A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
MATT MEADORS President & CEO, Greater Waco Chamber
2026 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR Todd Moore Alliance Bank Central Texas CHAIR-ELECT
Economic development does not happen in a vacuum. It is shaped every day by the policies that govern how communities grow, how businesses operate, and how opportunity is created, which is why public policy matters so deeply to the work of the Greater Waco Chamber. At its core, economic development is about creating the conditions for businesses to invest, innovate, and succeed. Public policy influences those conditions in very real ways. In this issue of Greater Waco Business, we explore the critical intersection of public policy and economic development, and the role your Chamber plays in representing the voice of business across all levels of government. Advocacy is not a separate function from our economic development mission; it is a core part of it. When policy supports growth, innovation, and fairness, our businesses thrive, our workforce expands, people prosper, and our community benefits. The Greater Waco Chamber approaches public policy with a clear focus: advancing policies that strengthen the regional economy and improve the overall business climate. Through research, collaboration, and strong relationships with policymakers, we work to ensure that the needs of employers, entrepreneurs, and investors are clearly understood and thoughtfully considered. Our Public Policy Committee, made up of leaders from across industries, helps guide this work so that our advocacy reflects the real priorities of those doing business in Greater Waco every day. This issue highlights the importance of informed, strategic engagement in the policy process, and why business voices matter. Whether the topic is workforce readiness, infrastructure investment, emerging technologies, or regulatory clarity, thoughtful public policy helps set the stage for sustainable economic growth. As you read this issue, I hope it reinforces an important truth: when business leaders engage in public policy, and when policy is shaped with economic impact in mind, communities like Greater Waco are better positioned to succeed. As always, thank you for your continued support of your chamber of commerce.
Keith Helpert K4 Construction VICE CHAIR
Dr. Jackson Griggs Waco Family Medicine VICE CHAIR Stephanie Peters Cargill IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Carolyn Haferkamp Central National Bank PRESIDENT & CEO Matt Meadors Greater Waco Chamber
With appreciation,
Matthew T. Meadors President & CEO
2 | WINTER
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