As the Minnesota legislative session begins tomorrow, February 17, the Chamber is ready to advocate for our members and the broader business community. We look forward to continuing our work at the Capitol: helping connect you with legislators, amplifying your voice, and keeping you informed on the issues that matter most to your organization. From protecting business interests to advancing policies that support growth and opportunity, we remain committed to serving as your resource, your advocate, and your connector throughout the session.
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Save the dates for these important upcoming Government Affairs events!
- Monday, March 23: St. Cloud Area Evening at the Capital Reception
- Monday, April 20 - Thursday, April 23: Washington, D.C. Fly-In
- Wednesday, June 17 - Wrap-up & Legislator Appreciation Luncheon
- Feb. 18, April 15, May 20, Nov. 18 - Monthly Government Affairs MeetingsÂ
- Coming Soon:
- Mayoral State of the City Addresses: St. Cloud, Sauk Rapids, and Waite Park
- Election 2026:Â Meet & Greets and Candidate Forums - Aug., Sept., Oct.
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The 59th Annual Central MN Farm Show is February 24th and 25th at the River's Edge Convention Center! Doors open at 9 a.m. both days and it's free to attend.
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Join us anytime between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. on February 25th for Business After Hours hosted by Avivo. No registration is required, come as your schedule allows for networking & fun!
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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.
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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.
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LOCAL
New website, same great service. The St. Cloud Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Greater St. Cloud) has rolled out a brand new website, full of resources for visiting St. Cloud and planning events here. Check it out.
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REMINDER: The City of St. Cloud Development Activity Dashboard - The Dashboard can be used to lookup new construction and development activities than are equal to or greater than $250,000. Check it out
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DUE TODAY: Seeking Public Input on Quarry Park Improvements - To ensure the park continues to meet the needs and desires of residents and visitors for years to come, the Stearns County Parks Department is updating the Quarry Park Master Plan and wants the public to share their ideas. Learn more
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STATE & NATIONAL
How is PFML affecting your company? Minnesota's Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) mandate is now in effect, and the MN Chamber wants to know how it’s impacting your company. Take the brief survey
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Grants available for food system businesses. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) will offer $5 million in grant funding to replace fossil fueled vehicles and equipment used in Minnesota food systems. Learn more
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2026 Business retention and expansion survey - This survey from Grow Minnesota is intended to gather insights about the opportunities and challenges that Minnesota businesses face to grow and expand in the state. Take the survey
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The MN Federal Reserve General Business Survey closed with a total of 1074 responses. Tune in to a free webinar to discuss the survey findings on Tuesday, February 24 from 9:00-9:30 am CT. Register now
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MN DEED announced the latest RFP round for Child Care Economic Development Grants. These investments enable community partners to increase the number of quality child care providers serving their regions and support economic development across Minnesota. A total of $1.425 million will be available. Learn more
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A warm welcome to these new members that joined the Chamber in January 2026. We are so happy to have you onboard!
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St. Cloud Financial Credit Union
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At SCFCU, we know small business because we are a small business.
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Locally rooted, relationship driven and focused on long-term success. For a limited time, we have a special offer on SBA 7(a) Business Loans to support what you're building with a process that's efficient, thoughtful and tailored to you.
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2026 Membership Directory
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The 2026 printed Chamber Membership Directory is here! This go-to resource is packed with information on the businesses, organizations, and leaders that power our local economy, making it easy to discover services, build connections, and support the community.Â
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Whether you’re looking for a trusted partner, a new vendor, or simply want to learn more about the businesses around you, the directory is a valuable tool to keep on hand all year long.Â
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This publication also includes a community profile, full of information on living and doing business in Greater St. Cloud. From education to recreation, this is your go-to guide.
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Stop in to the Chamber office to get a printed copy, or click below to view it online.Â
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DID YOU KNOW:Â
Looking to fill an open position? The Chamber Job Bank is a free member benefit that lets you post job openings and connect with local talent. Openings are also featured at no cost in our monthly Chamber Member Happenings email, reaching 2,500+ subscribers. It’s an easy, effective way to promote opportunities and attract candidates in the St. Cloud area.
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Login to your Chamber account to post your opening now, or click below to view open positions.Â
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Join us in St. Paul for an impactful evening connecting with House Representatives, Senators, and key government leaders. This unique event offers the chance to have meaningful, informal conversations about the issues that matter most to your business and community while proudly showcasing the strength and importance of the St. Cloud area. Build valuable relationships, make your voice heard, and help advocate for the future of our region.
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Date & Time
Monday, March 23rd, 2026 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
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Location
Radisson Hotel St. Paul Downtown 161 Saint Anthony Avenue St. Paul, MNÂ 55103
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Registration
$35 for Members
$45 for Non-Members
For your convenience, complimentary transportation will be provided by Metro Bus. Sign up for bus during registration.Â
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St. Cloud Area Business Showcase
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BOOTHS ARE GOING FAST! Put your business in front of hundreds of community members, job seekers, and fellow professionals at the St. Cloud Area Business Showcase!
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This dynamic evening celebrates local innovation and connection, bringing Chamber members together with the broader community for networking, discovery, and fun.
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Date: April 7, 2026
Time: 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Location: River’s Edge Convention CenterÂ
Admission: Free and open to the public
Highlights: Food samples, cash bar, games, giveaways, networking, and job exploration
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St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce
1411 West Saint Germain Street, ste. 101
St. Cloud, Minnesota, 56301
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320-251-2940
StCloudAreaChamber.com
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