Bring in the Business

With 30 years of economic development experience and previous work with major universities, James Michael “Mike” Brooks started his new job as the city’s economic development director and president of REDI Inc. in mid-July.
Brooks will be paid an annual salary of $120,000 and receive performance-based compensation if specific economic development objectives are met. The objectives include planning and executing strategies for attracting new businesses and encouraging startup companies as well as expanding and retaining existing businesses.

Employment service founder navigates economic storms

*Business Profile: Job Finders*Employment service founder has navigated economic storms for three decades.

Business Briefs

VA Mortgage Center moving to Ice Chalet VA Mortgage Center.com has outgrown its offices near…

He who can sell… wins

It happened again: Yet another conversation with a frustrated business owner lamenting a dramatic loss…

An OINK by any other name still won’t buy kid’s shoes

Most people have heard of the YUPPIE. You might even be a YUPPIE. But if…

Columbia employers support continuing education

The job market is tight, and so more adults are going back to school, education…

Customizing backyard wildlife

Mel Toellner began his business 13 years ago when he and his wife and children…

Enrollment increases at Columbia’s colleges and universities

*College Enrollments Rise*Economic downturn a major factor in upward trend

Wade leads push for adult tech training

Columbia has always prided itself on its abundant opportunities for higher education. However, compared with…

Career Center expands, gears adult classes toward job training

*Plumbing for New Career*Career Center expands, gears classes toward practical job training

Columbia’s economic rankings

*The Big 25: Economic Rankings*How does Columbia stack up against its peers?

Guest Column: Building a sustainable business with sustainability leadership

We are in the midst of a sustainability shift. Nearly everyone cares about the future…