Why Your Business Needs a Seat at the Table: The Power of Local Advocacy

August 6, 2025

IMG_1035

When it comes to shaping a strong business climate, success doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it takes collaboration, strategy, and a voice at the table. That’s where your Chamber comes in.

At Crossroads Chamber, we actively monitor legislative updates from Indianapolis and beyond, keeping our members informed and engaged in decisions that affect their bottom line. Whether it’s education reform, workforce development, or economic policy, we believe a strong business community begins with strong advocacy.

As the bridge between business and policy, we’re excited to highlight two upcoming events that illustrate this connection in action:


September 4, 2025 — 7th & 8th Grade Career Discovery
“Your Future, Your Choice: Careers with Skills & Degrees”
With new Indiana high school diploma requirements going into effect, we’re helping prepare the next generation of talent by introducing 7th and 8th graders to careers that require associate degrees, certifications, and technical training.

This event is hands-on and forward-thinking—connecting students with local professionals and career paths that align with both regional needs and evolving educational frameworks.

September 9, 2025 — Crossroads Chamber & CWI Breakfast
“Bridging Education and Workforce”
Join us for an exclusive breakfast with Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana’s first Secretary of Education, as she breaks down what the new diploma requirements mean for local employers and future workforce readiness.

With limited seating, this is a rare opportunity for business leaders to stay informed on state-level education policy—and get ahead of the curve on what’s coming next.


Advocacy in Action: Chamber Committees at Work

Voice of Business Committee
Acting as a liaison between the Chamber and legislative updates from Indianapolis, this committee plays a critical role in helping our members stay informed. It also sets the speaker schedule and sponsorships for our Coffee, Community & Connections series—keeping discussions relevant, timely, and impactful.

This year, the committee also launched the “Ask the Experts” virtual webinar series, held on the second Wednesday of each month, offering valuable insight from professionals across a range of industries.

Work Ready Committee
Our Work Ready Committee is dedicated to strengthening Northwest Indiana’s workforce and education ecosystem. Through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships, the committee helps:

  • Build a resilient talent pipeline
  • Align education with workforce needs
  • Promote business growth through talent attraction and retention

Together, these committees exemplify how the Chamber turns advocacy into action—and information into opportunity.

  • Build a resilient talent pipeline
  • Align education with workforce needs
  • Attract and retain top talent in our region
  • When you engage with the Chamber, you’re not just attending events—you’re shaping the future of our local economy.

Get Involved, Stay Informed

Now is the time to lean in. From shaping education policy to building tomorrow’s workforce, your voice matters. Be part of the conversation—and the solution. Register today for our upcoming events and make your voice heard.

Crown Point Community Foundation hosts impactful 2025 Nonprofit Academy Annual Conference

Crown Point Community Foundation hosts impactful 2025 Nonprofit Academy Annual Conference focused on collaboration, resilience, and sector growth. South Lake County - The Crown Point ...
Read More

Powers Health, Northwest Cancer Centers collaborate on cancer care hub

NORTHWEST INDIANA | Residents in Northwest Indiana have a new regional destination for cancer-related treatment and support. Powers Health and Northwest Cancer Centers on Thursday, Nov. ...
Read More

Congressman Frank Mrvan to Join Paladin for Grand Opening of New Adult Learning and Community Space

Michigan City, IN — Paladin, a Northwest Indiana nonprofit serving adults with disabilities, children, and seniors, is proud to announce the grand opening of its ...
Read More

Humane Indiana Wildlife Hosts 10th Annual “Festival of Owls” Fundraising Event at Porter County Expo Center

Valparaiso, IN – November 3, 2025 – Humane Indiana Wildlife invites families and owl enthusiasts to experience an unforgettable day at Festival of Owls, a ...
Read More

NIPSCO SHARES TIPS FOR CARBON MONOXIDE AWARENESS MONTH

MERRILLVILLE, Ind. – In recognition of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month in November, NIPSCO urges customers to beware of the “silent killer” that claims the lives ...
Read More

Girls on the Run Northwest Indiana announces name change, now Girls on the Run Indiana Crossroads

Griffith, IN (October 2025) – Girls on the Run Northwest Indiana, a nonprofit that empowers young girls, announced that it has changed its name to ...
Read More