We’re excited, are you?
2026 is shaping up to be the year we go deeper. Deeper connections, stronger capability, and bigger opportunities for our business community.
One of the clearest signals of this next chapter is our relocation to Federal Mills in North Geelong. This move places the Chamber at the heart of one of the region’s most dynamic and fast-evolving business precincts. Federal Mills is more than a collection of buildings, it’s a thriving hub for innovation, economic development, creative industries and growth-focused enterprises. Being embedded here allows us to be in the ecosystem and better positioned to collaborate, convene and create in purpose-designed spaces.
At the same time, we’re experiencing surging demand from sponsors and partners who want to leverage the strength, size and credibility of the Chamber brand. More organisations are recognising the power of trusted B2B connection. Not just brand awareness, but meaningful access to business leaders, engaged audiences and new customers. This growing interest is opening the door to bigger, bolder partnerships and setting the foundation for a huge year ahead. One that will directly translate into greater value, more experiences and more opportunities for our members.
And it starts with our almost sold out 300 person February After 5 proudly sponsored by Microkeeper.
We’re also seeing a significant lift in international investment and engagement opportunities. Interest from offshore investors, institutions and partners continues to grow, with Geelong increasingly viewed as a region of capability, talent and ambition. While more details will be shared in the months ahead, what’s clear is that global opportunity is coming closer to home and the Chamber is playing the critical role in connecting local businesses to it.
Looking ahead to 2026, another message we want to signal clearly is this: education and capability will matter more than ever.
Across our membership, we’re hearing a consistent theme. Businesses want to learn, to upskill, to develop their people and to lead better. Professional development, leadership capability and continuous learning are now central to growth, resilience and competitiveness. In 2026, you’ll see the Chamber place a stronger emphasis on education-led initiatives, leadership programs, workshops, and practical learning experiences designed to help businesses not just survive change but lead through it.
And underpinning all of this is the simple truth that connection still drives growth.
In a digital-first world, relationships remain the most powerful currency in business. Growth still comes from trust, conversation and collaboration. The Chamber’s role is to drive business success, to continue creating spaces where people connect, ideas spark, partnerships form and opportunities follow.
Momentum is building. Capability is rising. Opportunity is expanding.
2026 is about bringing it all together and we’re excited to take that next step with our members.
Jeremy Crawford
CEO
Geelong Chamber of Commerce
