Think of Manheim, and you might think of the farm show or a long tradition of successful high school football teams. But there's more to the town, and the community of Manheim has a deep history of entrepreneurship.

To celebrate Manheim's contributions to creativity, Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce (MACC) is launching "Manheim: Made by Hand."

"As part of our new rebranding campaign, 'Made by Hand,' we are celebrating the rich tradition of craftsmanship that has defined Manheim for generations," said Kristie Schmid, executive director of the Chamber. "From skilled trades and local makers to businesses built on care, precision and pride, this campaign is all about honoring the hands and stories behind our community."

As Schmid explained, the campaign is an initiative of the Market Manheim team of the Chamber.

"This team works to promote downtown to enhance the social and economic vibrancy of Manheim," she said. "This campaign is open to any MACC member as a way to showcase their craft, products or services; share their story and connection to Manheim's heritage; and contribute visuals, demonstrations or behind-the-scenes insights into their work."

The campaign is designed to spotlight the wide variety of businesses that call Manheim home. Whether someone creates handmade products, restores antiques, brews beverages, prepares food or provides a specialized service, the Chamber hopes the campaign will highlight the skill and dedication that goes into every business. Schmid noted that the goal is to remind residents that craftsmanship extends far beyond traditional trades.

Manheim's history as an artisan hub can be traced to its very beginning. Henry William "Baron" Stiegel pioneered glassmaking in the town in the 1760s. That tradition continues today through Stiegel Glassworks 1976. Modern makers in town produce everything from art to ales and mead, jewelry, wine and ice cream.

Schmid hopes to roll out the campaign later this month.

"This initiative will be featured across marketing materials, social media and community events, offering a meaningful way to highlight businesses while strengthening Manheim's identity as a place rooted in craftsmanship and authenticity," she said. "We hope locals and visitors will see a business highlighted that might be new to them so they can take advantage of all we have to offer."

Chamber leaders also hope the campaign encourages residents to shop locally and support small businesses that contribute to Manheim's economy. By sharing the stories behind local businesses, organizers believe the campaign will strengthen community pride while giving visitors another reason to explore downtown and its surrounding neighborhoods.

To learn more about "Manheim: Made by Hand," visit http://www.manheimchamber.com.