The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce provides many ways for investors to directly participate, whether through programs, councils or events.
Through direct participation, an investor takes an active role in getting the greatest value out of their investment. For example, by attending a networking event or a Public Policy Luncheon, an investor can build critical business relationships. By participating in programs like New Teachers Showcase or Flavors of Central Texas, an investor gains direct access to potential customers.
The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce also implements programs that impact every business’ bottom line. Through its efforts in Public Policy, Military Relations, Community Development and Economic Development, the Chamber affects the long-range economic prosperity of the region. These programs need private sector investment to be successful. If you are an investor in the Chamber, you are investing in the economic future of our community.
The following is a sample of what a Chamber investment supports.
Community Development
- Create a positive community image by proactively telling our story using all forms of media.
- Collaborate with the city staff and KEDC to develop and implement a program to redevelop a unique and authentic downtown.
- Foster a place that is authentic, inclusive, courageous, healthy and proud so that our community thrives.
- Think regionally. Act locally. Collaborate with others outside the community to focus on opportunities and challenges.
- Examples: Killeen Business Quarterly, Hasan Trial Lemonade Project, Downtown Speaker Series, positive news releases and media interviews, media kits, Annual Regional Economic Development Conference
Military Relations
- Promote the importance and sustainability of Fort Hood and defense-related industries. Take advantage of opportunities to expand Fort Hood.
- Build on the strong relationship between the community and Fort Hood and with the U.S. Army.
- Examples: Present at the Army Listening Session, construct a second runway, CG/CSM Social, lead the CT-FH Chapter of AUSA, organize and advise the National Mounted Warfare Foundation, NCO & Soldier of the Year Recognition, Veterans Inventory Report
Economic Development
- Grow new businesses through entrepreneurial endeavors.
- Conduct an aggressive business recruitment, retention and expansion program.
- Attract new retail business to the community.
- Guide and lead community incentive negotiations.
- Capitalize on the economic development potential of the university.
- Examples: Business Resource Center, Retail Leakage Studies, International Council of Shopping Center Marketing, Economic Impact Analysis, Center for Solar Energy
Public Policy
- Grow and nurture appropriate relationships to build trust with elected officials to cause the voice of business and community leaders to be heard.
- Develop a community state and federal legislative agenda and distribute to elected officials
- Organize community events for federal and state officials to build support for Fort Hood, TAMUCT and for other community needs.
- Encourage members to become active in issues affecting business at the state and federal levels.
- Examples: Printed Legislative Agendas, Legislative Day, Quarterly Legislative Luncheons, State of the City and County Luncheon
Written by Jonathan Packer, Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce Former Senior Vice President of Business Development
Published in the Greater Killeen Business Quarterly 2015 Restaurant & Catering Guide