Chamber Update: Big Plans, Big Events, and Big Opportunities!
We’re getting a taste of spring with this February thaw—sunshine and temps in the 50s are certainly a mood lifter! Just as the weather is warming up, things at the Chamber are heating up as we gear up for an exciting 2025. We’ve made great progress on the goals set during last summer’s planning session, and there’s still plenty to accomplish!
Leadership & Learning
Our Community Leadership Program remains a cornerstone of the Chamber, and we’re thrilled to have expanded it with the launch of an Alumni Group. With two successful events under their belt and a third in the works, this group is a great way for past graduates (from Leadership Elk River) to stay connected and engaged. If you're an alum, be sure to follow the LinkedIn page for updates: [Link].
We’re also rolling out new educational events this year! These will be great learning opportunities and offer fresh sponsorship possibilities for members looking to increase their visibility. Stay tuned for details.
Helping Members Find Talent
Our Jobs Board continues to be one of the most-visited pages on our website, with high traffic from local job seekers. That’s great news for our members—hiring local talent leads to stronger connections and long-term commitment in the workplace. If you haven’t posted your job openings yet, now’s the time!
Chamber Office Makeover
You may have noticed some big improvements outside the Chamber office! The updates will be completed this spring with fresh paint and landscaping, giving the building a polished, professional look that adds to our community’s curb appeal.
Advocating for Business
Our Government Relations Committee recently recommended a set of policy priorities, which were approved by our Board of Directors. These priorities—Housing, Childcare, Infrastructure Planning, and Energy—help us advocate for a stronger business environment at both the local and state levels.
We also shared these priorities with elected officials during our Popcorn, Politics & a Pint event a couple of weeks ago. Members had the opportunity to meet newly elected representatives from Sherburne County, Elk River, Zimmerman, and Otsego. Just as businesses benefit from strong local connections, so do our elected officials—after all, you never know when those relationships will matter! You can read more about our policy priorities here: [Insert Link].
Get Involved: Board Elections & The Groovy Gala!
Spring is also the time when we seek new Board of Directors candidates. Each year, five seats are up for election, and board members can serve up to two three-year terms. This year, we’ll be filling four open seats. If you’re interested in shaping the future of our Chamber, check out the details here: [Insert Link], and reach out to Debbi Rydberg or Board Chair Katie Jendro.
And of course, we can’t forget our biggest event of the year—the Groovy Gala! This year’s theme is Peace, Love & Flower Power, a fun throwback to the 1970s. Our planning committee is hard at work putting together an unforgettable evening, complete with exciting auction items for your bidding pleasure. Mark your calendar and get ready to get groovy!
Thanks for being part of the Elk River Area Chamber—together, we’re energizing the PACE of business in our community.
Let’s make 2025 a great year!
