Before we turn the page on a new year, it’s worth taking a moment to look back. The image below highlights what our Chamber community accomplished together in the past year, from connections made to programs delivered and impact created. Those numbers tell a story of momentum we’re proud of. As we step into 2026, that same energy carries forward, offering a fresh start and new opportunities to set goals and grow. The Chamber is here to help you build on that progress and make this year even stronger.

Lunchtime Learning features a session on The Art of Feedback with speaker Tara Gronhovd on Wednesday, January 7th at 12 p.m. Register now to join us for lunch & learning! 

NEXT - Chamber's Young Professionals is on Tuesday, January 13th from 12 -1 p.m. featuring a speaker on using AI in the workplace. Register now to check it out!

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.

• Lunchtime Learning: The Art of Feedback (1/7/2026)
• Chamber Connection: HOST: Sam's Club (1/9/2026)
• NEXT - Chamber's Young Professionals Meeting (1/13/2026)
• Chamber Connection: HOST: Nice Axe 1/16/26 (1/16/2026)

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

Attend the QBR After Dark on 1/15: The St. Cloud Area Quarterly Business Report (QBR) Review highlights the latest data on employment, workforce trends, and business growth, paired with expert analysis on what it means for Greater St. Cloud's region, register now. You can also view the report here. 

 

Stearns County residents will have an option for recycling their electronics. Starting January 5, the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility in Waite Park will accept electronic waste on an ongoing basis from residents of Stearns County and partner counties Benton, Sherburne, and Mille Lacs. Learn more

 

Celebrate winter in St. Cloud. Bold + Bright is January 30th - February 2nd in Downtown St. Cloud. Learn more here.

 

The Women’s Fund of the Central Minnesota Community Foundation is seeking nominations for the ATHENA Award which is presented to a woman who, over the lifetime of her career, achieved professional excellence and inspires others in the St. Cloud area. Learn more

 

Waite Park approved its 2026 budget document. It includes the 2026 Budget and Levy, 5-year capital improvement, capital outlay, and staffing plans. Learn more

 

STATE & NATIONAL

The Initiative Foundation offers training for both nonprofits and businesses. Learn more about attending upcoming training sessions here.

 

New minimum-wage rates, changes to meal and rest break laws: The MN Department of Labor reminds businesses that new laws went into effect on January 1st. You can learn more about them here.

 

Final PFML Prep: Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) is officially live. Visit the Chamber’s PFML preparation toolkit for last minute compliance checks.

 

DEED has awarded more than $3.3 million for adult employment and training programs across the state. The awarded programs serve adults who face multiple barriers to employment by providing services that increase skill literacy and access to high-growth and high-wage jobs. Learn more

Share stories, elevate your brand, and demonstrate your commitment to the future of manufacturing while reaching our engaged readership. Reserve your space today.

Also coming in March: Commercial Construction Special Focus

This section highlights the commercial construction industry in Central Minnesota and the people shaping our local landscape. From innovative projects to driving economic growth, these businesses are building our region's future. Reach out to Melinda for more information. 

Join us for Lunchtime Learning this spring! Take part in this educational networking event on the first Wednesday of the month. Each session includes audience introductions, lunch, a presentation, time for questions, networking, and a business card exchange.

 

All sessions take place at the Chamber office, 1411 W. St. Germain Street, Suite 101, from 12 ? 1 p.m and include lunch. The cost is $25 for members and $35 for the general public, 

PLUS: Purchase a SEASON PASS for $100 and get in to all 5 sessions ? a savings of $25!

The Supervisor Development Program is designed for new supervisors, those with limited formal training, or anyone looking to strengthen their leadership skills. 

 

This 6-session course begins on January 27th, 2026 and runs through April 23, 2026.

 

Offered by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce, the program helps supervisors move beyond “pushing” to truly leading - bringing out the best in their teams and building stronger, more effective workplaces.

Help us fund the future of agriculture!

Purchase a Central MN Farm Show raffle ticket for your chance at one of two fabulous prizes. Proceeds support scholarships for students pursuing careers in agriculture.

2026 Polaris Sportsman 450 ATV in gray or green from Mies Outland.

$6,999 value

Seven-night stay at a Bee on the Beach beachfront property (Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, or Florida ? based on availability).

$3,500 value

The winner will be chosen on February 25th during the Central MN Farm Show. The show is February 24 + 25, 2026 (Hours: Tues. 9am-4pm, Wed. 9am-3pm) at St. Cloud's River’s Edge Convention Center and there is no cost to attend. To purchase a raffle ticket, stop in to the Chamber office or email Laura Wagner.

St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

1411 West Saint Germain Street, ste. 101

St. Cloud, Minnesota, 56301

 

320-251-2940

StCloudAreaChamber.com