The Ascension Parish Chamber is expanding its efforts to support business growth, workforce development, and regional networking as Ascension Parish continues to grow. Chamber President Donnie Miller recently highlighted several new initiatives focused on economic development and community engagement.
One of the chamber’s newest projects is the launch of the Ascension Business Report, a weekly digital publication created in partnership with Business Report. The newsletter covers restaurant openings, business expansion, nonprofit activity, and development projects happening across Ascension Parish. Miller said the publication already has an open rate above 50 percent.
The chamber is also preparing for its June 11 member luncheon featuring Jonathan Grimes from the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge. The discussion will focus on how arts and culture can help drive workforce attraction, economic growth, and quality of life improvements in Ascension Parish.
Miller said the chamber continues focusing on four major priorities: infrastructure, small business growth, workforce development, and quality of life.
Young professionals remain another major focus for the organization. The chamber’s Young Ascension Professionals group will host a June 3 networking event centered on young elected officials and leadership development. Miller said the organization wants to create more opportunities for young professionals to connect, grow careers, and stay in Louisiana.
The chamber is also planning its annual Small Business Expo in August. Organizers expect more than 1,000 attendees this year. New training sessions will help businesses improve networking strategies, booth presentations, and lead generation during the event.
Miller said collaboration between businesses, community leaders, and regional organizations remains critical as Ascension Parish continues experiencing rapid economic and population growth.