Economic Development

Since the inception of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce in 1914, one of the pillars of our mission has been the focus on economic development in the region. Early successes include spearheading the effort to build the Queensbury Hotel and assisting paper industry related companies such as Kamyr and others to locate here. In the most recent 35 years, the Chamber has implemented an extensive and comprehensive effort in creating a sustainable economic climate that benefits not only businesses already established, but to be a beacon to other companies who make this their home.

The ARCC was instrumental in the establishment of economic development organizations such as the Warren/Washington County Economic Development Corporation, (now the EDC Warren County) in the 1980’s and the Glens Falls Business Improvement District (BID) in 2005. To this day, the Chamber CEO is a board member of each of these organizations. The Chamber also encourages economic growth through business collaboration between members. This is highlighted through ‘buy local’ messaging and through the many diverse and unique networking opportunities held by the Chamber throughout Warren, Washington and northern Saratoga Counties.

The Chamber also recognizes the importance that information dissemination and education plays in the role of economic development. Through partnerships with the Small Business Administration/SCORE and the Small Business Development Center, we are proud to offer business counseling services and seminars to our members at little to no cost. Additionally, we partner with the Workforce Investment Board, the NYS Dept of Labor and both secondary and post-secondary educational institutions to develop the skills of our future workforce, ensuring our businesses will have the skilled labor they need to grow and thrive.

Another strategic pillar that the Adirondack Regional Chamber stands by is our vocal advocacy to ensure the continued economic growth of the region. The Chamber Board, CEO and other staff, continually meet with local, State and Federal elected leaders to address concerns that impact our local businesses. Most recently, the Chamber has worked closely with New York State Senator Betty Little, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, and other Chambers of Commerce to enhance the bicycle tourism industry in the region. Through meetings and demonstrations with Amtrak, there has been a willingness to allow bikes to be allowed on trains originating out of New York City on northern routes into the Adirondacks and beyond.

The Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce has always, and will always, have economic development as a key strategic pillar of our mission. Through our collaborations with other regional economic development entities,  we are confident that we can continue to build this area to become the leading economic region in the State.