The Round Rock Chamber of Commerce convened over 230 Central Texas business leaders for a 2026 State of the Chamber Power Lunch, featuring a live recording of the Rock Solid Round Rock podcast to discuss the organization's strategic direction. Outgoing Board Chair Selicia Sanchez-Adame highlighted 2025 milestones, including the Chamber's 75th anniversary and progress toward 1,000 members, while stressing the enduring value of relationship-building through programs like the Ambassador network.
Chamber leadership presented key economic development priorities built on collaboration, including a distinctive partnership between the City of Round Rock and the Chamber and a five-year strategic plan focused on economic development and innovation. Support for entrepreneurship remains fundamental, with continued backing for the gBeta accelerator and a preview of an upcoming pre-accelerator program. The discussion also underscored initiatives to promote awareness of local educational resources, from degree pathways at Austin Community College to expanded opportunities at Texas State University beyond healthcare fields.
President & CEO Jordan Robinson addressed state-level advocacy, sharing insights from testifying during the 89th Legislative Session on matters such as sales tax policy and maintaining relationships with state and federal officials. The Chamber's Post-Legislative event featured high-caliber speakers to help local businesses comprehend the wider policy environment impacting their operations. A major announcement was the launch of the Round Rock Chamber Foundation, which secured $400,000 through its Founders Wall Campaign. The Foundation will bolster business-to-business initiatives without competing with existing nonprofits, initially concentrating on leadership development programs, the Young Professionals initiative, Leadership Round Rock, and Ascend. Further updates included plans to return to the historic Griffith Building in downtown Round Rock, reaffirming the Chamber's dedication to the city's core.
Incoming Board Chair Deana Cavanaugh outlined priorities for the upcoming year centered on member retention, deeper engagement, and sustained investment in the Chamber Foundation. Her comments emphasized capitalizing on recent momentum while ensuring the organization stays responsive and closely linked to the businesses it serves. The live podcast format, hosted by Bryan Eisenberg, co-owner of A Place At Home – North Austin, fostered a shared experience merging reflection with forward-looking vision, providing attendees with clarity on how current leadership decisions will influence Round Rock's economic trajectory.
