The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce has long been a place to network and build relationships.

These days, though, the Chamber is more than that, as it strategically helps local businesses solve problems, develop talent, and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

Under the leadership of President Trish McFarland, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce continues to evolve alongside the business community it serves, creating new programs and partnerships addressing the changing needs of employers in Delaware County.

“The chamber continues to serve as the place where business, education, and government solve problems, build relationships, and move Delaware County forward,” McFarland said.

That role has become increasingly important as businesses face workforce shortages, technological disruption, and economic uncertainty.

CEO Roundtable

To better serve its members, the chamber has introduced new initiatives aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by different sectors of the business community.

Among the newest programs is the CEO Roundtable, launched last year to bring together leaders of mid-sized companies for candid discussions that often don’t occur at traditional networking events.

“The challenges are typically a little bit different for those CEOs than they are for a smaller business owner,” McFarland said.

The program provides a confidential environment where executives can discuss issues ranging from workforce management and growth strategies to operational challenges and leadership concerns.

Another chamber program, the Business Owners Group, focuses on companies with 10 employees or fewer.

Restaurant Owner Roundtable

More recently, the Chamber launched a highly successful Restaurant Owner Roundtable after conversations with local restaurateurs revealed a need for industry-specific discussions.

Restaurant owners face unique challenges, including rising food costs, staffing shortages, insurance expenses, and increasing credit card processing fees. The roundtable allows owners to share ideas, compare experiences, and collaborate on solutions.

The initiative has proven so successful that it recently inspired a networking event that brought together restaurant owners and dozens of other chamber members, creating new opportunities for business connections and partnerships.

For McFarland, creating meaningful engagement opportunities requires constant adaptation.

“One of the biggest shifts in an events organization like the chamber is finding ways to be proactive, so you’re really engaged,” she said.

Business Expectations

McFarland has witnessed firsthand how business expectations have changed over the years.

“When I first joined the chamber, people were really joining for networking opportunities,” she said. “Today it’s more about strategic relationships, partnerships, and connections that solve real business challenges.”

That shift has influenced nearly every aspect of the chamber’s programming.

The chamber helps businesses view membership as an investment rather than simply a networking expense.

“The return on investment and measured value are important,” she said. “Businesses want resources and connections that help them grow.”

Meeting Challenges

Among the issues facing Delaware County employers, workforce development remains at the top of the list.

The challenge affects businesses of every size and industry, influencing growth, customer service, succession planning, and long-term competitiveness.

As a result, workforce development has become a central focus of the chamber’s efforts.

McFarland is particularly passionate about connecting employers with educators, workforce development partners, and students to strengthen the talent pipeline and ensure local businesses have access to skilled workers in the years ahead.

At the same time, businesses are beginning to grapple with the impact of artificial intelligence.  

“It’s one of our most significant opportunities and disruptions,” she said.

She believes the most successful organizations will be those that find ways to combine human creativity, talent, and relationship-building skills with the efficiencies AI can provide.

“It’s helping the people doing the work become a little more efficient and confident in the work they’re doing,” she said.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, McFarland sees the chamber continuing to strengthen its role as a connector between local and regional businesses.

“We want our businesses to shine,” she said. “We also want to make sure they’re connecting with the right businesses that will help them grow.”

.As the needs of businesses continue to evolve, McFarland says the chamber will continue evolving as well—ensuring it remains a valuable resource for employers throughout Delaware County for years to come.

The Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual membership luncheon on June 17, in which the accomplishments of the past year will be honored, members and partners who made it possible will be recognized, and the group will look to the year ahead.

Find out how the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce can help your business.