July 2025 Chamber Corner by jcchamber

JUlY 2025 JUlY 2025

Paishence Williams: Founder of Johnson City Social Club

FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO WELCOME

Dear Reader,

There’s a lot to be proud of in Washington County, and even more to look forward to. Each week, we’re inspired by the momentum our business community continues to build new ventures getting off the ground, long-standing members expanding, and local leaders stepping up to move our region forward.

At the Chamber, we see firsthand how valuable strong connections can be. Whether it’s a handshake at a networking event, a partnership that starts with a conversation, or a shared effort to solve a local challenge, collaboration is at the heart of what we do We’re proud to be a place where businesses of all sizes can come together to share ideas, build relationships, and access the tools they need to thrive.

If you haven’t been plugged in lately, now is a great time to reconnect. From upcoming programs and leadership opportunities to advocacy and member benefits, there’s always something happening and always a place for you at the table By working together, supporting one another and fostering meaningful connections, we can continue to build a business climate that fuels growth and opportunity for all in Washington County!

Bob Cantler | President/CEO

OURTEAM

Bob Cantler President/CEO

Lauri Hale Director of Finance & Operations

Elisa Britt Director of Leadership & Engagement

Hope Lewis Director of Talent & Brand Strategies

Caleb Tull Director of Membership & Business Dev

Black Communications Intern

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AvanteBootcampPitch

Avante is a program brought to the region by FoundersForge of Johnson City, Tennessee. These programs are offered to local startups and founders to foster a strong culture amongst businesses regionally and internationally Avante, being one of the most comprehensive startup bootcamps offered, allows future business leaders an opportunity to learn and connect alongside similarly scaled startups. It also connects founders to a national startup community of entrepreneurs and supporting organizations, like the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce, for continued support after the program ends In the past five years, FoundersForge and the Avante program have supported over 280 small businesses and tech startups. On June 9th, participants in the Johnson City Chamber's course gathered at Summit Leadership in Johnson City to pitch their business plans. Three founders were chosen to receive seed money from the Chamber.

First Place: Wannabet

Founded by Andrew Baxter, Wannabet is a casual betting among friends platform.

Second Place: Terra Nova 8, Founded by Cornell Monteith. Terra Nova 8 is a tiny home community for low-income housing with support services.

Third Place: Johnson City Social Club

Founded by Paishence Williams, curating events for millennials to build friendships and connections in local communities.

CHAMBER NEWS & UPDATES

Young Professionals Blood Drive

On June 9, YP of Johnson City collaborated with Marsh Regional Blood Center for Battle of the YP’s Blood Drive. As a thank you, participants received a limited time T-shirt and hat The final count was 25 total donations, reaching their goal! Thank you to everyone who donated and helped reach their goal YP Johnson City was able to take home first place in Battle of the YP’s.

Ballad Cancer Care Ribbon Cutting

First Horizon Women's Power Hour

On June 25, the Chamber hosted its quarterly Women's Power Hour, brought to you by First Horizon The hour included networking with local professionals and a Q&A panel with members of the First Horizon Women and Wealth Committee They spoke about the importance of maintaining a work/life balance and having a financial plan for the future While the event is a wonderful networking opportunity, it also fosters an inclusive and empowering environment for the women in attendance

Chamber Hosts Legislative Breakfast

On June 10, the Chamber welcomed its newest member, The Ballad Health Cancer Center of Johnson City TN. The event featured live music, guided tours, and delicious food, bringing together community members and healthcare professionals alike. Johnson City’s ongoing commitment to exceptional healthcare continues to set a high standard in our region. Thank you to everyone who supported and attended this event. We are grateful to be a part of this special milestone.

On June 25, the Chamber hosted their annual Legislative Breakfast at the Carnegie Hotel in Johnson City Tennessee. Attendees heard from Rep. Rebecca

Alexander, Rep. Tim Hicks, and Micheal Morelock. They gave updates from the latest legislative session in Nashville. Key points such as budget, disaster relief, and legislation were communicated throughout the presentation.