ChamberWest Update - 2026 is Here: Advocacy, Opportunity & 65 Years of Impact
President’s Message
Dear ChamberWest Members,
As we begin 2026, businesses across our region are navigating both opportunity and challenge, from workforce and housing pressures to childcare costs and policy decisions at the state and federal levels. In this environment, a strong and unified business voice matters more than ever, and ChamberWest remains fully engaged in advocating for the issues that directly impact your success.
This year also marks ChamberWest’s 65th anniversary. Founded in 1961 as the Granger-Hunter Chamber of Commerce and evolving alongside our growing region, the Chamber changed in name and scope over the years, but never in purpose. For 65 years, we have remained focused on supporting businesses, strengthening the economy, and championing the west side.
This year, we continue our focus on practical advocacy, meaningful connections, and leadership development that delivers value. Through our Legislative Affairs work, professional development offerings, Women in Business programming, and direct engagement with policymakers and partners, we are committed to ensuring west-side businesses are informed, represented, and positioned for long-term growth.
I encourage you to stay engaged and take advantage of the opportunities ahead.
Key Updates and Upcoming Events:
- Annual ChamberWest Membership Meeting – January 27: Join us for our Annual Membership Breakfast to ratify the slate of new officers and board members. Hear highlights from the past year, future goals, and committee updates. Many thanks to White Elegance and Hamlet Homes as our major sponsors! You can register now for this high energy, fast moving and informative breakfast meeting at: Annual Membership Meeting
- Friday Connections – January 16: For just $5, participate in a fast-paced speed networking event with 40+ professionals. Bring plenty of business cards and enjoy a morning of meaningful connections! Learn more and register at: January Friday Connections
- Legislative Affairs – With ten active subcommittees, our Legislative Affairs Committee actively advocates for members, focusing on critical issues such as business and government relations, economic development and sustainability, education, healthcare, housing, public utilities, tax policy, transportation, and workforce. We also continue addressing childcare as a critical business impact issue. Learn more about our priorities and how to get involved by visiting: https://www.chamberwest.com/legislative-affairs/
· Greece – October 10 – 18, 2026: Join ChamberWest on an unforgettable journey to Greece, featuring sightseeing and tours of historic Athens, a flight to Santorini to explore iconic villages, black sand beaches, and volcanic views, a cruise and visit to the Saronic Islands—Poros, Hydra, and Aegina and so much more. This all-inclusive experience includes airfare, 4–5-star hotels, daily breakfast, lunch or dinner, private transportation, expert guides, and curated sightseeing. Space is limited—don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to travel with fellow Chamber members. Learn more: Greece Trip Information | Register: Greece Trip Registration Form
Upcoming Events/Meetings:
- 1/15 – Board of Governors Meeting
- 1/15 – Leadership Institute Session “Leadership through Continuous Improvement”
- 1/16 – Friday Connections – Open to All – Register at: January Friday Connections
- 1/22 – Leadership Institute Board of Trustees Meeting
- 1/22 - Ribbon Cutting/Partnership Announcement - Maverik Center
- 1/22 - Legislative Affairs Childcare Task Force Committee Meeting
- 1/22 – Legislative Affairs Committee Meeting
- 1/26 – Legislative Affairs Caucus
- 1/27 – Annual Membership Meeting – Open to All – Register at: Annual Membership Meeting
- 1/28 – Women in Business Executive Committee Meeting
- 1/28 - Ability Inclusion Services Ribbon Cutting
- 1/29 – Legislative Affairs Committee Meeting
- 2/2 - Legislative Affairs Caucus
- 2/4 - Professional Development Series Committee Meeting
- 2/5 - Legislative Affairs Committee Meeting
- 2/5 - Legislative Affairs Workforce Development Committee Meeting
Save the Dates:
- April14 – Annual Women in Business Spring Conference
- May 20 – Annual Women in Business Golf Clinic
- June 10 – Annual Golf Tournament
- August 28 – Annual Awards Gala
- September 23 – Annual Women in Business Nine ‘N Dine Golf Event
- November 10 – Annual Fall Conference
Thank you for your continued support of ChamberWest and your commitment to building a thriving west-side business community. Together, we will continue to champion policies, partnerships, and programs that help our region grow and prosper. We look forward to a strong and productive year ahead.
Warm regards,
Barbara
Barbara S. Riddle
President/CEO
801-540-6312
