Mission, Vision & History
The Portland Regional Chamber Mission
The Portland Regional Chamber and its Community Chambers build a vibrant economy and vital communities through economic development, advocacy and member services.
The Portland Regional Chamber Vision
Written in 2006, from the perspective of 2011
It is the year 2011. The Portland Regional Chamber is widely regarded as the catalyst of economic development in the Greater Portland area, not only by the business community, but also by public officials, the media, and the general public. Respected for its collaborative, highly effective advocacy efforts, the Chamber is considered to be the primary force in creating a favorable regional business environment, thereby increasing job opportunities and fostering an improved standard of living. It is recognized for its well informed policy positions and admired as a knowledgeable and agile change agent.
Some five years ago, the Portland Regional Chamber, in concert with the Community Chamber partners, developed a non-partisan, pro-business plan to advocate for a more business friendly environment with municipal and county government officials. Recognizing that many of the factors impacting the business climate were controlled by the Maine legislature, we also significantly expanded our advocacy activities at the State level. In doing so, we coordinated our efforts with the Maine State Chamber, leveraging the strength of both organizations. Weighing in on such statewide issues as taxation and health care, we have successfully encouraged a more economically vital and competitive business environment. The views and opinions of the Portland Regional and Community Chambers are now routinely solicited by public policy officials at all levels.
While it has not always been possible to take positions that favor the interests of each Chamber member, the reasoned approach with which the Portland Regional and Community Chambers have developed advocacy positions and the quality of their communications have gained the confidence of members. Effective use of technology has allowed us to gauge members’ opinions on key policy issues and provide timely legislative information that has marshaled the attention and resources not only of members, but the employees whom they represent.
The Chamber’s role in economic development, however, extends beyond its advocacy efforts. Working with local universities, the Community Chamber network, and Chamber members, the Portland Regional Chamber has functioned as a convener and facilitator of economic policy research, analysis and debate. Additionally, through its own marketing and communications efforts, and in collaboration with government leaders and other like minded organizations such as Maine & Company, we have succeeded in promoting local business growth and attracting new business to the area, resulting in a laudable number of new jobs in the past five years.
The Portland Regional Chamber Mission
The Portland Regional Chamber and its Community Chambers build a vibrant economy and vital communities through economic development, advocacy and member services.
The Portland Regional Chamber Vision
Written in 2006, from the perspective of 2011
It is the year 2011. The Portland Regional Chamber is widely regarded as the catalyst of economic development in the Greater Portland area, not only by the business community, but also by public officials, the media, and the general public. Respected for its collaborative, highly effective advocacy efforts, the Chamber is considered to be the primary force in creating a favorable regional business environment, thereby increasing job opportunities and fostering an improved standard of living. It is recognized for its well informed policy positions and admired as a knowledgeable and agile change agent.
Some five years ago, the Portland Regional Chamber, in concert with the Community Chamber partners, developed a non-partisan, pro-business plan to advocate for a more business friendly environment with municipal and county government officials. Recognizing that many of the factors impacting the business climate were controlled by the Maine legislature, we also significantly expanded our advocacy activities at the State level. In doing so, we coordinated our efforts with the Maine State Chamber, leveraging the strength of both organizations. Weighing in on such statewide issues as taxation and health care, we have successfully encouraged a more economically vital and competitive business environment. The views and opinions of the Portland Regional and Community Chambers are now routinely solicited by public policy officials at all levels.
While it has not always been possible to take positions that favor the interests of each Chamber member, the reasoned approach with which the Portland Regional and Community Chambers have developed advocacy positions and the quality of their communications have gained the confidence of members. Effective use of technology has allowed us to gauge members’ opinions on key policy issues and provide timely legislative information that has marshaled the attention and resources not only of members, but the employees whom they represent.
The Chamber’s role in economic development, however, extends beyond its advocacy efforts. Working with local universities, the Community Chamber network, and Chamber members, the Portland Regional Chamber has functioned as a convener and facilitator of economic policy research, analysis and debate. Additionally, through its own marketing and communications efforts, and in collaboration with government leaders and other like minded organizations such as Maine & Company, we have succeeded in promoting local business growth and attracting new business to the area, resulting in a laudable number of new jobs in the past five years.
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