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D.C. Chamber Signals Stronger, More Unified Push for Local Business Growth in 2026

December 15, 2025

The DC Chamber of Commerce held its annual meeting on December 11th at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, where business and political leaders emphasized that Washington DC's 2026 economic success requires stronger support for local enterprises. Chamber President Chinyere Hubbard highlighted the organization's significant expansion, including recruiting 176 new members and plans to double its events from 50 to 100 in the coming year.

Who is affected

  • DC Chamber of Commerce (176 new members recruited)
  • More than 200 small and large business owners who attended the event
  • Local businesses throughout Washington DC
  • DC residents (mentioned as beneficiaries of economic development)
  • Mayor Muriel Bowser (not seeking fourth term)
  • At-Large Councilmember Anita Bonds (not running for reelection)
  • Skoll Foundation (recently moved headquarters to DC)
  • DC Council members including Phil Mendelson, Kenyan McDuffie, and Brooke Pinto

What action is being taken

  • The DC Chamber of Commerce is recruiting new members (176 recruited so far)
  • The Chamber is planning to increase from 50 to 100 events in 2026, including in-person and virtual events and town halls
  • Councilmember Brooke Pinto has introduced Prosper DC, a 25-bill package focusing on expanding economic opportunities, youth development, attracting businesses, and creating affordable communities
  • The Chamber is building deeper partnerships and amplifying goals at every level of government

Why it matters

  • This matters because DC's economic growth and business climate face significant challenges requiring coordinated action from government and business leaders. The Chamber's expansion and increased advocacy demonstrate growing momentum for supporting local businesses at a critical time. With upcoming political transitions (including the mayor and a council member not seeking reelection) and concerns about federal government overreach, strong local business advocacy becomes essential for maintaining economic stability and creating opportunities for residents. The increased engagement signals a more unified approach to addressing economic development challenges in the nation's capital.

What's next

  • The DC Chamber plans to increase programming from 50 to 100 events throughout 2026
  • An "intense local political season" is expected in 2026 with upcoming elections
  • Councilmember Pinto's Prosper DC 25-bill package will move forward through the legislative process
  • The Chamber commits to building deeper partnerships and championing businesses with greater intensity

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer

D.C. Chamber Signals Stronger, More Unified Push for Local Business Growth in 2026