The future of business starts here. And you’re invited

While many are out enjoying everything that makes summer in Coeur d’Alene so special — lake days, outdoor concerts and time with family — our Chamber team is energized and focused, using these sunny months to lay a strong foundation for an impactful year ahead. From technology upgrades to new programs, we’re working to strengthen our business community and ensure that our members have the tools, connections and opportunities they need to thrive.

At the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber, our mission is rooted in one central goal: to foster a vibrant and resilient economy in North Idaho. This summer, we’re investing time and energy into building greater value for our members and our community and preparing for a future that meets the needs of a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Here’s what we’re working on:

1. Understanding the Next Generation

Through our Next Generation Community Engagement Project, we’re conducting both quantitative and qualitative research to better understand young professionals in our region — what drives them, how they want to connect and what they need from their community. The insights will guide how we support the leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers of tomorrow.

2. Reimagining Chamber Value

We’re actively engaging with our members to learn how we can evolve our service offerings. What challenges are keeping you up at night? What tools would accelerate your growth? We're developing new programs, resources and benefits that are directly informed by member input — to increase relevance, engagement and return on investment.

3. Establishing a Chamber Foundation

We’re building a 501(c)(3) foundation to unlock new funding sources and expand our community impact. This strategic move will help us support critical areas like workforce development, leadership education and civic participation — while creating more opportunities for member involvement and giving.

4. Upgrading Our Technology

We’re working on a major member portal/database migration project that will streamline operations, improve the user experience and allow us to better promote and connect our members. This upgrade will offer new flexibility, increased visibility for your business and a more personalized member experience.

5. Planning for a High-Impact 2026

Yes, we’re already thinking ahead. We’re curating a calendar of 2026 programs and events designed to be highly engaging, strategic and community-driven. From major regional conversations to targeted member training and networking, we’re designing every offering to deliver value.

6. Gearing Up for Our Busiest Season

Fall is around the corner, and with it comes a season full of opportunities — networking events, educational forums and visibility campaigns that help our members connect, grow and lead. Here are just a few:

• Business After Hours, Sept. 9, at Fatbeam Fiber

• Addressing Youth Mental Health Community Conversation, Sept. 11, at North Idaho College

• Beers and Brats Member Mixer, Oct. 2, at the CDA Regional Chamber

• Leadership Classic Golf Tournament, Sept. 19, at The Highlands Golf Course

• Breakfast Connect, Oct. 7, at The Coeur d’Alene Resort

• Fifth Annual Women’s Luncheon, Oct. 22, at The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7. Attracting the Modern Business

We’re also asking bold questions about how we reach the next wave of modern, tech-savvy, entrepreneurial businesses. With nearly 1,000 members, we’re proud of our impact — but data shows there are between 8,000 and 10,000 businesses in Kootenai County. How do we reach the other 90%? How do we shift outdated perceptions of chambers and evolve our offerings to meet the expectations of a tech-centered, globally-minded business owner?

This is a huge opportunity — and we’re leaning into it. We’re exploring how we adapt our voice, our tools and our value to attract these innovators, disruptors and high-growth companies. And we’re doing it by listening. If you’re a founder, a remote or retired leader or a digital entrepreneur, we want to hear from you.

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As a Chamber, we’re only as strong as the time, talent and treasure of our member community. With just four full-time employees, everything we do is amplified by the energy, involvement and leadership of people like you.

So, whether you’re a longtime member or new to the idea of what a chamber can be, now is the perfect time to engage.

Join us. Share your voice. Help us maximize our collective impact in North Idaho. Together, we’re building a business community that’s not only growing — but leading with vision and purpose. Contact us: www.cdachamber.com or email: [email protected].

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Linda Coppess is the CEO and president of the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber.

    Coppess