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“The legitimate object of government is to do for a community of people whatever they need to have done, but cannot do at all, or cannot do so well, for themselves in separate and individual capacities.” - Abraham Lincoln.
President Lincoln’s wise words resonate deeply with the mission of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, where businesses collaborate to achieve together what they cannot accomplish alone.
Consider the diverse industries we represent: advanced technology, agriculture and food processing, architecture and engineering, banking, energy generation and distribution, healthcare, insurance, law, manufacturing, maritime, professional services, freight transportation, railroads, utilities and much more. The “Who’s Who” of the companies from these industries have proudly been members of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce since its inception in 1919. Beyond this, the Chamber is honored to be a partner organization for the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. We have members in every State House and Senate District, and every Congressional District, serving as the sounding board for our elected officials from Chicago to the Metro East to Cairo and everywhere in between.
People often ask how the Chamber can effectively represent such a dynamic network of businesses and Chamber leaders from all parts of the State. The answer lies in the diversity of our governing Board of Directors and our amazing, dedicated staff, whose sole mission is to wake up every day and provide value for our membership. Our staff works tirelessly throughout the year, especially during the Illinois General Assembly legislative session, evaluating well over 5,000 pieces of legislation to assess their impact on business and the future viability of our economy.
Through our partnership with UnitedHealthcare, the Chamber is able to provide significant health insurance savings to our vast network of small businesses and local chambers of commerce, who in turn provide for their employees. We keep our members informed about the latest business topics and trends through webinars and in-person seminars. Our partnership with the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform includes an Amicus Brief Committee to support our members in their time of need in the courts. Additionally, our International Business Council membership provides access to a global network, helping our members create new markets and gain a competitive edge.
It is truly an honor for me to serve as the Chair and interim CEO and President of the Chamber. Working alongside our professional staff and dedicated volunteer Board of Directors, I am confident that there is nothing we cannot achieve together. I wish you all success as we continue our mission to make Illinois the best state in the union for doing business.
We are always looking to welcome new members into the Chamber Family. Please feel free to reach out, and we would be delighted to add more diversity to our fold.
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