Leaders say the region’s chamber of commerce is planning a variety of strategies and events to help businesses in Poway, Rancho Bernardo and 4S Ranch thrive in 2024.
Chris Thorne, CEO of the North San Diego Chamber of Commerce, said one of the challenges local businesses will face in the new year is adapting and embracing new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
“One of the most important challenges facing businesses of all sizes is the imperative to quickly adapt to an ever-evolving technology environment,” said Thorne. “In 2024, the rapid adoption of AI technology will change the business landscape from large enterprises to small businesses. Artificial intelligence will increase productivity, streamline processes, and revolutionize the customer experience. can bring.
“However, this digital shift will require companies not only to invest in cutting-edge technology, but also to upskill their employees to take full advantage of the potential of these advances.”
This digital transformation has been further complicated by rapid changes in the regulatory environment at the local, state and federal levels, he said.
“As AI technology becomes increasingly integral to business operations, regulatory guidance is adapting in parallel,” Thorne said. “Addressing these evolving frameworks requires a proactive approach from businesses to ensure compliance while maximizing the benefits of technological innovation.”
Thorne said the Rancho Bernardo-based Business Chamber stands ready to help its members stay abreast of these changes through educational programs and advocacy.
One example is the new Cyber & Technology Advisory Board, which aims to help business leaders and companies of all sizes have a voice in understanding the evolving technology landscape, Thorne said.
President Mike Leland said government regulation is also a focus for the Poway Chamber in 2024.
“There are certainly headwinds for doing business in California, primarily on the tax and regulatory side,” Leland said. “The budget deficit projections just released by the City of Sacramento are certainly concerning, and we are monitoring this closely to see how this will impact businesses and schools.”
The Poway Chamber of Commerce does a lot of advocacy on behalf of its members and the broader business community, Leland said. One way he says he does that is by joining an effort led by the California Chamber of Commerce. The Poway Chamber of Commerce also works with corporate partners to oppose job-killing legislation and other regulations that harm businesses.
Economic impact is also an area of focus for the Poway Chamber of Commerce.
“On the positive side, it’s encouraging that interest rates have stabilized and could start to fall in 2024, and that inflation is mostly under control,” Leland said.
The economy is also a concern for NSDBC.
“Companies will continue to face persistent challenges in attracting and retaining skilled talent in 2024,” Thorne said. “A notable concern is the housing affordability crisis in the region, which is contributing to housing insecurity among our workforce.
“The high cost of living in San Diego County creates a disconnect between work locations and employee housing,” he says. “This cacophony poses a formidable challenge for employers seeking workforces who cannot afford housing near their workplaces.”
Thorne said the chamber’s advisory committee meets monthly to discuss key topics and adopt positions on related pending and future legislation.
He also said that companies need to take advantage of opportunities related to sustainability, both as a matter of corporate responsibility and as a positive economic imperative.
“Sustainable practices are not only about reducing environmental impact, but also promoting long-term business resilience,” Thorne said. “Companies that embed sustainability into their operations will gain a competitive edge, appeal to an increasingly conscious consumer base, and achieve cost savings through increased efficiency.”
To support this, the Chamber has a Sustainability Advisory Committee that puts businesses on the path to sustainability by sharing best practices, providing educational resources, and actively shaping legislative action. He said he is dedicated to leading.
“The goal is to build a business community that not only thrives through sustainable practices, but also serves as a strong partner to the communities in which we live and work,” Thorne said.
The North San Diego Chamber of Commerce also continues to be at the forefront of advocating and supporting businesses in our dynamic and resilient community, he said.
“The dual challenges of technological advancement and workforce dynamics require a collaborative effort,” Thorne said. “The Chamber promotes employee-friendly environments that guide companies through the maze of technological advances and address real challenges faced by employees, such as the need for affordable housing and safe living conditions. I am committed to doing so.”
The Poway Chamber of Commerce continues to grow its membership, Leland said, fueled by the connections established between chamber members and the business community.
“With this growth as inspiration, we will not only continue to visibly evolve as a membership-driven organization in 2024, but also grow as individuals, improve ourselves, and in turn serve Poway and the local business community.” “We look forward to continuing to evolve by improving the “beyond that,” he said.
The Poway Chamber of Commerce plans to build on a number of programs that have seen growth in 2023. Leland said this not only includes membership growth, but active membership has reached record numbers over the past year. 10 years,” but with more dynamic committees and networking groups.
“Both business and personal relationships have built and blossomed over the past year,” Leland said.
Its nonprofit board continues to thrive, connecting more than 50 nonprofits and charities with businesses and individuals seeking to positively impact their communities. The 2023 Poway Fall Festival had a record attendance of nearly 12,000 people and also embraced the new Shop Poway Chamber program, where local residents purchased $25 gift certificates redeemable at participating businesses.
“I look forward to seeing how this program continues to perform in the new year as awareness grows,” Leland said.
“As always, the Poway Chamber’s mission has been to strengthen the prosperity of our members and the business community by providing leadership, education, advocacy and networking,” Leland said. “Building on this foundation, we have been and continue to be community-focused and business-driven.”
He said the Poway Chamber of Commerce also works very closely with Poway city officials, so “we have an open line of communication to address any issues or opportunities that arise for Chamber members or the business community at large.” said.
Among other focuses for the North San Diego Chamber of Commerce, Thorne said it is committed to fostering an environment that fosters growth and innovation.
“Priorities for 2024 include strengthening digital literacy among our member companies and fostering cross-industry collaboration to address common challenges,” Thorne said. “Furthermore, the Chamber plays a vital role in advocating for policies that support workforce development and sustainability practices, ensuring a robust business ecosystem for years to come.” We aim to do so.”
Leaders from both chambers said organizations from both chambers will host the event to support regional business development.
North San Diego Business Chamber’s signature events include the San Diego Business Summit on January 17th and San Diego Women’s Week from February 26th to March 1st. A business gala and the San Diego Military Summit are scheduled to follow, Thorne said.
The Poway Chamber of Commerce’s signature events begin with the Community Health & Wellness Fair on January 13th, followed by the Business Expo & Recruitment Event on March 19th. Also scheduled are the 11th Annual Mickey Cafagna Memorial Golf Classic, Business Star Awards and Installation, and Poway Falls. It’s a festival, Leland said.
Both chambers will continue to hold monthly mixers and several committees will meet regularly.