Tucson Standard

The Tucson Metro Chamber is committed to being both a "Champion" and a "Changemaker" for the Tucson region. The organization focuses on advocating for policies that benefit local businesses and working families while celebrating the area's achievements.

"The Champion side of what we do has been fun lately," states the Chamber, noting recent acknowledgments of Tucson by various publications and magazines. The Chamber emphasizes its role in highlighting business success stories through events like ribbon cuttings and monthly community engagement opportunities.

However, challenges remain. The Chamber points out that despite Tucson's assets, its economy lags behind other regions. "It turns out, policy shapes the destiny and the vitality of our regional economic development efforts," they note. Key issues include high property taxes in Pima County, lengthy regulatory processes affecting housing development, underfunded core services compared to Phoenix, and increasing chronic homelessness.

The Chamber's Changemaker role involves addressing these challenges through advocacy with elected officials and community leaders. They emphasize the importance of clear regulatory processes, lower tax burdens, safe communities, and government focus on infrastructure as essential factors for growth.

The organization encourages members to join their advocacy efforts by participating in councils and committees focused on these issues. A merger with Sun Corridor aims to enhance regional economic and business development efforts.

To support their mission further, the Chamber invites donations to their political action committee. Members are also encouraged to engage with the Chamber's activities via social media and subscription services for updates on press releases, events, and blog posts.