|
This week, the Temple Chamber of Commerce joins chambers across the state in celebrating Texas Chamber of Commerce Week, officially proclaimed by Governor Greg Abbott to recognize the vital role local Chambers play in driving economic growth and community prosperity. Chambers of Commerce are more than Membership organizations; they are connectors, advocates, and catalysts for progress. From small business support to workforce development and public policy leadership, Chambers power local economies and keep Texas the best place to live, work, and do business. Here in Temple, that mission is alive and well. Every day, the Temple Chamber helps businesses connect with opportunity, strengthen their voice, and access the tools they need to succeed. As part of this week of celebration, we’re proud to continue that commitment by launching a new online business intelligence tool designed to help local businesses make smarter, data-driven decisions. This free digital resource—available Thursday, October 16—will make market research and competitive insights more accessible than ever before for Temple’s small business community. It’s another way the Temple Chamber is helping entrepreneurs plan, grow, and thrive in a changing economy. We invite you to join us in celebrating the impact of Chambers across Texas and in exploring this new era of business empowerment right here in Temple. Learn more and join the launch event on Thursday, October 16, 9:00 a.m. at the Temple Chamber of Commerce. RSVP today: https://bit.ly/EmpowerLocalBusiness Read the Governor’s Proclamation 
0 Comments
On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Texans will have the opportunity to vote on 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. Decisions that could directly impact the future of our workforce, infrastructure, economic climate, and community well-being. While these elections may not carry the visibility of federal races, the outcomes are no less significant. Many of the proposed amendments touch on issues critical to business operations, taxation, education, and long-term investment across our state. As a business-led and member-driven organization, the Temple Chamber of Commerce encourages active civic participation and informed decision-making. Now is the time to:
A full list of the proposed amendments is available from the Texas Secretary of State and can be found on the Texas Secretary of State website at www.sos.tx.us. Informed voters are the foundation of strong communities and thriving economies. Make your plan, cast your vote, and help shape the future of Temple and Texas. In addition to statewide amendments, Bell County residents should take special notes of important local voting deadlines and resources:
For all the details and resources, you can visit the Bell County Elections website: www.bellcountytx.com/departments/elections. Whitney Theriot, Temple Chamber of Commerce President/CEO
As the first quarter of 2025 wraps up, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible momentum we’ve built and express gratitude to our Board of Directors, Chamber Members, Chamber Team, and the greater Temple community. If 2024 was a year of resilience and alignment, 2025 has roared into action—with focus, purpose, and impact. Over the past three months, we have moved from planning to execution, bringing our bold vision to life through strategic initiatives, strong partnerships, and meaningful engagement. Quarter One Wins In just the first quarter, we have: • Welcomed 31 new Members, continuing the growth of our network of over 1,000 businesses and organizations. • Celebrated 17 Ribbon Cuttings and Business Milestones, each one a meaningful celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Temple. • Hosted Salute to Business, our 118th Annual Meeting—a signature event of the organization featuring keynote speaker and documentary film maker Brett Culp, whose inspiring message of leadership and storytelling set the tone for the year ahead. • Held a successful Temple Chamber Day at the Capitol, where we amplified our voice on critical issues for our business community, bringing together our Board of Directors, Public Policy Council, and Leadership Temple Class to constitute our delegation. • Hosted the well-attended State of the City Luncheon, where Mayor Tim Davis and City Manager Brynn Myers shared a compelling vision for “Growth with Purpose.” From Vision to Action We began the year with clarity—redefining our strategic framework with three verticals: Advocacy, Member Services, and Organizational Excellence. Each initiative we undertake now aligns with these core areas, ensuring that our efforts are intentional and impactful. • Under Advocacy, we advanced with strong participation with the delegation at the Capitol, a Public Policy Council luncheon, and advocacy efforts at the local level—most recently championing Member concerns regarding commercial roll-off dumpsters at City Council meetings. • In Member Services, we introduced fresh engagement tools at our first six Business Link Lunches and Business After Hours, including interactive games like a “conversation beach ball” and a Veteran owned business showcase. Additionally, our Membership Directory in print and online continues to serve as a vital connector. • Under Organizational Excellence, we’ve begun executing key aspects of our strategic plan-- including the initial development of a dashboard to enhance transparency and accountability for our Board of Directors and Membership, along with continued efforts to align governance with our long term vision. Investing in Leadership and Legacy Our commitment to community building and leadership development remains strong. The Board of Directors green lit the Leadership Temple Spring Project, opened applications for the Class of 2026, and continued recruitment for the Launch Temple entrepreneur program. We also celebrated legacy by establishing memorial contributions to honor past Chamber leaders. Looking Ahead The second quarter brings even more opportunities to connect, collaborate, and lead. We’re excited to support upcoming networking programs, educational partnerships, and enhanced storytelling to highlight the incredible businesses that shape Temple. To our Members—thank you for your trust, partnership, and continued engagement. Your success is our mission, and together, we are building a resilient, connected, and thriving business community. Here’s to continued momentum and bold progress in 2025! Published first in the April 2025 Focus on Business - Temple Daily Telegram |
