By Kristen Brown, Executive Director
I am excited and honored to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce. With deep roots in Santa Cruz County – working alongside electedofficials, serving as an elected official myself, and collaborating with nonprofit and community organizations – I am committed to the growth, success, and vitality of our local businesses and our community.
For over 130 years, the Chamber has been a driving force in advocating for businesses, fostering economic growth, and strengthening community connections. As we look to the future, my vision is to build on this legacy by expanding our membership, deepening our engagement throughout the region, and enhancing the events and programs that provide valuable opportunities for networking, professional development, and collaboration. To achieve this, we must continue strengthening the Chamber’s role as a connector, advocate, and resource for businesses and the community.
The Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce represents a diverse range of businesses, from small home-based ventures to large organizations with over 200 employees. Our members span the entire county, from Davenport and Boulder Creek in the north to Santa Cruz and Capitola on the coast, and to Freedom and Watsonville in the south. We are proud to be the tenth-largest business organization in Northern California, with a history of service dating back to 1889. Our longest-standing member has been with us since 1920, and our Board is composed of dedicated volunteers committed to the region’s prosperity.
The Chamber serves as a bridge between businesses, workers, residents, community organizations, and local governments, fostering partnerships that strengthen the local economy and improve quality of life.
Advocacy is central to our mission, and we work closely with city and county leaders, business owners, and community groups to support policies that promote economic growth, sustainable development, and community well-being. Addressing key issues such as housing, transportation, and workforce development ensures that Santa Cruz remains a vibrant, forward-thinking place to live, work, and play.
Santa Cruz businesses – large and small – are the backbone of our community, and the Chamber is dedicated to providing resources, connections, and strategic support to help them thrive. Through education, outreach, networking, and advocacy, we strive to create an environment where businesses can succeed, knowing that when businesses flourish, the entire community benefits. Our dynamic lineup of events throughout the year reflects this commitment, offering valuable opportunities for engagement and growth. These include the Annual Community Recognition Awards Gala, the upcoming Forks, Corks & Kegs Festival on May 17th, a Golf Tournament, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, Business After Hours networking mixers, luncheons, and educational workshops.
Another key initiative is our annual Community Leadership Visit (CLV), where local leaders travel to cities facing similar challenges to explore innovative solutions in economic development, housing, sustainability, and business growth. This year, our delegation visited San Luis Obispo, engaging with their Chamber of Commerce, touring the thriving downtown, visiting the Cal Poly Tech Park, learning about new housing developments, and discussing clean energy management at the Diablo Canyon Power Plant. These visits provide critical insights that help shape strategies in Santa Cruz while fostering collaboration among local decision-makers.
As I take on this role, my priority is to ensure that the Chamber remains a powerful advocate and resource for local businesses. This means expanding support for businesses at every stage of growth, strengthening our advocacy efforts on issues that impact our community and economy, bringing practical solutions to community challenges, and deepening partnerships across industries and sectors to create new opportunities.
The Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce exists to serve our businesses, organizations, and residents. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a community leader, or someone who cares about the future of Santa Cruz, I encourage you to get involved. Learn more about how we can work together at SantaCruzChamber.org or feel free to reach out to me directly at [email protected].
Comcast is proud to sponsor this column, which features the great work of non-profit groups supporting the Santa Cruz community.
