The Greater Odenville Chamber of Commerce continued its focus on supporting and strengthening the local business community during its August 6 Chamber Meeting at Christ Church Branch Cove, featuring business education, information about government resources, and new opportunities available through the Chamber's growing partnership with Jacksonville State University College of Business & Industry and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

Featured speaker Brandy Turner, SBDC Business Advisor with Jacksonville State University College of Business & Industry, presented “From Idea to Income: How to Start a Business.” Turner shared practical information for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners about taking a business from the idea stage toward successful operation, while also introducing attendees to resources available through the SBDC.

Megyn Rodriguez with SBDC also addressed attendees, sharing information about government grants, SBA lending, government programs, and other services and resources available to assist small businesses.

The August program highlighted the Greater Odenville Chamber's developing partnership with Jacksonville State University College of Business & Industry and SBDC, which will provide additional educational and business-development resources to the Greater Odenville business community.

As part of the partnership, area small businesses will have local opportunities to access free, confidential business coaching through SBDC advisors. Additional information about the partnership and how local businesses can take advantage of these services will be announced by the Chamber soon.

“This partnership is another step in our commitment to provide more than networking opportunities for our business community,” said Greater Odenville Chamber of Commerce President Megan Graham. “We want to connect our local businesses and entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources and professional support that can help them start, grow and succeed.”

The meeting also featured the Chamber's monthly “Marketing Minute,” presented by Dona Bonnett, Chamber 1st Vice President and owner of adr Business & Marketing Strategies. Bonnett challenged local business owners to look beyond simply knowing what they sell and clearly define why they are in business. She reminded attendees that customers may not always remember every product or service a business offers, but they are more likely to remember the purpose, story and passion behind the business. Attendees received a companion Marketing Minute worksheet and were challenged to put the concept into practice by identifying and communicating their own business “why.”

The meeting also provided an opportunity for Chamber members and guests to network and build relationships with other area business and community leaders.

The Peach Cobbler Factory at Springville Station catered lunch for the meeting, serving a creative menu that included chicken savory cobbler, meatball cobbler and cobbler dessert.

The Greater Odenville Chamber of Commerce hosts regular meetings and programs designed to provide education, networking opportunities and resources for businesses throughout the Greater Odenville area.

Looking Ahead to September

The Chamber's next meeting will be held Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Christ Church Branch Cove and will feature Bro. Jacky Connell, pastor, author, mentor and professional development leader, as the guest speaker.

Chamber members, local business professionals and community guests are encouraged to attend. Advance reservations are requested by the Monday prior to the meeting to assist with an accurate lunch count.

Reservations and additional meeting information are available at www.odenvillechamber.com.

Building Business. Building Relationships. Building Community.

For additional information about the Greater Odenville Chamber of Commerce, upcoming programs or membership opportunities, visit www.odenvillechamber.com.

About the Greater Odenville Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Odenville Chamber of Commerce works to support, promote and connect businesses while helping strengthen the Greater Odenville community. Through business education, networking, community partnerships, events and other resources, the Chamber works to create opportunities for local businesses and the community to grow together.

Photo L-R: Chamber Board Members - Ambere Ginn, President Megan Graham, Secretary Bob Powell, Brandy Turner (Jax State), Megyn Rodriguez (SBDC), Jason Roberts, 1st VP Dona Bonnett