In November of last year, your Chamber Board of Directors approved a new five-year organizational-wide strategic direction – Partnership 2027.
After an “audit” of all Chamber programming, a new five-year strategic direction for the Abilene Regional Growth Alliance, a new brand identity for the Convention & Visitors Bureau, your Chamber Board came together through a day-long planning session to absorb where we’ve been, where we’re headed, and then set ambitious goals for the organization.
From tourism, to workforce, to infrastructure support, to quality-of-life initiatives – this plan is a blueprint for a collection of investment and projects that will help the Abilene regional business community position itself for the future.
As the overall goals stay the same, each year with the approval of the Board of Directors, our team of professionals modify what action and success will look like in the coming year and make adjustments based on the needs of our business community.
Here’s a look at our overall goals and objectives and a look at some of the new items you can anticipate your Chamber working towards over the next year.
Goal number one – Lead with a bold voice.
As the largest business advocacy organization in the Big Country, the Chamber proudly serves as the voice of business. In order to provide a business-friendly climate, we must advocate for our area, engage with our members to provide core services, and communicate effectively.
Nestled into this goal includes advocacy, engagement and core services, communications, and military affairs. New action and success for this category includes exploration of a Big Country Legislative Summit, an average of 70 touchpoints per week to current members with an 85 percent retention rate, a new and improved Chamber website, and continued sharing of the story of the Abilene business community. In 2024, we will enter our 71st year as caretakers for the interests of Dyess Air Force Base, with much taking place to help position Dyess for continued success.
Goal number two – expand the talent base.
The regional success of the Big Country and Texas are closely tied to the quality of the workforce and talent pipeline – from all levels. It will take all of us working together, without duplicating efforts, to foster the workforce needed for the future.
Nestled into this goal includes workforce and talent development and entrepreneurship. Increasing the use of Skilbridge within our business community, enhancing our community internship program, and further enhancing our entrepreneurial support ecosystem in Abilene.
Goal number three – a vibrant region.
In order to be a forward-progressing region, we must invest in key mobility solutions and other 21st century infrastructure initiatives. We must align the actions outlined with the identity and unique assets our region possesses while ensuring that all residents are connected and that experiences among all groups are equitable.
Nestled into this goal includes livability and quality of place, business growth and tourism. Enhancing a beautiful entryway into the Cultural District, creating a virtual game/app to encourage visitors to explore all the offerings throughout the Storybook Capital of America, generating more room nights, and increasing the impact on the visitors’ experience are a few items that will continue to be at the forefront of our work this next Chamber year.
Now you know what the blueprint for year two looks like, but how did we measure up after year one?
I’m pleased to let you know that thanks to hundreds of dedicated volunteers, tremendous leadership and a trained professional staff, your Chamber has made great progress toward our overall strategy, and we look forward to sharing those results soon.
Onward!