Elton Hollis, III and Joe Tant are bridging the gap between industry and small businesses by partnering with local chambers of commerce to promote growth and success in Southeast Texas.
In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, it’s not uncommon for small businesses to struggle with finding the resources and support needed to truly flourish. Enter Elton Hollis, III and Joe Tant, the dynamic duo who’ve made it their mission to empower local businesses by providing them with a platform to showcase their unique offerings, all the while fostering a spirit of collaboration and trust.
It all started in 2019 when Hollis and Tant sat down in a local café with their friend Fernando Ramirez. As they visited various restaurants and local establishments, an idea began to take root: a vision to help represent small businesses in their area, particularly those that didn’t have a huge marketing budget but needed a little boost to make their mark in the world of entrepreneurship. And thus, the “Small Business Friday” initiative was born.
Fast-forward to today, and Hollis and Tant have expanded their vision to include the “Chamber Up” program, which partners with local chambers of commerce to highlight their members – big or small – without charging a dime. The program is built on the belief that doing for others and trusting that goodwill will be reciprocated is the key to success.
The Small Business Friday program has grown leaps and bounds since its inception, now including weekly radio shows in both English and Spanish, where small business owners are given the opportunity to promote themselves and share valuable advice with their peers. Hollis and Tant’s dedication to helping their fellow entrepreneurs succeed is evident in every aspect of the program.
But the dynamic duo didn’t stop there. Recognizing the immense potential for growth through collaboration and networking, they created the “Chamber Up” program, which aims to amplify the voices of local entrepreneurs through partnerships with the Vidor Chamber of Commerce, the Sour Lake Chamber of Commerce, and beyond. Through these alliances, they’re able to bring much-needed attention to small businesses that might not have the budget for large-scale marketing campaigns.
The “Chamber Up” program is a testament to Hollis and Tant’s shared belief in the power of collaboration and their commitment to helping their community thrive. Joe Tant, a staunch advocate for equitable access to capital, markets, and networks for small businesses, brings his expertise in finance, administration, and education to the table. As the Vice President of Finance, Administration and Education at The Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce and the Executive Director of The Port Arthur Education Foundation, Tant’s knowledge and experience make him an invaluable resource for the businesses he supports.
Elton Hollis, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 26 years of experience in the oil and gas construction field, offers his unique perspective and extensive expertise in safety, quality, and compliance. As the owner of Hol-Tech Resources, LLC and the General Manager of RT Technical Solutions LLC, Hollis helps businesses by providing consulting, training, executive coaching, and safety management and compliance services to clients in the industrial, commercial, and small business sectors. His commitment to helping small businesses succeed extends to conducting marketing meetings, events, and numerous mentor speaking engagements.
Together, Hollis and Tant’s dedication to their cause has led to remarkable achievements, including the Small Business Friday podcast, which boasts over 3.7 million viewers on Spotify and other social media platforms. They’ve also partnered with the marketing platform Atmosphere to promote events in Southeast Texas that drive economic growth, such as the Southeast Texas Industrial Contractors Golf Tournament on October 6th, 2023.
The “Chamber Up” program’s main goal is simple:
to highlight local businesses and help them thrive, free of charge. Hollis and Tant lead by example, believing that in supporting others, their own success will follow. As Tant famously says, “Once upon a time, someone helped me, and I promised to always give back.”
In an age where small businesses face numerous challenges, the “Chamber Up” program is a shining example of the power of community and collaboration. By working together, Elton Hollis, III and Joe Tant are not only helping local businesses to succeed but are also making a lasting impact on the economy and their community as a whole.
The duo’s passion for supporting local businesses extends beyond the realm of marketing and promotion. They encourage others to shop locally and commit to doing one small thing for a favored small business each week, whether it’s a purchase or a shout-out. By supporting small businesses in this way, individuals can not only gain peace of mind but also contribute to the success of the business owners and the overall economy.
Their podcast, “Small Business Friday!”, serves as a platform for sharing great news about local businesses and their services. Through the podcast, Hollis and Tant focus on helping businesses broaden their reach and connect with potential customers. As the podcast continues to grow in popularity, the duo’s message of support and collaboration is reaching an ever-expanding audience.
The “Chamber Up” program is more than just a partnership with local chambers of commerce. It represents the epitome of trust, collaboration, and community building. By providing small businesses with the support and resources they need to succeed, Hollis and Tant are creating a brighter future for their community.
Looking ahead, the dynamic duo plans to continue their mission of empowering small businesses and fostering economic growth in Southeast Texas. Through their steadfast dedication and commitment to helping others, they hope to make a lasting impact on the lives of entrepreneurs and their local communities.
In their spare time, both Hollis and Tant enjoy giving back to their community in various ways. Hollis is an avid outdoorsman who loves exploring the Texas Hill Country on hiking trails, spending time with his children and grandchildren, and participating in charity work. Tant, a proud father of three daughters and a yellow lab named Coffee, is also active in the community and passionate about advocating for small businesses.
To learn more about the “Chamber Up” program and the “Small Business Friday” podcast, visit their Facebook page or follow them on YouTube and Spotify. As Hollis and Tant’s vision continues to grow, it’s evident that their passion for supporting small businesses and fostering collaboration will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of entrepreneurs and their communities for years to come.
In conclusion, the “Chamber Up” program, founded by Elton Hollis, III and Joe Tant, serves as a beacon of hope for small businesses seeking support, guidance, and promotion. By partnering with local chambers of commerce and providing businesses with the resources they need to succeed, Hollis and Tant are making a difference in the lives of entrepreneurs and the Southeast Texas community as a whole. Their belief in doing for others and trusting that goodwill will be reciprocated is a powerful message that resonates with people from all walks of life, reminding us all of the importance of collaboration and community.
