A strong, business-friendly environment is essential for economic growth and prosperity.
The Chamber is the unified voice of our business community, advocating at the local, state, and federal levels. We challenge restrictive regulations, champion pro-business policies, and lead efforts that protect and strengthen our region’s economy and future. By convening public officials and business leaders and inspiring civic engagement, we ensure that the interests of our community are heard, understood, advanced and defended.
As one of the largest chambers of commerce in Minnesota and North Dakota, representing over 1,600 member businesses and more than 100,000 employees, we understand the power and importance of public policy and advocacy. With increased member engagement and investment, we continue to expand our influence on a local, state and federal level.
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Public Policy News
How Voting No on Measure 4 will Preserve Local Autonomy
Here’s why a “No” vote on Measure 4 is essential for preserving local control over our future, maintaining the integrity of our community’s voice and ensuring we can meet our unique needs.
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How the Convention Center will Elevate Fargo as a Regional Hub
The proposed Convention Center in Fargo represents an exciting opportunity to solidify our position as a premier destination for large-scale events and gatherings in the region. This development will elevate Fargo’s capacity to attract significant conferences, trade shows and conventions, expanding the economic benefits that come with hosting a diverse range of events.
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How Measure 4 Could Impact Schools, Infrastructure and Public Safety
As communities grow and adapt, local decision-making on taxes is critical to meeting unique needs. Measure 4, however, proposes to take away local control over property tax decisions—a move that could reshape funding for essential services like schools, infrastructure and public safety across our community.
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The Importance of the Convention Center Measure: A Catalyst for Community Events
As Fargo continues to grow, the need for a versatile space that can host a diverse array of large community events has never been more critical. This measure is our opportunity to secure funding for a state-of-the-art Convention Center, envisioned as a central hub that not only fosters local engagement but also attracts visitors from across the world!
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VoteFMWF is The Chamber's non-partisan website for residents and community members to learn about candidates, ballot measures, important events, voting information and more.
VoteFMWF
Minnesota Legislative Review
During the 2024 Minnesota Legislative Session, The Chamber actively opposed restrictive regulations and mandates, while championing policies that protect and strengthen our region. This review outlines the outcomes of The Chamber's top priorities, including the voting records of local legislators on these critical issues.
Explore the Public Policy Guide for an overview of Chamber policy stances and priorities, as well as key information regarding elected officials.
Public Policy Guide
Taking a stance
The process behind our policy stances and efforts
Public Policy Committee
The committee drafts stances and legislative priorities, acting on individual bills or policies as they become relevant. Recommendations that come out of this committee are submitted to the Board of Directors for consideration, where they then have the potential to become official Chamber stances.
The Public Policy Committee is the advocacy arm of The Chamber and is comprised of business and community leaders from across the region. This critical group is dedicated to advancing sound policies that foster a stable environment for businesses and the greater community to thrive.
Board of Directors
Upon the Public Policy Committee making a recommendation for a policy stance, the Board reviews and considers whether or not to adopt it as an official Chamber position. Given the fast-paced nature of public policy, the Board may directly address urgent issues on its own without a formal recommendation from the Public Policy Committee.
The Board of Directors is the official policy-making and governing body for The Chamber and is comprised of prominent and diverse leaders from the business community.
The Chamber's Official Stance
After the Board of Directors has voted on an official stance, The Chamber takes action and begins engaging with public officials to represent business interests, rais awareness and build impactful coalitions. The Chamber also empowers local businesses by providing essential resources such as policy briefs, discussion points, supporting materials, legislative contacts and timely bill updates.