The California Chamber of Commerce has chosen the Redlands Chamber of Commerce as the inaugural winner of its Chamber of the Year Award, in recognition of the local organization’s outstanding leadership in community engagement, economic development and advocacy.
“They are tireless advocates, co-sponsoring legislation at the city, county, and state levels, ensuring local businesses have a voice where it matters most,” said CalChamber 2025 Chair Maryam Brown. “Their Leadership Redlands program is developing the next generation of civic and business leaders, offering immersive experiences that connect people to the very heart of the community.”
The award was presented June 4 at the California Business Outlook Dinner, part of a day-long gathering of leaders from communities throughout the state. The audience included representatives of business, local chambers of commerce, state legislators, government entities and international partners,
Among other achievements, the award acknowledges the Redlands Chamber, which has 559 member businesses, for:
- Its mission to serve its members through Workforce, Economic, and Leadership Development (W.E.L.D.) In the past year, the Redlands Chamber has placed more than 17 individuals into jobs, and more than 400 people since 2022.
- The New Beginnings Program, which helped more than 30 formerly homeless individuals find jobs, transforming their lives and futures.
- Leadership Redlands, a program that is developing the next generation of civic and business leaders by connecting them to hands-on community projects.
- Energizing the Redlands community by hosting 108 ribbon cuttings, three job fairs and community celebrations like the Dog Jog and the free New Year’s Eve Orange Drop (attracting more than 5,000 attendees).
- Revitalizing local tourism through Visit Redlands, producing the city’s first printed map in five years and earning two historic preservation awards with a new lobby. Event ticket sales increased 12%, year over year, and the Redlands Chamber website had a record 87,000 visits.
Business owners and community members speak passionately about how the Redlands Chamber has empowered their businesses, careers and connection to the community:
- Joe Genua, owner of Lappert’s Ice Cream Redlands: “Being a member has provided me with invaluable networking opportunities, connecting me with other local businesses, potential clients, and resources that have helped my business grow…The Chamber ensures that our voice is heard in local government and beyond. It works tirelessly to create a business-friendly environment.”
- Drew & Zach Douglass, owners of JunkDawgs, cite the support of the Redlands Chamber in taking advantage of San Bernardino County’s on-the-job training (OJT) program. They say the program “has alleviated some of that anxiety when bringing on new hires by providing an excellent training platform for them in San Bernardino County. We eagerly anticipate ongoing support from the OJT program and plan to integrate it for every new hire with our company.”
- Gabe Brown, graduate of Leadership Redlands, Class of 2024: “This new version of the program provides unprecedented access to the people and organizations that shape and operate the various aspects of what makes the city of Redlands special. It also connects you to a growing network of passionate, forward-thinking leaders that will be your partners, advisors, and mentors in this ongoing journey.”
Award Criteria
To be eligible for the award, chambers must have a proven track record of programs that benefit their local business communities. They also must show commitment to economic development, advocacy, and innovative strategies that drive business success.
Judging included both an in-depth application review and a public voting component, making this recognition one the chamber earned both by their work and by the support and admiration of their community.
