RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Chamber of Commerce has announced the creation of the Government Affairs Council (GAC), a new initiative designed to enhance coordination, collaboration, and strategy among Virginia’s leading business advocates.

The formation of the council follows feedback from Chamber members and partners who emphasized the importance of a more coordinated and strategic approach to advocacy. Virginia’s business community is navigating complex issues related to workforce, infrastructure, energy, technology, and other areas that require unified and informed engagement.

GAC will bring together leaders from Virginia’s top companies and organizations to provide guidance on matters affecting the Commonwealth’s economy. Members will collaborate across industries to share insights, align priorities, and help ensure the Chamber’s advocacy efforts reflect the collective voice of employers across all regions and sectors.

“To be the voice of the Virginia business community, we must continue to evolve in how we engage, listen, and lead,” said Keith Martin, interim president and CEO of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. “The Government Affairs Council represents the power of collaboration. When business leaders are directly involved in shaping advocacy, our message is stronger, our influence is greater, and our results benefit every region of the Commonwealth.”

“Influencing decisions that drive progress requires a united approach,” said Linda Stanley, chair of the Virginia Chamber board of directors. “This council helps transform shared priorities into actionable steps that move Virginia’s economy and communities forward.”

“The Government Affairs Council represents a strategic next step in how the Chamber advocates for its members,” said Jen Siciliano, chief external affairs officer for UVA Health and vice chair of the Virginia Chamber board of directors. “By engaging business leaders across industries, the council will help align priorities and advance policies that support Virginia’s economic growth.”

Membership in the council is now open. Businesses interested in participating or learning more about its structure may contact Eleana Legree, senior vice president of development, at e.legree@vachamber.com.

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About the Virginia Chamber of Commerce:

The Virginia Chamber of Commerce is the largest business advocacy organization in the Commonwealth, with more than 30,000 members. The Virginia Chamber is a non-partisan organization that champions the interests of the business community in the legislative, regulatory, and political arenas to serve as the catalyst for positive change in all areas of economic development and competitiveness for Virginia. Learn more at www.vachamber.com