Round Rock Chamber Outlines Economic Vision Through Live Podcast Event

The Round Rock Chamber of Commerce began 2026 with a State of the Chamber Power Lunch attended by over 230 Central Texas business leaders, featuring a live recording of the Rock Solid Round Rock podcast to facilitate an authentic conversation about the organization's direction. Outgoing Board Chair Selicia Sanchez-Adame reflected on 2025 successes including the Chamber's 75th anniversary and progress toward a goal of 1,000 members, highlighting the strength of relationship-building programs like the Ambassador network. Chamber leadership outlined a forward-looking approach grounded in collaboration, discussing a unique partnership with the City of Round Rock and a five-year strategic plan focused on economic development and innovation.

Key priorities included continued support for entrepreneurship through programs like the gBeta accelerator and a forthcoming pre-accelerator, along with advancing awareness of local education assets from Austin Community College to Texas State University. The conversation reinforced Round Rock's position as a city investing intentionally in talent and long-term growth. Chamber President & CEO Jordan Robinson addressed business climate advocacy during the 89th Legislative Session, sharing insights from testifying at the Texas Capitol on issues like sales tax policy and maintaining relationships with state officials.

A major announcement was the launch of the Round Rock Chamber Foundation, whose Founders Wall Campaign raised $400,000 to support business-to-business initiatives without competing with existing nonprofits. Early focus areas include leadership development programs, the Young Professionals initiative, Leadership Round Rock, and Ascend. The Chamber also shared updates on returning to the historic Griffith Building in downtown Round Rock, reinforcing its commitment to the city's core. Incoming Board Chair Deana Cavanaugh outlined future priorities centered on member retention, deeper engagement, and continued investment in the Chamber Foundation.

This event matters because it demonstrates how chambers of commerce are evolving beyond traditional annual reports to create transparent, engaging dialogues about economic strategy. By combining the State of the Chamber with a live podcast recording, the Round Rock Chamber created a shared experience that blended reflection, accountability, and vision for attendees. The discussion provided businesses with a clearer understanding of how current leadership decisions will shape Round Rock's economic future, particularly through strategic investments in workforce development, entrepreneurship support, and advocacy at the state level.

The implications extend to how regional economic development organizations communicate with stakeholders and build consensus around growth priorities. The $400,000 foundation launch represents significant capacity-building for business support programs, while the emphasis on education pathways and accelerator programs signals a comprehensive approach to talent development. The Chamber's focus on maintaining strong relationships with city and state officials while advocating for favorable business policies creates a stable environment for continued economic expansion in Central Texas.