Community Vibrancy

The Grand Rapids Chamber drives public policies and initiatives that strengthen West Michigan’s business climate and shape its future.

Why It Matters

Businesspeople are the backbone of our community. They employ our neighbors and fuel local investment. Our members—from small businesses to global corporations—create opportunity and drive innovation.

West Michigan’s success is built on partnerships between public and private leaders who share a vision for growth and opportunity for all.

Our Focus

To keep West Michigan moving forward, the Chamber convenes and aligns leaders to support growth, expand prosperity, and enhance community vibrancy.

We prioritize actions and outcomes that:

This ensures:

Our Approach

A Bias Toward Action

2024–2025 Impact Highlights

Protected employers through balanced earned sick time and minimum wage legislation
Housed more than 100 individuals experiencing chronic homelessness
Created policy that led to 3,000+ new or rehabilitated units statewide across 42 projects, enabling the first office-to-housing conversion in Grand Rapids
Championed hotel/motel tax reform and the Destination Kent campaign, paving the way for a 12,000-seat amphitheater and 8,500-seat soccer stadium

Key Next Steps & Action Items

Looking Ahead: The Chamber Commitment

The future of West Michigan depends on our collective vision and courage to act.

We must:

Through bold vision, collaboration, and action, the Grand Rapids Chamber will continue to serve as a catalyst for positive change – building a stronger, more prosperous West Michigan for all.

Questions or Comments?

Please reach out to:

Christine Simon

Vice President of Government Affairs