Public Policy & Advocacy
Advocacy is one of the most important reasons to become a member of the Knoxville Chamber. The combining of business resources and voices can have a tremendous impact on government policies and protect business interests.
It is also important that business men and women regularly communicate with elected officials. Only through that give-and-take can business protect its interests and continue the region's economic growth.
Public Policy
The Knoxville Chamber is not only the region’s largest chamber it is also the most vocal business organization. We have a dedicated staff person who is a registered lobbyist looking out for businesses’ interests in Nashville. We engage volunteers to use their personal relationships with elected officials to help influence decisions. And we depend on industry leaders to provide insight into how public policy will affect private enterprise. All these people come together to help make the Knoxville region a great place to start and grow a business.
Collective Action – Combining business voices can have a tremendous impact on government policy decisions and can protect business interests. Small and large businesses work better in the pubic arena when they work collectively, so we bring businesspeople together to learn about government actions and provide reasoned advice to decision makers.
Government Relations Events – You need to know your government representatives before you need them. The Chamber regularly organizes events with local, state, and federal elected officials to help you build those relationships and learn about the legislation and policies begin considered at the courthouse, Statehouse, and U.S. House and Senate. The Chamber hosts legislative briefings, meet-and-greets, and an annual Governor’s event.
Election Involvement – You and your co-workers can help make sure the people holding public office understand the importance of supporting business and job growth. Each year, the Chamber helps kickoff the campaign season with the wildly popular Peelin’ Pickin’ and Politickin’ Shrimp Boil, which brings candidate and businesspeople together in a fun casual atmosphere. We regularly schedule debates focusing on those issues most important to areas companies. In addition, we can help you encourage your co-workers to register to vote and go to the polls on Election Day.
To learn more about the Chamber's efforts in Public Policy and Advocacy, visit our website, knoxvillebusinessvoice.com.