Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce

Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce. The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce is a business organization that represents the interests of companies and industries in Wisconsin, including manufacturing firms like Kohler Company and Harley-Davidson. As a member of the United States Chamber of Commerce, the Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce works closely with other state and national organizations, such as the National Federation of Independent Business and the National Association of Manufacturers, to promote economic development and job creation in Wisconsin. The organization has been involved in various initiatives, including the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and the University of Wisconsin–Madison's Wisconsin School of Business.

● History

The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce was established in 1911 with the goal of promoting business growth and economic development in Wisconsin. Over the years, the organization has played a significant role in shaping the state's economic policy, working closely with governors like Tommy Thompson and Jim Doyle, as well as legislators like Paul Ryan and Tammy Baldwin. The organization has also collaborated with other state and national organizations, such as the National Governors Association and the Council of State Governments, to address issues like tax reform and regulatory reform. In 2011, the Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce celebrated its centennial anniversary with a series of events, including a gala at the Monona Terrace in Madison, Wisconsin, which was attended by dignitaries like Scott Walker and Herb Kohl.

● Organization

The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce is led by a board of directors composed of business leaders from across Wisconsin, including CEOs like Gina Peter of Kwik Trip and John Shiely of B Briggs Corporation. The organization has a staff of policy experts and communications professionals who work on issues like taxation, regulation, and workforce development, often in partnership with universities like University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and Marquette University. The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce is also a member of the National Chamber Foundation, which provides research and analysis on economic issues affecting businesses like Johnson Controls and ManpowerGroup. The organization's headquarters are located in Madison, Wisconsin, near the Wisconsin State Capitol and the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

● Advocacy

The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce is a strong advocate for pro-business policies that promote economic growth and job creation in Wisconsin. The organization has been involved in various policy initiatives, including tax reform and regulatory reform, often working with lawmakers like Ron Johnson and Tammy Baldwin. The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce has also been a vocal supporter of infrastructure development projects, such as the Zoo Interchange and the I-94 expansion, which are critical to companies like MillerCoors and Kohl's. In addition, the organization has worked to promote international trade and export development in Wisconsin, partnering with organizations like the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

● Membership

The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce has a diverse membership of businesses and organizations from across Wisconsin, including small businesses like The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and large corporations like Kohler Company. Members of the organization benefit from networking opportunities, policy updates, and advocacy efforts on issues affecting businesses like Harley-Davidson and Johnson Controls. The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce also offers various programs and services to its members, including workforce development initiatives and export assistance programs, often in partnership with universities like University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. Members of the organization include companies like ManpowerGroup and Rockwell Automation, as well as organizations like the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Business.

● Events

The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce hosts various events throughout the year, including conferences, seminars, and networking receptions, often featuring speakers like Paul Ryan and Reince Priebus. The organization's annual meeting is held in Madison, Wisconsin, and features keynote speakers and panel discussions on issues affecting businesses like Kohl's and MillerCoors. The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce also hosts regional events in cities like Milwaukee and Green Bay, which provide opportunities for business leaders to network and discuss issues affecting their communities. In addition, the organization participates in national events like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Annual Meeting and the National Governors Association's Annual Meeting, which bring together business leaders and policymakers from across the United States. Category:Business organizations based in Wisconsin