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Quad Cities Chamber Blog
QC, That's Where the Quad Cities Chamber and area businesses in our family of communities are advancing regional prosperity and advocating for economic growth along the Mississippi River.
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Chamber welcomes 18 new members in March
April 7, 2026
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 18 businesses that became members in March.
Why restaurants belong at the Chamber table
April 1, 2026
The natural gathering places in the QC are our local restaurants and bars. They’re also where visitors get a first taste of our region and where great conversations, both personal and professional take place. Find out why they're an important part of Chamber membership.
Why nonprofits belong at the Chamber
March 18, 2026
“Our nonprofit members are such a valuable part of the Chamber,” said Peter Tokar III, President & CEO of the Chamber. “Membership gives them greater visibility to expand their reach, build strong partnerships with community leaders and businesses and gain the resources they need to thrive.”
QC Chamber earns U.S. Chamber of Commerce Accreditation ranking
March 10, 2026
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the QC Chamber the prestigious Accreditation designation in recognition of its sound policies, effective organizational procedures and significant positive impact on the community it serves.
Unlocking the best-kept secrets of your Chamber membership
March 4, 2026
One of our best-kept secrets is that the Chamber has 3,000+ unique visitors per week to our website. Want to turn those visitors into your visitors? It's all included in a Chamber membership.
Chamber welcomes 9 new members in February
March 3, 2026
Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact.
Chamber’s 2026 Generation Next cohort begins this week
February 18, 2026
The Chamber is pleased to announce the names of 39 young professionals who have been named to the Chamber's 2026 Generation Next cohort. The goal of the cohort is to help transform aspiring professionals into influential community leaders ready to advance the Quad Cities region.
Twelve business become Chamber members in January
February 4, 2026
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 12 businesses that became members in January.
Personal stories make Business Exchange a different way to network
January 21, 2026
Since 2018, business professionals have been introducing themselves at the Chamber’s Business Exchange event. “We want to bring people together to make personal connections first,” said Rick Davis, facilitator and emcee for the past 8 years. “Because we know that if you get to know someone personally, you’re more likely to do business with them,” he said.
Chamber welcomes 5 new members in December
January 6, 2026
The Chamber welcomes 5 new members in December.
Nine businesses become Chamber members in November
December 8, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 9 businesses that became members in November. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact.
Shopping small is big win: Join our Small Business Challenge!
November 25, 2025
Join the Chamber in supporting the nationwide movement to support small businesses by exploring local shops and markets in the QC this Saturday, Nov. 29, on Small Business Saturday.
Chamber events get business connections brewing
November 12, 2025
As one of our most well-attended events, Coffee MeetUp brings together business owners, professionals and familiar faces from the Chamber for the simple purpose of conversation. Coffee MeetUp is one of the many Chamber events that help local professionals engage, collaborate and move their businesses forward.
‘Support Your Local Chamber Day’ is every day for Chamber Ambassadors
October 15, 2025
Today is Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day! To celebrate this day, we asked several of our Chamber Ambassadors to share what being part of the Chamber means to them and how they see its impact across the Quad Cities.
Chamber welcomes new 8 new members in September
October 13, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 8 businesses that became members in September. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact. We strive to give each member the opportunities and resources to advance their business and strengthen the community.
Memberships matter: What members are saying about the Chamber
October 1, 2025
At the Quad Cities Chamber, small businesses aren’t just members — they’re the heartbeat of our community. From creating jobs to building character in the QC, local entrepreneurs shape the places we live, work and shop. We asked several Chamber members why their membership matters and what they love most about the Chamber.
Chamber welcomes 8 new members in August
September 4, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 8 businesses that became members in August. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact. We…
Iowa Chamber Alliance retreat sets stage for Chamber’s Iowa legislative priorities
September 2, 2025
Goal setting and policy priorities were the emphasis at this year’s Iowa Chamber Alliance’s (ICA) Annual Retreat held in Iowa City. The retreat is an annual event that allows the Alliance — a coalition of 16 of the largest Chambers across Iowa — to come together to collaborate and elevate local priorities.
New Era for Small & Minority Businesses
August 20, 2025
Small and minority-owned businesses have always been at the heart of the Quad Cities economy — and now the QC Chamber is bringing fresh energy and intention into helping them grow and succeed.
Chamber welcomes 10 businesses as new members in July
August 18, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 10 businesses that became members in July.
Annual Meeting 2025: Together we’re building what’s next
August 6, 2025
At the 2025 Annual Meeting, we answered the question: What's next for the Chamber?
Annual Meeting keynote address: SBA tools businesses can leverage right now
August 6, 2025
At the Quad Cities Chamber’s 2025 Annual Meeting, we had the distinct honor of hearing from Lisa Shimkat, Associate Administrator for the SBA’s Office of Field Operations—and currently also serving as Acting Associate Administrator for Manufacturing and Trade. Her keynote was a reminder that building strong, resilient businesses is not just about growth—it’s about continuity, community and planning for the future.
Five honored with Chamber Ambassador Emeritus
August 6, 2025
During the Quad Cities Chamber 2025 Annual Meeting, five ambassadors were honored with a new designation - Chamber Ambassador Emeritus. This honor was given to long-term ambassadors who’ve generously served as volunteers for 10 years or more.
Jeff & Regina Goldstein named Regional Champions of Change
August 6, 2025
The Regional Champion of Change award was presented to Jeff and Regina Goldstein at the Quad Cities Chamber's 2025 Annual Meeting.The couple are founders of the Jeff and Regina Goldstein Foundation. Jeff Goldstein is the Chairman and CEO of Alter Logistics, and is the fourth generation to lead the company, which was established by his grandfather and great-grandfather in 1898.
ALM Positioners honored as 2025 Business of the Year
August 6, 2025
The Quad Cities Chamber honored ALM positioners as Business of the Year at its 2025 Annual Meeting.
Headquartered in Rock Island, ALM Positioners has been in business for 42 years and continues to stand out as a leader in high-tech manufacturing and innovation. Under the leadership of President and CEO Patrick Pollock, the company has achieved exceptional year-over-year growth, doubling its sales in the past three years and expanding its workforce.
Fifteen businesses become Chamber members in June
July 15, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 15 businesses that became members in June.
Eleven businesses become Chamber members in May
June 9, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 11 businesses that became members in May. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact
Seeking Regional Champion of Change nominations
June 2, 2025
All Chamber members are encouraged to apply for the Regional Champion of Change award. The winner will be recognized on Aug. 6 during the 2025 Quad Cities Chamber Annual Meeting presented by Mediacom & Mediacom Business.
Seeking Business of the Year nominations
June 2, 2025
All Chamber members are encouraged to apply for the Business of the Year award. The winner will be recognized on August 7 during the 2024 Quad Cities Chamber Annual Meeting presented by Mediacom & Mediacom Business.
The Chamber welcomes 14 new members in April
May 15, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 14 businesses that became members in April. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact.
Yellow Cab Company rolls into the QC
April 22, 2025
Need a ride? Yellow Cab Company, Iowa's largest taxi transportation provider, is proud to announce it's now servicing the Quad Cities area.
Hob Nosh puts spotlight on QC businesses; brings new experiences for attendees
March 19, 2025
Get ready for something new at Hob Nosh! The Chamber's most anticipated after-hours event, presented by Mediacom, will be Wednesday, April 2 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Bend XPO Center in East Moline. Advanced registration closes soon!
17 business become Chamber members in February
March 10, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 17 businesses that became members in February.
Nine Businesses Became Chamber Members in January
February 11, 2025
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 9 businesses that became members in January. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact. We…
Chamber welcomes 7 new members in December
January 14, 2025
Seven businesses became new Chamber members in December.
Chamber welcomes 11 new members in November
December 9, 2024
Congratulations to the 11 businesses that became new members of the Quad Cities Chamber this November.
Chamber welcomes 18 new members in October
November 12, 2024
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 18 businesses that became members in October. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact.
Chamber welcomes 11 new members in September
October 15, 2024
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 11 businesses that became members in September.
Chamber Welcomes New Members in July
August 13, 2024
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the businesses that became members in July.
Oertel Metal Works honored as 2024 Business of the Year
August 7, 2024
The Quad Cities Chamber honored Oertel Metal Works, a McCarthy-Bush Company, as Business of the Year at the 2024 Annual Meeting.
Headquartered in Davenport, the company's unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, regional focus and community engagement has earned it this award.
Oertel Metal Works, a full-service metal fabrication shop in business for 36 years, now employs 88 workers and over the past two years has invested several millions of dollars in capital equipment to improve operations and add new services. The 76% increase in staff over the last 24 months, includes nearly all new management. The company’s commitment to transparent communication, bottom-up engagement and positive work culture has resulted in a 50% increase in revenue.
Ian Frink honored with Regional Champion of Change award
August 7, 2024
The Regional Champion of Change award was presented to Ian Frink of Crawford Company during the 2024 Chamber Annual Meeting. Frink is the co-owner of Quad Cities legacy company, Crawford Company, and co-owner of the well-known Quad Cities brewery and restaurant, Crawford Brew Works. He's also owner of Seaberg Industries, a turnkey manufacturer of machined parts, components and assemblies; and owner of Monoxivent, an expert in exhaust extraction and fume extraction systems. Frink has long been a proponent of business and economic growth and is a champion for regionalism in our area.
Larry Makoben posthumously named Chamber Volunteer of the Year
August 7, 2024
This year’s Volunteer of the Year award was posthumously presented to Larry Makoben, a longtime Chamber Ambassador and friend, who passed away in January. The award was accepted by his family.
Annual Meeting celebrates successes of FY24
August 7, 2024
The Quad Cities Chamber celebrated major accomplishments over the last year including business expansion projects totaling $122.7 million in economic impact, launching the Generation Next program to…
QC, That’s Where we share the love
July 24, 2024
Our regional brand encapsulates our identity, audience and the image we want to project. And your involvement helps us showcase the very best of our community. Use our hashtags to share what you love about the QCs: #QCSummerLove, #QCThatsWhere and #VisitQuadCities
Seventeen businesses become Chamber members in June
July 10, 2024
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the businesses that became members in June. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success.
Local vendors enjoy community involvement, economic boost at the JDC
July 3, 2024
One of the defining features of summer in the Quad Cities is the John Deere Classic. For volunteers, JDC employees - and vendors, of course - this event marks one of the busiest times of the year and gives a significant economic boost to local businesses.
For several local companies, being a JDC vendor is not only good for business, it’s both fun and fulfilling. Whitey's, Uncommon Ground and Edwards Creative continue to support the Classic and have become fan favorites in their own right.
Chamber welcomes 10 new members in May
June 5, 2024
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 10 businesses that became members in May. Thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success - you are making an impact. We strive to give each member the opportunities and resources to advance their business and strengthen the community.
Fourteen businesses become Chamber members in April
May 9, 2024
The Chamber extends a warm welcome to the 14 businesses that became members in April.
Chamber welcomes 12 new members in March
April 10, 2024
The Chamber gives a warm welcome to the 12 businesses that became members in March. We thank you for your unique contributions and investment in our region's success.
Sip, sample, mix and mingle at Hob Nosh 2024
March 27, 2024
Get set to kick your networking game up a notch. The Chamber's most anticipated after-hours event is almost here and you won't want to miss it. Hob Nosh, presented by Mediacom Business and TBK Bank, is making its return on Thursday, April 11 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Waterfront Convention Center in Bettendorf.
Chamber welcomed 20 new members in February
March 13, 2024
Chamber membership numbers are strong as we begin 2024.
Q & A with Chamber President and CEO, Peter Tokar III
February 7, 2024
As Peter Tokar III, MBA, MEDP settles into his new role as the President & CEO of the Quad Cities Chamber, we asked him a few questions about the community he just stepped into, and what his thoughts are about our area and its status as a "best kept secret." Tokar comes to the Quad Cities most recently from McKinney, Texas where he was President & CEO of the McKinney Economic Development Corporation.
Chamber welcomes new members
February 7, 2024
The Quad Cities Chamber gives a warm welcome to 13 local businesses that became members in December 2023 and January 2024.
Events Coordinator Terri Smith retires
January 31, 2024
The Chamber bids a fond farewell to Events Coordinator, Terri Smith. Terri's memorable smile, positive attitude and constant presence at Chamber events for the past 10 years will be missed by staff and members alike.
Dr. LaDrina Wilson’s farewell message
January 12, 2024
The Quad Cities Chamber gives a heartfelt thanks to Dr. LaDrina Wilson for leading our team over the past 18 months as the Chamber’s CEO. Hear from LaDrina as she bids us farewell and recaps her 18 months with the Chamber.
New President & CEO of Quad Cities Chamber announced
December 6, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber announced Wednesday that Peter Tokar III, MBA, MEDP will be the next President & CEO starting mid-January 2024. Tokar brings over 17 years of experience serving economic development organizations and municipalities in large markets where regionalism has been a key component of success. He has worked closely with chambers, state and local economic development practitioners, site selectors and elected officials, as well as raised funds from public and private sector sources.
Welcome new members Sept.-Nov. 2023
December 5, 2023
We welcomed 18 new members in September - November and you're encouraged you to reach out and get to know these businesses.
“Better Together” Amazon launches MLI1 in Quad Cities
October 25, 2023
Amazon celebrated the soft launch opening of their Quad Cities facility with a ribbon cutting. The facility is the latest generation of Amazon fulfillment centers covering over 2.3 million square feet on six floors with over 12 miles of conveyance.
QC, That’s Where manufacturers helped build our region & continue to evolve
October 19, 2023
QC, That’s Where manufacturing helped spark the emergence of our region and continues to build the foundation for our future. It’s where hundreds of manufacturers are creating our region’s legacy as a manufacturing hub while simultaneously creating products that fuel the global economy.
“Makers on the Move” bus tour celebrates QC manufacturers’ contributions to our region
October 11, 2023
The Makers on the Move bus tour came to the Quad Cities to celebrate Illinois manufacturers and their contributions to the state’s largest industry during this Manufacturing Month, making stops at some of our region’s premier manufacturing sites along the way. The tour brought industry advocates, educators, economic development organizations, public officials and other manufacturing stakeholders to the Quad Cities to showcase our innovative manufacturing sector and the high-tech, diverse manufacturing opportunities available in our region.
QC, That’s Where Businesses Champion Lasting Change Across our Community
September 28, 2023
QC, That’s Where local organizations are elevating the region through charitable initiatives that have a lasting impact. Through a variety of unique efforts, businesses are paving the way for a brighter future in the Quad Cities by championing the region they call home. We chatted with the Quad Cities River Bandits, IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union and Whitey’s Ice Cream to learn why they believe in the Quad Cities, and how they’re manifesting their belief through giving back to the community.
Glad you could join us. Welcome new August members!
September 6, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed six new members in August. Thank you to each of these organizations for their unique contributions and investment in our region's success- you are making an impact.
Make your voice heard: Take the 2024 Public Policy Survey
August 22, 2023
Each year, we ask Chamber members to complete a short survey to gain insight on issues important to the regional business community. Share your voice and complete the 2024 Public Policy Survey now.
QC, That’s Where Companies Commit to Pursuing Sustainability
August 22, 2023
Companies everywhere are evaluating how their operational practices impact the world, especially the regions in which they’re located. The Chamber spoke with two Quad Cities businesses, John Deere and 3M, who are executing policies and practices to champion long-term sustainability and create positive outcomes in the community.
Generation Next announces first cohort
August 21, 2023
Generation Next is a brand new program bringing together the best and brightest mid-career professionals to prepare them for careers as community leaders, and the first cohort is all set to embark on their journey. We're proud to announce the first cohort for Generation Next.
Larry Anderson honored with Regional Champion of Change award
August 10, 2023
The inaugural Regional Champion of Change award was awarded to Larry Anderson during the 2023 Chamber Annual Meeting. The Quad Cities is a better place thanks to Anderson’s efforts in building up the community, and he’s the perfect example of what can be accomplished when we invest in our home communities.
Per Mar honored as 2023 Business of the Year
August 10, 2023
Per Mar was awarded Business of the Year at the Chamber's Annual Meeting. Per Mar’s commitment to growth and providing first-class customer service is what makes them this year’s Business of the Year.
Arron Sutherland and Nicole Watson-Lam honored as Co-Volunteers of the Year
August 10, 2023
Arron Sutherland and Nicole Watson-Lam were named Co-Volunteers of the Year. Their success in sparking new economic growth opportunities and improving quality of life in downtown Rock Island is what makes them Co-Volunteers of the year.
New Chamber website provides the resources you need, whenever you need them
August 2, 2023
The new Chamber website is now live, and we're here to explain all the features that will make your journey more efficient and enjoyable. The new website will play a key role in providing our members with useful online resources, educating site visitors on the opportunities available in the Quad Cities region and attracting new businesses and talent to the region.
Glad you could join us. Welcome June & July new members!
August 1, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed eight new members in June and July. Thank you to each of these organizations for their unique contributions and investment in our region's success- you are making an impact.
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