Want to help shape Chamber positions, engage other members and be part of the conversation? Behind every SLO Chamber public policy and business advocacy decision is a corps of volunteers.
These committees are the heart of the Chamber and drive how we deliver on our mission and uphold our values. Each volunteer makes valuable contributions throughout the year that help connect the business community and shape the place we love. Please find descriptions of each committee and council below along with meeting dates and times.
Following our belief that diversity and breadth of perspective lead to better decisions, we are committed to selecting volunteers who represent the range of business types and industries as well those that represent racial/gender/identity inclusion and equity throughout our region.
Apply for a 2025 Advisory Body position by filling out this form. We will review submissions in October and notify those selected in November.
The Community Behind the Chamber
Ambassadors Committee
Purpose: To help Chamber members better connect with the Chamber by sharing the mission, goals and benefits of the Chamber, to support the connection of members to one another and to provide input to the Board on member opportunities and issues.
Areas of focus: Member connection, member retention, event support, Chamber promotion and representation.
Role of the committee: To be an ambassador of the Chamber by engaging with Chamber members and being the voice of the Chamber brand.
Meeting frequency: The second Tuesday of every month from 7:30 – 9 a.m., plus (2-5 hours monthly) at events or connecting with new and returning members.
For more information check out the Ambassador Guidelines.
Staff Contact: Kaila Anderson
Business and Economic Council
Purpose: To convene members from a diverse spectrum of industries to discuss issues affecting local business success.
General areas of focus: Business attraction and retention, diversity, economic trends, education, emerging technology, entrepreneurship, sustainability, talent development.
Role of the committee: This think tank will engage in round table discussions with invited speakers and share ideas regarding potential Chamber initiatives and programs designed to bolster our economy and inform business.
Meeting frequency: The fourth Tuesday of every other month from 12 – 1:30 p.m.
Economic Development Committee
Purpose: To monitor, advocate for and shape local, regional and state policies and initiatives that align with the Chamber’s economic vision, Imagine SLO and strategies that directly impact the attraction, retention and growth of local business.
General areas of focus: Housing, infrastructure, transportation, land-use planning, airport, education, local economic development programs and business trends.
Role of the committee: Regularly develop recommendations to the Board of Directors on potential Chamber policy positions.
Meeting frequency: The first Thursday of every month, from 7:30 – 9 a.m.
Legislative Action Committee
Purpose: To monitor and advocate for local, regional and, on occasion, state and national issues that impact member business success and the Chamber’s economic vision, Imagine SLO.
General areas of focus: New or changing regulations that impact business, community well-being and quality of life.
Role of the committee: Regularly develop recommendations to the Board of Directors on potential Chamber policy positions.
Meeting frequency: The second Thursday of every month, from 7:30 – 9 a.m.
Still have questions? Check out these FAQs.
Committee Policies
- Committee members are asked to consider issues on behalf of the Chamber’s 1,200+ members rather than represent any individual interest or organizations.
- All committee action is advisory only to the Chamber Board of Directors and does not become policy until and unless it is approved by the Board. A quorum is necessary for a committee to take action. All discussion, deliberations and decisions must remain confidential.
- Members represent themselves, not their business or organization; therefore, no substitutes may attend a committee meeting in place of an absent member.
- Committee members are limited to a maximum of three meeting absences during a calendar year.
- Guests are not allowed at committee meetings unless approved in advance by the committee chair.
- The committee membership roster is subject to annual review by the Chamber Board of Directors. This review shall take place each year, with the next group of new committee members, chair appointments, and carryover members presented to the Board for approval at the December meeting.
- Download the conflict of interest policy here.