Industry Councils
The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce's cross-industry councils and peer groups serve as a powerful platform for our members to connect and directly influence and shape the future of New York City. By bringing together visionary leaders from diverse sectors, these councils foster unparalleled collaboration and provide a direct conduit for strategic dialogue with policymakers and key stakeholders.
The CEO Council serves as a preeminent forum for chief executives and top-tier business leaders across Manhattan's diverse industries. This exclusive group convenes regularly to engage in high-level discussions on critical economic trends, policy issues impacting the business landscape, and strategies for sustainable growth. Members benefit from unparalleled networking opportunities, direct access to influential policymakers, and the collaborative exchange of insights that drive innovation and foster a resilient business environment within New York City.
- Open to CEOs (or the equivalent) with >$5 million in annual revenue. Chamber membership level required to participate: Industry Insider or Chairman's Circle.
The Chamber’s Innovation Roundtable curates intimate events that provide intel and high-level networking to growth-stage company founders in the three sectors driving New York City’s innovation economy: life sciences, tech, and the green economy. Current activities include:
- Curated discussions. In 2024, the Roundtable curated three sit-down morning meetings for ~50 attendees each on the following topics:
- The Future of NYC’s Entrepreneurial Tech Industry
- Capital Summit on The Skyline: Exploring Funding Sources for Growth
- Climate Week NYC: Climate Leadership and Sustainable Infrastructure
- Founders Lounge mixers. These evening mixers feature high-level guest speakers in a relaxing lounge environment. About 75 attendees.
The Roundtable co-chairs are Jason Dodier, CCO & Co-Founder of GRAIN EcoSystem and Jay Norris, CEO & Co-Founder of Guesst. Both are Chamber Board members.
Chamber membership level required to participate: Business Builder, Business Booster, Industry insider, or Chairman's Circle (NOT included at Networker membership level).
The NYC Abundance and Efficiency Council is committed to optimizing New York City's resources and infrastructure to improve the quality of life and business operations for all. This council convenes stakeholders from real estate, logistics, sustainability, and urban planning to explore solutions for pressing urban challenges. Their efforts are directed towards enhancing operational efficiencies, advocating for smart growth initiatives, and developing strategies that contribute to a more sustainable, resilient, and resourceful Manhattan.
Chamber membership level required to participate: Industry Insider or Chairman's Circle.
The Destination Excellence Council is dedicated to enhancing Manhattan's appeal as a premier global destination for tourism, culture, and commerce. This council brings together leaders from the hospitality, arts, entertainment, retail, and transportation sectors to collaboratively address challenges and opportunities in attracting visitors and businesses. Their focus is on developing strategies that promote the borough's unique offerings, improve visitor experiences, and ensure Manhattan remains a vibrant and competitive destination on the international stage.
Chamber membership level required to participate: Industry Insider or Chairman's Circle.
The NYC Future Economy Council is at the forefront of fostering a dynamic and future-ready economy in Manhattan. Comprising leaders from technology, finance, startups, and research institutions, this council focuses on identifying emerging trends, advocating for policies that support technological advancement, and promoting an ecosystem ripe for innovation. Their work aims to accelerate economic growth through the development and adoption of cutting-edge solutions, ensuring Manhattan remains a global hub for groundbreaking ideas and entrepreneurial success.
The Chamber's Business Builders Connect group is a vital peer-to-peer community for members actively growing their ventures in New York City. This dynamic group meets online each month in a confidential and collaborative setting to share valuable insights, tackle pressing challenges, and learn directly from one another's firsthand experiences. It is a dedicated space designed to foster mutual support and accountability, helping NYC entrepreneurs solve problems faster, build stronger professional networks, and navigate the journey of business growth together.
This feature is available to Chamber members at the Business Builder level or above (so not available to Networker members).