Every year, one night stands out as the night to be part of the St. Cloud area business community, the Annual Chamber Celebration. This isn’t just another event on the calendar. It’s where we come together to recognize our wins, thank the volunteer leaders who power our mission, and share in the pride of being part of something bigger than any one business.

 

If you’re not in the room, you’ll miss the stories, the laughter, and the connections that only happen when the Chamber family gathers under one roof. It’s a chance to celebrate with colleagues, honor community leaders, and raise a glass to the successes that make us stronger together.

 

Don’t just hear about it afterward - be there. Because this is the night that reminds us why we’re all in it together.

October 7 | 4:30 ? 7:30 p.m. | The Park Event Center

LAST CHANCE to get your tickets!

It's almost time for the biggest night of the year! The Annual Chamber Celebration is on Tuesday, October 7th at the Park Event Center - do you have your tickets yet?

Business After Hours is hosted by Red Carpet Night Club on Wednesday, October 15th from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Come as your schedule allows for networking, refreshments, and fun!

Here are a few more important dates to put on your calendar, but don't forget to check out our full events calendar for even more.

With the goal of keeping you informed and up to date, these news bites feature local, regional and national news items that relate to the business community in Central Minnesota.

 

LOCAL

Facing an unexpected challenge or sudden funding loss? The Initiative Foundation’s Emerging Needs grant round provides rapid, flexible support to help Central Minnesota nonprofits stabilize, adapt and continue meeting urgent community needs. Learn more

 

REMINDER: Tonight is the Downtown Visioning Workshop. Come take part in the Downtown Visioning Workshop to put pen to paper, meet your neighbors, and share your vision for the future of Downtown St. Cloud tonight, September 30th at 6pm at River's Edge. Register now

 

The St. Cloud Regional Airport has a new name. The St. Cloud Regional Airport Authority announced Tuesday that they have rebranded it as St. Cloud Sky Central Airport. Learn more

 

STATE & NATIONAL

Startup and Small Business Resource Fair - DEED invites founders and small business owners to explore the many resources available through the Office of Small Business and Innovation on October 9th. Learn more

 

Minnesota Jobs and Workforce Grow in August. Minnesota employers added 5,900 jobs in August, strong growth that defied a nearly-flat employment picture on the national level, according to new data from DEED. Learn more

 

Paid leave virtual info session: Starting Jan. 1, 2026, Minnesota Paid Leave will take effect. This session on October 9th will cover the basics of Paid Leave, including who’s covered, types of leave, employer responsibilities, and tools and resources. Register now

 

Ways a Government Shutdown Could Affect You and Your Business. According to the U.S. Chamber, impacts would include less funding for small business, travel delays, and ripple effects in communities across America. Read more

The Annual Chamber Celebration wouldn't be possible without the generous support of these sponsors. Thank you for your partnership! Don't forget to get your tickets now to help us celebrate another amazing year of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce. 

We hope to see you on Tuesday, October 7th from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m at The Park Event Center for an evening of reflection and celebration! 

The 2026 St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory is in production! Over 3,000 copies will be printed and delivered directly to Chamber members and local businesses, making this an incredible opportunity to showcase your company to the Central Minnesota business community.
 

This is your chance to position your business in front of decision-makers who keep this publication on hand for reference all year long. Many different kinds of advertising is available.

PLUS: Now is the time to make sure your business listing is accurate. Login to your Chamber account to verify your information before December 1st, 2025.

Looking for new ways to reach fellow Chamber members? We have two affordable advertising options designed to keep your business top of mind.

Chamber Member Happenings
Your display ad will be featured in this monthly email (sent around the 22nd) that highlights Chamber member events, job postings, and special deals. Sent directly to our full membership list, this is a great way to connect with an engaged audience.

 - $149 per issue or buy 3 get 1 free

Bottom Line Newsletter
This twice-monthly newsletter (sent around the 15th and 31st) keeps members up-to-date on Chamber news. With just two ad spots available in each edition, your business will stand out.

 - $125/month for sponsored content
 - $50/month for banner ad

These advertising opportunities are an easy, effective way to keep your business in front of decision-makers across the St. Cloud area. Whether you want to promote a special event, highlight a new service, or simply keep your brand visible, Chamber emails are a trusted resource that our members rely on and open regularly.

 

Don’t miss your chance to get noticed - spaces are limited, and spots often fill quickly. Take advantage of these targeted, affordable options to strengthen your presence in the business community. Reach out to Emily or click the button below to learn more. 

The Action Summit agenda is here! This year’s sessions are packed with timely insights and practical strategies to help you lead and succeed in today’s workplace. From inclusive leadership to compliance, Gen Z engagement, and sustaining belonging, you’ll leave with tools you can put into action right away.

 

Take a look at what’s ahead and be sure to join us for this powerful morning of learning and connection.

2025 ACTION Summit Agenda

 

8:00 a.m. ? 8:15 a.m. ? Welcome & Introductions, A Word from Sponsors

8:15 a.m. ? 9:15 a.m. ? Inclusive Leadership in Politicized Times: Staying Grounded ? Shannon Watson, Majority in the Middle

9:20 a.m. ? 10:20 a.m. ? Legal & Practical: How to Stay Compliant and Competitive ? Betsey Lund Ross, Revermann Lund Ross

10:20 a.m. ? 10:35 a.m. ? Break

10:35 a.m. ? 11:35 a.m. ? Gen Z Unfiltered: A Panel on Reaching, Recruiting and Retaining the Next Generation ? Moderated by Ruthanne Kim, St. Cloud State University

11:35 a.m. ? 12:15 p.m. ? “BE”longing Fatigue: Pushing Forward in Resistant Environments ? Jason Woods, St. Cloud State University

NEXT-Chamber’s Young Professionals fosters professional development and networking opportunities for emerging leaders in Central Minnesota. The planning committee is a group of volunteers who help to plan the monthly meetings including securing speakers, planning new and creative ways to network and engage members, lining up business tours and more.

Thanks to the planning committee, NEXT members hear from our community leaders and have the opportunity to:

• Enhance your networking and career development
• Build strong relationships with other participants and current business leaders
• Develop career-building connections through involvement in Chamber events and programs
• Learn more about the community where we live, work and play

NEXT Planning Committee

• Nolan Lind, Jacobs Financial (Chair)
• Casey Austin, Foley Mansion (Vice-Chair)
• Tailor Doeden, Central MN Community Foundation
• Alicia Gunderson, Gate City Bank
• Oliva Way, Visit Greater St. Cloud

If you identify as an emerging leader and would like to grow both personally and professionally, in a fun and challenging environment, then NEXT may be right for you! NEXT meets the second Tuesday of every month over the lunch hour at various locations throughout the St. Cloud area.

St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

1411 West Saint Germain Street, ste. 101

St. Cloud, Minnesota, 56301

 

320-251-2940

StCloudAreaChamber.com