HISTORY OF THE BOISE METRO CHAMBER
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Did you know the Boise Metro Chamber's history predates Idaho becoming a state in 1890? It was first organized in Boise, Idaho over 140 years ago in 1883!
Click the + symbol for each year on the timeline to expand the section and discover more facts about the Chamber's history. |
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1883
The Chamber of Commerce was first organized in Boise.
1885-1930
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James A Pinney serves as the first Chair of the Board in 1885.
From the Chamber's founding in 1883 to about 1930, the Chamber promoted our region with the goal to increase our population. Along with small towns in the West, the Chamber sent postcards to attract business, talent and manufacturers with messages like, “Come and start a business,” “Come farm the land,” and more. As part of the growth, railroads and wooden sidewalks (especially in the downtown core) became crucial. The Chamber supported both. On July 3, 1890, Idaho was admitted to the Union and became the 43rd state. |
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1900
The Chamber was incorporated and served as the voice of the business community. It was the 252nd accredited Chamber in America with the Chamber of Commerce of the United States.
1906
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In 1906 the Boise Commercial Club was organized and the Boise Chamber of Commerce agreed to go out of existence.
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1921
The "Boise Chamber of Commerce" was back up and running (not clear when it reinstated) and filed a suit against the American Railway Express Company in 1921.
1930's
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In the 30s, Idaho had a couple of universities – The University of Idaho and The College of Southern Idaho. Unfortunately, they were far away from the Boise area where the business community wanted its citizens to be educated. This need for education after high school prompted the business community/ chamber leadership to found Boise Junior College in 1932. This college was a huge asset to the local community and is now known as Boise State University.
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1975
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Leadership Boise was established with a mission to enhance and develop knowledge and understanding of our community, its complexities and its potential. The 2-year program motivates and encourages participants to assume leadership roles in the community by providing opportunities to meet and exchange ideas with each other and current community leaders.
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1980's
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In the 80s there was a need to attract business and talent to regions to create jobs and taxes to enhance our communities. In the 80s, chambers all over the country were forming economic development organizations and housing them in the Chamber. It was during this time that the Boise Metro Chamber helped form Boise Valley Economic Partnership and the Downtown Boise Association.
Both entities worked (and still work) to make Downtown Boise a destination and a place for people to be through beautification projects and hosted events. Today, Boise consistently receives accolades like: “Best Place to Live,” “Most Moved to City,” “Best Run City,” “Best City for Starting a Business,” “Best Performing City,” “#1 Moving Destination,” and “Best Work-Life Balance,” among others. BVEP and DBA are largely credited. In 1984, Leadership Boise Academy was developed and launched for High School Juniors in the Treasure Valley. In 1988, the first woman, Alice Hennessey, served as Chair of the Board. |
Alice Hennessey
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1990's
The Chamber’s Leadership Conference was conceived in the 90s as a gathering of thought leaders. The first iteration included mayors from across the valley, legislators, university presidents, and business leaders. It was the first time for many that mayors had an opportunity to convene to discuss important issues greater than their local scopes like improved transportation, clean water, and better air quality. As a result, mayors now meet monthly to discuss other issues that are regional vs. local like workforce, housing and public transit.
2000's
In the 2000s, the Chamber focused further on transportation.
Ada County Highway Department was struggling with funding. Knowing that businesses thrive with new roads, bridges, and better access, the Chamber lobbied to the legislature to obtain more funding by raising registration fees on vehicles as well as increasing the gas tax and impact fees on new construction and growth.
The Chamber was also leading efforts to widen the Interstate from Micron to the Garrity Exchange. Then Governor Dirk Kempthorne proposed a controversial 1 billion dollars in funding to widen the freeway. The Chamber helped communicate the importance of financing the project through Garvee Bonds. Today, that section of the interstate is widened with additional work being implemented on the remaining section of the freeway leading to Caldwell, ID. Highway 16 is also being expanded from Emmet through Star to connect to the Interstate. The Chamber diligently advocated for this enhancement of our freeways and connectivity so that people can now live where they want and have easy access to where they work.
The Boise Chamber of Commerce became the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce to encompass the entire Boise Valley region.
Ada County Highway Department was struggling with funding. Knowing that businesses thrive with new roads, bridges, and better access, the Chamber lobbied to the legislature to obtain more funding by raising registration fees on vehicles as well as increasing the gas tax and impact fees on new construction and growth.
The Chamber was also leading efforts to widen the Interstate from Micron to the Garrity Exchange. Then Governor Dirk Kempthorne proposed a controversial 1 billion dollars in funding to widen the freeway. The Chamber helped communicate the importance of financing the project through Garvee Bonds. Today, that section of the interstate is widened with additional work being implemented on the remaining section of the freeway leading to Caldwell, ID. Highway 16 is also being expanded from Emmet through Star to connect to the Interstate. The Chamber diligently advocated for this enhancement of our freeways and connectivity so that people can now live where they want and have easy access to where they work.
The Boise Chamber of Commerce became the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce to encompass the entire Boise Valley region.
2005-2006
The Boise Valley Economic Partnership (BVEP) became a separately funded division of the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce due to the Valley Initiative For Prosperity (VIP) campaign. It was re-funded with the 2011 Competitive Edge Initiative Campaign. BVEP’s objective is to create well-paying jobs and stimulate capital investment in the Boise Valley.
2006 - On October 24, the Boise Metro Chamber launched a new program called Boise Young Professionals to target the young, talented, future workforce of Boise and the surrounding area. BYP was created to be an inclusive group designed to develop and retain talent in the region.
2006 - On October 24, the Boise Metro Chamber launched a new program called Boise Young Professionals to target the young, talented, future workforce of Boise and the surrounding area. BYP was created to be an inclusive group designed to develop and retain talent in the region.
2007
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The inception of an additional college in the Treasure Valley occurred in 2007 with the formation of the College of Western Idaho. It required money from state taxes, property taxes and student fees. The Chamber helped pass the property portion with a 2/3 vote.
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2011-14
The Chamber was named one of the "Best Places to Work" in Idaho.
2014 - The Boise Metro Chamber was honored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as a Three-Star "Chamber of Valor" for our support of military veterans and spouses.
2014 - The Boise Metro Chamber was honored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as a Three-Star "Chamber of Valor" for our support of military veterans and spouses.
2018
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The inception of an additional college in the Treasure Valley occurred in 2007 with the formation of the College of Western Idaho. It required money from state taxes, property taxes and student fees. The Chamber helped pass the property portion with a 2/3 vote.
The chamber built it's new home at 11th and Front Streets in Downtown Boise, Idaho.
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2020
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The 137th Annual Gala video highlights the Chamber's accomplishments, initiatives, and interesting member stories in 2020. We focused on creating opportunities for education and growth, economic development and tourism, and so much more. The video also highlights the synergy between the Boise Valley Economic Partnership and Boise Convention & Visitor's Bureau.
In March of 2020, The Boise Metro Chamber was awarded 5-star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
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2022
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The chamber held the 139th Annual Boise Metro Chamber Gala featuring John Ondrasik in support of Ukraine. He sang several of his top hits, including "Can One Man Save the World," a song dedicated to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Boise Metro Chamber and Alaska Airlines each donated $5,000 for relief. Raffle tickets sold brought the total raised to $14,410.
Additionally, the Chamber:
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2014-23
The Boise Metro Chamber advocated for
- Expansion of Medicare
- Tax Reimbursement Incentive
- New non-stop air service and concessions
- Fairview Ave Business Coalition
- Merger with the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
- Boise Centre Expansion and Transit hub
- Boise Foothills levy
- Broadway bridge
- Talent Attraction and retention through Idaho’s CTE programs
- Funding of BSU
- Micron Materials Science building
- Strategic Conventions come to Boise
- Reduction of Corporate Income Tax
- Unemployment insurance tax
- Data center efforts
- Intrastate air service
- Securing Big Sky Basketball tournament
- Pandemic business support and federal relief
2023
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March 9, 2023
Bill Connors, President & CEO of the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce, Idaho’s largest business association and only five-star accredited Chamber in Idaho, announced his intention to retire after a 15-year career with the Chamber. Read the blog |
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August 17, 2023
The Boise Metro Chamber announced that Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, Governor Little’s Deputy Chief of Staff, will take over the position of President & CEO of the Chamber. Read the blog |
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October 19, 2023
The Chamber holds its 140th Annual Gala and Auction at Boise Centre West featuring Ashley Campbell, daughter of the famous musician Glen Campbell. Ashley had a close connection to her father throughout their life, and became especially close while being his caretaker during his battle with Alzheimer's. A fundraiser during the event helped raise $10,000 for the Alzheimer's Association - Greater Idaho Chapter. |
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2024
Info coming soon!
2025
The Boise Metro Chamber is excited to share its top 10 stories of 2025
1. 5-Star Accreditation
The Boise Metro Chamber applied for re-accreditation this year and once again earned a 5-Star
designation, remaining the only 5-Star Accredited chamber in Idaho and one of the top chambers in the nation. Fewer than 3 percent of chambers across the United States hold this distinction, which recognizes excellence in governance, advocacy, programming and community impact. The accreditation underscores the Chamber’s continued leadership and commitment to serving the region’s business community.
2. Leadership Boise turns 50
Leadership Boise celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of developing community leaders across the Treasure Valley. The milestone was celebrated alongside the 2025 graduating class, highlighting the program’s long-standing impact on the region.
3. Starch Madness stays in Boise
Visit Boise helped secure Starch Madness’ continued presence in Boise through 2031. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year, contributing significantly to the local economy and showcasing Boise as a premier destination for unique sporting events.
4. Micron adds a second fabrication plant
BVEP supported the announcement of Micron’s second fabrication plant in Boise, a major investment in the Treasure Valley. This expansion is backed by CHIPS Act funding: Micron Idaho’s grant was amended to include the second Boise fab, as part of up to $6.1 billion in CHIPS funding.
5. Jaialdi festival returns
The Basque Jaialdi Festival celebrated its return in 2025, bringing a major cultural event to Boise after years of anticipation. Visit Boise supported the festival’s logistics and promotions, and the Basque delegation — including Imanol Pradales, president of the Basque Country — met with local city leaders during their visit.
6. D.C. fly-in returns
After a long hiatus, the Chamber hosted its D.C. Fly-in, reconnecting Treasure Valley business leaders with federal policymakers. Attendees met with all four of Idaho’s congressional representatives and toured key federal facilities, including Amazon’s headquarters and Amtrak operations at Union Station.
7. Board chair transition
The Boise Metro Chamber thanks Garrett Lofto for his time as board chair and welcomes Jim Shipman as the 2026 board chair. Lofto’s leadership left a lasting mark on the Chamber and the local business community, and Shipman steps in to continue guiding the organization forward.
8. Annual gala and auction
The Chamber’s Annual Gala and Auction raised $10,000 for Trailhead Boise, spotlighting the organization’s efforts to cultivate entrepreneurship and business education in local schools. Featured businesses included Idaho Barkery, Lovevery, ERTH Beverage Co. and Soleni Shoes, highlighting the diversity and innovation of the local business community.
9. Leadership Boise Academy expands
Leadership Boise Academy welcomed 10 new high schools into the program this year, boosting youth engagement across the region. This year’s class will include more than 50 students, giving even more young people the opportunity to develop leadership skills and community connections.
10. Local business and economic growth
BVEP saw strong momentum in 2025, engaging in more than 35 new projects across office, manufacturing and supplier sectors. The organization hosted over a dozen site visits from prospective companies. Beth Ineck, director of Boise Valley Economic Development, was also recognized as one of the top 50 economic developers in the United States.
1. 5-Star Accreditation
The Boise Metro Chamber applied for re-accreditation this year and once again earned a 5-Star
designation, remaining the only 5-Star Accredited chamber in Idaho and one of the top chambers in the nation. Fewer than 3 percent of chambers across the United States hold this distinction, which recognizes excellence in governance, advocacy, programming and community impact. The accreditation underscores the Chamber’s continued leadership and commitment to serving the region’s business community.
2. Leadership Boise turns 50
Leadership Boise celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of developing community leaders across the Treasure Valley. The milestone was celebrated alongside the 2025 graduating class, highlighting the program’s long-standing impact on the region.
3. Starch Madness stays in Boise
Visit Boise helped secure Starch Madness’ continued presence in Boise through 2031. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year, contributing significantly to the local economy and showcasing Boise as a premier destination for unique sporting events.
4. Micron adds a second fabrication plant
BVEP supported the announcement of Micron’s second fabrication plant in Boise, a major investment in the Treasure Valley. This expansion is backed by CHIPS Act funding: Micron Idaho’s grant was amended to include the second Boise fab, as part of up to $6.1 billion in CHIPS funding.
5. Jaialdi festival returns
The Basque Jaialdi Festival celebrated its return in 2025, bringing a major cultural event to Boise after years of anticipation. Visit Boise supported the festival’s logistics and promotions, and the Basque delegation — including Imanol Pradales, president of the Basque Country — met with local city leaders during their visit.
6. D.C. fly-in returns
After a long hiatus, the Chamber hosted its D.C. Fly-in, reconnecting Treasure Valley business leaders with federal policymakers. Attendees met with all four of Idaho’s congressional representatives and toured key federal facilities, including Amazon’s headquarters and Amtrak operations at Union Station.
7. Board chair transition
The Boise Metro Chamber thanks Garrett Lofto for his time as board chair and welcomes Jim Shipman as the 2026 board chair. Lofto’s leadership left a lasting mark on the Chamber and the local business community, and Shipman steps in to continue guiding the organization forward.
8. Annual gala and auction
The Chamber’s Annual Gala and Auction raised $10,000 for Trailhead Boise, spotlighting the organization’s efforts to cultivate entrepreneurship and business education in local schools. Featured businesses included Idaho Barkery, Lovevery, ERTH Beverage Co. and Soleni Shoes, highlighting the diversity and innovation of the local business community.
9. Leadership Boise Academy expands
Leadership Boise Academy welcomed 10 new high schools into the program this year, boosting youth engagement across the region. This year’s class will include more than 50 students, giving even more young people the opportunity to develop leadership skills and community connections.
10. Local business and economic growth
BVEP saw strong momentum in 2025, engaging in more than 35 new projects across office, manufacturing and supplier sectors. The organization hosted over a dozen site visits from prospective companies. Beth Ineck, director of Boise Valley Economic Development, was also recognized as one of the top 50 economic developers in the United States.
2026
Info coming soon!
