The Round Rock Chamber of Commerce kicked off 2026 with a standing-room-only State of the Chamber Power Lunch at Embassy Suites Round Rock, drawing more than 230 attendees from across Central Texas. A centerpiece of the event was a live, on-stage recording of the Rock Solid Round Rock podcast, hosted by Bryan Eisenberg, co-owner of A Place At Home – North Austin. The format brought an authentic, conversational lens to the Chamber’s annual update, inviting the audience into a deeper discussion about the organization’s and city’s direction.
Outgoing Board Chair Selicia Sanchez-Adame reflected on a milestone year that included the Chamber’s 75th anniversary and progress toward its ambitious drive to reach 1,000 members. She highlighted the continued strength of the Chamber’s Ambassador program and referral network, emphasizing how relationship-building remains central to business growth in Round Rock.
Chamber leadership outlined a forward-looking approach to economic development, workforce readiness, and education. Key discussion points included a unique partnership between the City of Round Rock and the Chamber, a five-year strategic plan focused on economic development and innovation, continued support for entrepreneurship including the gBeta accelerator and a preview of a forthcoming pre-accelerator program, and advancing awareness of local education assets such as four-year degree pathways at ACC and expanded opportunities at Texas State University beyond healthcare.
Jordan Robinson, President & CEO of the Chamber, addressed advocacy efforts during the 89th Legislative Session. She shared insights from testifying at the Texas Capitol on key issues such as sales tax policy and maintaining strong relationships with state and federal officials. Attendees also heard about the Chamber’s Post-Legislative event, which brought high-caliber speakers from across the state to help local businesses understand the broader policy landscape.
A major announcement was the launch of the Round Rock Chamber Foundation and the success of its Founders Wall Campaign, which raised $400,000. The Foundation is designed to support business-to-business initiatives without competing with existing nonprofits, with early focus areas including leadership development programs, the Young Professionals initiative, Leadership Round Rock, and Ascend. The Chamber also shared updates on returning to the historic Griffith Building in downtown Round Rock, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the city’s core.
Incoming Board Chair Deana Cavanaugh outlined priorities for the future, centered on member retention, deeper engagement, and continued investment in the Chamber Foundation. Her remarks emphasized building on momentum while ensuring the Chamber remains responsive, inclusive, and closely connected to the businesses it serves.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work our Chamber, board, volunteers and partners accomplished over the past year,” said Robinson. “The State of the Chamber gives us the opportunity to not only reflect on that progress, but to clearly share where we’re headed next — and how we will continue to strengthen our business community while creating new opportunities for Round Rock’s future.”
“Having this conversation live, in front of the people we serve, reflects the Chamber’s commitment to transparency and connection,” said Eisenberg. “This is how strong communities move forward together.”
By pairing its annual State of the Chamber with a live Rock Solid Round Rock podcast recording, the Chamber created a shared experience that blended reflection, accountability, and vision. For attendees, it offered not just an update, but a clearer understanding of how leadership decisions today will shape Round Rock’s economic and civic future.
