Forward Together

A Framework for Our Future

The Columbia Chamber believes in Columbia’s potential. Our region is growing and we must ensure that we are prepared for the accelerated pace of change.

We must choose to grow by choice, rather than chance.

It’s a moment and it’s a movement.

And it’s a future. Our future.

The Columbia Chamber and you. Forward, Together.

Approach

The Columbia Chamber has undergone a series of significant adjustments to strengthen its operations and build capabilities for the future. In early 2017, the Chamber convened nearly 100 regional stakeholders at two Foresight Labs to discuss and debate the trends most likely to impact the region’s future and ask, “How can we be ready for the future, and what’s the Chamber’s role?”

The participants at the Chamber’s Foresight Labs concluded that the Columbia Chamber has an important role to play in the region’s future prosperity. The results of the Labs were prioritized by the Chamber’s Executive Committee, and detailed by a Steering Committee comprised of Foresight Lab participants in collaboration with a team of professional futurists. The Columbia Chamber will utilize the strategic priorities listed below as a framework to guide the organization into the future.

Strategic Priorities

• Engage in building consensus around a shared vision for the future
• Elect and engage proactive and responsive leaders with a focus on accountability and transparency
• Create a pipeline to develop business leaders into strong community leaders
• Guide and influence issues to foster a favorable environment for business

View the Executive Summary of Forward Together

For questions about Forward Together, or any of the Chamber’s strategic initiatives, please
contact Henri Baskins at 803.733.1149.