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Clarity, Focus, and Value as We Launch 2026
Since the formation of Shawnee Forward following the merger of the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce and the Shawnee Economic Development Alliance in 2017, our mission has not always been as clear as it should have been to you, our members. The reality is that Shawnee Forward has always served in two important roles for our community: as the area chamber of commerce and as the economic development organization.
As we launch into 2026, we are taking a thoughtful and intentional look at how we can make our organization stronger, clearer, and more effective. That includes telling our story better by clearly defining who we are, what we do, and how we add value to your membership. A key part of that effort is refining the roles of our team to ensure focus, accountability, and impact.
As President and CEO, I will continue to oversee the economic development work of Shawnee Forward, with a focus on business attraction and retention, workforce development, and long-term community competitiveness, while ensuring alignment across all areas of our organization.
Over the past year and a half, Daniel Johnson has served as Director of Operations, helping to strengthen our internal foundation. I am excited to share that Daniel is transitioning into the role of Director, Chamber of Commerce. This shift allows him to focus fully on delivering value to our members through stronger connections, relevant education, and meaningful engagement.
I am also pleased to welcome Nickie Skaggs as our Director of Operations and Administration. Nickie will oversee day-to-day operations and internal processes, ensuring our organization runs efficiently and effectively as we continue to grow.
Why this matters to you is simple. Clearer roles lead to clearer communication, stronger programming, and a more intentional focus on supporting your business and our community. In the coming weeks, you will continue to see greater clarity in how we communicate, how we serve, and how we demonstrate the value of your investment in Shawnee Forward.
Thank you for being part of this work. We are excited about what lies ahead in 2026.
-Crystal
President & CEO
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| How informed do you feel about state and local policy that affects your business? | | | | UPCOMING SHAWNEE FORWARD EVENTS | | |
Shawnee Forward is proud to host a two-day regional event that brings the best of rural economic development right to our community. The Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum will feature seven sessions led by national experts, regional leaders, rural trailblazers, and positive disruptors who are driving change in rural communities across the country.
This event is built specifically for Rural America. Participants will leave with practical tools, strategies, and ideas they can put to work in their cities, counties, and regions right away.
Registration is now open.
Mark your calendar, secure your spot, and plan to be part of this important conversation.
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Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum Keynote Speaker
Doug Griffiths, MBA is a wildly popular community strategist and author of two best-selling editions of “13 Ways to Kill Your Community”. He has supported, guided and inspired hundreds of communities to create effective change. Through his strong message, he is dedicated to helping communities across North America find their own pathway to success.
He grew up on a ranch outside a small town where he learned the value of hard work, critical thinking skills, and the value of community. Based on Doug’s bestselling book, 13 Ways to Kill Your Community, the presentation is sometimes startling and often revelatory. Doug’s anecdotes are delivered with his special brand of wit and wisdom, and in a way that ensures audience members are empowered and confident in their role to make their community, organization, or business successful.
Doug’s message will fire you up and help you find a renewed sense of ownership and responsibility towards the community that you live in.
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Sponsor the Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum
Shawnee Forward is hosting the Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum, a two-day gathering that brings together national experts, regional leaders, and rural trailblazers for meaningful conversations about rural economic development. This event will draw attendees from across Oklahoma and beyond, creating a strong platform for visibility, connection, and brand exposure.
Sponsoring this forum is a chance to:
- Position your organization as a supporter of rural growth and innovation
- Connect with decision-makers, community leaders, and economic development professionals
- Strengthen your reach across multiple counties and regions
- Showcase your services to a highly engaged audience
- Support an event designed to move rural communities forward
Whether your goal is visibility, relationship-building, or aligning your brand with community and economic progress, this event provides a strong return.
| | Your network grows when you show up! The Social Exchange gives you two chances every month to connect with other chamber members, share what you do, and build relationships that actually matter. Whether it’s a before-hours or after-hours, you’ll leave with new contacts and fresh energy. And it’s free for members. | | |
The Manufacturers Coalition brings together local manufacturers, suppliers, and partners to share ideas, tackle workforce and operational challenges, and strengthen manufacturing in our region. Through regular meetings and peer-to-peer conversations, the coalition helps connect companies to resources, programs, and each other.
At our January 20th meeting, we will hear from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce on how the OIEP program works and from Bison Metals on how they are using it inside their facility to invest in new equipment, technology, and growth.
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Pottawatomie County Young Professionals
Join us on Tuesday, January 20th, from 12-1:00 PM at Vans Pig Stand at 3815 N Harrison St, as Pottawatomie County Young Professionals kick off the new year with a networking lunch. It’s a great chance to connect with other area young professionals ages 18 to 40, share ideas, and build relationships in a relaxed setting. There’s no cost to attend, just cover your own lunch.
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2026 Legislative Luncheons
The 2026 series begins with a pre-session luncheon on January 23, offering a valuable opportunity to engage with legislators before the legislative session begins. Additional luncheons will take place during session, giving attendees a firsthand look at what’s unfolding at the Capitol and how it may affect our region.
Legislative Luncheons provide a practical way to stay informed, ask thoughtful questions, and connect with others invested in the future of our community.
Connect with our local legislators and take part in meaningful conversations that impact your business and our community through a four-part Legislative Luncheon series. These gatherings are designed to bring business leaders and community stakeholders together to discuss priorities, raise concerns, and strengthen our collective voice.
Chamber members attend free. Non-members are welcome to attend for $25. Lunch is provided, and registration is required.
Reserve your seat and join the conversation.
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14 Commonly Overlooked
Small Business Tax Credits
For many small businesses, managing taxes can be confusing—especially at a time when rising costs and tighter margins make every dollar count. As a result, many small business owners overlook valuable credits that could provide them with significant financial relief.
In the link, the article breaks down several commonly missed credits that may help reduce your tax burden this year.
| | | SBA Made in America Resource Summit | | |
Local businesses looking to grow, strengthen operations, or explore new markets have a great opportunity coming up. The Oklahoma District Office is hosting a free event in Oklahoma City designed to connect businesses with the federal, state, and local resources that can help them take their next step. Registration is required.
The event will highlight tools and assistance for companies interested in manufacturing, expanding their workforce, improving safety, accessing funding, or exploring international trade. If your business is looking to innovate, scale, or tap into new opportunities, this is a strong place to start.
You’ll hear directly from experts representing:
- U.S. Small Business Administration
- U.S. Department of Labor – Wage and Hour Division
- U.S. Commercial Service – International Trade
- Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance
- Oklahoma Small Business Development Center
- Oklahoma Occupational Safety and Health Administration
- Oklahoma Employment Security Commission
- Tulsa Ports
This session is built to give businesses practical and actionable information and a clear understanding of available support.
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Want Your Event in Our Newsletter?
If you're a Shawnee Forward member and have an upcoming event you'd like to share, we’d love to help spread the word! Please email your flyer to Daniel or Crystal at least two weeks before the event, and we’ll include it in the two newsletters leading up to your big day. It’s a great way to get your event in front of the community. Don’t miss out on this member benefit!
Miss a Newsletter?
If you missed a recent newsletter, you can catch up anytime by viewing the archives on our website here.
| | Thank you, ShawneeCTV, for your generous sponsorship of our newsletter, "In the Know". Your support enables us to keep our community informed and engaged with the latest updates and events. | | Shawnee Forward | 405-273-6092 | | | | |
