Economic Development
Community Leadership Visit: What Springfield region leaders will learn in IndyÂ
Community Leadership Visit: What Springfield region leaders will learn in Indy The planning for each annual Community Leadership Visit (CLV) starts with a question: what other community do we have the most to learn from in the coming year? This year’s ask led us to this initial answer: a region that is growing without pricing…
Read MoreSpringfield can grow without giving up affordability
Springfield can grow without giving up affordability Guest column published in the Springfield Business Journal Sept. 21, 2026 For decades, Springfield’s affordability has been a key part of our economic appeal. For an employer, it makes capital investment more manageable and provides a competitive edge in attracting and retaining talent. For a family, it can…
Read MoreSpringfield’s growth depends on attainable housing
Springfield’s growth depends on attainable housing Op-ed originally published in The News-Leader Sept. 20, 2026 Springfield has a lot going for it. Our economy is growing. Businesses are investing here; major projects are moving forward, and people across the region still believe Springfield is a good place to build a business, raise a family, and…
Read MoreTakeaways From the 2026 Economic Outlook
The Ozarks economy is outpacing state and national growth, but housing and workforce will decide how far it carries. Takeaways from the 2026 Economic Outlook.
Read MoreTwo Ribbon Cuttings, and the Work Behind Them
Two Ribbon Cuttings, and the Work Behind Them Springfield had two ribbon cuttings to celebrate in July. Keep Supply opened its new downtown headquarters, and Genie Recon marked an expansion on East Pythian Street. Two different companies, two different industries, two different corners of the local economy. Both are good news for the region. And…
Read MoreEducators Step Into the Workplace
Educators Step Into the Workplace In July, 41 educators from across the region left their classrooms for four days to see where their students might end up. Through the Springfield Chamber’s 2026 Teacher Externship program, teachers got a firsthand look at the skills, career pathways, and daily realities of local industry. The program exists to…
Read MoreGenie Recon to expand in Springfield
Genie Recon to expand in Springfield Genie Recon to expand in Springfield, investing $11.5 million and creating 243 jobs Springfield, Mo.— Genie Recon, an advanced remanufacturer of telescopic boom lifts, announced an expansion in Springfield that will bring $11.5 million in investment and 243 new jobs to the region. The company marked the milestone today…
Read MoreNonprofit CEOs Share Strategies for Events That Drive Mission and Impact
Nonprofit CEOs Share Strategies for Events That Drive Mission and Impact Nonprofit leaders gathered for the Chamber’s Non-Profit CEO Roundtable to explore one of the most important aspects of nonprofit sustainability: planning and executing successful events. The discussion focused on strategies for strengthening board engagement, building meaningful sponsorship relationships, and creating events that advance organizational…
Read MoreGearing up for 60 Minutes to Success: More Ways to Connect with Military Talent
Gearing up for 60 Minutes to Success: More Ways to Connect with Military Talent Springfield employers have a unique opportunity on the horizon. Fort Leonard Wood is home to skilled, motivated service members preparing to transition into civilian careers, and the Chamber has two upcoming programs designed to help local businesses tap into that talent…
Read MoreMember-driven advocacy advances business priorities during 2026 legislative session
Member-driven advocacy advances business priorities during 2026 legislative session The 2026 Missouri legislative session concluded May 15 with meaningful progress on several policy priorities important to Springfield-area employers, economic development and long-term regional competitiveness. For the Springfield Chamber, the end of session is also an opportunity to reflect on the value of a member-driven advocacy…
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