The Round Rock Chamber of Commerce began 2026 with a State of the Chamber Power Lunch attended by over 230 business leaders from Central Texas. A key feature was a live recording of the Rock Solid Round Rock podcast, hosted by Bryan Eisenberg, which provided a conversational platform for discussing the Chamber's direction and the city's future.
Outgoing Board Chair Selicia Sanchez-Adame reflected on 2025 achievements, including the Chamber's 75th anniversary and progress toward a goal of 1,000 members. She emphasized the importance of relationship-building through programs like the Ambassador network for business growth in the region.
Chamber leadership outlined forward-looking priorities centered on economic development, workforce readiness, and education through collaboration. Key initiatives include a unique partnership with the City of Round Rock, a five-year strategic plan focused on innovation, and continued support for entrepreneurship through programs like the gBeta accelerator. Efforts to advance awareness of local education assets, from Austin Community College pathways to expanded opportunities at Texas State University, were also highlighted, reinforcing Round Rock's investment in talent and long-term growth.
On advocacy, President & CEO Jordan Robinson discussed the Chamber's role during the 89th Legislative Session, including testifying on issues such as sales tax policy at the Texas Capitol. The Chamber's Post-Legislative event was noted for helping local businesses understand the broader policy landscape.
A significant announcement was the launch of the Round Rock Chamber Foundation, supported by a Founders Wall Campaign that raised $400,000. The Foundation will focus on business-to-business initiatives without competing with existing nonprofits, with early priorities including leadership development programs, the Young Professionals initiative, and programs like Leadership Round Rock and Ascend. Updates on the Chamber's return to the historic Griffith Building in downtown Round Rock underscored its commitment to the city's core.
Incoming Board Chair Deana Cavanaugh outlined future priorities focused on member retention, deeper engagement, and continued investment in the Chamber Foundation. Her remarks emphasized building on recent momentum while ensuring the Chamber remains responsive and inclusive. Robinson stated, "The State of the Chamber gives us the opportunity to not only reflect on that progress, but to clearly share where we're headed next — and how we will continue to strengthen our business community while creating new opportunities for Round Rock's future." Eisenberg added, "Having this conversation live, in front of the people we serve, reflects the Chamber's commitment to transparency and connection."
By integrating the annual update with a live podcast, the Chamber created a shared experience that blended reflection and vision, offering attendees insight into how current leadership decisions will shape Round Rock's economic and civic future. This approach highlights the Chamber's strategic focus on fostering innovation, supporting local businesses, and preparing the workforce for emerging opportunities in technology and beyond, which could serve as a model for other communities aiming to enhance economic resilience and growth.
