2022-23 Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce

Growth & Prosperity Guide

AFFORDABLE EDUCATION.

HANDS-ON TRAINING.

EXPERIENCED GRADUATES.

Bank on the best!

VOTED BEST BANK

Strong. Local. Secure. We’ve been taking care of Utah Valley’s business and personal banking needs since 1891.

VOTED BEST COMPANY TO WORK FOR

We believe in being good to each other and creating a solid work-life balance for our employees

VOTED BEST MORTGAGE

With our in-house mortgage servicing, we get your information to someone who can make a decision quickly and accurately so you can close and move into your dream home as soon as possible.

PACK AG E HANDLE RS

O THER CAREERS

Why

ACCESS TO EXCELLENCE

Healthcare is personal. We each have preferences for how and where we seek care, but everyone expects excellence. Residents across Utah County will find that at Intermountain Healthcare. American Fork, Orem Community, Spanish Fork and Utah Valley Hospitals each provide a unique patient experience while focusing on the highest levels of care. So whether you prefer a community hospital or a trauma center, you’ll find excellence at Intermountain.

culture rich with history

Table of Contents

Who We Are

Chamber Membership

of

Legislative Action

Valley Visioning

Chamber Events

Chamber Initiatives

A BANK

Zions Bank is for you.

Zions Bank is proud to support the Utah Valley Chamber

WHO WE ARE LEAD CONVENE INFLUENCE

Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce is to build relationships, advocate principle-based public policy and promote business and community prosperity.

As the voice of business in Utah Valley, the Chamber leads, convenes and influences to strengthen an already dynamic business climate that supports all sectors of our economy and delivers value to its members.

In short, the Chamber exists to make Utah Valley the best place to live, learn, work and play.

Who We Are

Message from the Chamber President & CEO

August of 2022 marked the second full year of my tenure running the Utah Valley Chamber. During that time, the chamber has experienced a lot of wins. Those wins include the people we have surrounded ourselves with — both internally with our staff as well as externally with a lot of repeat members — and new mem bers who believe in our mission and vision and count themselves among friends.

The Chamber’s leadership in recent years has included some of the finest people one could work with. I’d like to specifically mention Stan Lockhart, who mentored me in the early months of my service as chamber president. In diffi cult moments when I was unsure about a particular decision or direction for the chamber, I could call him and he would pick up on the first ring. Through one par ticular chamber trial, I asked him for some guidance. I went to his home and literally laid down on the couch as if I were in a therapy session. By the time I left, I felt a thousand percent better and had clear direction and confidence to move forward.

As my mentor, Stan helped me understand what it meant to work

with a board. We are grateful for our past Board of Directors Chair Janae Moss, who has been an angel to work with and mentors our team through good advice. Next year, we will welcome Kath ryn Davidson of Ancestry as our board chair. We are enthusiastic about the evolution of the chamber as it taps into the tech community.

This year, Rob Behunin as board chair will help elevate us to a level that makes the Cham ber more relevant as it relates to principle-based policy. During the 2022 legislative session, we felt we had a hand in advancing good policy for Utah Valley.

Former Utah Governor Gary Herbert is in his second year serving as executive chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. I love working with Gov. Herbert because of “WYSIWYG” — what you see is what you get. He’s authentic in building this valley through his spirit of collaboration, partnership and optimism. As a former recipient of the Pillar of the Valley award, Gary Herbert is an example of leadership and inno vation for Utah Valley.

At the 2022 Pillar of the Valley awards gala, we honored Carine Clark and the late Steve Densley,

and we intend to announce our 2023 Pillar of the Valley award recipient in the coming weeks. Also in the coming weeks, we’ll spend the day at Sundance Resort enjoying our Executive Summit event.

One major win for the Chamber was the final publication of our five-year strategic plan. We identi fied our mission and key strategies for achieving our goals and ob jectives. Our mission statement is quite simply to build relationships, advocate for principle-based pub lic policy and promote community prosperity. Through the principles of positive growth being utilized in our Valley Visioning efforts, we hope and believe that this county can and will continue to be the best place to live, work, learn and play. Thankfully, the economic lows we saw in Utah were not commensurate to the lows we saw nationwide.

With a full heart, I express my gratitude to each of our members for their amazing contributions and partnerships. Our Chamber wouldn’t be a chamber without your time, talents and treasures. We look forward to another antic ipated year of prosperity for Utah Valley.

Curtis Blair

Who We Are

Message from the Chamber Board Chair

I’m sure everyone has seen that T-shirt, or the funny birthday card, or the plaque in the craft store that says, “I’ve been told to act my age, but I don’t know how. I’ve never been this old before.” While we all get the light-hearted gist of this, there is something quite pro found about the notion of arriving at a new stage in life, growth and development — a place we have not been before.

I think we are in that place right now.

The drought is growing. The Great Salt Lake is shrinking. Utah Lake is blooming. Housing is tougher. Interest rates are up, and so is inflation — but, hey, speak ing of “up,” we are going back to the moon. There’s something to consider about our indomitable spirit as a nation and people.

All that said, one of the things that helps me chart a course is the Utah Valley Chamber. The re

lationships, personal and business, that I have formed there are truly meaningful. Through the chamber, I get to work with and be men tored by some of the most re markable, successful, unassuming people I have ever met. They’ve never been on the cover of Time, Forbes, or Newsweek (well, may be one or two!), but they are truly “diamonds in our own backyard.”

Under the leadership of our Chamber staff, more and more people and businesses are step ping up and joining the Chamber, and they are doing so because the Chamber provides opportuni ties for us to pool our experienc es, incubate and exchange ideas, and take best practices back. Furthermore, the chamber allows us to band together to move our key initiatives forward and help shape the political, economic and social landscapes so our families, businesses and communities can

prosper.

Rob Behunin

While we might be in a place we’ve never been before, I’ll in voke the cliché and say, “There’s no place I’d rather be.”

As you read this magazine and see how the chamber is con necting people, businesses and communities, I am confident you will find the chamber to be a pro fessional, vibrant, well-connected, visionary association that is collab orating with multiple and diverse stakeholders to build a tomorrow where future generations will have opportunities to work, live and play in our beautiful valley.

We will be stronger with you, so we invite you to get to know the Chamber better and to join us.

Rob Behunin

Chair, Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Utah Government & Public Affairs, Partner R&R Partners

100%AMERICAN

Who We Are

Chamber Executive Board Gary R. Herbert Executive Chair

Rob Behunin Board Chair R&R Partners

Kathryn Davidson Chair Elect Ancestry

Chamber Board of Directors

of

Janae Moss Past Chair

Building Services

Abe Young Treasurer Saprea

Curtis Blair President & CEO Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce

Johnny Beck KeyBank

Chris Anderson Dentons Durham Jones Pinegar

Misty Bond doTERRA

Chris Bonnell Western Governors University

Jacob Brace Google Fiber

Craig Bingham PEG Companies

Chamber Board of Directors

Megan Bronson Squire

Jonyce Bullock Squire

Jamie Davidson Orem City

Kevin Dowdle Wells Fargo

Jeremy Hafen Clyde Companies Kyle Hansen Utah Valley Hospital

Brandon Henrie GWC Capital Lana Howell Colliers International

Nate Hutchinson Flagship Homes Stan Lockheart The Lockheart Groupe

Abby Carter Pennbridge Lodging Cameron Martin Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

Kirt Michalelis Mountainland Technical College

Schyler Richards Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine

Mike Roberts Brigham Young University

Wayne Roberts Mountain Point Medical Center

Kara Schneck Utah Valley University Steven Wright Utah Transit Authority

Who We Are

Chamber Staff

Curtis Blair David Rowley

Curtis Blair currently serves as president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce. Curtis has founded and co-founded numerous companies and serves on various boards, including the Utah Valley University Foundation, the Utah Lake Authority Board and AdoptionLife.Org. He is currently the UVU Wolverine Club Chair.

Curtis Blair President & CEO

As a Brigham Young University graduate from the College of Humanities, Curtis holds a deep appreciation for different cultures and people. He has had the opportunity to conduct business in 14 countries and has fostered numerous relationships with individuals from various back grounds.

Curtis is the father of five children and currently resides in Spanish Fork with his wife, Lisa Erick son Blair. When he is not leading the Chamber, he enjoys spending time with his family, supporting UVU and BYU athletics, golfing, participating in triathlons and making his famous egg white, spinach and goat cheese omelet.

Avanlee Jessop

Avanlee Jessop serves as the Chamber’s director of both executive relations and events. She loves her two roles as they allow her to work with people and the community as well as details behind the scenes.

With more than 30 years of experience in delivering world-class customer ex periences, David Rowley is recognized as a leading customer experience and business professional.

He received his MBA from the John M. Huntsman Graduate School of Business at Utah State University and a his bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Phoenix. David is married to the former Georgette McKenney and enjoys spending time with their five children and four grandsons.

John Whittaker

David Rowley Government & Community Relations Director

Avanlee Jessop Executive Relations & Event Director

Avanlee bleeds green as she graduated from Utah Valley University with a bachelor’s degree in busi ness management and a minor in event planning. In her free time, Avanlee enjoys learning and growing her interest in nutrition, sports, interior design, youth leadership and women entrepreneurs.

John Whittaker has been with the Chamber for sev en years and specializes in business development. In this role, John connects business owners with the Chamber, allowing them to influence policy for the Utah County business market.

With more than 35 years of experience in the enter tainment industry, he elevates Chamber events from mere gatherings to grand spec taculars. In his free time, John enjoys water sports, skiing, golfing and spending time with his wife Cath erine (Gerrick) and shih tzu-terrier mix named Bojo.

John Whittaker Business Development

Brooke Peterson Rebecca Whyte

Brooke Preston joined the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce as the Marketing and Communications Spe cialist in October of 2021. In her role, she enjoys manag ing our social media, month ly newsletters and graphic design.

As a proud Utah Valley University wolverine, Brooke currently is working toward a bachelor’s degree in art & design with a minor in art history. During her free time, Brooke enjoys playing golf, listening to live music and being with her family and friends.

Rebecca Whyte started at the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce as a legislative intern and is now the Com munity Relations Specialist with responsibility for exec utive, legislative and public relations.

Born and raised in Utah County, she attends Utah Valley University where she is studying public relations and strategic communications. During her free time, Rebec ca enjoys playing tennis in the summer and snow skiing in the winter.

Rebecca Whyte Community Relations Specialist

Becky Erickson David Erickson

Becky Erickson has has been providing membership and event support for the chamber since she joined the organization in October of 2020. She has an extensive background in data manage ment and architecture as well as application support, and she has operated her own consulting business.

David Erickson is a retired CPA with extensive experi ence in corporate financial controllership, primarily in California’s Bay Area. In ad dition, he has a background in working with charter school development and management accounting in Utah and Arizona.

Becky has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and music and enjoys teaching both subjects. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, traveling with her sweetheart and spending time with their combined 10 children, 40 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Becky Erickson Data Analytics

David holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Brigham Young University and began his professional career in San Francisco. In his free time, he enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with Becky and their family.

David Erickson Controller

Brooke Peterson Marketing & Communications Specialist

Who We Are

Chamber Goals

Primary & Secondary Goals

Primary Goal: To enhance quality of life in Utah Valley by serving as the regional voice for business, actively influencing public policy and helping to implement Valley Vision.

Secondary Goal: To deliver value to members by fostering a dynamic business climate, convening on topics of shared priorities, and advocating for business interests in key decision-making processes.

Primary Goal Strategies

• Leverage strategic partnerships to implement Valley Visioning

• Clearly articulate and advocate

legislative

• Establish the Chamber as the regional voice

Secondary Goal Strategies

• Host and promote relevant events

• Engage in strategic community

networking, information sharing, recognition and community

Ambassadors) and help to implement Valley Visioning

Utah’s Newest Medical School

A NEW APPROACH TO MEDICAL EDUCATION

Solid Color

Some

may

The Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine is charting a new course for medical education. A student-centered approach. An innovative curricular model. Our purpose is to advance the training of medical students to help address Utah’s most pressing healthcare needs.

Reversed Logo #1

When

MEMBERSHIP

CHAMBER

Benefits of Chamber Membership

“One of the first things I did upon relocating to Utah and joining the Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine was to reach out to the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce to see how I could become involved. Having been a part of the Chamber where I used to live, I knew the value and importance of engaging with other communi ty leaders through the Chamber. I have found my involvement to be incredibly rewarding and enriching. Furthermore, Noorda-COM has made meaningful and important connections within the community through our membership with the Utah Valley Chamber. I now serve on the Board of Directors and on the Task Force for the Growth and Prosperity Summit and can speak firsthand about how getting en gaged can provide great opportunities for you and your business. The Utah Valley Chamber is deeply committed to improving Utah County and Noorda-COM is excited to be a part of this great work.”

Schyler Richards Vice President for Institutional Advancement Director, Noorda-COM Foundation

“I joined the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce in large part for the people connected in this great organization and to better our community. Working for Mountain Point Medical Center, you are part of the community; it is who we serve. It is a natural part of life to love those you serve, whether that’s your spouse, kids, dog, a patient or our community (hopefully, all the above). The Chamber of Com merce is a group of businesses that supports the interests of our local community. I have met hundreds of people through the Chamber, be it legislators, CEO’s, TV personalities, authors, athletes, coaches and even those in hospital administration. It’s relationships that make us successful and build a better community. I am a Chamber champion.”

Wayne C. Roberts Director of Employer Relations Mountain Point Medical Center Steward Health Care

“I’m an engaged member of the Utah Valley Chamber of Com merce because it gives me and my organization the ability to connect socially and professionally with people who are driving opportunity and prosperity in Utah Valley. The Chamber delivers events, commu nity support and education related to strategic matters affecting busi ness and economic growth in Utah Valley. The events hosted by the Chamber foster thought-leadership and address community issues broadly, including education and workforce development, transporta tion, housing accessibility and affordability, healthcare, natural resourc es and economic growth.”

Abe Young Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Administration Saprea

Benefits of Executive Roundtable Membership

“The mission of the Clyde Companies is to ‘build a better community.’ Being ac tive in the UV Chamber and being a part of the discussion at ERT allows the Clyde Companies to align with other leaders throughout the state that have a similar mis sion.”

Brandon Henrie President GWC Capital

“Any business that cares about the business ecosystem of Utah Valley — specifi cally, how to ensure its future prosperity — needs to be a member of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce. And, if they truly want a voice on how to shape the future of the valley’s business ecosystem, then they need to be a member of the Chamber’s Executive Round Table — it’s where business leaders engage directly with policy makers, education leaders, and community influencers to make good things happen!”

Cameron Martin Vice President of Operations / Chief of Staff Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT OF UTAH COUNTY

& EXCITING DOWNTOWN

Chamber Membership Levels

Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Round Table Members

The Utah Valley Chamber expresses gratitude to members of its Executive Roundtable community.

Chamber

UV Chamber Network App Networkr

The UV Chamber Network app is a business relationship-building platform designed to help you grow new local relationships by making sure you are always meeting new people at various networking events. UV Chamber Net work takes into account a lot of factors, such as using industry and demo graphic information to help you meet more people.

UV Chamber Network uses a level scale from 0 to 4 to indicate how well you know someone and to help you grow your relationships. The levels are:

When you attend an event using UV Chamber Network, everyone at the event will become a Level 0 and those at your table will become a Level 1. The app will help you take your Level 1 relationships to Level 2 by finding recommended times to meet with those you have recently met. When new relationships become Level 2, you will start to see your business grow.

A purchase will be applied to your iTunes account. Subscriptions will automatically renew unless canceled within 24 hours before the end of the current period. You can cancel anytime with your iTunes account settings. Any unused portion of a free trial will be forfeited if you purchase a subscrip tion. For more information, see https://networkr.app/terms-conditions/ and https:networkr.app/privacy-policy/.

Bill Freeze/Realtor

The real estate market in Utah is rapidly changing. As a professional, full time Realtor I’ve seen these kinds of changes over the last 20 years and I’m prepared to help my clients in the timely sale of their house and also the purchase of a new home. Recently I worked with a wonderful young couple Robert and Lisa Muhlestein. They needed to sell their townhome and also wanted to purchase a home with a big yard for their girls to play. I found them a spacious family home in Payson and also sold their town home in Lehi. Their move was seamless and they sent me this nice note after moving in their new home.

“As first-time home sellers, it was so important for us to have quick com munication and trust in a real estate agent. Bill came highly recommended and he did not disappoint.

He went through each document that came our way thoroughly, and kept us updated all along the way. He sold our home quickly and we feel like we got the best price for our new home purchase and also for the sale of our previous home. The housing market can be so volatile, it’s key to have someone you can trust and rely on. Bill has many years of experience and you can always trust his advice.

We highly recommend Bill Freeze if you want an agent to get things done accurately, timely, and provide needed guidance all along the way.”

- Robert & Lisa Muhlestein

Thinking About Moving to

20

Bill

Chamber Membership

Chamber Membership Listing

ADVERTISING

Lemonade Stand

Red Rider Creative

Target River

Utah Sign Co.

ARTS

Hale Center Foundation for the Arts & Education |

Hale Center Theater Orem

Holdman Studios

Hutchings Museum Institute

Utah Symphony Orchestra |

Utah Opera (USUO)

ATTORNEY

Dentons Durham Jones Pinegar

Howard, Lewis, & Petersen

Legally Mine

AUDIO/FILM/VIDEO

Issimo Productions

Mitchell Productions

AUTO DEALER

Mercedes-Benz of Draper

BANK/CREDIT UNION

Altabank

Bank of Utah

KeyBank

Mountain America Credit Union

Utah Community Credit Union

Wells Fargo Bank

Zions Bank - Provo

BUSINESS

Ancestry

Les Olson Company

MyComputerCareer

Truss

Utah Foundation

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

American Fork Chamber

Brigham City Chamber of Commerce

Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce

Lehi Area Chamber of Commerce

Payson & Santaquin Area Chamber of Commerce

Pleasant Grove Chamber of Commerce

Point of the Mountain Chamber

Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce

Spanish Fork/Salem Area Chamber of Commerce

Springville Chamber of Commerce

US Mexico Chamber of Commerce

CHILD CARE

Discovery School

COMMUNICATION/MEDIA

Bennett Communications

(Utah Valley Magazine)

Daily Herald

KSL.com - Lehi

COMMUNITY

America’s Freedom Festival Community Action Services and Food Bank

Downtown Provo, Inc.

Housing Authority of Utah County

Self-Help Homes

COMPUTERS

Alakazam

RapidFire

TeamLogic

WipeDrive

COMPUTERS/INTERNET

EKR

Podium

Texas Instruments (formerly Micron Technology)

CONSTRUCTION/CONTRACT

Clyde Companies

DR Horton

Flagship Homes

PEG Companies

RBM Building Services

STOUT Building Contractors

Stratton & Bratt Landscapes

Sunroc Corporation

Utah Valley Home Builders Association

Woodbury Corporation

CONSULTING

Be Fearless Mastery

Limelight Leadership

NBNG, llc

Rowley & Associates

SEL, Inc.

Transworld Business Advisors of Utah County

Tribehouse

Tyfoom

X-Factor Strategic Communications

Y2 Analytics

EDUCATION

American Heritage School & Family Ed.Cen

Charter One

ConnectNIL

Ensign College

Heritage Schools, Inc. my529

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Employment, Welfare & Self Reliance Services

Dept. of Workforce Services

Employers Council

Spherion

Your Employment Solutions

ENGINEERING

Caldera Engineering

Horrocks Engineering

Sunrise Engineering, Inc.

ENTERTAINMENT

Real Salt Lake

SCERA Center for the Arts

Thanksgiving Point

EVENT CENTER

Experience Event Center

Utah Valley Convention Center

FINANCIAL

Fidelity Investments

National Processing

Osmond Home Loans

Squire

FINANCIAL/ACCOUNTING

H&R Block

My CPA

NOW CFO

GIFTS

Rustico

Wilkinsons Trophy

GOVERNMENT

Central Utah Water

Conservancy District

Congressman Ben McAdams

Congressman Chris Stewart

Congressman Rob Bishop

Proudly Serving Utah County

Engineering

Building

Creating solutions that work and relationships that last

Chamber

Economic Development Corp of Utah

GO Utah, Governors Office of Economic Opportunity

Kirk A. Cullimore - State Senator

Mitt Romney-Senator

Mountainland Association of Governments

Orem City

Provo City

US Congressman John Curtis

Utah County Legislative Caucus

Utah County Mayors

Vineyard City

HEALTH

Alpine Spinal Rehab BluNovus

Cook Family Eyecare PLLC doTERRA

Forum Health Utah Grifols - MAIN

Health Care Colleagues, LLC Modere

Mountain Point Medical Center Mountainlands Community Health Center Nu Skin Enterprises

Provo Canyon Behavioral Hospital

Right at Home Utah Valley Summit Spa & Float

Vista Health Care

Young Living Holdings

HOME DECOR/IMPROVEMENT

LocalProBook

Servpro of Northern Utah County HOTEL/MOTEL

Hyatt Place Provo - In-Group Hospitality

Marriott Hotel & Conference Center

Marriott Towne Place SuitesOrem

Residence Inn By Marriott Residence Inn by Marriott

Provo South University

Sundance Resort

INSURANCE

American Family Insurance Southern Utah Key Benefits

NFP

Utah Farm Bureau

WCF Mutual Insurance Company- MAIN

INVESTMENT

GWC Capital

MANUFACTURING

Aspen Laser

Duncan Aviation

Vanderhall Motor Works

MEDICAL

CareNow Urgent Care - Orem

Intermountain Healthcare

Orem Community Hospital

Revere Health

SelectHealth

Utah Valley Healthcare Foundation

Utah Valley Hospital

NONPROFIT

Alzheimers Association of Utah

American Red Cross, Central and Southern Utah Chapter

Boy’s and Girl’s Club

Clean Air Task Force

Easter Seals-Goodwill

Elected Women of Utah County Impact Utah

Live’s Worth Living

Provo City Housing Authority

Roots of Humanity Foundation

Saprea (formerly Younique Foundation)

Tabitha’s Way

TURN

United Way of Utah County Utah Regional Housing

Fiber

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Maloy PR REAL ESTATE

Colliers International

ERA Brokers Consolidated PM

Metro National Title

Presidio Real Estate

Utah Central Association of Realtors

RECREATION

Provo Beach

RESTAURANT/BAKERY

Culinary Crafts

Oregano Italian Kitchen

Rodizio Grill - Provo Riverwoods

The Terrace at Hobble Creek

TRUreligion

Tucanos Brazilian Grill

Via 313

RETAIL STORE

Aspen Blinds and Drapery

Blendtec, Inc.

Costco Wholesale - Orem

Habitat for Humanity of Utah County

Minky Couture

Scenic Solutions

University Mall

SALES/MARKETING

Big Leap

Black Canyon Signs, Inc.

SCHOOLS/DISTRICTS

Alpine School District

Nebo School District

Provo School District

SCHOOLS/UNIVERSITY

BYU Community Relations

Mountainland Technical College

Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine

Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

UVU VP University Relations

Western Governors University

TRANSPORTATION

Champion Charter Bus

Utah Transit Authority

TRAVEL/TOURISM

Breeze Airways

Explore Utah Valley

UTILITIES

Comcast

Dominion Energy

Rocky Mountain Power

Rural Power & Light

(Rural Ventures)

WasteManagement

LEGISLATIVE

Chamber Legislative Priorities

The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce constantly works to advocate for principle-based public policy and promote business and community prosperity. This includes encouraging local and state legislative leadership to pass laws and implement governmental policies that are in harmony with the Chamber’s mission and the best interest of its members.

Guiding these efforts are the Chamber’s Legislative Priorities, which are grouped into six topics: Natural Resources, Healthcare, Education & Workforce Development, Housing Gap, Transportation & Infrastructure, and Business Environment.

Natural Resources

We support the preservation of natural resources, open space and wilderness access to advance tal ent and firm recruitment, health and well-being of county residents, tour ism, and quality of life.

We encourage the creation of more access to, and continued use of, outdoor recreational facilities.

We support policies and programs that promote healthy air quality along the Wasatch Front.

We support policies that advance sustainable water use and conserva tion as well as access to clean water.

We support the preservation of Utah County’s wilderness while pro viding sustainable access.

We encourage the expansion of hiking trails, cycling trails, paths, parks and outdoor spaces that improve quality of life.

We support increased investments in transit infrastructure and service.

We encourage utilizing the health and biodiversity of Utah Lake as a center for natural beauty and rec reation, including any conservation efforts and structures that facilitate the same.

Healthcare

We encourage reforms that lower unsustainable costs, foster innovation and enhance the private market.

We support price transparency to better inform Utah businesses and families about their total health care costs.

We support policies that make access to behavioral health care services simpler and more affordable, reduce our provider shortage and

prevent suicides in our state.

We promote legislative and exec utive action that supports an effective, expedited, science-based response to COVID-19.

We encourage connecting public agencies that promote effective in teroperability between social services that support mental and physical health, prevention and early interven tion.

Education & Workforce Development

We support policies that develop and provide ongoing business incentives to en courage lifelong learning and career devel opment by enabling training and curricula for all workforce segments needed for future employment.

We support initiatives that foster strategic business/community partnerships by:

• Encouraging educator and workforce di versity — education, demographics, skills, etc.

• Promoting Utah County educational and workforce strengths to external audiences (creating an attractive environment for recruit

Housing Gap

We support policies that encourage rea sonably priced, high-quality, diversified hous ing stock that meets the needs of all residents.

We encourage efforts that raise pub lic awareness of the housing crisis and change the narrative on acceptable housing options and preferences.

Transportation & Infrastructure

We encourage continued discussions about creating an infrastructure bond that will benefit various areas of the state, in cluding sufficient funds to Utah Valley and its priorities.

We support policies that align with what was described in the Utah Valley Visioning to embrace a future with a variety of afford able, convenient and efficient transportation options that allow easy access to the places where we live, learn, work and play, regard less of social or economic circumstances.

We support legislative action that clearly identifies and justifies the projects and tim ing for which bond funds will be used.

We support securing necessary funds for critical infrastructure that will benefit the economy for decades to come.

Business Envrionment

We support policies that will positive ly impact business startup, retention and expansion.

We encourage that our state and local elected officials prioritize the growth of our local businesses and economy, as reflected in its culture, policies and budget.

We endorse strong infrastructure policies that support entrepreneurship and growing our local business economy.

We believe that regulations should be reduced and simplified to facilitate busi

ing educators and other human resources).

• Partnering on data-driven research for educators and policy makers to adapt curric ulum to meet future business and workforce needs.

• Educating key audiences on education and workforce development best practices.

• Celebrating success and recognizing strategic partners annually.

We support policies that facilitate “coopeti tion” opportunities to increase the possibilities for a Utah County workforce with relevant degrees and/or certifications.

We support incentives that promote mixed-use housing that align with state and local transportation investments and princi ples of smart land use.

We encourage public, private and non profit partnerships that support the goal of housing attainability and affordability.

We encourage taking advantage of the low rates that are offered to secure funds for projects that will help prepare Utah Val ley for the high population growth expected in the next 20-30 years.

We support common-sense reform of the transportation funding allocation formula.

We support bonding for infrastructure improvements that address future growth needs — particularly the extension of Front Runner to south Utah County.

We support incentives that promote mixed-use housing that align with state and local transportation investments and princi ples of smart land use.

We encourage public, private and non profit partnerships that support the goal of housing attainability and affordability.

ness growth, and we support policies that encourage the same.

We support minimizing tax and regulatory fees on businesses, and that increases in such tax and regulatory fees must provide measurable benefits to the economy and local businesses.

We support legislative priorities that create, establish and support a pipeline of workforce talent sufficient to meet current and future workforce needs and that is inclusive, diverse and equal to all.

Legislative Action

2022 Legislative Session Report

The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce works with member businesses and legislative leaders to advance sound public policy. During the 2022 Utah Legislative Session, we advocated for policies that support wise growth and prosperity in Utah Valley, foster meaningful business and community development, and maintain and improve the quality of life in our region.

It is only through the tireless efforts of our staff and committees, as well as Utah County legislative leaders and engaged businesses, that we were able to achieve success on so many fronts.

The Utah Valley Chamber also partnered with other chambers of commerce to deliver key victories for businesses in Utah Valley and throughout Utah.

The following is a summary of three critical advances made during the 2022 legislative session.

Securing a future for Utah Lake

HB 232 (sponsored by Rep. Brady Brammer and Sen. Mike McKell) transforms the Utah Lake Com mission into a board — representing local interests and lakeside communities — with authority to man age the lake’s 150 square miles.

The board will create a management plan for land use and conservation. It possesses the authority and funding to take real action to rehabilitate Utah Lake. Rep. Brammer cited the support of the UV Chamber in making the successful case for the legislation.

HB 240 (Rep. Keven Stratton and Sen. Curtis S. Bramble) ensures sound fiscal and legal oversight and accountability for any land exchanged as part of the proposed Utah Lake restoration project. In addi tion to state agency oversight, any exchange would require the approval of the legislature and governor.

Together, these bills build on the great work of Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson and Sen. McKell to offer a bright future for Utah Lake.

Encouraging competition and the freedom to innovate

HB 243 (Rep. A. Cory Maloy, Sen. Ann Millner) simplifies and streamlines the process of participating in Utah’s first-of-its-kind regulatory sandbox.

The regulatory sandbox offers a means for en trepreneurs and innovators to cut through regulatory barriers to get their ideas to market faster and with less hassle. HB 243 makes that process even easier, while also providing public accountability.

HB 151 (Rep. Mike Schultz, Sen. Evan J. Vickers) prevents big box retail stores from “city shopping” — the game of making cities and counties compete with each other to offer higher and higher tax incentives to large retailers.

Large retailers should simply go where the market takes them, where there is the right residential densi ty. These incentives usually increase nearby property taxes for other businesses and residents and steal revenues from local school districts. Passage of this bill is a significant win for Utah Valley businesses.

The UV Chamber joined with fel low chambers of commerce across the state in opposing HB 60, which would have prevented employers from making their own decisions on how to deal with employees’ immu nization status.

At the same time, the Chamber supported HB 63 (Rep. Jefferson S. Burton, Sen. Kirk A. Cullimore), which provides an exemption from vaccine mandates for employees with a prior COVID-19 infection.

Together, these legislative actions preserved autonomy for both em ployers and employees.

Bringing Together Community Voices

Membership in the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce has grown during Utah Gov. Gary Herbert’s first year as executive chair of the Chamber’s board of directors. With continued explosive growth in Utah Valley and its accompanying chal lenges, however, increasing the chamber’s membership is more important than ever.

“We need to encourage peo ple to be involved,” Herbert said. “We’re saying come one, come all, and let’s work together for the future good of this community. We need your help, and we need your voice.”

Herbert became the leader of the Chamber’s board in May of 2021. As a former real estate agent and business owner as well as Utah’s 17th governor, Herbert has seen the impact local busi nesses can have on improving an area’s quality of life. Chambers of commerce bring community voices together where they can participate in discussions, encourage good policy decisions and help craft solutions.

“The more people that partici pate, the more successful we’ll be as a chamber. The more suc cessful we are as a chamber, the more likely it is that we’ll be able to create a great quality of life not only for today, but for future gen erations,” Herbert said.

The good news is Utah Coun ty has become an epicenter of prosperity and economic opportu nity. The county has been ranked as one of the best places for jobs and opportunities in the nation and one of only a few states to have higher job growth now than before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’ve had a number of publi cations say that the state that han dled the pandemic the best and came out of it the best was Utah, and I think that’s exactly right,” Herbert said.

Community leaders shouldn’t see this success as an opportunity to ease off efforts to plan for the future. “We need to remain en gaged, and, if we do that, I think we’ll have success for the next decade and the next generation,” Herbert said.

There are issues that need attention, including the lack of affordable housing in Utah Val ley. Younger buyers are currently having difficulty finding homes they can afford to purchase. Everyone, including businesses, should be concerned about how the com munity can meet this need.

“Housing ownership is really an important aspect of private prop erty rights, which is the basis for freedom and liberty in our coun try,” Herbert said. “Those that own

Gov. Gary Herbert

their own home tend to be more stable and able to contribute to their community.”

Growth has also brought en vironmental challenges such as maintaining good air quality, pro viding transportation and deter mining how to best manage Utah Lake. As these challenges are navigated, the Chamber can bring together all involved and ensure there is a balance between busi ness concerns and governmental policy-making efforts.

“There’s just no better place to have those kinds of discussions and find solutions than the cham ber of commerce,” Herbert said.

Businesses that join the Cham ber enjoy a variety of benefits, including access to events where experts discuss the state of the economy and how businesses can best plan for the future.

What members gain, he em phasized, is directly related to the effort they put in.

“The more they put into it, the more they get out of it. It’s not something you sort of gain by os mosis. You gain by participation,” Herbert said. “It really is a team effort, and that’s what the Chamber does — it brings people togeth er to have a united opportunity to speak as the voice of business in the valley and the state.”

Legislative Action

Chamber Legislative Champions

The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce honored a group of Utah legislators during its 2022 Legislative Awards Night. These legislators were honored based upon how they voted on bills impacting businesses, what bills they sponsored that impacted business in Utah Valley and nominations from committee members.

Representative Nelson Abbott House District 60

Senator Jacob Andregg Senate District 13

Senator Curt Bramble Senate District 16

Representative Brady Brammer House District 27

Representative Jefferson Burton House District 66

Representative Kay Christofferson House District 56

Senator Keith Grover Senate District 15

Senator Kirk Cullimore Senate District

Representative Jon Hawkins House District 57

Representative Marsha Judkins House District 61

Senator Mike Kennedy Senate District 14

Representative A. Cory Maloy House District 6

Senator Mike McKell Senate District 7

Representative Jefferson Moss House District 2

Senator Derrin Owens Senate District 24

Representative Val Peterson House District 59

Representative Adam Robertson House District 63

Representative Keven Stratton House District

Representative Norman Thurston House District

Representative Doug Welton House District

Representative Stephen Whyte House District

VISIONING

VALLEY

Looking to the Future

By 2065, Utah Valley will add 1 million people to its communities, making it one of the most populous counties in Utah.

This immense expansion in population will affect all aspects of daily life in Utah Valley, from transportation and education to employment and recreation.

In 2018, with this future in mind, the Association of Utah County Chambers and Envision Utah launched Valley Visioning. The goal of this effort was to create a vision for Utah Valley describing the future that residents want for themselves, their neighbors and their children while also articulating goals and strategies to make that future a reality.

Over the course of two years, residents, elected officials, community leaders and topic ex perts came together to discuss and prioritize their goals for the future and move toward com piling a complete valley vision.

The Valley Visioning project ended in November of 2020 with the completion of a vision document, which can be read at utahvalleyvisioning.org.

The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce and its partners are now actively working to implement this vision through six committees set up to address each of the six areas deemed most important during the Valley Visioning process. These areas are:

• Business

Education & Workforce Development

Healthcare

Transportation & Infrastructure

Housing

Natural Resources

Join us in planning for the future to enable you and your family to have healthy and meaningful places to work, live, learn and play.

Valley Visioning

Business Environment Committee

OUR PURPOSE

To compete successfully, busi ness owners and managers must continuously study the environ ment, innovate and adapt their businesses accordingly. The Utah Valley Chamber has a mission to identify, endorse and advocate for principle-based policies that create an environment in which new and existing businesses can prosper.

Doing business in a rapidly growing, changing environment can be challenging, especially when unexpected obstacles like a worldwide pandemic appear. The Business Environment Committee works to help local businesses meet those challenges through providing up-to-date information, assistance and support.

OUR GOALS

1. Review strategies and meth ods and support bills which de crease government regulations on occupational licenses.

2. Identify post-pandemic response strategies and policy priorities.

3. Continue to develop part nerships with businesses, public/ private organizations, municipalities and educational institutions to ad vance the mission of the Chamber.

Ray Chipman 2022 Business Envrionment Committee Chair Audit Partner at Squire

Education & Workforce Development Committee

OUR PURPOSE

Attracting and retaining top talent is a critical factor of all businesses. Education and work force development are branches of economic development focused on human capital along the work force continuum.

The Utah Valley Chamber is the primary influencer of Utah Coun ty’s economy and viability with the development and implementation of a plan that includes key edu cation and workforce development components — public policy, place-based strategies addressing worker skills, and sector-based strategies in specific industries. The Education & Workforce Devel opment Committee is working to help students and businesses find their path to success.

OUR GOALS

1. Fostering strategic public/pri vate partnerships to become a key partner, collaborator and influencer with state and local government, economic development, educa tional institutions and businesses.

2. Facilitating “coopetition” op portunities to increase Utah County workforce opportunity.

3. Becoming the premier re source to help businesses ac curately forecast and respond to current and future workforce needs.

Aimee Edwards

2022 Education & Workforce Development Committee Chair Director of Community Relations at Western Governors University

Valley

Healthcare Committee

OUR PURPOSE

A strong healthcare system and policies are critical to the well-being of Utah Valley residents and businesses. Healthcare costs in the United States continue to increase, consuming nearly 20% of the GDP. Employers in Utah provide access to health insurance for the majority of Utahns and, as such, have a significant role to play in healthcare reform initia tives. The Healthcare Committee supports legislative efforts which improve affordability while main taining high levels of quality and access for consumers.

The committee also focuses on providing necessary resources to the valley that will support the physical, mental and emotional health of residents and is active in promoting initiatives and events related to its goals.

OUR GOALS

1. Supporting legislative ef forts that promote the use of market-based principles, which achieve greater affordability while improving quality.

2. Supporting efforts that im prove access to mental health services with a focus on preven tion.

3. Supporting efforts to mini mize the ongoing impact of the pandemic on employers and help ensure business continuity.

4. Supporting efforts to appro priately enhance the use of tele health to improve access without increasing costs.

2022 Healthcare Committee Chair CEO of Revere Health

Scott Barlow

Visioning

Valley

Transportation & Infrastructure Committee

OUR PURPOSE

Moving hundreds of thousands of people throughout Utah Valley is a massive undertaking, espe cially as a large lake and sur rounding mountains limit options. With forecasts predicting the addi tion of several hundred thousand more residents within a few short decades, planning ahead be comes critical.

Through bringing together stakeholders such as state legis lators, city leaders and business owners, the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee is working to identify priorities for the valley’s future transportation needs and determine how those priorities can be addressed and moved forward. It serves as a voice of collabo ration and reason in solving the complex infrastructure needs that growth is bringing to Utah Valley.

OUR GOALS

1. Working with Utah depart ments and agencies on planning for Utah Valley projects.

2. Helping lead discussions that will:

• Update the regional highway system.

• Explore additional freeways and add capacity.

• Develop a robust transit sys tem.

• Develop a regionally connect ed active transportation system.

• Preserve current infrastructure.

Jeremy Hafen

2022 Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chair President at Clyde Companies

Jamie Davidson

2023 Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chair Orem City Manager

Housing Gap Committee

OUR PURPOSE

Utah County is expecting extraordinary growth because of its continued economic prosper ity, reasonable cost of living and excellent quality of life. Even with the recent global pandemic, there are promising indicators that Utah County will double its population in 20 years. This explosive growth is creating housing challenges that will continue to hurt our state un less proper measures are taken.

The Housing Gap Commit tee supports a diversified mix of housing stock that allows for vibrant, affordable communities. Such communities are possible only when communities have a variety of home inventory and diverse zoning opportunities. The committee is also focused on working with cities, home builders, elected officials and others to help solve the current complexities that create issues within the housing market.

OUR GOALS

1. Supporting Affordable Hous ing Commission priorities.

2. Promoting the construction of various housing types for all stages of life.

3. Encouraging building high-density housing near current and future public transit stations and on major corridors.

4. Maintaining and encouraging a high quality of life for the resi dents of Utah County.

Nate Hutchinson 2022 Housing Gap Committee Chair Owner of Flagship Homes

Valley Visioning

Natural Resources Committee

OUR PURPOSE

The beauty of Utah is often what attracts people to move here. The mountains, the lakes, the outdoor recreation opportunities — it all adds up to an exceptional way of living. With those benefits, however, comes the responsibility of preserving the natural resources around us.

Quality of life, talent attraction, employee health and continued economic growth are inextricably linked to the proactive preserva tion and stewardship of our natural resources. The Natural Resources Committee works to identify and champion policies and programs that protect, preserve and promote the wilderness and wise access thereto, clean air and water, and renewable energy with continued sensible support of fossil fuels.

OUR GOALS

1. Extending FrontRunner commuter rail into southern Utah County.

2. Encouraging active and pas sive outdoor recreational use.

3. Hosting “Clean Air Day” events.

4. Supporting trail projects in Utah County.

5. Promoting responsible ener gy development and distribution.

Kevin Dowdle 2022 Natural Resources Committee Sr. Relationship Manager at Wells Fargo Bank

Valley Visioning

Growth & Prosperity Compact

Utah Valley is experiencing un precedented growth as it contin ues to evolve into a more diverse business and family-friendly envi ronment with high job growth and low unemployment.

Our existing economic prosper ity provides a higher income base for many and will provide even more opportunities in the future. In 2017, economists predicted that Utah Valley’s population would double in 25 years and triple in 45 years. We are trending well ahead of that projection.

Our united commitment to plan for and manage growth — guiding our future economic prosperity, ensuring environmental sustain ability and preserving our quality of life — is critical to enriching the distinctive nature of Utah Valley where current and future genera tions will thrive.

We must collaborate on a com mon valley vision and coordinate our community planning efforts. We call upon residents, business es, city leaders, county leaders, state leaders and our federal del egation to adopt and endorse the following principles of this Growth and Prosperity Compact of Utah Valley.

Together, we will engage in building and implementing inno vative solutions. Now is the time to act!

A multidisciplinary task force will also be established to develop meaningful metrics to assess and

evaluate our collaborative, princi ples-based efforts to affect desired outcomes in each of the focus areas:

• Business Environment: Pri oritize and promote policy that benefits employers, employees and families. Encourage innovation and adaptation while finding and removing regulations that hinder business growth.

• Education and Workforce Development: Adjust and adapt K-12 curriculum regularly to better prepare our children to seek high er or technical education to meet workforce needs and instill value in lifelong learning in the work place.

• Healthcare: Promote healthy physical and mental wellness while simultaneously reforming health care systems to improve afford ability, transparency and access to

quality care by all in our growing communities.

• Natural Resources: Advocate policies and programs that support responsible use, preservation and protection of public lands, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, clean air, open spaces and renewable energy in conjunction with continued sensi ble support of fossil fuels.

• Attainable Housing: Provide a diversified supply of affordable and accessible housing that meets the needs and dignity of all people in our vibrant, growing communities.

• Transportation and Infrastruc ture: Support a variety of afford able, convenient and efficient transportation and technological options that allow all people, regardless of social or economic circumstances, to easily access the places where they live, learn, work and play.

Scan this QR code to access, review and sign the Growth & Prosperity Compact.

CHAMBER EVENTS

Pillar of the Valley May 17, 2022

The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce annually hosts the Pillar of the Valley award gala. This event was created to honor an individual or individuals who have made ex traordinary contributions to the business, civic, social, educational and cultural climate of Utah Valley. The gala is one of the premier social events in the valley, attracting many key Utah business, civic and religious leaders.

In May of 2022, two individuals were honored at the Pillar of the Valley event: CEO Carine Clark and the late Steve Densley. Clark has worked as president and CEO of Alle giance, MartizCX, Banyan and Ember. She is also a member of the Brigham Young Univer sity Marriott School of Business national advi sory council and an ovarian cancer survivor.

Surviving cancer made her want to be more involved within the community, so she joined boards and began mentoring young professionals within the tech industry. She also worked to raise $100,000 for the Hunts

man Cancer Foundation, specifically for ovari an cancer research.

During the Pillar of the Valley event, audi ence members were encouraged to donate to Clark’s cause. Entertainer Nathan Osmond ral lied those present to donate, and Clark’s band donated its appearance fee to the cause. Utah Community Credit Union then matched every dollar raised and added its own donation, pushing the total figure to over $106,000.

The second honoree was local business leader Steve Densley, who died in August 2021. He was a chamber president for 30 years and a founding member of the Orem Chamber of Commerce. The organization later merged with the Provo Chamber and became the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce.

His wife, Colleen Densley, spoke in his honor and received the Rebecca D. Lockhart award. This award is given to those who con tributed toward growth and prosperity within Utah Valley.

2021: Alan and Suzanne Osmond

2019: John Valentine and Ray (posthumously) and Janette Beckham

2018: Bill Hulterstrom and JoAnn Losee

2017: Gov. Gary Herbert

2016: Woodbury Family and Becky Lockhart (posthumously)

2015: Wilford Clyde and Hal Wing (posthumously)

2014: Dallin H. Oaks and Ray Noorda (posthumously)

2013: LaVell Edwards and Stephen R. Covey (posthumously)

2012: Alan and Karen Ashton

2011: Blake M. Roney

Golf Classic

The Utah Valley Chamber Golf Classic provides an opportunity for Utah Valley’s business executives to enjoy a day of golf together while networking and building relationships. This annual tournament is one of the most popular events hosted by the Chamber

The golf tournament serves as a fundraiser to help sustain the Chamber, its mission and its initia tives. It’s played as a four-person scramble; teams register for a fee, lunch is provided and prizes are awarded in competitions such as putting and long drive. It is held at a different area golf course each year.

Sponsors and vendors are highlighted through out the event, providing excellent exposure to businesses in Utah County. Students at Utah Valley University have the opportunity to provide volunteer service at the event.

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Emotional Prosperity

The Utah Valley Emotional Prosperity Sum mit invites all business executives, community leaders, healthcare professionals and educa tional stewards to broaden their awareness of mental health and emotional prosperity and the resources available in our community.

Emotional prosperity has become a hot topic in recent years. Through various keynote speakers and breakout sessions, you will learn how you can make a difference in assuring you and your employees are thriving in envi ronments of health and wellness.

The next Emotional Prosperity Summit is tentatively planned for spring of 2023 at Utah Valley University.

Executive Summit Sept. 26, 2022

Each fall, a group of top leaders in Utah Valley gathers for a premiere business event where they learn about their community’s most important issues and participate more fully in Utah Valley leadership.

The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Summit is an all-day event is held at Sundance Mountain Resort. It is open to all, but — with only 180 spots available — it sells out every year.

During this event, attendees receive rap id-fire updates regarding areas of vital impor tance to our businesses and our community as well as expert-guided, topic-driven, inter active breakout sessions designed to identify solutions and provide resources customized to their executive interests and needs.

Growth & Prosperity Summit

27, 2022

The central mission of the Utah Valley Growth & Prosperity Summit is to highlight critical aspects of growth and feature thought leaders and subject mat ter experts to spark discussion, cause reflection and inspire action in the areas of business, education and workforce development, transportation and infrastruc ture, water, housing, healthcare, natural resources and education.

The areas of focus at the summit were identified through Valley Visioning, a multi-year effort through which thousands of valley residents, elected officials,

community leaders and other experts discussed and prioritized their goals for Utah Valley’s future. The final document produced through this effort inspired the Utah Valley Chamber to create six committees that are now working to meet the Valley Visioning goals.

The summit includes a variety of panel discussions and breakout sessions addressing Utah County’s biggest issues and opportunities as well as how cur rent growth can be managed to bring about the best future possible.

CHAMBER INITIATIVES

Abby CarterChamber Ambassadors

The Utah Valley Chamber Ambassadors program is focused on allowing individuals and small businesses the opportunity to engage in all aspects of the Chamber, from helping pres ent major Chamber events to choosing and honoring Businesses of the Month and serving on various Chamber committees.

At first glance, it seems like a major time commitment, but the benefits Ambassadors re ceive through their efforts is worth it, said Abby Carter, Ambassadors chair and director of sales and marketing for the Fairfield Inn & Suites and the TownePlace Suites by Marriott in Orem.

“A lot of people worry about the ROI on chamber membership,” Carter said. “I would say it’s so much more beneficial to be both a chamber member and have someone in your business serving as an Ambassador. You get so much return on investment just through the relationships that you make. You’re not just dealing with your own business, you’re learning about what other people do, and, as a result, it

makes you a better business person.”

The Ambassadors meet once a month at a central location in the valley where they discuss issues, network and select a Business of the Month. Each of the Ambassadors also serves on one of the Chamber’s other committees.

Ambassadors go out into the community to present Business of the Month awards and meet the owners of those businesses.

“For me, it’s a fulfilling thing to recognize people for doing good,” Carter said. “It’s fun to go into a business and connect with someone and see that we have the same issues, we have the same successes.”

Carter had been involved with other cham bers of commerce during her career, so when a new job opportunity moved her to Utah Valley, she immediately joined the Utah Valley Chamber.

“The quickest way to familiarize yourself with the people in an area is to go to Chamber meetings and work with people,” she said.

Altabank Business Accelerator

The Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce will soon be offering a program proven to help business owners create a strategic growth plan for their company and in crease their annual revenue.

Titled the Altabank Business Accelerator, the program will address topics such as strategy, sales, financial acumen, marketing and more. Participants will meet together for several weeks in what is essentially a mini MBA program — with each participating owner’s business as the case study.

“They take what they’re learning and apply it to their own business. It is where reality hits theory and they all come together to move the business forward,” said Terry Grant, president and CEO of AltabankTM

The Chamber will operate the program; Altabank is providing funding for startup and ongoing costs.

Grant said he spearheaded creation of a similar program for another chamber of commerce while working in the Salt Lake Valley. Statistics from that program proved its effectiveness: 70 percent

of business owners who completed the program saw their annual reve nue increase by 47 percent.

“What I found was it was a criti cal program that resonated with the small businesses that the chambers represent and really helped them get to the next level,” Grant said. “A lot of these people are very cre ative, but they need help in other areas to make it a whole, round, functioning business.”

When he joined the Altabank team, Grant approached Curtis Blair, president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber, about creat ing a business accelerator program in Utah Valley. The chamber agreed and is now bringing the final details together to operate the program with the hope of conducting its first class next spring.

The program is designed for businesses that are growing, have several employees and are earn ing about $1 million in revenue each year. It will be taught by the same teacher and utilize the same curriculum as the Salt Lake Valley accelerator.

“We have a proven curriculum,

we have a proven instructor, and we also have a proven program, so this is not just an experiment to see if it works or not. This is truly something where we have seen results in this state and know that it works,” Grant said.

The program requires that the business owner — not an em ployee — be the one to attend. Some owners have questioned how they can take time out of their busy schedules to participate in the program.

“The answer is, how can you not take time out of your business to do this, to take it to the next level?” Grant said.

The Utah Valley Chamber is currently signing people up for the first Altabank Business Accelerator course. For more information or to sign up, contact the Chamber at 385-482-2555 or info@thecham ber.org.

“It’s a really, really valuable program, and Altabank is just so pleased to be able to sponsor this and to help these small businesses really take their businesses to the next level,” Grant said.

Junior Achievement City

Utah County students will soon be operating their own mini city and, in the process, learning how to run a business, balance a bud get and obtain a job.

Known as Junior Achievement City, this hands-on learning experi ence is currently under construction at University Place in Orem thanks to a generous donation of space by the Woodbury Corporation.

JA City is part of Junior Achievement USA, a nationwide organization with a mission to inspire and prepare young people to succeed. Junior Achievement has more than 100 local JA Areas across the nation; it is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowl edge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their futures and make smart aca demic and economic choices.

A JA City has “storefronts” that students spend a day operating as if they were real businesses. Students also act as consumers, making purchases and creating household budgets. Local busi nesses sponsor these storefronts by donating funding as well as vol unteers who oversee the students activities.

Tentatively scheduled to open in early 2023, the Orem location will be Utah’s second JA City; the first currently operates inside the Dis covery Gateway Children’s Museum in downtown Salt Lake City and serves more than 19,000 students annually.

“What originally prompted us to build a second city here in Utah is our waiting list of more than 100 schools” at the Salt Lake City lo cation, said Christy Tribe, president

and CEO of Junior Achievement of Utah.

Junior Achievement’s three main areas of focus are financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneur ship. JA City offers curriculum for fifth-graders and eighth-graders.

Fifth-graders focus on work readiness and entrepreneurship, with the students spending several weeks in their school classrooms learning about writing resumes and working with check registers as well as marketing and general business practices. They also inter view for jobs within the JA City.

This culminates with a day spent at JA City where students work together in the various storefronts. They earn wages and can spend those wages on products in the city.

Tribe said the program expos es fifth-grade students to different careers and and helps get them excited about what they’re learning in school by showing them how it applies to real life.

The eighth-grade curriculum focuses on personal finances. After spending four weeks working with their school teachers on finance

skills, the students spend a day at JA City where they are given a life scenario that includes a yearly income and a number of family dependents.

They then go about trying to obtain necessities like housing, utilities and transportation with the goal of having a balanced budget at the end of the day.

It’s a real-world experience that shows students the difficulty of keeping to a budget, even if one makes a good wage. This, in turn, underlines the importance of staying in school and obtaining job training.

Volunteers from the community and from sponsoring business es help run the city and answer students’ questions. This allows students to interact with people who work in various types of jobs within the area.

With the help of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce, local businesses are being sought who would like to become a spon sor or a volunteer at the Orem JA City. For more information, contact Christy Tribe at 801-803-4920 or christy@ja-utah.org.

Initiatives

Chamber

Women’s Business Network

The Women’s Business Net work is a valley-wide initiative that empowers women to own, serve and collaborate with businesses in Utah Valley. It focuses on unifying, supporting and building our com munity through hosting community events and networking opportuni ties, utilizing accessible resources and developing professional skills.

“The WBN mission is to uni fy, build and support professional women by creating meaningful events, fostering connections and generously contributing to the local community,” states the organiza tion’s mission statement.

The WBN is a partner of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce, but those interested in participating in its activities need not be a mem ber of the Chamber. The Women’s Business Network is open to all business women in Utah Valley.

Donations made through WBN

events are used to fund collegiate scholarships for women who attend Utah Valley University or Brigham Young University as well as small business grants for women-owned businesses based in Utah Valley. It hosts larger events for its mem bers such as its popular holiday luncheon in December as well as online meetings and short working-

lunch-type trainings.

It also encourages its members to support other women’s group and chamber of commerce events.

For more information about joining the Utah Valley Women’s Business Network or its activities, visit thechamber.org/womens-busi ness-network/ or find the WBN on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

Diversity focuses on inclusion. Inclusion supports diversity. Equity is described as fairness that values diversity and inclusion.

The Utah Valley Chamber’s Di versity, Equity, Inclusion & Belong ing group focuses on expanding perspectives, increasing repre

sentation and supporting all back grounds in the business community as well as creating environments that have a variety of beliefs and backgrounds.

The chamber’s DEIB commit tee works to define what diversity, equity and inclusion look like for Utah County as well as help busi nesses implement DEIB programs in their organizations. The approach centers on promoting diversity of thought and creating a safe envi ronment where those thoughts can be expressed.

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