The Greater Baton Rouge Economic Partnership is moving forward with a clear goal: to grow the region through jobs, business investment, and stronger collaboration.
Trey Godfrey joined Talk 107.3 to explain the organization’s new name, its mission, and its role in the Baton Rouge area. Godfrey said the Greater Baton Rouge Economic Partnership is the same organization formerly known as the Baton Rouge Area Chamber, or BRAC. The group changed its name in October 2025 to better reflect its work as both a chamber of commerce and an economic development organization.
Godfrey said the organization still supports local businesses through traditional chamber functions. However, it also works to attract new companies, help existing businesses expand, and build a stronger workforce across the nine-parish region.
A Broader Mission for Baton Rouge
Godfrey said the new name highlights the group’s focus on partnership. The region includes urban, industrial, and rural communities, each facing different challenges. He said the organization works with business leaders, local government, state agencies, nonprofits, and workforce groups to solve problems and move the region forward.
He also pointed to the importance of breaking down silos. According to Godfrey, Baton Rouge has often struggled with organizations working separately. He said stronger partnerships can lead to better results for businesses, workers, and communities.
Leadership and What Comes Next
Godfrey currently serves as co-CEO alongside Jason Newell. Godfrey leads public policy work, while Newell focuses on business investment. Godfrey said the shared leadership model has helped both leaders stay focused on their core work while guiding the organization as a whole.
Looking ahead, Godfrey said the partnership will focus on finishing its five-year “Bring It” strategic plan. That includes business attraction, job creation, talent development, and public policy work.
Godfrey said the mission remains simple: help the Baton Rouge region grow with discipline, focus, and collaboration.