FOX CITIES, Wis. (May 5, 2026) – The Fox Cities Chamber reported a strong first quarter of 2026, marked by continued membership growth, high-impact programming, and strategic efforts to strengthen the region’s economy and talent pipeline. Overall Chamber membership continues to increase and now exceeds 1,987 members, reflecting continued engagement across the Fox Cities business community. The Chamber welcomed 93 new small businesses through its Connect Free membership program in Q1, bringing total participation at this level to more than 1,100.
“Our first quarter results demonstrate strong momentum and a shared commitment from our business community to invest in the Fox Cities,” said Becky Bartoszek, President & CEO of the Fox Cities Chamber. “From supporting small businesses to advancing workforce initiatives, we are focused on driving long-term economic success for our region.”
The Chamber’s Pulse Young Professionals program also saw continued growth, reaching 872 active members, while 11 companies stepped forward as Champions of Young Professionals, reinforcing the region’s focus on talent attraction and retention. In partnership with business and education leaders, the Emerging Talent Alliance launched a new hiring event for high school students, creating earlier connections between employers and future talent. Leadership development programs also delivered strong results, including Leader Lab and continued engagement through Leadership Fox Cities and alumni programming.
Signature Chamber events drew strong attendance and delivered measurable value, providing business leaders with insights, connections, and recognition that strengthen the regional economy, including: Economic Outlook Breakfast had 350 attendees and featured a national economist; Celebrate Awards: 340 attendees, honoring five community leaders; Excellence in Education Awards: 190 attendees, honoring 10 educators
The Chamber conducted 42 business retention and expansion visits in Q1, addressing topics such as workforce challenges, expansion planning, and infrastructure impacts. Additionally, Chamber events and media partnerships helped spotlight local businesses, while ribbon cuttings and networking events created opportunities for growth and visibility across the region.
In March, a delegation of Fox Cities leaders participated in a Leadership Exchange and Benchmarking Tour to Charleston, exploring how high-growth regions align public and private sectors to drive economic success. A key takeaway: regional collaboration and long-term vision are critical to competitiveness, with success driven by alignment across business, government, and education.
Building on this momentum, the Chamber also hosted the ACCE Major Cities Council, bringing chamber leaders from across the country to Appleton to share strategies on workforce, economic development, and community impact.
Looking ahead, the Chamber will continue to build on Q1 momentum through expanded workforce initiatives, leadership programming, and regional collaboration efforts. The next Leadership Exchange is scheduled for Huntsville, Alabama in February 2027, focusing on innovation-driven economic growth.
Read the full report here FCC-Q1-2026-report-FINAL.pdf
