Current Priorities

Advocacy & Policy 

The Grand Rapids Chamber acts as fierce advocates for business on issues that enrich a thriving and diverse business climate.

We are proud to be leading action on the issues that matter most to our members. From roads and taxes to childcare, housing, and cutting through government red tape we are advocating for a prosperous West Michigan for all. The Chamber navigates local, regional, and state policy landscapes for West Michigan business.

Our member-driven advocacy is working to improve the West Michigan economy and quality of life. This year, our core focuses are:

A Vibrant Business Climate Powering Our Economy

The Grand Rapids area is home to a diverse set of industries. We are focused on the ease of doing business, advocating to minimize burdensome regulations and eliminating barriers to employment while supporting an inclusive workplace for all. 

A Talented Michigan

Our economic success depends on a strong education and talent system – from birth to career – to meet the demands of a future where we are continuing to grow in West Michigan. The Chamber advocates for policies that would boost student outcomes and enhance and grow our talent pool.

A Place to Call Home

Grand Rapids and Kent County are leaders in population and job growth. Our success has created new challenges, including increasing concerns over housing availability and affordability. We are also focused on strong local government leadership, being a welcoming community to ALL and successfully deploying once-in-a-lifetime federal relief dollars effectively. We’re focused on cross-sector solutions to make the Grand Rapids a place anyone can call home. 

Latest News

The Chamber’s priorities for regional and local advocacy have been further honed by business leaders to focus on the elements that are critical to vibrancy.  ...

Friday morning, developers, municipal leaders and business leaders gathered for a Chamber Issue Forum to dive deeper into one of the region’s most pressing topics: housing. Why...

Grand Rapids Mayoral Election The two leading candidates for the Grand Rapids Mayoral election are David LaGrand and Senita Lenear.  LaGrand is an owner of...