Small Business Roundtables

Small Business Roundtable sessions provide a space to share challenges, exchange ideas, and explore solutions around any topics brought by participants, which may include hiring, marketing, operations, and more.

The voice of small business matters and the Chamber is listening. Conversations at the table help shape programs and initiatives that support local businesses and strengthen Mason City’s economy.

"There’s something genuinely contagious and uplifting about sitting down with fellow business owners who are all rowing in the same direction. These aren’t polished sales pitches or surface-level small talk — people show up open, honest, and willing to share."
Michelle SkarpnessOwner, Michelle Skarpness Photography
"Small business builds community. When we support each other we strengthen Mason City’s economy and quality of life at the same time. I am excited to keep these conversations going and I encourage any business owner to join us at the table."
Matt CurtisOwner, Wayne's Ski & Cycle

Upcoming Roundtables

  • November 19: Employee Benefits
    What benefits can small businesses offer to attract and retain employees without breaking the budget? We’ll kick off the conversation with a brief intro on employee benefits, then open it up for discussion. Bring your ideas, experiences and questions, and hear what other local businesses are doing, from creative low-cost perks to benefits that employees truly value.
    REGISTER HERE

  • December 17: Operational vs. Strategic Planning
    As a small-business owner, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose sight of the bigger picture. Join us for a practical conversation about the difference between operational and strategic planning, how to balance the two, and simple ways to turn long-term goals into everyday actions. Karie Terhark from KT Facilitation will kick things off with a short presentation, followed by open discussion and Q&A with other local business owners.
    REGISTER HERE


Training Opportunities

We’re partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring Small Business B(AI)sics to North Iowa! This national initiative, supported by Google, offers free AI training to small businesses to help them grow, stay competitive, and strengthen local economies.

Learn more here!

Previous Session Topics

  • Using Placer.ai as a marketing tool
  • City Communication
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Small Business B(AI)sics
  • Health Insurance for Small Businesses

Session Request Form

Submit a topic idea for a roundtable discussion.

Name(Required)
Please let us know what topic you would like covered in an upcoming Small Business Roundtable session.