Using Focus Groups for Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) at the Community Level: Detailed Notes about the Columbus, Minnesota BR&E Program

1) This paper provides a synopsis of the Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) program conducted in Columbus, MN in 2013-2014, undertaken by the University of Minnesota Extension in partnership with the City of Columbus, This includes a detailed description of the when, where, why, who, how, and the results/”findings” of using focus groups (FG), a novel approach, for BR&E. 2) It also examines the FG BR&E in Columbus as a case study and includes a section targeted to those considering BR&E in their community, with the aim of helping communities determine if focus groups may be appropriate. A list of helpful hints and suggestions for undertaking FG BR&E is provided. The paper closes with a series of appendices, including the focus group protocol and interview guide, summaries of each focus group session stripped of any identifying information, and a more detailed description of the city of Columbus.