Page 8 - Jan19 Outlook

Revitalized Chamber Foundation focuses on developing

state’s economy

my. In spring 2018, we announced the Center for Work-
force Solutions, a first-of-its-kind in Minnesota business-
Doug Loon, President led initiative to solve critical workforce needs, so business-
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce es can stay and grow in the state.
Our renewed Chamber Foundation is accompanied by the
On Dec. 14, 1908, a group of employers from various in- launching of Vision 2030, a 10-year projection of opportu-
dustries and corners of the state came together on Robert nities for our economy to change and grow. During the
Street in St. Paul. Over lunch, they discussed their success- coming year, Vision 2030 will lay out a common roadmap
es and challenges, and conversation evolved to the agenda – a guide – for strategic public affairs and private-sector
of the upcoming legislative session. They saw firsthand the actions that will help our state’s economy to change and
effect that policy had on their ability to do business: to grow.
move goods and services, and to provide a quality of life
for their employees. Leaning on their shared experiences at Vision 2030 is a perfect complement to our Minnesota
the local level, they decided the statewide business com- Business Benchmarks, an annual report produced by the
munity needed a voice – a collective voice – at the Capitol. Minnesota Chamber and our Chamber Federation partners
that shows how Minnesota ranks on key economic indica-
And the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce was born. tors compared with other states.

For the last 110 years, the chamber has advocated tireless- We are thrilled that Susan Marvin, chair of Marvin Win-
ly on behalf of our members. Today, we represent more dows and Doors, Inc., will lead our Chamber Foundation
than 2,300 companies and their more than half a million Board of Directors. Her experience in leading a four-
employees. Our members represent every industry and size generation, family-owned company, as well as serving as a
of business from those with just a few employees to many past chair of the Minnesota Chamber Board, makes her
of the state’s Fortune 500 employers. The companies drive well poised to lead the revitalized foundation. Her business
growth in every corner of the state. acumen and her keen interest and involvement in building
a stronger business community are the perfect combination
We take pride – we consider it our responsibility – to rep-
resent our members and their employees at the Capitol. of skills and talent.
Our influence is even stronger through local chambers that Understanding Minnesota’s economy is key to its long-
constitute the Minnesota Chamber Federation. term success. The Minnesota Chamber Foundation is
Moreover, we provide a vision for Minnesota’s economy poised to play a critical role in strengthening the business
environment to improve the lives of all Minnesotans
beyond each individual legislative session: a future for
business that improves the lives of all Minnesotans. We through research, programs and leadership development.
renew that commitment as we refresh our focus on the
Minnesota Chamber Foundation.
We look forward to building on our century-long partner-
Since 1983, the foundation has helped chamber members ship with local chambers of commerce and realizing a
and state leaders to better understand and grow our econo- better economic future with all Minnesotans.