Business and Community Development

Leadership Temple
Now in its 32nd year, Leadership Temple is a professional development and educational program that informs participants about Temple’s history, government, economy, social issues, needs and opportunities, and the existing  processes for dealing with them. Participants also engage in team projects that fill a need in and enhance our community. LT graduates are prepared for active involvement in future endeavors which contribute to the growth and betterment of not only the Temple Chamber, but for local government boards, committees and councils. Graduates are encouraged to complete an application of interest with local government to be considered for appointment. Our 2019 objectives are to:
  • Continue to enhance the LT experience
  • Further develop the LT Alumni engagement

Small Business Connect
Small Business Connect develops, promotes, and supports small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs in the greater Temple community through partnerships and services that lead to the enhancement of small business and the local economy. Our 2019 objectives are to:
Workforce Readiness Network
The Workforce Readiness Network is a vehicle for business, education, and community leaders to work together on improving our local workforce. The WRN identifies areas of need in both business and education, connecting the parties for dialogue, pooling resources, and acts as a catalyst and facilitator of partnership development to fulfill the long-term needs of our community’s growing workforce. Our 2019 objectives are to:

Governmental affairs

Military Affairs Council
The Military Affairs Council continues to build strong relationships with the 13th ESC and 1st MED Brigade at Fort Hood, as well as the 36th Sustainment Brigade with Texas Army National Guard. The MAC works to enhance and expand opportunities for community collaboration, information, and education. In 2019, the MAC will be engaged in the following:
  • Host the 35th Military Appreciation Luncheon
  • Conduct quarterly meetings to inform, educate, and communicate
  • Attend and support military related events and ceremonies
  • Assist Texas Army National Guard with re-opening of the Temple Armory
  • Plan and promote Temple Day at Fort Hood

Public Policy Council
The Public Policy Council is our direct connection for all matters related to local, state, and federal legislative and regulatory advocacy. PPC advances sound public policy to strengthen private enterprise, and improves our regions pro-business economic climate and quality of life. PPC is a subscription initiative and in 2019 will be engaged in the following:
  • Develop Temple Chamber Legislative Priorities 2019/2020
  • Communicate legislative priorities to elected officials and chamber membership
  • Facilitate elected federal officials visits to the community
  • Host three Public Policy Legislative Luncheons
  • Conduct six Public Policy Executive Briefings
  • Host Third House Sessions on the first Monday of the month
  • Organize and coordinate Temple Day at the State Capitol
  • Encourage appointment of Temple Chamber members to City boards and commissions
  • Engage members to become active and engaged in issues affecting business at the local, state, and federal level

membership services

11th Chamber Golf Classic powered by Amos Electric
The 11th Chamber Golf Classic Powered by Amos Electric is scheduled for Monday, August 5, 2019, at Wildflower Country Club. This signature event is an opportunity to support the Chamber while enjoying an afternoon on the links. The committee will plan, organize, and coordinate sponsorships and the events of the day. 
 
Baylor Scott & White Health Community Showcase
Now in its 9th year, the Baylor Scott & White Health Community Showcase is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, 2019, at the Mayborn Convention Center. This signature event provides a link between Chamber members and the Resident Physicians, Fellows, and new senior staff at BSWH Temple. The Showcase provides an opportunity for members to promote their products, goods, and services.
 
Chamber Connectivity Council
The Chamber Connectivity Council provides the opportunity for the membership to enhance and maximize networking opportunities on a regular basis through various programs and events. Our 2019 objectives are to:
  • Host monthly Business Link Lunch networking events
  • Host monthly Business After Hours networking events
  • Explore additional venues for providing networking opportunities including:  12 @ 12,​Collaboration @ The Chamber, and more
 
Red Carpet Ambassadors
Wearing their distinctive RED COATS the Red Carpet Ambassadors provide a unified image at business celebrations whether it is the welcoming of visitors, opening of a new business, expansion, or the ground breaking for a new employer. Limited to 25, the RCAs know the importance and tradition of wearing the red coat and representing the Chamber. 
 
Salute to Business
Salute to Business is one of our signature events. It was held Tuesday, January 29, 2019, and featured Dr. Tony Evans as the keynote speaker. Dr. Evans is the founder and senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, founder and president of The Urban Alternative, chaplain of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, and author of over 100 books, booklets and Bible studies. He delivered a motivational and inspirational message about community engagement. STB is where we recognize community excellence, community partnerships, and celebrate the transformation of our community.

Organization Improvement

The Organization Improvement Pillar focuses on the structure, operations, policy, leadership, finances, technology, and staffing to ensure the investment of time, energy, and resources meets or exceeds expectations.