Advocacy

The Eau Claire Chamber's mission - to be the "Advocate of Business" and its motto, "Our Community is Our Business" - both point to the importance of Advocacy as one of our core pillars.

Decisions made at every level of government – whether locally at city hall, school boards, the county courthouse, or in Madison and Washington – have a profound impact on our local businesses and the economy. That’s why the Chamber is committed to being your eyes and ears – and, when needed, a non-partisan voice for the business community. The Chamber accomplishes this through:

• Advocacy on business-related issues at the local, state and federal levels
• Connections and relationships with policy makers
• Timely information and education for Chamber members
• Equipping members for effective involvement and influence

The Chamber accomplishes its Advocacy efforts through:

• Actively monitoring key issues at all levels of government.
• Publishing the weekly Business Advocate e-newsletter, a need-to-know digest of relevant business-related issues, as well as updates on Chamber positions.
• Organizing Advocacy events like Eggs & Issues policy breakfasts, Lawmaker Luncheons, Virtual Town Halls, and other online and in-person events to connect Chamber members with policy makers.
• Educational opportunities where investors can learn more about how government works, how to get involved, and to make their voices heard most effectively.
• Candidate Questionnaires, debates, forums and other election information. (The Chamber does not endorse candidates.)
• Updated Business Issues Principles affirming the Chamber’s position on key economic issues including taxes, health care, education, workforce, economic development, infrastructure and transportation, energy and the environment, and governmental accountability.
• Dedicated Governmental Affairs staff and volunteer-led Governmental Affairs Committee to maintain relationships with governmental officials, monitor issues, and recommend action when needed.
• The annual Chippewa Valley Rally, in cooperation with the Chippewa Falls and Menomonie Chambers, bringing the business community’s voice to the State Capitol in Madison.
• Cooperative efforts and information with like-minded organizations, including other local chambers, the state and national chambers, and other business-related groups.