

       county. It is a partnership between The Chamber and the

       City of South Bend.

      Serving as director of business growth is Phil Damico. Through

                                       one-on-one personal visits, Damico connects with area businesses

to determine their needs, growth potential, risk factors, strengths and opportunities and links them with resources and solutions. Since the beginning of the initiative, Damico has forged close working relationships with governmental agencies, educational institutions, bankers, developers and others to connect the right people with the right resources to support individual business growth.