Chamber Blog

Today’s society is diverse in many ways and is growing ever more diverse by the day. But despite our growing diversity, racism is still pervasive in our culture. Racism is an issue on the minds of many at the moment, but many struggle to discuss it in an open and productive way. The Chamber’s Institute […]

If you haven’t heard – our 131st Annual Meeting is coming up on January 29th, 2019. We have a lot of things to be excited about next year, and we can’t wait to share them with you. Whether you’re a member at the Small Business or President’s Circle level, this event is for YOU, and […]

There has been a lot of discussion about the Chamber’s work recently. I’ve talked with many of you about important and sensitive topics. These discussions have been informative and compelling. Your passion to foster a vibrant business climate is unmatched across the state. Our work is member driven and we are better with your input. […]

For the upcoming November general election, a trio of ballot proposals will be considered by Michigan voters. While the Chamber does have stances on these three proposals, our primary objective is to ensure that our members are educated on what exactly these proposals entail for our community. “The Chamber takes our positions on public policy […]

We all have unconscious biases that we bring with us into our places of work. Triggered by our brains making quick judgments of people and situations, these subconscious attitudes can span race, gender, age, wealth, appearance, and much more. They are influenced by our background and personal experiences and can impact everything from the clothes […]

Entrepreneurial. Progressive. Innovative. Collaborative. West Michigan has proven time and time again that we are EPIC. On October 30, 2018, at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the Grand Rapids Chamber will be hosting the EPIC Awards, where local organizations and professionals are recognized for their outstanding success stories and contributions to West Michigan’s thriving economy. This year, […]

GR Chamber Efforts Allow for Policies to be Improved Last week, at the urging of the Grand Rapids Chamber and the statewide business community, the Michigan Legislature adopted the mandatory paid sick leave and minimum wage ballot proposals. Both proposals make Michigan less competitive. The minimum wage proposal would result in our state having one […]

DID YOU KNOW every 65 seconds, someone in the United States is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease? It is the sixth-leading cause of death in the nation, affecting an estimated 5.7 million Americans. While the majority of those afflicted are 65 or older, many are diagnosed at earlier ages. As of this year, 180,000 Michiganders have […]