Advocacy Resources
Advocating for business — shaping policy and driving community impact.
Championing Bend’s Business Community
What is advocacy?
Advocacy is the act of speaking up, building relationships, and influencing policy to create a stronger business environment. At the Bend Chamber, advocacy means working with local, state, and federal leaders to ensure employers’ voices are heard, promote workforce and housing solutions, and support sustainable economic growth for Central Oregon.
Asking your community’s elected officials for permission to allow temporary street closures for outdoor dining.
Arranging a meeting with an elected official and then educating them about the value of investments to incentivize first time home ownership.
Partnering with government agencies to seek creative solutions to create more child care program.
Convening community leaders at times of natural disaster or human crisis to develop solutions for the community and promote healing.
Why advocacy matters?
Advocacy ensures the business community has a seat at the table—helping shape policies, strengthen our economy, and support Central Oregon’s future.
Build relationships
Build meaningful connections with leaders and policymakers to open doors, influence outcomes, and strengthen your organization’s impact.
Be a trusted resource
Position your organization as a reliable source of insight and guidance to help shape informed community and business decisions.
Share expertise
Share your expertise and data to help guide public policy decisions that support business growth and community well-being.
Advocacy resources
Resources for advocacy at any level of government from city council or school board to the state legislature and Governor’s office.
Explore key advocacy initiatives
Learn how the Chamber drives policy and supports local business.
Advocacy resources
Tools and guides for advocacy at every level, from city councils to the governor’s office.
Advocacy council
A board of diverse leaders who guide Chamber’s policy work and represent members in advocacy.
Federal issues
Tracking federal policies that impact local business, from infrastructure to regulation.
State issues
Advocating in Salem on laws, tax policy, worker benefits, housing, and workforce.
Local issues
Reviewing local codes, ordinances, and city decisions to support Bend’s businesses.
Workforce Housing Initiative
Supporting creation of more attainable housing to keep employees in Bend.
The Bend Chamber is actively supported by these Signature Investors
.avif)
