Inaugural Class Advances from Advocacy Academy
Power of Chambers
The Academy opened last fall with a half-day in-person meeting at CalChamber. The agenda that day included a look at “The Power of Chambers & the California Business Policy Landscape,” featuring welcome remarks from Assemblymembers Joe Patterson and Josh Hoover. Other presentations included an overview of CalChamber’s Affordability Agenda from President and CEO Jennifer Barrera, legislative updates, and a deep dive into the evolving business policy climate.
Academy participants progressed through six dynamic virtual sessions covering state legislative processes, regulatory frameworks, priority policy issues, and the growing importance of chamber-led advocacy. The Academy also included interactive discussions on top business concerns, the role of chambers in shaping policy solutions, and group policy projects allowing participants to apply what they learned.
The program culminated in a session on “Coalition Building, Candidate Engagement & Civic Leadership,” focusing on developing long-term political influence, strengthening regional coalitions, and best practices for political action committee (PAC) engagement and pro-business candidate support.
The final two days in Sacramento (February 25–26) featured a Capitol tour, legislative briefings, group presentations, and a graduation ceremony led by CalChamber President Barrera.
Inspiration
Among the graduates was Lucy Lopez, president and CEO of the Hayward Chamber of Commerce, who shared the profound impact of the experience:
“Attending the CalChamber Advocacy Academy was a turning point for me as a Chamber CEO,” said Lopez. “It didn’t just teach me policy — it helped me find my voice and confidence as an advocate, and a more effective leader for the community I serve. I now find myself eagerly stepping into policy conversations and becoming more intentional about connecting local issues to the bigger picture. I am inspired by my cohort and grateful for the educators who challenged and equipped us. Thank you, CalChamber!”
Commitment
“California’s business climate depends on strong, informed, and unified advocacy,” said CalChamber Vice President of Small Business Advocacy Rana Ghadban. “This inaugural cohort demonstrated exceptional commitment to learning the legislative process, championing their local business communities, and strengthening the statewide network of chamber advocates.”
Next Cohort
Building on the success and momentum of the inaugural class, the next California Business Advocacy Academy cohort will launch in October 2026. Details on applications, session dates, and program enhancements will be released later this spring.
CalChamber congratulates all graduates and looks forward to the continued impact they will make in communities across California.