Geelong Chamber’s growth is in motion.
Our Chamber is witnessing a period of incredible transformation that reflects the dynamic evolution of our region’s business landscape. The diversity within our membership is growing, with a remarkable range of industries, business sizes, and types now represented. From innovative tech startups to long-established manufacturing enterprises, and everything in between, our members are driving forward with creativity and resilience. This diversity extends beyond just the sectors businesses come from – it includes the leadership styles, experiences, and values that guide them. We’re seeing a wide range of leaders, entrepreneurs, industry veterans, and emerging talents, who bring unique perspectives to the Chamber, ensuring it’s shaped by a rich variety of insights.
While this positive change is exciting, it raises an important question: Is change always better?
For many businesses, embracing change brings new opportunities for growth, collaboration, and success. However, it’s important to acknowledge that change can be challenging for some. Long-established methods and structures provide stability, and the pace of transformation can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why the Chamber must represent all businesses, ensuring that no one feels left behind. Whether you’re at the cutting edge of innovation or prefer to hold onto familiar approaches, the Chamber is here to support and listen.
Our Chamber provides a platform where businesses, regardless of their size or industry, can share feedback, express concerns, and seek guidance. This inclusive environment fosters collaboration between those eager to embrace new trends and those who may need time to adjust. It’s through this collective representation that we ensure a balanced approach to growth, where every voice is heard, and every business has the resources and support it needs to thrive.
In addition to the evolving diversity of our members, we’ve seen an outstanding response to the new formats of events we’ve introduced. Interactive workshops, roundtable discussions, and hybrid events have replaced some traditional networking models, offering opportunities for deeper connections and more meaningful engagement. These innovative formats allow for real-time collaboration, knowledge sharing, and problem-solving – creating an environment where all businesses can thrive, no matter their stage of growth or their comfort level with change. Our incredibly popular After 5s will continue to be the outlet championing celebration and connectivity and will feature for the right events at the right time throughout the year.
One of the most exciting developments has been our heightened level of advocacy. We’re not just representing businesses – we are actively shaping the future by influencing local and national policy. Our advocacy efforts are focused on the issues that matter most to our business community, especially SMEs; including economic conditions, access to capital, workforce development, and government policy. This proactive engagement has solidified the Chamber as a key voice in the regional economic conversation, ensuring that the concerns of our members are heard and acted upon.
A thriving Chamber is not just healthy for its members – it’s vital for the broader region. Geelong’s SME sector is the backbone of our local economy, and businesses of all types and sizes play a critical role in job creation, innovation, and community development. As the region’s economy grows, a strong, diverse Chamber ensures that all businesses, from the smallest startup to the most established firm, have the resources, networks, and advocacy they need to succeed.
For our members – we’ll continue to build for you; and with you.
For those not yet a member, now is the time to join. Whether you’re navigating change, seeking new opportunities, or simply looking for a community of like-minded businesses, the Geelong Chamber of Commerce is here to support you.
Join us and be part of a movement that fosters growth, innovation, and collaboration.
Jeremy Crawford
CEO, Geelong Chamber of Commerce
