The Chamber of Commerce welcomed a diverse group of business, civic, and government leaders at its 121st Annual Meeting on June 3, 2025. The event highlighted the Chamber's role in fostering a shared vision for regional economic growth amid current uncertainties.
Opening remarks were delivered by the Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, who expressed gratitude to members for their support and acknowledged the event's presenting sponsor for its dedication to the business community. He introduced a speaker who spoke optimistically about Illinois' economic progress.
Key initiatives such as credit rating upgrades and balanced budgets were highlighted. "From cutting red tape, to expanding incentive programs, to smart investments for the future, we have launched a whole-of-government approach to ensure your businesses can continue to grow and prosper," he stated.
Following these remarks, the Chamber's President & CEO emphasized strategic collaboration across sectors. “The Chamber is proud to serve as a connector, advancing pro-growth solutions that strengthen our economy,” he said. He stressed that partnerships between business and government are crucial for building an inclusive economy.
The President of Midwest States at AT&T addressed attendees as a representative of the presenting sponsor. She discussed AT&T's substantial investment in Illinois' infrastructure over five years. “Over the last five years, AT&T invested nearly $4.8 billion dollars in our network infrastructure across the state,” she noted.
Further reflections on member engagement were shared by returning speakers who described recent events showcasing the Chamber’s vibrancy. “In my first year, I’ve seen the business community coalesce around this organization in a way that’s truly inspiring,” one speaker commented.
During his annual report, another speaker acknowledged challenges facing Chicago’s business community but emphasized resilience and opportunity. “We gather here today at an historic inflection point for our City and State marked by growing uncertainty and complexity,” he said.
The meeting concluded with insights from a Chief Government Affairs Officer on federal tariff policy impacts on American manufacturing. “As the federal government’s unpredictable tariff policy has reshaped global commerce...he is uniquely positioned to offer insight—not just for strategy, but for our regional economy here in Chicagoland.”
He also underscored his company's long-standing presence in Chicago with its South Side Assembly Plant celebrating its centennial anniversary.
As Chicago faces ongoing economic changes, this annual meeting underscored potential achievements when leaders unite towards common goals—the Chamber remains committed to leading these efforts while maintaining Chicago's status as a global hub for business.