RECENT NEWS

Today I am delighted to share that the Metro Chamber has chosen Toronto, Canada, its first international destination since 2009, for its 23rd Annual Study Mission for 2023! During the closing session of Study Mission 2022 to San Diego, led by 2023 Program Chair Chet Hewitt, delegates expressed a strong…

WHAT: 51st Annual Capitol-to-Capitol Advocacy Program WHEN:  April 22-26, 2023 WHERE:  Washington, DC Waitlist: https://2023.metrochamber.org/cap23/ This year's Cap-to-Cap program saw the fastest and earliest enrollment in program history.  With 400 confirmed registrants, including nearly 100 elected officials, this is our largest delegation in over a decade. While the program is currently at capacity, those who still…

WHAT:  In person event - Addressing the Sacramento Region's Homelessness Crisis through Transitional Housing WHEN: Thursday, March 23, 2023/8:00-10:30 am WHERE:  KVIE Community Room While other areas, both nationally and within our state, are seeing the progress the homeless epidemic continues to grow in the Sacramento Region. Sacramento County’s 2022…

Sacramento Metro Chamber's female board members, C-suite, and internal staff were recently featured in Comstock Magazine's Women in Leadership edition (pg. 100). SACRAMENTO METRO CHAMBER CREATING A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR CAPITAL REGION BUSINESSES The Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce is one of the nation's most innovative and successful chambers of…

Last week the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) shared the following press release announcing CEO & President, Amanda Blackwood, as a finalist for their Outstanding Women Leaders (OWL) Awards in the category of Executive Woman Award. During her career, Amanda has led the way for women in business…

On December 6, 2022 the City of Sacramento and the County of Sacramento signed a legally binding partnership agreement which triggered the implementation of Measure O, also known as the Emergency Shelter Act of 2022.  The Measure was put on the ballot through a direct democracy initiative spearheaded by the…

Do you own a business? Do you want to learn more about how the California Labor Code can affect you? The California Labor Code’s Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) is often used to file lawsuits against California businesses, which have paid a total of $8 billion in PAGA lawsuit settlements in the…

This past fall brought new elections and an end to the 2021-2022 State legislative cycle. We can now look back and reflect on how well our legislators in the Capitol have represented the business community. The Sacramento Region is well-represented at the State Capitol, with 6 Senators and 9 Assembly…

Metro Chamber Foundation was recently awarded the Smiles in Action Award from the PepsiCo Foundation, the philanthropic arm of PepsiCo, Inc. PepsiCo Foundation supports local communities by providing resources for valuable programming, such as our Leadership Sacramento program. Funding provided by the award will go towards operational support. Leadership Sacramento…

Metro-PAC Candidates win BIG in Key Races for Greater Sacramento Region Following the impacts of redistricting, term limits, and the retirement of numerous elected officials, this was a busy and incredibly important election year. With so much at stake for our region’s economy and quality of life – including the…

Have you registered for Study Mission? I sincerely hope so because there are only 10 spots left! From October 11-14, a delegation of Sacramento’s thought leaders will embark on a mission of discovery in one of our most prosperous California cities, San Diego. With its temperate climate, abundance of amenities,…

News coverage on homelessness in the Sacramento region has proliferated over the last few months and we are glad for the awareness! Metro Chamber has worked tirelessly this year to promote better shelter policies in our region.  You may already be aware, but Metro Chamber supports the Emergency Shelter and…

Metro PAC-endorsed candidate Pat Hume is picking up steam in his campaign for Sacramento County District 5 Supervisor. We’re pleased to report that Mr. Hume now has an endorsement from current Supervisor Don Nottoli. Nottoli states, “I’m confident Pat will serve the people of District 5 with the dedication and…

Valley Vision, in collaboration with SACOG, the Centers of Excellence, and multiple transportation entities, is requesting your assistance to help our region better understand the changes in location-based work and the skills needed to meet your business or organization’s hiring needs. The results of this survey will help guide transportation…

Be sure to bring lots of business cards when you join us at Elevation Ten Winery for our next Referral Roundtable! Referral Roundtable is a recurring Metro Chamber networking event, allowing our Members the opportunity to network and develop relationships with other businesses. When: Tuesday, August 23rd from 10-11:30am Where:…

Are you a Metro EDGE member who wants to attend the 2022 Study Mission in San Diego? Metro EDGE’s Leading EDGE Fund can help you get there! Metro EDGE’s mission is to help elevate young professionals throughout the region, and Study Mission is a valuable part of that. The scholarship…

In-person or virtual tickets are available for the young professionals event of the year that has a spirited #ChallengeAccepted theme Spearheaded by Metro EDGE, a program of the Sacramento Metro Chamber Foundation, the Emerge Summit is scheduled for Thursday, September 15, 2022 at The Sofia in Midtown Sacramento. Celebrating nine…

At 6:00 p.m. today Sacramento City Council will discuss how or if they will place the Emergency Shelter and Enforcement Act of 2022 (“the measure”) on the November ballot.  The measure, a comprehensive plan developed by the top legal minds in the State, enables the City to enforce anti-camping rules,…

Event Details Date Lemonade Day Help a young person in your life develop strong business and life skills with this free learning experience. More info here: https://lemonadeday.org/sacramento 7/30 Small Business Success Summit Learn from workshops, explore resources, and network with other professionals. Where: 2251 Florin Rd. When: 9am-4pm Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-small-business-success-summit-2022-registration-295960635227…

See San Diego as a Study Mission delegate. Join us in San Diego October 11-14 for Metro Chamber’s 2022 Study Mission! Register at: Study Mission 2022 What’s on your regional waterfront development wish list? Be part of the inspired delegation representing the six-county region that dives into how waterfront activation…

Primary Election Results Last month’s primary election demonstrated the positive impact of YOUR financial contributions to the Metro Political Action Committee (Metro-PAC). By supporting local candidates who elevate the growth of the business community, and with a win rate of over 90% going into November’s General Election, Metro-PAC continues to…

There’s still time to register for Lemonade Day Sacramento on July 30th! Youth throughout our region will be able to participate in a free, online entrepreneurship learning experience. Our local version of a national program teaches young people how to set goals, implement a plan, and troubleshoot problems, all while…

It’s been over 3 months since we launched the new MetroBusiness Center and we are excited about where this program is headed. Thanks to some great local collaborators, the Business Center Director Kyla Bryant, and our team, the Center has been able to offer a variety of programs. Since opening…

Have you met Jenna Abbott yet? We hired Ms. Abbott in May to serve as our Senior Vice President (SVP) of Strategic Initiatives. She has a long history of advocating for businesses in the region and she plans to do the same at Metro. Ms. Abbott has served as Executive…

Metro Pac endorsed a number of candidates during the June 2022 elections and is happy to announce the following candidates are official wins! We are also excited to continue supporting our endorsed candidates that have announced their advancement to the general election this November: Learn more about Metro Pac’s work…

Identifying workable solutions for businesses navigating issues related to the homeless crisis is one of Metro Chamber’s topline initiatives for 2022, and as our members know, the Sacramento region’s homelessness crisis has gone on too long. It’s not an easy crisis to solve, but it can be done – and…

June’s After Hours Mixer was truly a pleasure! Metro Chamber members had the opportunity to connect with each other for conversation, networking, and hors d’oeuvres earlier this month.  Thank you to Safe Credit Union for sponsoring this event!  

Cap-to-Cap is one of Metro’s most esteemed events. Each year, members of the Sacramento business community journey to Washington D.C. to meet with our representatives and advocate for the Greater Sacramento Area. This year was especially exciting as Metro celebrated the 50th annual Cap-to-Cap! Trip highlights included learning events, our…

Upcoming Events Calendar Event Details Date Biz & Economic Task Force Call: General updates on regional issues At the on-set of the COVID-19 Pandemic in March 2020, the Metro Chamber infused certainty amidst uncertainty for business leaders by convening the Business & Economic Task Force. Inviting federal, state, and local…

The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce is putting its support behind a proposed ballot measure that would compel the city of Sacramento to take action on homelessness. “This is a triage method,” said Metro Chamber CEO Amanda Blackwood. “This is an emergency. We’ve got to treat this like an emergency.”…

With COVID-19 protocols lifting across California, millions were ready to slip back into their regular routines, off and on the clock. Now, spiking gas prices have many rethinking even the shortest of commutes. Amanda Blackwood, president and CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce, joined Sonseeahray to talk about…

Even when the pandemic ends, many Capital Region workers won’t go back to five days a week at a cubicle. In a July​​–August 2021 survey by nonprofit regional civic organization Valley Vision, more than three-quarters of employers from six Capital Region counties who responded said they expected to have their…

Metro Chamber President & CEO Amanda Blackwood joined Fox40 morning news on January 4, 2022, to discuss key economic growth factors and forecasts for 2022 for the greater Sacramento region and our businesses. Watch the whole interview below: Metro Chamber

A coalition of economic development advocates in the Sacramento region is developing a big ask for state funding, and they’re looking for input on their proposal. Later this month, the Prosperity Partnership will launch the first of a series of online webinars featuring information about a $600 million grant program…

Complex interpersonal dynamics can cause added stress, anxiety and conflict at both home and work. Families can be stressful. So can businesses. And working in a family business? The stress compounds and multiplies. Read more about ten strategies for navigating business, family, and both at once, from Comstock’s Magazine, here.…

About a quarter of 420 Sacramento area workers surveyed by the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and the University of California Davis Graduate School of Management said they may leave the Sacramento area within three years. Most of the people surveyed were full-time, Sacramento city-based workers in the education, nonprofit,…

When an estimated 2 million Californians lose their unemployment benefits next week, concerns about health and child care are likely to keep many away from the job market. That’s the finding of experts around the country, who have identified a pattern in the roughly two dozen states that cut off…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber – in partnership with SAFE Credit Union – is proud to launch a corporate culture indicators survey and debut a series of diversity, equity and inclusion training modules that are free and available now for utilization by businesses throughout the Greater Sacramento region. The diversity, equity…

As our dedicated community leaders explore ways to protect each other, keep the economy open, and work to avoid another full or partial shutdown, today the Sacramento Metro Chamber -- along with a number of other chambers and business organizations -- has presented the attached letter to Mayor Darrell Steinberg…

A powerful and impactful advocacy program presented by the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Capitol-to-Capitol (or Cap-to-Cap) has been an institution for more than 50 years. After a pause in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the much-anticipated advocacy program is returning this fall when a local delegation will meet virtually…

When people point to what’s choking off opportunities for new business in California, high taxes and excessive regulations are two directions people often point in. If those are the problems, how can the state succeed long-term with them? And what can Gov. Gavin Newsom’s new plan to recruit businesses do…

Amanda Blackwood, President, Previews Cap-to-Cap Cap to Cap Sacramento, Calif. – a powerful and impactful advocacy program presented by the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Capitol-to-Capitol (or Cap-to-Cap) has been an institution for more than 50 years. After a pause in 2020 during the covid-19 pandemic, the much-anticipated advocacy program…

At the start of the pandemic, the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce launched a hotline for business owners to answer questions and provide support. “The confusion and the need for information was so critical, so we set up a series of tools, one of them being a hotline,” said Amanda Blackwood, president…

“There are hundreds of small businesses that have closed their doors at this point,” said Amanda Blackwood, President and CEO of Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. Blackwood wants to see those dollars go towards struggling small businesses to help with technical assistance and funding needs.”   Read more from CBS13…

On January 5, 2021, the Sacramento City Council approved the Master Siting, Programmatic, Operations and Financing Plan to Address (Homeless Master Plan). The Council continue to lead workshops with the community, providers, and expert partners to identify site locations, operational best practices, programs and services, and financial resources to be…

As California Nears One-Year Mark Since First Statewide Stay-At Home Order, Metro Chamber Reflects on the Impact of Past Year & Recovery Efforts Ahead SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As California quickly approaches the one-year mark since Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statewide stay-at-home order on March 19, 2020 to flatten the…

On March 11, 2021, President Joe Biden signed into law the American Rescue Plan Act - a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill passed by the 117th United States Congress. The bill allocates funding into a few key areas: Targeted aid for restaurants in the form of grants, additional aid through…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce held a member-exclusive townhall with Dr. Olivia Kasirye, Sacramento County Public Health Officer, on Thursday, February 11, from 9 AM – 10 AM. This dialogue with Dr. Kasirye covered the COVID-19 vaccine and the rollout of Phase 1B to include those 65 years and…

2020 was a major milestone year in the history of the Metro Chamber. While our tactics may have changed we celebrated 125 years of leadership by serving as the unequivocal voice of business in bold and meaningful ways. In a time of unprecedented volatility we have served more people, helped…

2020 has been a year unlike any other, including this year’s Presidential election. The November election set records for California with an 81% voter turnout statewide. Our region followed this trend with Sacramento County slightly above that average at 82.5% and regions like Placer County as high as 88% voter…

Virtual Event Will Recognize Regional Business Leaders, Including Sacramentan of the Year Supervisor Susan Peters, and a Special Award in Memory of Long-Time PRIDE Industries CEO Michael Ziegler SACRAMENTO, CA – The Sacramento Metro Chamber is proud to salute regional leaders for their life-long dedication to service, inclusion and for creating…

At noon today, the Governor of California announced that the Greater Sacramento Region – including the counties of Alpine, Amador, Butte, Colusa, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Sierra, Sutter, Yolo, and Yuba – has fallen under the 15% threshold for ICU availability. Due to this change and pursuant to the Regional…

Sacramento Metro Chamber Policy Advisor Erika Bjork spoke with KCRA in response to the Regional Stay-at-Home Order announced by Governor Newsom on Thursday, December 3rd. Erika expressed concern about businesses’ bottom line as well as their wellbeing, and provided advice on how community members can best support local businesses especially…

This afternoon, Governor Newsom issued a Regional Stay-at-Home Order, which will go into effect within 48 hours in regions with less than 15% Intensive Care Unit (ICU) availability. The latest order prohibits private gatherings of any size, closes sector operations, excluding critical infrastructure and retail, and requires mask wearing and…

In an effort to amplify the significant contributions small businesses provide to the region’s economy, the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce has partnered with talented local artists Chelsea-Mari Kennedy and Brandon Gastinell to design artwork for limited edition specialty merchandise as part of a new #All4Small fundraising initiative. The new…

Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Amanda Blackwood spoke with Insight host Randol White on Wednesday, November 16, 2020, about the best ways to support local businesses when shopping for loved ones during the holiday season this year. Listen to the episode HERE. Relevant segment begins at the…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber hosted a conversation for our business community with Sacramento County Health Services Director Dr. Peter Beilenson, on Thursday, November 12, 2020. This online discussion covered information on the county’s move back into the Purple Tier (widespread) announced earlier in the week. We encourage our businesses most…

Sacramento Metro Chamber President & CEO Amanda Blackwood was quoted by Fox40 News on November 10, 2020, regarding the move to the State’s most restrictive tier for pandemic control by Sacramento County health officials, and the impact on local businesses. “Do the right thing if you care about your small…

Scott and Gary from Fox40Live spoke with William Hodges, chair of Leadership Sacramento 2020, about the program, and the Sacramento Metro Chamber's Foundation. Watch the full interview HERE.

On November 4, 2020, KFBK's Kitty O'Neal spoke with Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Amanda Blackwood about Measure A and Measure C on the ballot from the Chamber's perspective. Listen to the interview below.  

Leadership Sacramento, a program of the Sacramento Metro Chamber Foundation, opened the application process for the 36th cohort that will take place in 2021 with both in-person and virtual activities. Founded in 1985, Leadership Sacramento is an interactive, year-long program designed to inform and educate community-minded business and civic leaders…

Sacramento Business Journal reporter Felicia Alvarez dived deep into Measure A, the “Sacramento Mayoral Accountability and Community Equity Act,” on this year's ballot. The Metro Chamber supports the passage of Measure A, which would change the structure of the Sacramento City Council. Currently, the position of mayor is one of…

Attention restauranteurs! The Del Paso Boulevard Foundation, through an anticipated contract with Sierra Health Foundation, is seeking 10 restaurant partners to provide “Prepared Meal Kits” to quarantined individuals and their families, in an effort to keep the community safe from further COVID infection. To help with this project, Del Paso…

Comstock's Magazine reporter Jennifer Fergesen recently spoke with Sacramento Metro Chamber President & CEO Amanda Blackwood regarding the emerging trends of friction, conflict and constant change facing working women, particularly those also raising families at the same time. "I always like to tell people, the mental health aspect of what…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber is a proud member of the Sacramento Inclusive Economic Development Collaborative (Sac IEDC) and recently released its 2020 Annual Report, which highlights the significant economic impact of seven aging commercial corridors — Del Paso Boulevard, Florin Road, Franklin Boulevard, Mack Road, Oak Park, Power Inn and…

CBS Sacramento spoke with Metro Chamber spokesperson Erika Bjork on October 8, 2020, regarding the challenges the Capital Region's small businesses face in the disruption caused by COVID-19 and the response to the pandemic.

Amanda Blackwood, president and CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce, was quoted in recent coverage by the Sacramento Bee, noting that a more diverse downtown, less reliant on the state, creates a more mature and broader economy. “A reliance on government to keep your economy growing is a…

The Office of the Governor announced today that Sacramento County has moved into the Red Tier in the state’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy. This means the following for our members and business community opening for "INDOOR operations with modifications (see industry guidance for these modifications)”: All retail (maximum 50%…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce’s annual Cap-to-Cap program provides attendees and our elected officials opportunities to foster and pass meaningful legislation that positively improves the quality of life for the Capital Region, and beyond. The House of Representatives voted on September 21, 2020, to pass Representative Ami Bera’s Helping…

As California approaches the six-month mark since Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statewide stay-at-home order on March 19, 2020 to flatten the curve and reduce the spread of COVID-19, the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce reflects back on effective regional actions taken and identifies key recommendations to help position Capital…

COVID-19 has created a tremendous amount of uncertainty for both the economic well-being and public health of our region and its businesses. In response, the Sacramento Metro Chamber has taken a leadership role in mobilizing resources and assistance to our members and region. With swift action, the Metro Chamber pivoted, created…

Mayor Steinberg will address members of the Sacramento Metro Chamber on September 24, 2020, at 1 PM PST about Measure A, the Sacramento Mayoral Accountability and Community Equity Act. This is a Metro Chamber member-exclusive event. Measure A aims to promote an equitable Sacramento, increasing citizen participation in establishing budget…

After securing significant CARES Act funding for the City of Sacramento Small Business Recovery Forgivable Loan Program, the Metro Chamber has also successfully secured $1.46 million in funding for small business technical assistance services. The Metro Chamber will utilize the expertise of our Capital Region Small Business Development Center (SBDC)…

Metro Chamber president and CEO Amanda Blackwood was honored by the Sacramento Business Journal as one of a select group of Most Admired CEOs for the region. An award ceremony was held virtually on September 3, 2020, and the winner showcase can be viewed here. Blackwood was interviewed by the…

On Friday evening, August 28, the IRS released its first notice regarding implementation of the president’s executive order on payroll tax deferral. The document, which is just over two pages, can be found HERE. While the guidance leaves more questions unanswered than it answers, here is what we now know:…

On August 21, Fox News reported on businesses’ worries about COVID-related lawsuits as they reopen. “Anytime there’s uncertainty in business, there’s an element of fear that’s naturally introduced,” Joe Shamess, owner of Flags of Valor and a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Council member, told Fox News. “It doesn’t…

In a special meeting on Wednesday, August 19, 2020, by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors, $45M was approved to go towards the following in public health via CARES Act funds. This would not have happened without the coalition of outreach from our business community and community partners that expressed…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber represented the interests of businesses in our region and most especially our city at the City Council meeting held Tuesday, July 28. Two items from the agenda (which can be found HERE) were advocated for, and successfully won. Item 19 involves the establishment of ministerial approval…

Amanda Blackwood, CEO of the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, participated in an online press conference where she outlined the Metro Chamber’s support of the Mayoral Accountability and Community Equity Act.  In her comments, Blackwood stated that the Mayoral Accountability and Community Equity Act holds the Chief Executive -- in…

A coalition of organizations within the city of Sacramento, including the Metro Chamber, announced 26 recipients that will receive micro-grants from the Emergency Response Micro-Grant Program for Sacramento Restaurants & Bars. The recipients represent a diverse array of independent food and beverage establishments across seven of the eight Council districts…

In response to the crisis of the coronavirus pandemic and the rapidly evolving set of challenges it presents for businesses and workers, in addition to public health, the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce has launched a Rapid Response tool on its website... Find more coverage from Comstock's Magazine HERE.

The ties that bind the Capitol Region are incredibly deep and interwoven. Everyone seems to know everyone. Mac Clemmens is no exception. Maybe it’s because, for the past 15+ years, Mac has been the CEO of Digital Deployment, a Sacramento-based firm that designs and builds websites. As co-founder and CEO, he…

The Metro Chamber Ambassadors serve as liaisons between the Chamber and its 1,400 members, creating deeper connections finding opportunities to support the business community.  The Ambassadors serve a vital role in ensuring members get the most from their membership and can engage with the Metro Chamber. The program also serves…

In mid-March, households throughout the Sacramento County region will receive a letter with instructions on how to complete the 2020 Census. That’s important news for everyone who has a stake in the local economy. Census information plays an essential role in commerce. Companies use it to locate factories, warehouses, and…

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS! The Sacramento Inclusive Economic Development Collaborative (SacIEDC), in partnership with the Sacramento Metro Chamber, is hosting two business walks this month. Interested in volunteering? Please contact Laurie Eaton at leaton@metrochamber.org. What is a Business Walk (and how can I help)? A Business Walk is a half-day event where…

If the Capital Region has a Ready Workforce to meet the needs of our growing economy, we'll be prepared for a new era of growth, development, and achievement that will support each of our communities. As part of the 4-Point Business Promise, we're focusing on closing the gap between business…

The Metro Chamber’s Capitol-to-Capitol program represents the largest and longest-standing delegation of its kind. That last part is worth repeating: the largest and longest-standing delegation of its kind. That fact, in and of itself, is amazing and reason enough to want to be a part of this incredible experience. However, here…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber is — and will always be — the voice of business in the Capital Region. For the past 125 years, the Metro Chamber has advocated for and supported the inclusive economic prosperity of our region by leading efforts on behalf of the business community. The Metro Chamber…

-- Annual Dinner & Business Awards Salute Regional Business Leaders for Their Achievements --  SACRAMENTO, CA – Local businessman, investor and philanthropist Kevin Nagle, has been named the 2019 Sacramentan of the Year by the Sacramento Metro Chamber for his commitment to the growth of the Capital Region, and his role in…

— Over 1,100 Alumni Have Participated in One of the Region’s Oldest Leadership Development Programs —  Sacramento, Calif.– Today, Leadership Sacramento – a Sacramento Metro Chamber Foundation program, began accepting applications for the 35thcohort of its annual leadership development program. Founded in 1985, Leadership Sacramento is an interactive, year-long program…

 — Roseville Vice Mayor Krista Bernasconi Joins 21st Annual Program as Honorary Chair — SACRAMENTO, CALIF. (July 17, 2019) – The Sacramento Metro Chamber’s annual immersive, civic improvement travel program Study Mission will head to Indianapolis, Indiana on September 10-13 with over 100 regional business and community leaders, as well as elected officials.…

 — 49thCap-to-Cap Program Linking Leaders From Northern California With Federal Policymakers — — Priority Policy Issues Address Strong Business, Ready Workforce, Vibrant Community and Connected Region — — Featured Speakers Include Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Amy Walters, and Col. Todd R. Stratton — SACRAMENTO, CALIF. (May 6, 2019) – The 49th annual…

John Jacobs elevates leadership team with proven success in messaging, public affairs and building audiences.  SACRAMENTO, Calif. (March 18, 2019) –The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce (Metro Chamber) announced the hiring of John Jacobs to the position of vice president, marketing and communications. Jacobs joins the executive leadership team to…

                Sacramento, Calif. – Today, the Sacramento Metro Chamber Foundation named Department of Sound Sacramento as the grant recipient for its 9th annual Inspire Giving program. Co-founded by John Hamilton, a native Sacramentan and New York based music producer/DJ, and Tyler Garnett, a…

The Metro Chamber announced today that small business founder and advocate Mac Clemmens will serve as the chair for the 2019 Capitol-to-Capitol program. Clemmens is a Sacramento native who started his company, Digital Deployment, in 2004. Digital Deployment has since grown into a thriving midtown Sacramento business that was named…

The Sacramento City Council approved the elimination of city fees for affordable housing projects Tuesday night. This huge win is the culmination of months of work by the Metro Chamber, its members and the broader business community. The Metro Chamber‘s efforts to shape this policy took many forms. From testifying…

Khaim Morton hired as vice president of Public Policy and Economic Development SACRAMENTO, Calif. (October 29, 2018) – The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce announced today the hiring of Khaim Morton to the position of vice president of Public Policy and Economic Development. Morton will lead the Metro Chamber’s impact…

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (October 22, 2018) – The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber Political Action Committee (Metro PAC) selected Darren Suen for endorsement in the city of Elk Grove mayoral race. Suen’s support of the business community and efforts to create neighborhood planning initiatives that are more inclusive, aligns with the purpose and…

Supporting the professional development of young leaders throughout the Capital Region is a core piece of how the Sacramento Metro Chamber helps to cultivate a strong business environment and vibrant communities. We develop diverse programming that provides young professionals with opportunities to engage with the community and grow their leadership…

The new dean of CSU Sacramento State’s College of Business Administration (CSUS CBA), Dr. William Cordeiro, plans to work collaboratively with the regional business community and represent the voice of his students as CSUS CBA develops the future business leaders of the Capital Region. Since its inception in 1947 Sacramento…

We’re proud to have 10 members represented in the Sacramento Business Journal’s annual list of the 50 fastest growing companies. These members span across industries and vary in size, but they all are growing at a high-rate. The following are the Metro Chamber members that have been recognized for their…

Metro Chamber Board votes in support of Measure U and the opportunity for it to serve as an investment for inclusive economic development and drive regional prosperity for businesses and neighborhoods. SACRAMENTO, Calif. (August 9, 2018) – The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce announced today it will endorse the City…

The Metro Chamber Foundation and the City of Sacramento work in conjunction to provide valuable paid internship opportunities for high school students around the region through the Thousand Strong program. We’ve been lucky to have hard-working Thousand Strong interns in our office who exemplify the success of the program. Jordan…

Earlier this month, Comstock’s Magazine featured two Metro Chamber members, Venita Sivamani founder of Dermveda and Sally Edwards founder of Heartzones, in their entrepreneur issue for their most recent successful ventures in the Capital Region. Less than 3 years old, Dermveda is a customizable online resource that utilizes a network…

  Last week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced that it would award $1.8 billion to flood protection projects in the Sacramento region for the American River – Common Features [$1.56 billion] and the American River Watershed: Folsom Dam Raise [$216 million] projects. These two projects have been a…

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 3, 2018) – The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce announced today the hiring of Erika Bjork as its brand strategy and communications officer and Chris Smith to serve as its director of government and political affairs. In addition, existing team members Emily Dutch, Rod Mackey, Samantha Beck,…

By: Amanda Blackwood Special to the Sacramento Bee June 19, 2018 04:52 PM   Across California’s capital region, our business leaders have long understood the path forward for our region’s economy is preparing today’s workers for tomorrow’s industries. Powered by some of the country’s leading universities, we are innovating the…

Written by: Joan Cusick, Comstock’s Magazine Amanda Blackwood took charge of the Sacramento Metro Chamber on May 1, and immediately embarked on a 100-day plan to assess and redefine strategy. “I don’t want to come in and say I know best,” says Blackwood, 35, who is the first woman to…

A charter amendment has been proposed for the November ballot that would impose rent control in Sacramento and create a new appointed board and bureaucracy to oversee rental units in our region’s urban core. These would be some of the most restrictive rent controls in the country. It is understandable…

My curiosity in science and exploration is ingrained in growing up in the shadow of American space exploration. My father had management roles in all U.S. led space programs, and I distinctly remember experiencing the excitement of U.S. leadership first-hand as I watched the X-15 drop from the wing of…

Lisa Westwood, ECORP Consulting, Inc. Metro Chamber Land Use & Natural Resources Committee Chair. & Michael Strech, North State BIA READ PART 1 Few issues in our region are as polarizing as new housing development. Whether it’s rooted in the quality of life or environmental responsibility, there is no question that our…

Since 1895, the Sacramento Metro Chamber has put community first. From recruiting Midwesterners to our golden hills during the Gold Rush to convening conversations on important topics today like our growing food economy, the Metro Chamber inherently recognizes it is the people who live here, and the work we do…

For over 30 years, the Cleaner Air Partnership (CAP) has fought to improve air quality across the Capital region because investing in clean air improves public health, while also growing our economy and attracting new businesses. CAP is anchored by the Sacramento Metro Chamber, Breathe California Sacramento Region, and Valley…

SACRAMENTO—The Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce’s political action committee MetroPAC, is proud to announce its endorsement of the following candidates and ballot measures for the June 5, 2018 primary election.  Voters are urged to join Metro PAC in protecting jobs and the economy by electing these pro-business individuals and ballot…

  Source: KFBK 

Source: Fox40

Since last summer, Sacramento’s Thousand Strong interns have collectively worked an incredible 9,074 hours. As the first year of internships come to an end, some of these young people are heading off to college, some are entering the workforce, and some are going into their final year of high school.…

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Source: KFBK

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Every year, the Sacramento Metro Chamber organizes a delegation of hundreds of area officials and business leaders to travel to Washington, D.C., and meet with federal representatives. The Capitol-to-Capitol program is meant to secure funding and resources for high-priority projects in the region and raise local concerns to officials at…

Source: Fox40

Source: Fox40

Source: Fox40

The Sacramento Metro Chamber board of directors announced Tuesday that Amanda Blackwood will become the chamber’s new president and CEO effective May 1. Blackwood will take over for Darrell Teat, the interim executive who has been leading the chamber since last year. Teat will return to his firm, Darrell Teat…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber has named a new, permanent CEO: consulting firm owner Amanda Blackwood. Blackwood is currently owner and managing partner of Sacramento-based OE Consulting Group. She will succeed the Metro Chamber’s interim president and CEO Darrell Teat on May 1, the chamber announced Tuesday. “We are experiencing a…

For 48 years, the Sacramento Metro Chamber has led a delegation to Washington, D.C. to advocate on behalf of our region’s most pressing needs as part of its Capitol-to-Capitol (Cap-to-Cap) program. This month, over 360 business and community leaders and elected officials will join this effort, holding more than 200…

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 27, 2018 Contact: Kim Camilleri, Metro Chamber Kcamilleri@metrochamber.org office: 916-552-6800 cell: 916-804-5286 SACRAMENTO METRO CHAMBER ANNOUNCES PRIORITY ISSUES FOR 2018 CAPITOL-TO-CAPITOL West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon and Roseville Mayor Susan Rohan to serve as Honorary Vice Chairs. SACRAMENTO, CA – The Sacramento Metro Chamber will…

Source: Fox40

Could $1,000 cash help Sacramento renters stay in their homes? Sacramento Bee Ryan Lillis, 3/12/18 Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg set an ambitious goal last year of finding shelter for 2,000 homeless people. Now he’s floating a plan he said could help prevent another 2,000 people from ending up on the…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber works daily to create an environment that supports the needs of small businesses because we know they are what drives our economy. Whether through the services offered by our Capital Region Small Business Development Center (SBDC) or through fighting for policies and regulations that protect and…

Welcome to another month, loyal readers. Here are the headlines you ordered. The young professionals are coming Nearly 600 young professionals are expected to be in Sacramento today for the Emerge Summit, which is now in its fifth year. The daylong event at Memorial Auditorium focuses on personal and career development.…

Source: Fox40

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Calling all young professionals! Are you ready to take it to the #NextLevel?  Spearheaded by Metro Edge, a program of the Sacramento Metro Chamber Foundation, the Emerge Summit is a collaborative effort of 17 organizations committed to advocating and supporting young professionals and their growth in the community.  Nearly 600…

Source: Fox40

The California Chamber of Commerce and the Linked Learning Alliance have launched a new California network of employer associations committed to advancing youth opportunities and reducing youth unemployment. The lead organizations, CalChamber and Linked Learning Alliance, bring together six local employer organizations for the network: the Los Angeles Area Chamber…

Local business leaders were honored during the Sacramento Metro Chamber’s 123rd Annual Dinner & Business Awards, held Jan. 26 at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento. Guests included U.S. Rep. Doris Matsui, Michael Teel of Raley’s, Stan Van Vleck of Downey Brand LLP and more. Check out our slideshow to see who…

There’s never been a better time to be a young professional in the Capital Region. Sacramento is making headlines across the country, and our young professional community is not only reaping the benefits, they are changing the game – taking their careers and our community to the #NextLevel through entrepreneurship,…

Source: KXTV

The Capital Region is on the path towards something special. Entrepreneurs and artists are creating, developers are building, new businesses are being started and the number of people moving here is steadily rising. In 2018, the Sacramento Metro Chamber is committed to continuing to build a strong business community to…

Former Nehemiah Cos. president Darrell Teat will head the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce on an interim basis. The chamber announced the appointment of Teat to the interim president/CEO position Thursday, with current president Peter Tateishi set to step down at the end of the month. “Darrell is a proven…

View Photos from the Sacramento Chamber’s Annual Holiday Mixer at the California Automobile Museum. Source: CBS Sacramento 

Saying the future of America and its economy depends upon it, Sacramento business and civic leaders joined students at Sacramento State on Wednesday to sign a letter to six local U.S. Congress members asking them to help advance bipartisan legislation that would offer so-called “Dreamers” protection from deportation and a…

Fatima Diaz doesn’t remember much about her life in Jalisco, Mexico — she moved to the United States with her family when she was 11 months old, and has lived here since. The 21-year-old California State University Sacramento student grew up in Lincoln, where she stood up in a classroom…

2017 has been an exciting year for the six-county Capital Region. The Wall Street Journal reported Sacramento is California’s Newest Real-Estate Hotspot, our Airport celebrated 50 years by topping a J.D. Power list, Golden One Center was named #1 Sports Venue in the U.S., and we’ve been called the “Dark…

Comstock’s Magazine founder and publisher, Winnie Comstock-Carlson, has been named the Sacramentan of the Year by the Sacramento Metro Chamber. Comstock-Carlson will be honored Friday, January 26th at the Metro Chamber’s 123rd Annual Dinner & Business Awards at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento. Peter Tateishi, President and CEO of the Sacramento…

Source: KFBK

Comstock’s magazine founder and publisher Winnie Comstock-Carlson has been named the Sacramentan of the Year by the Sacramento Metro Chamber. Comstock-Carlson and other honorees will be recognized Jan. 26 at the chamber’s 123rd annual business awards dinner at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento. Besides overseeing the magazine, Comstock-Carlson has served four…

By Peter Tateishi Sacramento Business Journal  California’s Capital region is a unique place to live and work. We are also emblematic of the strength and resilience our country draws from its diversity. Immigrants are a vital part of our communities and economy, representing our business owners, workers, students and entrepreneurs.…

Local business leaders gathered for this year’s State of Sacramento County forum, held Nov. 3 at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel. The Sacramento Metro Chamber partnered with Sacramento County to present the event, which included a keynote speech by John Kirby, vice president of capacity planning for Alaska Airlines. The theme…

A great chamber is the foundation of a great region. But a chamber of commerce can’t thrive without the strength of its members. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we would like to take an opportunity to express our gratitude to our members. We are proud of the programs and services…

Peter Tateishi, president and chief executive officer of the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce for the past three years, will leave the post at the end of the year. Trish Rodriguez, who chairs the chamber’s board of directors, announced Tateishi’s resignation in letter posted Tuesday on the organization’s website. Teteishi,…

On behalf of 2017 Metro Chamber Board Chair Trish Rodriguez:  My Fellow Metro Chamber Members, Today, I formally accepted Peter Tateishi’s resignation as President/CEO of the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. Peter’s term as President/CEO will go through December 31, 2017. Three years ago, the board welcomed Peter into the…

By Peter Tateishi  Special to The Bee Airports are a significant player on the local, national, and global level and have an essential role in the movement of people and goods, foster trade and national security and connect communities. This past weekend, Sacramento International Airport celebrated its 50th birthday. As…

Source: KFBK

We have some big problems in our region: a lack of affordable housing, a growing number of homeless people, an inadequate transportation system, a tottering healthcare system and a need to create tens of thousands of better-paying jobs. We need to figure out solutions. Seeing how other American cities are dealing…

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SACRAMENTO METRO CHAMBER’S ANNUAL STUDY MISSION HEADS TO AUSTIN, TEXAS Vice Mayor Linda Budge, City of Rancho Cordova & Council Member Jeff Harris, City of Sacramento to serve as Honorary Chairs SACRAMENTO, CA – Tomorrow, the Sacramento Metro Chamber will lead 134 regional business, civic and elected officials to Austin, Texas…

  Source: KFBK 

SACRAMENTO METRO CHAMBER TAKES A STAND ON DACA It’s Time for Congress to Prioritize our Future Workforce SACRAMENTO, CA – The Metro Chamber encourages Congress to take prompt action specific to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) youth, which offers assurances to their remaining in this country and creates a…

I’m not sure if the end of summer and the turn of another season inspires the travel bug, but my social media feeds have been filled with friends’ wanderlust inspirational quotes like ‘You’ll never know until you go” or “don’t listen to what they say, go see.” There’s some truth…

At the end of week one in my first “real job,” the President of the company invited me for a cup of coffee. Our interaction wasn’t longer than ten-minutes, but the fact that he took interest in learning who I was stuck with me throughout my career. After that quick…

  Source: FOX40

Written by Rachel Zilner, Metro Edge 2017 Chair  Giving back and making an impact are critical priorities among millennials, and Metro EDGE members are no different. Forbes characterized our generation as one that integrates “the causes they care about into their daily routines and purchase behaviors.” But it goes beyond…

The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce has a voice in the political process, as it has since its inception over 120 years ago. This voice takes on added importance in communities where the political environment is often hostile to economic growth and job creation. This is why we continue the…

Source: KFBK

At the beginning of the summer, Margarita Armijo was hoping to land a paid internship with a law enforcement agency to start on a career path toward becoming a probation officer. She went through 40 hours of training on how to interview for a job and how to act in…

Recognizing small business drives our regional economy, the Sacramento Metro Chamber began managing the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Small Business Development Center (SBDC) program in 2014. The goal was to make an investment in entrepreneurs and business owners that were intent on growing their business in our Capital Region. We’ve…

On July 28, our Senior Vice President of Public Policy & Economic Development, Robert Dugan, testified to the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority on behalf of the Metro Chamber in support of increasing convenience & ridership for the San Joaquin Commuter Rail to Sacramento. Here is the testimony he gave:…

On July 27, our Senior Vice President of Public Policy & Economic Development, Robert Dugan, testified on behalf of the Metro Chamber in support of the California Air Resources Board approving a $44 million grant to the City of Sacramento to promote zero-emission vehicles (ZEV). Here is the testimony he gave:…

I was never a night owl growing up. I tried desperately from the age of 12 on to stay up late to watch Saturday Night Live, but inevitably, I’d fall asleep well before the opening sketch.  But Sunday nights were different. I’d wait with the greatest anticipation – sit through Masterpiece Theatre –…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce held a July 21 “Power Lunch” to help businesses learn about marketing techniques. The event at Piatti Sacramento Italian Restaurant & Bar featured a presentation by Scott Hamilton, general sales manager for Salem Media Group (Nasdaq: SALM). Hamilton offered marketing tips for small businesses. Salem is a broadcasting…

Source: KMAX

Source: Fox40

California is the largest agriculture producer in the nation, and as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, the Capital Region is uniquely positioned as an agriculture leader not just nationally, but internationally. In the six counties that comprise our Capital Region, approximately 75 percent of the land is agricultural, forest, or open space.…

Source: FOX40

By Peter Tateishi  The capital region’s population is growing, construction is on the rise, congestion is increasing, and community priorities are changing. Our economic success will be driven by how we invest strategically in strengthening and enhancing what connects us: our transportation systems, a vital component of which is our…

Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg recently launched Thousand Strong, a workforce development program bringing together school districts, high schools and students with community organizations and businesses to provide year-round paid internships to local youth. The Sacramento Metro Chamber and the Metro Chamber Foundation are proud partners in this effort to ensure…

Source: KFBK

Source: FOX40

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Part 1 Part 2 Source: Insight: Capital Public Radio  

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By Jeff vonKaenel I am writing this column on Saturday afternoon, on an airplane flying to Washington, D.C. This weekend, there are 360 Sacramentans making their way to the 47th annual Sacramento Metro Chamber Cap-to-Cap. While I have taken numerous Cap-to-Cap trips before, this year I will be landing in…

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A strong, vibrant region begins with the quality of its jobs. At the Sacramento Metro Chamber, we work daily to create an environment that supports job creators. Whether by helping businesses through the services offered at our Small Business Development Center or fighting for policies and regulations that promote job…

Source: Fox40

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SACRAMENTO METRO CHAMBER ANNOUNCES PRIORITY ISSUES FOR 2017 CAPITOL-TO-CAPITOL Council Member Stephanie Nguyen, City of Elk Grove & Council Member Beverly ‘Babs’ Sandeen, City of West Sacramento to serve as Honorary Vice Chairs SACRAMENTO, CA – The Sacramento Metro Chamber will lead the largest delegation in 10 years with 360 regional…

  Source: KFBK

Source: Fox40

Every year, masses representing various industries, organizations, countries and cities descend upon the Halls of Congress to advocate for issues near and dear to their hearts. The fact everyday citizens can partake in our political process and make an impact is inspiring. But it requires participation.   This year, the…

Mike Mendelson is a modern-day prototype for the burgeoning tech entrepreneur. The high school math teacher-turned startup founder has made $35 since last June, when he left his teaching job to focus full-time on a peer-tutoring app that allows people to learn new skills by connecting with experts via video…

VIDEO LINK:  Haney Biz: Trish Rodriguez is a major influencer and contributor to the region.    

In response to the release of the White House budget blueprint, the Sacramento Metro Chamber’s Senior Vice President, Public Policy & Economic Development, Robert Dugan issued the following statement: “From its founding days, the creation of the Federal Government had a purpose. “Our Forefathers” had plenty of debates and discourse…

In today’s extremely competitive economic landscape between regions both in the state, and across the country, identity and branding are critical keys to success. I remember as a child, my father describing to me how he was recruited to the Sacramento region from the East Coast in the early 60’s.…

Source: KFBK

The Sacramento Employment and Training Agency has approved $750,000 in grant funds for programs supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs in the region. The funding is through a statewide California Workforce Development Board program called “Slingshot,” to help spur innovation and employment statewide. The funds in each region of the state…

Source: KFBK

Source: KFBK

Hospital CEO Ann Madden Rice began learning how hospitals function at an early age. Her mother was a nurse. And as a teen, Rice worked in a hospital kitchen in her hometown of Mason City, Iowa. That formative experience put Rice on a trajectory to lead UC Davis Medical Center,…

Dare to step outside comfort zones and embrace risk. Dare to achieve those goals that seem out of reach. Dare to make an impact. It’s the #DareTo mentality that is driving Metro EDGE’s Emerge Summit on April 6. Each year the Emerge Summit – the largest one-day gathering of young…

Source: KFBK

Source: KFBK

In response to Governor Brown’s press conference today on water and transportation, the Sacramento Metro Chamber’s Senior Vice President, Public Policy & Economic Development, Robert Dugan issued the following statement: “It’s a step in the right direction to refocus the state on deferred maintenance of our water supply infrastructure, public…

  Source: KCRA

Our media outlets have been on overdrive this week as the image of the Oroville dam spilling over is now embedded in all of our heads. Just 70 miles from our capital city, Oroville is the second largest lake in the state, and a key piece of the State’s Water…

Great regions are built by great chambers. And great chambers attribute their success to dedicated, visionary and engaged members of their Board of Directors, volunteers participating in various committees and hard-working members. For over 120 years, the Sacramento Metro Chamber has been at the forefront of our regional growth and…

Source: KFBK

  Source: Fox40

On behalf of the Chamber’s Water Resources Team and our partner, the Northern California Water Resources Association, I had the pleasure of testifying before the California State Water Commission last week on Sites Reservoir. Our ask is that the state invest in the reservoir through Proposition 1 dollars. If we…

Capital region lending by the Small Business Administration topped its pre-recession peak in 2016, and the Sacramento area has eclipsed California in its pace of small business loan approvals. Total SBA loans in the Sacramento metro area totaled $312 million in the fiscal year that ended September 2016. That’s a…

Source: KFBK

Source: KFBK 

Sacramento area employers are more confident about their business’ future after the 2016 elections than they were before, two new reports found. Sacramento Business Review released data from its Small Business Confidence Index, which polled over 3,000 local business owners and found that 95 percent employers had more faith in…

Source: KFBK

Robert Dugan joined the Sacramento Metro Chamber Jan. 1 as senior vice president of public policy and economic development. For the past four years, he has been the director of governmental and civic affairs for California State University Sacramento. While there, he advocated for campus facility needs and growth initiatives,…

  Source: FOX40

A September “Business Walk” by members of the Woodland Chamber of Commerce found most people were “very positive and upbeat.” The findings, reported by the Chamber and Wendy Ross, economic development manager for the city of Woodland, came this week following interviews with 127 business owners. “More than three-quarters of…

SACRAMENTO, CA – The Sacramento Metro Chamber announced today that Robert Dugan will join the organization as Senior Vice President of Public Policy & Economic Development. In his new position, Dugan will assume responsibility for direct management and oversight of all aspects of the Public Policy department, which includes development…

  Source: KCRA

Source: KFBK

SACRAMENTO, CA – Concluding his final term as the Mayor of Sacramento, Kevin Johnson has been named the 2017 Sacramentan of the Year by the Sacramento Metro Chamber. His tireless enthusiasm for the capital city during his eight years in office, physically memorialized with the opening of the Golden 1…

Since 1895, the Sacramento Metro Chamber has put community first. From recruiting mid-westerners to our golden hills during the Gold Rush to convening conversations on important topics today like our growing food economy, the Metro Chamber inherently recognizes it is the people and the things we do together that make…

Source: KCRA

Source: KFBK

The Business Journal asked Mayor-elect Darrell Steinberg and three local business advocates for their reactions on the outcomes of select state and local ballot races. The question: What does this mean for Sacramento’s economy? Local measures Measure B — Regional sales tax for transportation infrastructure Outcome: Failed with 64 percent…

Source: KFBK

The Sacramento Metro Chamber’s annual State of Sacramento County Address and Forum took place on Nov. 4. Kelvin Downes, director of operations for Amazon Robotics Fulfillment Centers, served as keynote speaker. Amazon plans to open a fulfillment center in the county, and Downes spoke about what attracted the company to…

Source: KFBK

The Sacramento Metro Chamber serves as the capital region’s primary advocate on issues affecting business, economic development and quality of life. It is on behalf of our 1,700 members representing 200,000 employees that we strongly encourage voters to approve Proposition 54 — a measure that will create more transparency and…

Every fall, a new class of community leaders join the Metro Chamber Foundation’s Leadership Sacramento program. In 31 years, nearly 1,000 elected officials, CEOs, non-profit leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators have graduated from the program. This year-long experience brings together a group of strangers to examine regional issues from healthcare to…

Local civic and business representatives said Mark Friedman’s $70 million purchase of University Research Park could help reverse a reputation of Davis as a stodgy opponent of commercial development, with a fresh and cool design arriving at a business park close to downtown. “It’s an important counter-narrative that somehow Davis…

Good evening Vice Chair Burke and Members of the Planning Commission, my name is Chris Smith and I’m the Public Policy Manager for the Sacramento Metro Chamber. I’m here tonight to express the Metro Chamber’s strong support for the Sacramento Railyards. This mixed-use development project, will bring economic prosperity and…

More than 450 organizations are backing the Yes on 67 campaign, the effort to preserve the state’s plastic bag ban. There are some you would expect, like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the Surfrider Foundation, and Environment California. But the list is also heavily populated by many that fall in the “not-your- usual-suspects” category:…

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Another election season is upon us. Casting a vote requires one to take time away from the normal grind and to get smart on the ballot initiatives, candidates and local measures that will impact our tomorrow. It’s what we call civic engagement, it’s our responsibility. As a regional chamber covering…

Visit to Twin Cities shows region with compassion for all citizens Getting away often provides perspective. This is the motivation behind the 18th annual Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce study mission, which included 80 business and government representatives. We put the Twin Cities under a microscope for four days this…

              Source: ABC

About 90 business and civic leaders from Sacramento descended on Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota, last week, where they toured historic neighborhoods, rode the light rail and strolled down a vibrant riverfront as part of the annual study mission by the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce. While the Twin Cities…

Source: KFBK

Source: KFBK

Today, Governor Brown signed AB 2317, a bill sponsored by the California State University (CSU) system and supported by Sac State and the Metro Chamber. The new law will allow CSU to independently award a Doctorate of Audiology Degree. Prior to the law’s enactment, only one university in California could…

Source: KOVR 13

AB 1716 will expand economic prosperity for the region The American River Parkway is a crown jewel for recreational space in our region and a vital piece of our riverfront. It attracts 8 million visitors annually, generating $364 million in economic benefit for our community. Now, with Assembly Bill 1716,…

Source: KFBK

A real leader offers more than a fancy title but instead, is identified by behaviors they exhibit and qualities they possess, that seem to attract and motivate others towards a common goal. It isn’t easy to be a leader; it takes a firm desire to mobilize a group and to…

The hype has never been higher as Sacramento is now just weeks away from the opening of the Golden 1 Center. However, some are still wondering about the other developments of the downtown scene that have been promised over the years. We can check a new arena off the list, but…

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The Metro Chamber partnered with the Sacramento Utility Management District (SMUD) and many of its state and local partners, including business improvement districts and fellow chambers of commerce, to fend off Assembly Bill 1520 at the California state legislature. In its original form, the bill would have amended the Public…

How the gold rush evolved into a foodie rush After the gold rush petered out and we stopped building railroad cars, Sacramento started seeing itself as less of a city and more of a geographical midpoint between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe. And then came farm-to-fork. We discovered that our…

On Aug. 12, the Sacramento Metro Chamber hosted the State of Agriculture, an event that explored ag’s economic impact and role in the community. The event at the Hyatt Regency featured keynote speaker Jim Wiesemeyer, senior vice president of Informa Economics, a nationally recognized expert on agriculture and policy. Rob…

The Sacramento region’s small businesses are taking out loans and lines of credit to expand and buy equipment at levels not seen since before the Great Recession, and that’s good news for a region that depends on companies with fewer than 50 employees for the bulk of its private-sector jobs.…

Source: KVIE

The Metro Chamber stands opposed to Assembly Bill 67, the Double Pay on the Holiday Act. Introduced by Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, the legislation’s stated goal is to ensure employees forced to work on Thanksgiving are paid twice their “regular rate of pay.” While well-intentioned as a statement on the value…

Looking at budget documents for the Sacramento Regional Transit District is like upending the fried circuit board of an aging light-rail train. The transit system has higher operating costs than similar transit agencies in other cities but maintains fewer hours and miles of service. Ridership fell by more than one…

Great cities serve as economic cornerstones and cultural hubs for their urban and surburban residents. And sometimes hitting pause on our day-to-day routine and sampling a taste of life elsewhere, offers the chance to thoroughly explore what makes other cities tick. Each year, the Metro Chamber selects a city, organizes…

https://2023.metrochamber.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/KOVR_08-03-2016_Wellspring.mp4 Source: CBS Sacramento

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By: Peter Tateishi  Special to The Bee On June 7, the people of Sacramento elected Darrell Steinberg as their new mayor. We understand that whoever wins an election, it is necessary to rally around the victor to help in their success. But as with any relationship, be it in business…

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The Sacramento Metro Chamber is launching a new program that aims to connect young talent in our job market to the businesses that most benefit our communities. It’s called the Metro Chamber Foundation, and it focuses on community development through the promotion of those young professionals and emerging leaders in…

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  It’s known as the second biggest day after Black Friday — Amazon Prime Day. Economists are expecting almost half-a-billion dollars to be generated in sales, but financial experts in Sacramento say more people are turning to online retailers to do their shopping. Mac the Antique Plumber in East Sacramento…

Sacramento shop proprietors might not know a Pikachu from a house cat, but some have figured out “Pokémon Go” is good for business. “Not knowing what the hell it is, I’m a Pokémon fan,” said Bert Williamson, owner of O’Mally’s Irish Pub in Old Sacramento. On Tuesday afternoon, a steady…

Solar Activity is Heating Up Twenty-five solar permits are filed every hour in the United States. By the time you’ve read this article, two more will have been pulled – one of which was probably in California. Solar activity across the nation increased by 29% between 2014 and 2015, and…

Foundation Dedicated to Regional Workforce & Community Development SACRAMENTO, CA – Committed to building our region’s future workforce, the Sacramento Metro Chamber announces the Metro Chamber Foundation to house long-standing Chamber programs and launch additional efforts dedicated to community improvement. The Metro Chamber Foundation will focus on fostering economic and…

Source: KFBK

An educated, motivated and loyal workforce drives a local economy. And a workforce engaged with their neighbors and colleagues makes a community. California has the 8th largest economy in the world, but needs to produce an additional 1M career-ready college graduates by 2025 to meet employers’ needs. The reality is…

Source: KFBK

Drexel University Sacramento holds its final commencement ceremony on Friday. As about 100 students walk to get their degrees, the graduation event effectively finishes a seven-year experiment for the nonprofit university in the capital region. In an interview, Michael Marion, outgoing executive director of Drexel, offered thanks to Sacramento’s business…

Source: 105.5 Business Radio Money

Sacramento Metro Chamber & Valley Vision Statement on New Regional Transit General Manager, Henry Li In response to the Sacramento Regional Transit District’s (RT) naming Henry Li as new General Manager, Sacramento Metro Chamber President and CEO, Peter Tateishi and Valley Vision Chief Executive, Bill Mueller issued the following statement:…

Earlier this year the Sacramento Metro Chamber helped bring down SB 878, the so-called “predictive scheduling” legislation, which would have restricted how businesses schedule their employees. SB 878 would have required grocery stores, restaurants, and retailers to provide a schedule for 21 consecutive days, 7 days before the first shift of…

Businesses come in all shapes and sizes. From a large corporation spanning a business park, to the coffee shop down the street caffeinating those employees, all businesses share a common goal: to make a difference with the service(s) or product(s) they offer. One person can conceptualize the service or product…

The Mistake: Early in my career I felt the way to win favor or climb the ladder was to work the hardest. There was a period of almost 45 days where I didn’t take a single day off. I said “yes” to every event while working for a local congressman…

Source: KFBK

The Amgen Tour didn’t just bring out the best cyclists but also some much needed tourism. From over 200 countries watching from around the world, to thousands of cheering fans lining the streets, Sacramento is definitely leaving its mark on the map. This is the 8th time in the race’s…

There’s a new labor bill being discussed at the Capitol. Supporters believe it will lead to happier, more productive employees, but critics say it could backfire and put too much of a burden on businesses. Jennifer Greenough says even after 15 years with the same company, getting a reliable schedule…

Online shopping is so convenient that it is changing the way Americans buy almost everything. The experts say that is not good news for people who work in sales. Given that online sales of apparel are expected to surpass sales at stores like Macy’s by next year, retailers are looking…

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Regional transportation officials touted a report on Wednesday that highlights a lack of funding for infrastructure projects, as they sought to rally support for a half-cent sales tax that may go before voters in November. Kerri Howell, chair of the Sacramento Transportation Authority, said in an interview that businesses should…

Source: KFBK

Source: KFBK

Here at the Sacramento Metro Chamber, we celebrate our members because they make the choice to engage and invest in our community. Whether it is a micro business like the tax accountant you used this year, or a small business like the coffee shop around the corner, or a medium…

Last week, nearly 350 regional business, civic and elected leaders traveled to Washington, D.C., for the Sacramento Metro Chamber’s 46th annual Capitol-to-Capitol program. This civic enterprise is the largest chamber advocacy effort of its kind in the nation. This year’s delegation was one of the largest in recent years, an…

The recent Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Cap-to-Cap event had all of the logistical challenges of a major military campaign. Three hundred or so Sacramentans camped out in the Washington, D.C., Mayflower Hotel, conducting strategic guerrilla-like forays into the great Washington government bureaucracy, trying to negotiate much-needed federal aid and…

Source: KFBK

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Opening Cap-to-Cap set-up (future Chairs of the program and long-time veterans) Rob White, Sierra Energy Erica Taylor, Golden 1 Credit Union Representatives from the Food & Agriculture Team Tim Johnson, President & CEO, CA Rice Commission Nicole Rodgers, Director of Farm-to-Fork, Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau Regional Participation Darin Gale,…

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Source: Good Day Sacramento

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The Sacramento Metro Chamber embarks on its annual Capitol-to-Capitol program this weekend, with 336 civic and business leaders flying to Washington D.C. to discuss a range of issues with federal lawmakers. The Chamber promotes the event as a way for residents across the region to bring a unified policy message…

SACRAMENTO, CA – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-06) announced that U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Julián Castro will address nearly 350 regional business, civic, and elected officials who will travel to Washington, D.C. in April for the Sacramento Metro Chamber’s annual Capitol-to-Capitol (Cap-to-Cap) program. Each year,…

The endorsements in Sacramento’s mayoral race – which is getting a little testy heading into the first televised debate Wednesday night on KCRA – line up pretty much as expected. City Councilwoman Angelique Ashby continues to be backed by the local fire and police unions, often the best-funded players in…

Source: KFBK

Source: ABC10

As Gov. Jerry Brown signed California’s new $15 minimum wage bill on Monday, state business advocates were stuck reflecting on whether anything could have been done to stop it. Organized labor prevailed against business because unions recognized that political fights are not won inside the state Capitol — they are…

For 45 years, the Sacramento Metro Chamber has led a delegation annually to Washington, D.C. to advocate on behalf of our region’s most pressing needs as part of its Capitol-to-Capitol (Cap-to-Cap) program. This month, nearly 350 business, civic and political representatives will join this effort and connect with our Congressional…

California legislators voted to approve what is for now the highest statewide minimum wage in the nation when it finally reaches $15 an hour in 2022. The plan calls for the minimum wage to increase to $10.50 in 2018, then $11 in 2018 before going up $1 a year until…

Sacramento has launched a new phase of “Sacramento 3.0” — an economic development plan that Mayor Kevin Johnson has made the hallmark of his final months in office. The city announced plans on Tuesday to begin personally interviewing executives of “primary employers” — companies that sell mostly outside the region.…

Proponents of a ballot measure to raise Sacramento’s minimum wage to $15 an hour say they will continue their campaign at least until state leaders formally enact the pay deal announced this week. If the agreement proposed by Gov. Jerry Brown, legislators and labor leaders to raise California’s minimum wage…

The plan to boost California’s minimum wage to $15 per hour over the next five years is “economic justice,” according to Governor Jerry Brown. The agreement reached among the governor, Democratic lawmakers and labor leaders gives businesses with fewer than 25 employees extra time to phase in the increases. It…

In response to Governor Brown’s brokered deal in support of a $15/hour minimum wage, Sacramento Metro Chamber President and CEO Peter Tateishi issued the following statement: “Governor Brown’s back door deal with legislators and labor unions for a $15 minimum wage increase is a blow to the Capital Region business…

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Gov. Jerry Brown officially announced a push to increase California’s minimum wage to $15 an hour. The deal is a compromise with labor unions to increase the minimum wage at a slower pace than they had originally intended. “It’s a matter of economic justice,” Brown said. “It…

A part of the annual Capitol-to-Capitol event., all five Elk Grove City Councilmen and two staff executives will be joining the lobbying trip to Washington D.C. Organized by the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce, the Cap to Cap contingent includes many elected officials and business executives from the greater Sacramento…

Source: Capital Public Radio

Source: KFBK

Despite efforts, minorities lag in representation in Sacramento leadership positions Some Sacramento business leaders believe the region is so focused on downtown development that a critical issue is being neglected: diversity in the C-suite. “People are just trying to seize the moment to catapult Sacramento to the next level,” said…

            Source: Good Day Sacramento

The third annual Emerge Summit, which brings together young professionals around the region for a day of education and collaboration, will take place tomorrow, Friday, March 18, featuring actress Greta Gerwig as a keynote speaker. A collaborative effort between Metro EDGE and the Sacramento Metro Chamber, this year’s Emerge Summit…

There’s never been a better time to be a young professional in the Capital Region. Sacramento is in the midst of a renaissance, and this current generation of young professionals represents the fortunate few who stand to impact and benefit most from the city’s transformation. But creating a future unlike the…

Hotels in Sacramento are seeing a sharp increase of check-ins and an upswing in the industry. According to statistics by CBRE Hotels in San Francisco, occupancy rates in 2015 increased to nearly 75 percent. Those rates are up from just below 65 percent in 2010. In the previous year, hotel…

Sacramento city manager John Shirey is scheduled to step down Nov. 18, soon after a new mayor is elected. But some city leaders are raising concerns about that timing — which, according to many accounts, has been orchestrated by Mayor Kevin Johnson. It makes more sense for a new mayor…

Technology is the future of California elections and nowhere is this more apparent than in the office of California Secretary of State, Alex Padilla. Delivering a keynote speech at the 2016 Metro Chamber State Legislative Summit at the Sutter Club last Thursday morning, Padilla gave an overview of what he…

      We are one month in to 2016. How are you doing with your resolutions? Have you let a couple slide? If one of your resolutions was to expand your business this year, or to seriously explore that business idea that’s been in the back of your mind, come on down to…

Did you know that the Sacramento Metro Chamber founded the Miss Sacramento County pageant? The pageant has since crowned 65 queens and awarded hundreds of young women with college scholarships totaling over $150,000. Last Saturday, Metro Chamber President & CEO, Peter Tateishi honored the Chamber’s long-standing history with the pageant and…

Conventional wisdom says Darrell Steinberg will cruise to an easy victory in Sacramento’s mayoral election this June. He is sitting on a $1.4 million war chest from his days as a state legislator. He has name recognition, having been a popular fixture in Sacramento politics for more than 20 years.…

Sacramento City Councilwoman Angelique Ashby is picking up an important endorsement in her campaign for mayor. The Sacramento Metro Chamber’s Political Action Committee is endorsing Ashby for Mayor. Chairman Roy Brewer says the committee made its decision after two forums and private meetings between chamber officials and the candidates. “The…

By endorsing City Councilwoman Angelique Ashby for mayor this week, theSacramento Metro Chamber gave the clearest signal to date that the business community is split on the mayor’s race. The Monday announcement attracted attention in Sacramento political circles. Many see Ashby as an underdog in a race against Darrell Steinberg,…

Sacramento Councilwoman Angelique Ashby began her race for mayor as the underdog to a 20-year politician whose last job was president pro tempore of the state Senate. But on Monday, Ashby secured the endorsement of the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, adding to her list of support from some of…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber’s political action committee has endorsed City Councilwoman Angelique Ashby for mayor. “Councilwoman Ashby has a record of bringing the right individuals and groups together to build consensus and support among an issue or project,” said Roy Brewer, chairman of Metro-PAC, in a statement issued by Ashby’s…

In Mayor Kevin Johnson’s final State of the City Address, he announced two major tech firms, AnPac BioMedical and Flipboxx, would be calling the Capital City their home. However, those companies do not necessarily fall under the small business label. “Those are more larger companies because this is not their…

Well-known Sacramento business leaders presented mayoral candidates with a list of ambitious ideas last week to improve the city’s business environment. The six-page document details policy ideas on boosting development and holding back new taxes. It shows private-sector executives engaging politically as the election season heats up with no obvious…

Are generational differences a problem for Sacramento businesses? How represented are women and minorities? Last week, new regional data released at the annual Sacramento Business Review showed some progress made in terms of the “Human Resources Barometer,” but critical challenges still remain. Jessica Kriegel, a management professional who presented at…

Searching for a way out of its financial predicament, Sacramento Regional Transit likely will be asking riders for a fare increase of as much as 20 percent. We understand the impulse. Public transportation must be improved across the Sacramento region. But any fare increase would be a patch, not a…

There’s a price to be paid for raising the minimum wage. At one local Mexican food chain, it’s 14 cents a taco. Businesses and nonprofit groups have been adjusting to the state’s new $10 minimum wage since it superseded the old minimum wage of $9 an hour on Jan. 1.…

Some of the most powerful and influential names in Sacramento are making an informal request about what they want from the next mayor. Developers, entrepreneurs, the Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Sacramento Partnership have publicly presented a list of what they call “principles and priorities” in a collective…

Several leaders of Sacramento’s business community released a pro-growth manifesto this week to the candidates running for Sacramento mayor. The document, spelling out goals for making the city more prosperous and business-friendly, raises some interesting questions. Is this an attempt to turn Darrell Steinberg into Kevin Johnson? The document started…

The 15th annual Sacramento Business Review’s economic forecast offered a positive glimpse of the downtown arena project’s impact. but it also stressed a continued weak spot in the region’s business climate. The forecast, co-authored by Sacramento State’s College of Business Administration, began with a look at the project’s impact. “The…

An ad-hoc group of Sacramento business leaders this week presented mayoral candidates with an ambitious checklist to improve the city’s business environment. Described as a “statement of principles and priorities,” the document offers a long to-do list that includes sweeping reforms in city finances, culture and procedures. The city is…

The year ahead will see continued job growth, but the lack of new private employers tempers the outlook, according to the Sacramento Business Review, an annual economic forecast issued by California State University Sacramento. Authors are scheduled to present the forecast this afternoon to hundreds of business and civic leaders…

On Wednesday’s mayoral debate, candidates Darrell Steinberg and Angelique Ashby appeared to agree on speeding up the city’s permitting process as a way to improve the business climate. They also mentioned improving public transit and building more housing within the central city as imperative projects. Steinberg stepped ahead of the…

Sacramento City Councilwoman Angelique Ashby criticized Darrell Steinberg’s legislative record in the first public mayoral debate on Wednesday, while positioning herself as a rising local leader who would funnel the city’s surging economic growth into improved public services. “I don’t think that state experience necessarily equates to … local leadership,”…

The top two candidates for mayor of Sacramento met for their second forum Wednesday, where they talked about the issues–from water rate hikes to how to tackle homelessness. With homeless people staging a camp-in at city hall demanding the council repeal the anti-camping ordinance, Darryl Steinberg and Angelique Ashby were…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber’s Political Action Committee (Metro PAC) sponsored a Sacramento Mayoral Forum and moderated discussion for the business community with candidates Angelique Ashby and Darrell Steinberg. The Forum was broadcast by Access Sacramento in its entirety on Jan. 13, 2016 from the Setzer Auditorium at the Crocker Art Museum.

The campaign for Sacramento mayor kicked back into motion Wednesday night, when the two front-runners for the city’s top political post engaged in a mostly cordial forum in front of nearly 200 members of the business and labor communities at the Crocker Art Museum. Councilwoman Angelique Ashby and former state…

Frontrunners in Sacramento’s mayoral race took center stage Wednesday night at a forum sponsored by the Sacramento Metro Chamber. Council member Angelique Ashby and former state senator Darrell Steinberg spoke on topics ranging from job growth to affordable housing. Absent from the forum were candidates Russell Rawlings and Tony Lopez.…

Not all of the candidates running to be Sacramento’s next mayor were welcome at a forum on Wednesday. Sacramento City Councilwoman Angelique Ashby and former state Senate president pro tem Darrell Steinberg made it clear from their answers that they are offering voters a difference in political approach. “It’s ultimately…

The Sacramento Business Review for 2016 forecasts stabilized employment for the region amid a mixed outlook on job growth. The full report of the 15th edition of the Sacramento Business Review was released Tuesday, Jan. 19, with an event at Sacramento State’s University Union Ballroom. The event featured a nationally renowned speaker from Ned…

In 2007, the U.S. Senate declared Jan. 11 National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. Yesterday, a crowd of about 100 concerned citizens and community leaders met at City Hall to reaffirm their commitment to stop human trafficking in the Sacramento region. Unfortunately, it’s an issue that plagues Sacramento. You can learn…

On a windy day in mid-September, a group of influential local restaurateurs gathered around a table at de Vere’s Irish Pub in downtown Sacramento to drink beer and discuss how to stop the city from raising the minimum wage. Josh Wood, CEO of the construction advocacy group Region Builders, told…

Please join me in supporting former Sacramento County Supervisor and former member of the California state Assembly Roger Dickinson in his race for Sacramento City Council. There is just one problem: Roger is not running for city council. I have never spoken with him about running for city council. However,…

The Sacramento region saw an unusually high turnover rate in top jobs in 2015. New leaders took over in some of the biggest companies and industry groups. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most high-profile changes. Aerojet Rocketdyne The region’s No. 1 public company had a roller-coaster year,…

Colleen Spitz was a bit nervous when she decided to move back to Sacramento from Washington, D.C., to lead communications at the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce. “It was the first time I ever took a job without meeting my boss,” she said. Spitz had spent the previous few years…

The business of bringing business to the Sacramento region produced a lot of news in 2015, particularly with the advent of a new CEO-led group on the scene. After deliberative hearings and a flurry of last-minute negotiations, the Sacramento City Council in October adopted a local minimum wage. But the…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber has named Martha Clark Lofgren its 2015 ‘Sacramentan of the Year.’ Lofgren, a partner at Brewer Lofgren LLP, served as the chamber’s chairwoman in 2013 and as interim CEO in 2011. In addition to her work at Brewer Lofgren, Lofgren is being honored for a combined…

A senior vice president of Bank of America in Roseville will ascend to the top leadership role in the Sacramento Metro Chamber next year. Ashil Abhat, currently first vice chairman of the chamber board, said he wants to continue to enhance the chamber’s policy presence in a busy election year.…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber plans to ramp up its political advocacy efforts in 2016 with a rebranded coalition that includes more statewide groups. The new coalition, called Keep Sacramento Working, came together this year for the minimum-wage fight at Sacramento City Hall. Chris Worden, the chamber’s vice president of public…

What if you could see a show at the new B Street Theatre in Sacramento, eat right next door and stay the night in a great hotel on the same block? There’s been a buzz in the business community that prolific restaurateur Randy Paragary plans to turn the corner at…

Shovels breaking dirt, storefronts with an ‘open’ sign, cranes soaring high and businesses announcing “we’re hiring.” It’s been a solid year for Capital Region businesses slowly emerging from the economic downturn. We aren’t out of it yet, but we are certainly moving in the right direction and the region continues…

The annual Study Mission takes residents of the Sacramento area to other parts of the country known for their regional prosperity. This year’s mission was held in Chicago, Illinois. Sacramento Metro Chamber CEO Peter Tateishi and chair of this year’s mission Michelle Odell from Kaiser Permanente join host Scott Syphax…

Source: KFBK

Business visionaries and educational leaders joined local lawmakers on Nov. 11 for the Sacramento Metro Chamber Perspectives on Innovation event, held at the Sheraton Grand in downtown Sacramento. The event featured several guest speakers discussing their experience as entrepreneurs and how to maintain innovation in a changing marketplace. Speakers included…

The Sacramento Central Labor Council, one of the region’s most influential labor groups, has endorsed former state Senate leader Darrell Steinberg in his campaign for mayor, the group announced Wednesday. Fabrizio Sasso, executive director of the labor council, said Steinberg “has a proven track record of working with labor.” He…

The two candidates for mayor of Sacramento spoke to a private panel at the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce before a crowd of Sacramento area businesspersons. The media was not allowed in until the very end. It was an early opportunity to see both candidates stake out their ground in person.…

On Nov. 4, the Sacramento Business Journal published a story about Project SlingShot — a powerful initiative of the California Workforce Development Board that encourages and supports regional partnerships across the state to engage in new collective actions that can move the needle on workforce challenges. The Sacramento region, comprised…

“Peter Tateishi with the Sacramento Chamber admits business isn’t easy in Northern California mostly because of government regulation.” Source: KFBK

Younger veterans are more likely to be unemployed than pre-9/11 veterans – but a new resource at Sierra College is designed to help them create their next job. Sierra College’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), part of the Capital Region group of SBDCs, celebrated its opening on Tuesday. The center…

‘Tis the season for business groups as they begin to celebrate the holidays with social events and parties. The Sacramento Metro Chamber last week held a holiday mixer at the Tsakopoulos Library Galleria in downtown Sacramento. Business leaders, education administrators, entrepreneurs and policymakers mingled over wine and dessert plates during…

Sacramento is about to get a lot more puzzling. Joining a global proliferation of similar businesses, three entrepreneurs have opened or are set to open competing puzzle rooms in the Sacramento area in the coming weeks. Escape Sacramento opened its doors Thursday. Puzzle rooms – sometimes called escape rooms –…

The Sacramento City Council voted Tuesday night to raise the city minimum wage $12.50 by the year 2020. The current minimum wage is $9. Added to a pending $1 per hour raise in the state of California, workers will see a 39 percent increase in pay within five years. The…

City officials of Sacramento, California, voted for a gradual hike in minimum wage as a last-minute compromise was reached between labor and business unions late Tuesday, according to reports. The Sacramento City Council approved the new plan, which calls for minimum wage to gradually increase to $12.50 an hour by…

Three council members, Steve Hansen, Eric Guerra and Angelique Ashby, echoed those concerns. Ashby, who is running for mayor, said she felt the proposal was not supported by most Sacramentans. “If I got emails that said, ‘this would help so many people, and we do this all the time’, we…

Over the past few months, facing a push for $15/hour for the City of Sacramento, the Sacramento Metro Chamber held firm that $15/hour was not a workable wage for our city businesses. We worked to ensure that the business community had a voice in the process and that their concerns…

Following months of good-faith negotiations, resulting in a comprehensive recommendation on how to approach a minimum wage increase, the Metro Chamber, in partnership with the Keep Sacramento Working (KSW) coalition is now formally opposing an increase to the minimum wage for the City of Sacramento. “The original Task Force recommendation…

Following months of good-faith negotiations, resulting in a comprehensive recommendation on how to approach a minimum wage increase, the Keep Sacramento Working (KSW) coalition is now formally opposing an increase to the minimum wage for the City of Sacramento. “The original Task Force recommendation was not what KSW worked towards,…

The Sacramento Metro Chamber applauds Mayor Johnson for his leadership and collaborative spirit in convening the Income Inequality Task Force and thanks Council Member Jay Schenirer for thoughtfully navigating this challenging effort. Metro Chamber was pleased to participate in these conversations in good faith as we aimed to collaboratively produce…

For the past few weeks, Metro Chamber has participated in meetings of the City of Sacramento’s Income Inequality Task Force in hopes of crafting a minimum wage proposal that would benefit low-wage workers and their families without sacrificing our economic momentum. Only by preserving a climate where businesses can succeed…

Last night, Sacramento Mayor Johnson’s blueprint for constructing 10,000 new housing units in the central city – the Downtown Housing Initiative Plan (DHIP) – passed the Sacramento city council unanimously. The DHIP was crafted by a broad-based community steering committee, including the Metro Chamber, who spoke in support of the…

Last week, the Task Force on Income Inequality held its third public meeting, and several presenters amplified the concerns voiced by our members. Our Keep Sacramento Working coalition brought in founding partner of Beacon Economics, Dr. Chris Thornberg, an economist who serves on the Council of Economic Advisors for our…

Last week, the Mayor’s Income Inequality Task Force heard a report from Michael Reich, a researcher from the Labor Center at the University of California, Berkeley, analyzing a proposal by labor to raise the City of Sacramento’s minimum wage to $13.50/hour. Today the Task Force will hear from Dr. Chris…

Keep Sacramento Working continues to grow! This week we added the Handle District and National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) as partners with Keep Sacramento Working. We are grateful for their willingness to add their voices to the many working to ensure we move forward reasonably on the minimum wage…

The City of Sacramento minimum wage debate takes a critical step forward Wednesday with the first “Income Inequality Task Force” meeting. This task force will include representatives from the City Council, organized labor, social service agencies, and business community (including the Metro Chamber), and its charge is to report back…

Ahead of the City of Sacramento’s task force on Income Inequality exploring an increase to the minimum wage for the City of Sacramento, Metro Chamber CEO Peter Tateishi outlined the Chamber’s concerns in an opinion editorial for the Sacramento Bee. “The proposal poses a huge risk at a critical juncture…

On Tuesday morning, Metro Chamber’s Transportation Committee welcomed California State Transportation Agency Secretary Brian Kelly who outlined the Governor’s transportation funding priorities and spoke about the ongoing Extraordinary Session. “We are making the case not just for California’s assets but for California’s continuing economic growth.” – Secretary Brian Kelly. On…

Cities throughout California are taking up proposals to increase the minimum wage, in some cases, as high as $16/hour (City of Emeryville, CA). In the Sacramento Region, proponents are seeking $15/hour. Here at the Sacramento Metro Chamber, we know our members’ needs and concerns, and we fight every day to…

The Metro Chamber is co-hosting the Sacramento Transportation Forum on June 24th to discuss the state’s role in funding road repair and maintenance. Representatives from the Metro Chamber, Sacramento Area Council of Governments, El Dorado County Transportation Commission, Placer County Transportation Planning Agency, California Department of Transportation and the California…

Yesterday, the Metro Chamber convened a forum with leading economists and business representatives to discuss potential impacts of a minimum wage increase for the City of Sacramento and the region The discussion, held before a broad cross-section of business owners, explored recent increases by several California cities and the unintended…

Unions are pushing to raise the minimum wage in the capital city to $15/hour. To effectively advocate on behalf of the business community, Metro Chamber is studying this issue closely to understand the potential impacts such an increase could have on our city and region. We hope you will join…

Regional business and civic leaders will make their way back to the Capital Region this week following another successful Cap-to-Cap program. Over 320 individuals participated in 230 meetings with Congressional offices and agency and Administration representatives over the course of a few days to advocate on behalf of the region.…