Happy Chamber of Commerce Week! 

This week, October 19-23, 2026, join us in celebrating Chamber of Commerce Week in Texas! From hometown, main street chambers to collective, regional entities, Texas chambers are making a statewide impact. 

By expanding economic opportunities in their local communities through business expansion and retention efforts, workforce development initiatives, networking opportunities and tons of specialized services and resources, Texas chambers are supporting the backbone of our shared economy. In fact, small businesses make up 99.8% of all Texas businesses and those businesses employ nearly half of all working Texans! 

In Texas, economic development is a team sport. Collaboration with chambers of commerce makes our impactful work possible by acting as our "boots on the ground," providing entrepreneurs and businesses with opportunities to grow, create jobs and contribute to a bigger and better Texas for all. 

And, it's working! If Texas were a nation, we would rank as the 8th-largest economy in the world, valued at $2.9 trillion. Thanks to a pro-business climate, reasonable regulatory environment, lower business operating costs and no personal or state income tax — Texas is proudly the best state to start, grow and run a business. 

Driven by this decentralized approach, Texas chambers support their communities by wearing multiple hats as Economic Development Experts, Local Business Champions, Workforce Development Accelerators, Community Leaders and Business Connectors. 

It's an honor to share Governor Greg Abbott's official proclamation declaring this week as Chamber of Commerce Week in Texas! I'd also encourage you to check out the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE) website for resources and events this week. 

Sincerely,

Adriana Cruz
Executive Director
Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office
Office of the Governor