Introducing Naturally Lewis, Inc.
LEWIS COUNTY, NY – The County of Lewis Industrial Development Agency (LCIDA), and Lewis County Development Corporation (LCDC) and the Lewis County Chamber of Commerce have created a new partnership to lead economic development efforts in Lewis County. The new private, not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization - Naturally Lewis, Inc., created over several months in 2023, is a unique collaboration that will consolidate services, staffing and resources into a one-stop shop for economic and business development to further lead development efforts in Lewis County, NY.
The creation of Naturally Lewis, Inc reflects the continued growth of our economic development and tourism team in Lewis County” says Eric Virkler, the new Chairman of the Naturally Lewis Inc. Board. “Our talented staff and dedicated board members for the LCIDA, LCDC and Chamber of Commerce work incredibly well together. This transition will ensure this cooperative approach continues. There is momentum in the Lewis County economy and Naturally Lewis, Inc. will continue to drive that momentum forward.”
The mission of Naturally Lewis is to champion the growth of a community where people want to live, work, build business and play. We foster forward thinking and relationship building, connecting people, businesses, partnerships and resources to effectively and efficiently grow our county. Naturally Lewis Inc., led by a new 15-person board of directors, will be tasked with leading and guiding economic development strategy that focuses on creating a solid and sustainable economic base by supporting practical, realistic programs and policies that advance businesses, build community partnerships and enhance the quality of life for Lewis County residents. The organization will also include five staff members, including existing staff of the LCIDA and Lewis County Chamber of Commerce.
WHY DID THIS HAPPEN?
Hearing the needs of the community, the LCIDA, LCDC and Chamber of Commerce saw an opportunity to merge resources, operations, and staff to streamline economic and business development across Lewis County to reduce duplication of efforts and provide clear and concise messaging on services being offered to the business community.
HOW DID THIS HAPPEN?
The LCIDA, LCDC and Chamber of Commerce boards and staff have been exploring the feasibility of an organizational partnership since 2021. Through communications with various stakeholders, including our business and membership networks, staff of the organizations have worked to take the best assets of each entity forward to the development of Naturally Lewis, Inc.
Naturally Lewis is funded through a combination of sources that enable us to carry out our mission effectively. Our financial support comes from an array of channels, including membership contributions, local government support, staff services agreements, private donations, and grants. These resources allow us to maintain our status as a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization while providing essential services to the Lewis County community. We are dedicated to transparently managing our funds and ensuring that every dollar is utilized efficiently to support local economic and business development initiatives. By securing a stable and diversified funding base, we can continue to be a reliable partner in driving growth and prosperity in Lewis County
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN GOING FORWARD?
Naturally Lewis is the one-stop-shop for economic and business development in Lewis County. If you are starting or growing a business, rehabilitating a vacant space, looking for financing solutions for a development project, seeking a membership network, looking for creative funding solutions, and more, Naturally Lewis is here to support you. Businesses and communities will receive the same great support services and staff, just enhanced and even better than before.
"Naturally Lewis, Inc. Is the result of collaboration between organizations and listening to the needs of our business community.” says Brittany Davis, Executive Director of Naturally Lewis, Inc. “This unique partnership between the LCIDA, the LCDC, and the Chamber of Commerce is driven by a shared vision to create a thriving economy where people can live, work and prosper. Together, we’ll build stronger relationships, build stronger communities and foster innovation to ensure a brighter future for Lewis County.
For more information on Naturally Lewis please visit naturallylewis.com. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the community to build a thriving economy.