July 31, 2026 Small Manufacturers' Council - Affinity Benefits

Description

The Small Manufacturers’ Council (SMC) : Created for Small Manufacturers.

Powered by Peer Connections.



Designed exclusively for IMA manufacturing members with 150 employees or fewer, the Small Manufacturers Council (SMC) is a forum where manufacturing leaders share ideas, solve problems, and learn from one another's experiences.

Each month, members participate in honest conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing small manufacturers, leaving with practical ideas they can put to work immediately.

This Month's Focus:

Christmas in July: Hidden IMA Benefits That Could Save Your Company Money

Many manufacturers join IMA for advocacy, networking, and industry insights but are surprised by the number of valuable resources already included with their membership.

Join SMC Chair Nirel Inman, President of Chicago Glue & Machine, as she leads a fast-paced conversation with IMA's trusted Affinity Partners to highlight programs, services, and member-exclusive opportunities that can help:

• Reduce business costs
• Strengthen operations
• Improve workforce development efforts
• Access specialized expertise
• Solve common business challenges faster

Think of it as a "Christmas in July" session focused on uncovering opportunities you may already have access to but are not yet using.

Why Attend?

• Discover member benefits you may not know exist
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency
• Learn how fellow manufacturers are leveraging IMA resources
• Connect with peers facing similar challenges
• Leave with at least one idea you can implement immediately

What You Can Expect Every Month

• A no-pitch environment focused on practical problem solving
• Trusted peer connections with fellow manufacturing leaders
• Real-world insights and lessons learned
• Actionable ideas you can bring back to your business
• Productive discussions with people who understand your challenges

This isn't another webinar or networking event - it's a community of manufacturing leaders helping one another succeed through candid conversations, shared experiences, and practical solutions.

If you've been meaning to attend an SMC meeting, this is an ideal place to start.