On Friday, October 10, 2025, 1,400 members of the business community convened at the Pennsylvania Convention Center for the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia’s (the Chamber) Annual Meeting. Attendees reflected on Greater Philadelphia’s progress as a top global destination for business and inclusive growth, made connections, and forged a path forward that will allow our city and region to level up in 2026 and beyond.

Chris Franklin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Essential Utilities, officially began his one-year term as Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Franklin is the first suburban-based CEO in over 20 years to hold the role. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment for regional collaboration as we prepare to welcome the world in 2026.

“I guess it’s fitting that in this time when we need real regional cooperation, the Chamber elected a chair that is literally anchored to the region. My company has about 5,000 miles of water mains running through Southeastern Pennsylvania, and no matter what happens, we can’t pick up our business and move somewhere else. For nearly 140 years, we have grown with the Philadelphia region, and we are truly invested in our region’s success!” said Franklin.

Outgoing Chair Gregory E. Deavens, Former President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Health Group, reflected on his tenure.

“At the beginning of my term, we set out to strengthen the foundation of our region. To make Greater Philadelphia not just a good place to do business, but a special place to grow, innovate, and thrive,” said Deavens.

Deavens highlighted Chamber accomplishments over the past year, including:

  • Launch of the Stay for Philly campaign to convert tourists into residents in collaboration with Visit Philadelphia,
  • Record activity in leads and prospects considering Greater Philadelphia as a place to expand,
  • Expanded employment access for justice-impacted individuals through the Fair Chance Implementation Series,
  • Continued advocacy on policies like mass transit funding, public education funding, affordable childcare, and a $15 minimum wage.

Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Chellie Cameron passionately rallied the business community to level up and create upward economic mobility throughout the city and region.

“We have a tremendous opportunity to create more good-paying jobs right now. So in 2026, we can’t let another celebratory moment pass us by without creating lasting success for our region’s residents,” Cameron said.

The Chamber is focused on creating upward economic mobility through its three strategic pillars in order to position Greater Philadelphia as a top global destination for business and a leader in inclusive growth:

  • Advocating for policies that create a competitive business climate and help residents get ahead.
  • Amplifying regional successes that bring more businesses, more jobs, and more opportunities here.
  • Growing our regional economy while supporting opportunities for small and diverse businesses to succeed.

The program included a video highlighting residents and change makers who have benefitted from and created opportunities for upward economic growth.

The Chamber also officially welcomed new and returning members of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.

Over the next year, the Chamber will work to level up our business community and carry this momentum forward. Learn more about Chamber here.