The Government Relations Council

"Business is great in Santa Barbara, and Santa Barbara is great for business"

The Santa Barbara Region Chamber of Commerce is a California non-profit corporation. The organization was founded in 1878 and incorporated in 1899. The Chamber is a business association representing some 2,000 local businesses. Governed by a 20 person volunteer board of directors and managed by a professional staff, the chamber operates a visitor center and a resource center. The Chamber's mission is to foster a vibrant economy and improve the quality of life for all who live and work in the region. Through it’s programs the Chamber generates more than $80 million in annual local business referrals. The chamber visitor center hosts 300,000 annual customers. The chamber website generates 14,000 hits per day. The Santa Barbara Chamber is the oldest and largest business organization in the Tri-County Region. In 2008, the Chamber will sponsor a trade mission to China, a speaker’s conference, an expanded virtual business environment, radio and television programs, a book and author festival and youth mentoring opportunities.

Santa Barbara Votes!

The Government Relations Council [GRC] is open to all members of the chamber. The council is responsible for evaluating local legislation and government projects that may impact local business. The Council takes positions and makes recommendations to the Board. The Council works for and supports responsible and cost effective government. The Council meets monthly.