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Fundraising for the the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce’s five-year development plan is expected to conclude at the end of April, setting the stage for a series of initiatives aimed at keeping the area atop of changing economic factors and growth.

The plan, Converging for Success, was first revealed in December by Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Leah Bolin. The announcement was followed up by a February meeting and ongoing visits with prospective contributors.

“Momentum has definitely picked up,” Bolin said. “More people are wanting to learn about it and we’re getting a lot of suggestions along the way.”

Converging for Success identifies several areas of concern and potential for sustained growth in the area. The plan was developed through a series of examinations of strengths and needs as well interviews with a cross-section of residents in all fields of work. A budget of $1.750 million is proposed for the plan.

“The area of community development and entrepreneurship in the plan have drawn a lot of comments and suggestions from people who call or who we meet with,” Bolin said.

Goals include maintaining a robust economy and attracting more professionals to the area. But part of convincing more professionals into the area is to improve housing options, encourage more entrepreneurship and downtown development in Cullman and Hanceville.

“One of the issues we have to look at is connectivity. Highways 278 and 31 are great for the area, but how do we make each parts of the downtowns accessible to each other and create the kind of environment that enhances that experience,” Bolin said. “One thing we know is that we have to be willing to change and stay ahead. We are in a race for workforce. We want to be competitive for top people.”

Money for the project would be invested in the four areas listed in the plan, including consistent marketing of the area to attract visitors, new residents and professionals, and an education program to encourage entrepreneurship among other needs.

“When we finish with the fundraising we will go right to work. We need to get to the things most important,” Bolin said.