An Independent Voice for the Local Community

Since I've been the President/CEO of the , I've fielded several questions from business people and others about whether we are affiliated with the US Chamber of Commerce... And the answer is a resounding "no, we are not." Our Chamber is neither a member ~ nor an affiliate of ~ the US Chamber.

The Palo Alto Chamber's focus is on local Palo Alto area issues and policies. While we may join with others to advocate for state or national policy in areas of local Santa Clara County concern, (e.g. education, local tourism, regional land use, water and transportation policies, state and local governance) the Palo Alto Chamber dedicates its efforts to matters in which it can have the greatest influence at the local level. For example, our Government Action Committee is tracking high speed rail and the rail corridor through Palo Alto as well as the wireless initiatives to improve coverage in Palo Alto.

Because the US Chamber of Commerce is a broad association predominantly made up of large businesses and industries and state-wide chambers of comemrce, its political positions tend to reflect the interest of large, multi-national corporations and traditional industry groups.

By contrast, our Chamber reflects the innovative, nimble business community that has become emblematic of Palo Alto's unique environment.