advocating for a thriving community

This agenda is shaped through a comprehensive and collaborative process that includes direct input from Chamber members, industry leaders, community partners, and policy advisors across both states. This engagement ensures our priorities accurately reflect the opportunities and challenges facing employers throughout the Bristol region. Member insights guide our advocacy and help define a policy platform that strengthens economic vitality, supports workforce readiness, and promotes long-term growth.

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Formed in 2023 when the Chambers of Commerce of Southwest Virginia joined forces. Today, we are five Chambers strong, united as the voice of SWVA business concerns and devoted to improving our region's business climate. We provide government relations, public affairs, advocacy, strategic planning, communications, and events services to our members.

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The Government Relations Committee is composed of Chamber member representatives from a wide range of industries. The committee meets weekly during the Tennessee and Virginia General Assembly sessions to monitor legislation and advocate on policy issues at the local, state and federal levels impacting the Chamber’s membership.

Each year, the Bristol Chamber with the SWVA Government Relations Coalition, hosts our annual Road to Richmond Breakfast to mark the start of the Virginia General Assembly session. This event brings together our regional legislators and local business leaders for a timely conversation about the issues shaping the upcoming session. Attendees hear directly from elected officials about their legislative priorities and gain insight into policies that may impact the business community in the months ahead. It’s an important opportunity to stay informed, strengthen connections, and ensure the voice of our region is represented as decisions are made in Richmond.

The Bristol Chamber partners in hosting the annual Southwest Virginia Legislative Reception at the Library of Virginia in Richmond alongside LENOWISCO PDC, Coalfield Strategies, the SWVA Governmental Relations Coalition, and Cumberland Plateau PDC. This well-attended, free event brings together legislators, state leaders, and regional partners for an evening of connection and conversation, helping keep Southwest Virginia visible and engaged during the General Assembly session.

Each year, the Bristol Chamber participates in Chamber Days on the Hill with both the Virginia and Tennessee chamber associations - bringing business leaders from across the Commonwealth and the Volunteer State to their respective capitols. These advocacy days provide a powerful opportunity to meet with state legislators, share our priorities, and engage directly in the public policy process alongside fellow chamber members from VACCE in Virginia and the Tennessee Chamber and TCCE in Tennessee. It’s a valuable chance to build relationships, gain insight into legislative agendas, and ensure the voice of our regional business community is heard at the state level.

Celebrating its 14th year in 2026 - brings together local elected leaders from both sides of the state line for one of our most anticipated events of the year. Each year, the mayors share updates, priorities, and insights on issues impacting our communities, with topics varying based on current initiatives and regional developments. This informative program consistently sells out, reflecting the strong interest in the direction and collaboration of our two cities.

Held right on the state line, the Bristol Chamber’s annual Legislative HobNob brings together state leaders from both Virginia and Tennessee for a unique, cross-state reception in the heart of our community. Designed to foster connection and conversation, the event provides a rare opportunity for regional stakeholders to engage with decision-makers from both capitals in one setting. In 2025, we welcomed both the Virginia and Tennessee Governors for the first time since the 1990s - a milestone moment that reflects the spirit of collaboration the HobNob is built to encourage each year.

As part of our commitment to an informed and engaged community, the Bristol Chamber hosts candidate forums, issue-based roundtables, and public discussions for local elections. These events bring together candidates for city and county offices, school board, and other local leadership roles in a respectful, nonpartisan setting. By providing opportunities for voters, business leaders, and community members to hear directly from those seeking office, we help encourage thoughtful dialogue, greater understanding of local issues, and active civic participation across our region.