GSAC Membership Guide Final (Digital)

Page 1


M E M B E R S H I P G U I D E 2025

A MESSAGE FROM OUR LEADERSHIP

PAT FROST

Since 1894, The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce has been THE voice of advocacy and advancement for the San Antonio business community We believe business is a force for good, and we continually work to move the collective thinking of our members into action for the betterment of our community as a whole

San Antonio is a city on the move. We were recently named one of “America’s Boomtowns,” and our population increased more in 2023 than any other major U.S. city.

As part of the burgeoning I-35 corridor, we’re poised to be a regional powerhouse. Working collaboratively and cooperatively with our members, government leaders, educational institutions, civic entities and other business organizations in the region, the Greater Chamber is poised and ready to move San Antonio to greater prosperity with greater opportunities and quality of life for all San Antonians

We invite you to join us in this effort and encourage you to use this guide as a road map to discover the many opportunities the Greater Chamber provides its members You CAN make a difference, and as you will see, there are a number of potential roles for you With councils ranging from Aerospace to Military to Education to Small Business and everywhere in between, along with multiple special events and other activities throughout the year, I encourage you to find a way to get involved and help us continue to be a Chamber of momentum. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to getting to know you and collaborating with you!

JEFF WEBSTER

PRESIDENT & CEO

San Antonio distinguishes itself as a city of remarkable character and opportunity. Its energetic growth, coupled with its enduring small-town charm, makes it a desirable environment for both residents and businesses alike. Furthermore, the city benefits from a vibrant and engaged business community renowned for its collaborative spirit in addressing pivotal issues crucial to our collective prosperity.

With over 40 years of experience in both private and public sectors, I understand the importance of the business community. The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce membership has strategically evolved, offering a more exciting and

beneficial experience In our dynamic economy and political climate, businesses require a strong advocate for supportive business policies, a platform to amplify their voices, and access to invaluable connections and resources As a member, you'll gain these benefits and unlock unique opportunities to set your business up for unparalleled success I invite you to join us and experience the transformative power of the Chamber for yourself, as we work together to advance San Antonio’s business community

ABOUT THE GREATER SAN ANTONIO CHAMBER

The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce is the preeminent voice of the business community and moves the collective thinking of our members into action. Since 1894 we’ve championed businesses to prosper and enhanced the quality of life for current and future residents by promoting our region’s rich culture along with its economic and civic well-being.

OUR VALUES

INTEGRITY

Always doing the right thing.

COLLABORATION

SERVICE

Working together for the good of all Demonstrating a commitment to others.

EXCELLENCE

Continuously working to improve

Mark Carmona, Chief Housing Officer, City of San Antonio, speaks at the annual SA to DC Fly-In during the Greater Chamber’s Housing Panel.

LET THE CHAMBER BE YOUR CHAMPION

To Grow Your Business

With the largest and most experienced Chamber team in South Texas including nationally recognized experts, we enable our members to gain access to people, businesses, information, the community, and capital The Greater Chamber offers regular networking functions ranging in size from 100 to 300 members in attendance. You have opportunities to learn about issues impacting the business community and provide leadership in our response.

To Amplify Your Business Voice

The Greater Chamber strives to provide a strong representative voice on important local, regional, state, and federal issues Through our membership Councils, we identify the most relevant issues for member companies, deepen our understanding, educate the membership, and advocate on behalf of the business community. We also reach 75,000 members of the community through our various communication and marketing vehicles, thereby providing more exposure than any other Chamber in South Texas.

To Foster Economic Prosperity

Economic prosperity depends on a vibrant business climate The Greater Chamber is working to ensure a favorable environment in which all businesses, small and large, can grow and prosper We actively advocate for our business community at the local, state, and federal levels of government. Business owners must contend with a variety of responsibilities, we work to make sure your business can operate in a climate that will help you thrive with our efforts in public policy and economic development. We are a resource for understanding what is happening in our community and how it can impact your business

To Develop the Community’s Future

The Greater Chamber brings together the resources of our members to support initiatives making a positive impact in our community today and in the future. In partnership with elected officials and education partners, we are helping to develop the talent pipeline as a highly trained and well-educated workforce is key to our community’s success. Participation in our councils, leadership programs and other initiatives builds your network and prepares you and your peers to move our community forward

We are the connectors of San Antonio business.

MEMBERSHIP HAS ITS BENEFITS

Gold Membership is perfect for small businesses looking to connect and grow their network

Invitation to attend one Quarterly Membership 101 event with photo opportunity and exposure through the Greater Chamber’s social media newsletter and website

Listing in business directory/member portal Membership decal

New member recognition in Chamber communications Opportunity to attend Greater Chamber events at Members Only pricing

Exclusive member discounts through the Member Rewards Program (Infintech and Office Depot)

Receive relevant members only information on San Antonio’s economy with analysis of possible impact on your business Complimentary entrance to Business Connections Mixers

Opportunity for participation of 1 individual in a Council

Unlimited copies of Relocation Guide for your place(s) of business

Share events on our Community Calendar

One free ribbon cutting/grand opening or milestone celebration at your location

Platinum Membership plaque

Complimentary entrance to Business Connections Mixers

Opportunity for participation of 2 individuals in a Council and Committee

Exclusive advertising opportunities through Greater Chamber communication vehicles with $500 marketing credit (to be used in first year of membership)

$100 credit toward a Small Business sponsorship (i e , display table) at a major event to be used one time annually

Chairman’s Circle Membership plaque

Chairman’s Circle member designation in the online Business Directory

Additional “same name” locations listed on the Business Directory (up to 10 total) that will also receive this level’s benefits

Opportunity for participation of up to 5 individuals in Councils

Exclusive advertising opportunities through Greater Chamber communication vehicles with $1000 marketing credit

Access to utilize space at the Greater Chamber’s FirstDay Foundation Briefing Center for up to 2 times each calendar year, depending on schedule availability

Exclusive invitations to receptions with community leaders

$250 credit for sponsorship of a major event (to be used in first year of membership, limited to Silver and above)

GOLD PLATINUM CHAIRMAN'S CIRCLE MAJOR/BOARD OF INVESTORS (BOI)
PREMIER INVESTORS

EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES

As San Antonio’s largest pro-business organization, we are proud to serve as a resource and offer a variety of ways to market your business Use the Chamber as a platform to share your story and utilize our tools as a part of your marketing strategy (Prices shown below are exclusive to Chamber members.)

CHAMBER TODAY

Stand alone ads will appear on Events & Chamber News pages

$250 week/page

SOCIAL WEB

Ads will appear on Chamber social media channels

$100 a post

E-Newsletter Ads: Your image is placed in a prominent position in the monthly e-newsletter, plus social media promotion

$500 Prominent Ad in Chamber Today

E-Newsletter Content: Your content in the body of our monthly e-newsletter.

$500 Article $250 Event with 100word description

Marketing credits can be applied toward marketing opportunities Contact Gabriella Salinas, Design and Social Media Specialist, at gsalinas@sachamber org or 210-229-2112

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

The Greater San Antonio Chamber is pleased to offer a community calendar that aligns with our mission of being the preeminent voice of the business community. We invite you to submit your community events enabling you to reach an audience numbering in the thousands and learn about the many great events happening in and around the Alamo City

STAY CONNECTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA

EVENTS WITH IMPACT

CHAMBER EVENTS

Mayor Ron Nirenberg delivers his annual United State of the City address to a sold-out crowd of over 700 attendees

Join us at Greater Chamber events to meet other professionals and learn about business-critical issues in and around the San Antonio area. (And, have fun, too.)

By investing in our various events, ranging from the State of the City and Doing Business in San Antonio to Celebrating America’s Military (CAM) and SA to DC, you will build relationships with civic and business leaders, develop business leads, generate brand awareness and position your organization as a good corporate citizen - all of which will help you meet your business goals

To learn more, visit sachamber.org/events or contact us at events@sachamber.org or (210) 229-2129.

Scan here to learn more about the Greater Chamber’s events!

Take a look at our Special Events Guide!

“The Chamber has opened doors and made it really easy for me to be able to put myself out there and utilize the network for advice, for partnership, and for business growth.”
Melissa Holden

ENGAGE & ADVOCATE

The Greater Chamber’s advocacy and impact work happens through Councils, which convene and connect business and community leaders to fuel the growth and vitality of the region We engage various institutions, industries, organizations, and individuals to energize the business community and promote opportunities that drive change.

These volunteer-led workgroups lead collaboration among member businesses by gathering to discuss issues and lead initiatives that will move the business community forward. Our worldclass staff is central to our successful engagement, as they facilitate the Councils, supporting our volunteers and moving initiatives forward while achieving measurable outcomes

While not required, membership in a Council is a great way to stay engaged with the Chamber, enabling you to fully leverage your membership. It also offers a valuable return on investment by allowing you to contribute to the Chamber's ongoing efforts to make San Antonio a better place to live, work, and play.

As the primary voice of business in our city, the Chamber mobilizes members to promote and drive important initiatives that benefit our region’s business environment. This work is primarily accomplished through our Councils. Scan here to learn more about the various Councils to which you can lend your expertise as a member of the Greater Chamber!

COUNCILS

PUBLIC POLICY COUNCIL

As the premier voice of the business community, the Public Policy Council connects member companies with key stakeholders at all levels of government to advocate for pro-business policies that ensure the prosperity and economic growth for our region while maintaining a great quality of life for all.

President & CEO Susann Kazunas and Representative Ray Lopez

Most businesses lack the resources, time, relationships and/or clout to advocate for supportive policy independently. We inform our members about policy developments through regular updates in meetings and newsletters. We also host events, workshops, and candidate forums to provide insights into policymaking and equip our members with the knowledge they need to engage effectively

The Greater Chamber engages public and private sectors to position our region for economic leadership and competitiveness By joining forces with other business and industry organizations, we strengthen our collective impact and increase our ability to influence policy decisions directly impacting the business community.

MILITARY AFFAIRS COUNCIL

The Military Affairs Council engages the greater San Antonio community and especially its business community to demonstrably celebrate, support, maintain, and grow the military presence in San Antonio.

For more than 130 years, the Greater Chamber has worked to create a business-friendly climate while focusing on passionate and sustained support for our military installations and service members Our Military Affairs Council works year-round to support the men and women of our armed forces ensuring they know their community recognizes and celebrates the sacrifices they and their families make in support of our nation and our community.

*JBSA is the largest joint base in the Department of Defense (DOD).

We are the change makers of San Antonio business.
President and CEO Jeff Webster alongside Representative John Lujan, Toyota Texas Manufacturing
at the 2025 Legislative Reception
President and CEO Jeff Webster pictured alongside Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) Military leaders at the 2024 Hail & Farewell Reception

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

Connecting business with education to build local talent is more important than ever before. The Chamber’s Education and Workforce Development Council mobilizes the business community to be more engaged partners in education and workforce development, helping to drive regional economic success These partnerships help expand access to higher education, provide meaningful work-based learning opportunities, and support homegrown talent to secure our future

Our community needs its skilled workforce to grow We support the development of programs to up-skill today’s job-seekers and provide employers with the workers they need. Our mission is to develop workforce talent for our region, advocate for innovative and successful education initiatives, encourage meaningful academic and business partnerships, and connect the workforce with employers

DOING BUSINESS SAN ANTONIO COUNCIL (ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT)

This Council is comprised of business leaders and key community stakeholders who advance critical industries and jobs across our region. The Council is the one place where economic development leaders dissect trends to identify needs and opportunities for growth, while setting a solid foundation for the years ahead This group facilitates candid discussions on barriers to growth, examines options for public policy advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, and focuses on business retention and expansion

Congressman Joaquin Castro speaks to participants of the annual SA to DC visit
The Education and Workforce Development Council hears from HOLT Group President & Chief Administrative Officer Corinna Holt Ritcher

AEROSPACE COUNCIL

The Aerospace Council convenes the region’s aviation and space industry to raise the profile of the sector in San Antonio and across the state Business and civic leaders come together through this forum to enable industry growth, create jobs, and develop a trained and ready workforce through strategic planning, partnering within the sector and across industries, and through policy advocacy

CYBERSECURITY COUNCIL

Did you know San Antonio is the second largest cyber hub in the United States? The Cybersecurity Council convenes and connects the local cybersecurity and information technology industry, which has the secondlargest concentration of cybersecurity professionals in the nation. The Council is committed to growing the industry, and ensuring we have a world-class workforce for decades to come. This Council is the city’s most effective forum for cybersecurity and technology professionals and organizations seeking to enhance their capabilities, develop the next generation workforce, and improve the resiliency of our community.

HEALTHCARE COUNCIL

The Healthcare Council connects and advances the healthcare community and its related industries in the region through the effectivemobilizationofresourcestoclosegaps,developthetalent pipeline and ultimately realize better health outcomes for all residents.

As a leading employer and a vital economic generator with impact of $44.1 billion, San Antonio’s healthcare industry is one of the region’s leadingindustries.

“Whether addressing transportation issues, water supply, education, or economic development, the Greater Chamber continues to move the needle in a positive direction. This city would not be where it is today without the leadership and involvement of the Greater Chamber.”

Dawson
2025 Cybersecurity Chair, Eduardo Bravo, Co-Founder & COO of Irys, at the Alamo ACE Conference
Healthcare Council Chair Jimena Saenz and council members tour the Bexar County Emergency Operations Center
Aerospace Committee leaders meet with Casey Swalis, NASA Deputy Associate Administrator, at the 2024 SA to DC trip

COUNCILS

INFRASTRUCTURE COUNCIL

The Infrastructure Council works with the city, state and federal government on a range of issues from transportation and regional mobility to online connectivity, energy, and natural resources It identifies commonsense solutions and financing mechanisms for critical infrastructure projects that support our rapidly growing population, provide regional economic development opportunities, and enhance our quality of life The Council also advocates for strategies and regional priorities that serve our members’ interests and convenes stakeholders to share valuable information and insights.

SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL

The Small Business Council gathers small businesses and small business advocates to discover ways to accelerate the growth of companies across the region. The Council identifies challenges, examines solutions and recommends advocacy approaches to help small businesses succeed It is the primary conduit for alerting Greater Chamber members to emerging programs that support small businesses, and it provides a way for members to shape policy aimed at helping business owners and companies, offering a valuable return on investment for business owners

*The Greater San Antonio Chamber has over 1,200 small business members –more than any other chamber’s total membership in San Antonio - and about 70% of our total membership.

Small Business Council Chair Jana Berton, President and CEO of TriStarr Talent, updates the council on ongoing initiatives
The Infrastructure Council works with the city, state and federal government on a range of issues related to transit, highways, aviation and railways

SENIOR ENLISTED ADVISORY COUNCIL

The Senior Enlisted Advisory Council is a forum for select Senior Enlisted Leaders from all military branches to communicate across service lines with business and community partners to support organization leaders, address challenges to the quality of life for our service members, and share resources between the business and military communities

CELEBRATE AMERICA’S MILITARY COUNCIL

Since 1970, the Chamber has hosted its annual salute to the military in Military City, USA, which occurs in early to mid-November and involves more than 35 events. The CAM Council coordinates, executes, and promotes multiple events to highlight servicemen and women across all branches of service, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and Space Force All of the events are free to Active, Guard, and Reserve military service members and showcase the great appreciation San Antonio has for their service and dedication This includes our invaluable military partners within Joint Base San Antonio and its eight other operating locations with more than 200 mission partners

AMBASSADOR COUNCIL

Ambassadors provide ceremonial assistance to members at commemorative events such as grand openings, re-dedications, and groundbreakings Participation as an Ambassador provides opportunities for business networking and community outreach

*The Greater San Antonio Chamber features the largest Ambassador program, providing primary access to key decision-makers within the community.

We are the advocates for San Antonio business.
Area military service members enjoying a photo opportunity at the Spirit of America Dinner
Fellow ambassadors welcome new members with a dedicated ribboncutting ceremony
Michael Guerra, Chief Resource Officer, San Antonio Food Bank, and Lisa Brunsvold, San Antonio Area Foundation, talk food insecurity
2025 Senior Enlisted Advisory Council Co-Chairs, Dr Chaunté Hall and Command Sergeant Major Jerimiah E Gan, alongside Greater San Antonio Chamber Military Affairs team

KEY LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES

EXECUTIVE CONNECTIONS SAN ANTONIO (ECSA)

Designed for executives with companies at the Board of Investors level and above, Executive Connections San Antonio is a small-group immersion into the region's critical issues, introducing participants to top community leaders actively addressing these challenges in a unique and intimate setting Participants gain a deep understanding of our region’s formal and informal decision-making channels within its economic, political, and civic structure. Additionally, the program aims to support the group in establishing relationships with fellow executives new to the region and fostering a strong sense of community.

LEADERSHIP SAN ANTONIO (LSA)

LSA was created in 1975 by the Greater San Antonio Chamber to help identify and develop community leaders and is now considered the premier program for existing and emerging leaders in their industries and career fields. The program, one of the first of its kind in Texas, has graduated more than 2,000 participants and focuses on delivering these leaders an opportunity to develop an understanding of the promise and challenges of our community.

Not only does LSA contribute to participants’ personal and professional development, but it also helps them build their network and prepares them to serve our community Participants routinely say LSA was a transformational experience in terms of getting to the next level in their careers and getting involved in the community

Texas State Senator Jose Menendez, Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Chamber President and CEO Jeff Webster
Greater San Antonio Chamber launched a new leadership program designed for C-Suite executives
LSA seeks a diverse group of business leaders dedicated to serving their community

KEY MILITARY INITIATIVES

SUPPORTING MILITARY FAMILIES SAN ANTONIO (SMF.SA)

Launched in June 2024, SMFSA is a groundbreaking initiative designed to enhance the quality of life for military personnel and their loved ones, focusing on key priorities identified by senior military leaders and families SMFSA will secure support and connect valuable existing resources to address critical needs such as healthcare accessibility, military spouse employment, and service member transition into the civilian workforce In response to feedback from our community leaders and military families, we have two initial primary focus areas – Healthcare and Military Spouse Support.

TEXAS COALITION OF DEFENSE COMMUNITIES (TCDC)

During Texas' 86th Legislative Session, the Greater San Antonio Chamber launched the Texas Coalition of Defense Communities (TCDC). The Chamber created the TCDC to take a collective approach to advocating for policies, legislation, and initiatives that impact military missions –active, guard, and reserve Texas’ military installations, infrastructure and personnel generate more than $136 6 billion to the state’s economy and make invaluable contributions to national security

TCDC partners include civic and business leadership of Texas’ militaryconnected communities and organizations that best represent the most active and engaged members from a business, industry, and economic development perspective

Want to become involved?

Scan here to learn more about the various initiatives you can become involved with as a member of the Greater San Antonio Chamber!

We are the leaders of San Antonio business.
New Greater San Antonio Initiative supports Military families in the San Antonio region
Greater San Antonio Chamber launches the Texas Coalition of Defense Communities (TCDC) alongside elected state representatives

MAKE THE MOST ROI OUT OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP

Withapproximately1,600members,theGreaterSanAntonioChamberisthelargestandmost influentialpro-businessorganizationinSanAntonio.Nearly70%ofourmembershipismadeup ofsmallbusinessowners.

Havingastrong,powerfulcollectivevoiceandnetwork gives an advantage only the Greater San Antonio Chambercanoffer.

Attend a Greater San Antonio Chamber Networking Event

While you have many networking and marketing channels at your fingertips, nothing can replace meeting someone face-to-face and building a personal relationship or being associated with a trusted business resource.

Engage with your Business Community

Becoming a member of the Greater Chamber is just the beginning. As the primary voice of business in our city, the Chamber mobilizes members to promote and drive important initiatives that benefit our region We encourage you to join a council or committee and add your voice to the growing business community in San Antonio.

Utilize the Marketing Opportunities at your Fingertips

Use the Chamber as a platform to share your story and utilize our tools as a part of your marketing strategy Our digital platforms and annual events reach over 75,000 individuals Members enjoy exclusive pricing, and the membership marketing credits can be applied to many of these opportunities.

Invest in your Personal and Professional Development

Build your skills (or those of your employees) and your network, while building lasting relationships with key business and community leaders as a part of our leadership and military initiatives

“Being a member of the Greater San Antonio Chamber provides the opportunity to network with local business, the fulfillment of giving back to your community, and has helped our organization financially succeed.”

Todd Bufalino

Accurate Pest Control

ACCESS

FFERS SOLUTIONS TO YOUR REAL ISSUES...

ility of your business and brand through direct networking with other business ners through attendance at our many events.

the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce instantly lends credibility to your and. Aligning yourself with our institution signifies a commitment to excellence and ring trust among clients, partners, and stakeholders alike

spect base, meet new customers directly, develop synergy with other business ge in community problem solving, and develop top-of-mind awareness with ngaging in Chamber committees and councils.

THE SAN ANTONIO COMMUNITY FORWARD.

Gain unparalleled access to influential leaders, industry experts, and decision-makers across various sectors through our extensive network and exclusive events Forge meaningful connections, unlock new opportunities, and gain insights that can shape the trajectory of your business and career

INFLUENCE

You are a thought leader within your industry. Join our committees and councils and shape the agenda tackling the issues facing our region. Engage with others in leadership programs, and bring your expertise to the table

RESOURCES

Need an introduction? Through your GSACC membership, you have access to a staff highly trained in fostering connections and making introductions. Utilize our web portal and your Info Hub to reach your future customers and clients!

OUR STELLAR STAFF

JEFF WEBSTER

President & CEO

210-229-2130

KATIE FERRIER

Vice President, Public Policy & Economic Development, Senior Policy Advisor

210-229-2134

BRYAN LOGAN

Vice President, Military Affairs & Senior Military Advisor

210-229-2122

JOANNA WEIDMAN

Senior Vice President, Administration & Operations

210-229-2115

ANGELA MCCLENDON JOHNSON

Vice President, Education, Workforce & Leadership

210-229-2199

CAROLINA CALDERON

Vice President, Special Events

210-229-2129

JIM SCHEELE

Vice President, Membership Retention & Engagement

210-229-2163

JESSE CAZARES

Director, Image & Communications

210-229-2112

A CHAMBER WITH IMPACT

VIEW OUR 2024 ANNUAL REPORT

NOTES

The Greater San Antonio Chamber

602 E Commerce St

San Antonio, TX 78205

Phone: (210) 229-2100

Fax: (210) 229-1600

Website: sachamber.org

Facebook: @greatersachamber

Instagram: @greatersachamber

X: @gr8tersachamber

LinkedIn: /Greater San Antonio Chamber

#WeMeanBusiness

Membership Guide designed by Shannon Communications Group, LLC

Website: shannoncomms com

Facebook: @shannoncomms

Instagram: @shannoncomms

LinkedIn: /Shannon Communications Group

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.
GSAC Membership Guide Final (Digital) by The Greater San Antonio Chamber - Issuu