Chamber Blog

In honor of Veteran’s Day coming up in November, we would like to highlight Chamber team member Joshua Lunger, who is one of the millions who have made a difference for our country. Josh served in the U.S. Army from 2005-2008. He was a veteran squad leader of the 82nd Airborne Division, which took him […]

Last year, after 10 years of the annual art competition, ArtPrize shifted to a biennial format, making way for its new “Project” series. During these project years, ArtPrize works with commissioned artists on large-scale installations. By providing funding and resources on the front end, ArtPrize is able to carefully select artists and collaborate more closely […]

Autumn lovers, rejoice! The days are getting shorter, the weather is getting cooler, and the leaves are starting to change – which means fall is officially upon us! When you’re not cozying up inside with hot cider and scary movies, there are plenty of fun activities to help you make the most of what is […]

Broadway Grand Rapids has an exciting 2019-2020 season lined up, with the wildly popular Hamilton coming in January. However, perhaps most exciting this season is Disney’s The Lion King, which is coming to DeVos Performance Hall for the first time ever from November 20th to December 1st, 2019. Disney’s The Lion King is one of […]

At the Grand Rapids Chamber, we believe Michigan needs criminal justice reform to reduce unnecessary barriers to employment. Overincarceration costs too much and does not make our communities safer. More than 80% of Michigan inmates will be released into our local communities, we have a moral responsibility to create opportunities for them, and to give […]

The fall kickoff of Breakfast with Legislators was hosted at Hope Network Education Center this morning. With a lot going on in Lansing recently, the event covered the top three issues in the state right now: road funding, the state budget, and the talent issue grades K-12. On behalf of our host sponsor, Hope Network, […]

To:                   The Michigan Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration From:              Grand Rapids Chamber Subject:           Jail & Pretrial Incarceration Reforms Necessary for Business, Workforce Development Date:                September 2019   Crime rates are the lowest Michigan has seen in more than 50 years, and yet our jail population has tripled. Historically low crime presents […]

We are proud to announce the finalists for this year’s EPIC Awards Gala! Each award category recognizes businesses or individuals who are leading the way in growth and innovation, strengthening our business community, enabling collaboration and connections, and accomplishing incredible endeavors with their focus on the future. This year’s finalists are: Excellence in Business: Cherry Health […]