For 110 Years Orlando has been changing
Since 1913, Orlando has transformed a citrus town into America's most visited destination and fastest-growing economy.
1913: Where It All Began
In 1913, 25 Orlando business leaders gathered with one goal: put their town on the map. They faced skepticism. Orlando was a small citrus hub competing with established Florida cities like Jacksonville and Tampa.
But these founders understood something fundamental: growth doesn't happen by accident. It requires vision, advocacy, and a unified voice.
What started as merchants advocating for paved roads and reliable rail service evolved into the region's most influential business organization. Today, we represent 1,000+ members—from startups to Fortune 500 companies.
Our mission remains unchanged: unite regional leaders, champion pro-business policies, and ensure Central Florida's voice is heard wherever decisions are made.
Decades of Impact
Building the Foundation
Orlando championed essential infrastructure: brick streets, electric lights, improved rail connections, and Orlando's first municipal airport in 1928.
Milestone: Population grew from 3,894 in 1910 to 27,330 by 1930.
The Tourism Revolution
When Disney purchased 27,000 acres, they championed the infrastructure that made it possible—roads, utilities, and airport expansions.
Milestone: Transformed from agricultural hub to global destination. Today: 75.3M annual visitors.
Building Global Infrastructure
Led the fight for Orlando International Airport's expansion, the Beachline Expressway, and key I-4 improvements.
Milestone: Airport traffic grew from 7M to 18M passengers.
Economic Diversification
Helped establish Orlando as a hub for modeling & simulation, digital media, photonics, and life sciences.
Milestone: High-tech employment grew 127% in the 1990s.
Leading the Nation
Orlando now ranks #1 among major metros for job growth, population growth, and economic momentum.
Milestone: Regional GDP has surpassed $217B—larger than the economies of 17 U.S. states.
How the Chamber Works Today
From advocacy at every level of government to hands-on support for local businesses, the Chamber is a modern engine for Orlando's continued growth.
Advocacy & Policy
We monitor policy at the city, county, and state level—giving members a unified voice on legislation that impacts their ability to hire, grow, and invest.
- Legislative briefings – Regular updates on policy shifts.
- Policy alerts – Real-time notifications on critical votes.
- Delegations to Tallahassee – Direct access to state lawmakers.
Connections & Programs
From CEO roundtables to industry councils, we create spaces where business leaders can build relationships, share ideas, and accelerate deals.
- Peer networks – Curated groups for CEOs and founders.
- Signature events – Networking that drives results.
- Industry councils – Sector-specific collaboration.
Research & Data
Our research team uses AI tools to track the data behind Orlando's momentum—workforce, demographics, and industry trends—to inform smart decisions.
- Economic dashboards – Real-time metrics at your fingertips.
- Custom reports – Tailored insights for your business.
- Site selection support – Data-driven location decisions.
"The Chamber connects vision with execution."
What Our Members Have Built
For more than a century, Chamber members have helped turn big ideas into regional milestones. Here are just a few of the projects shaped by their leadership.
From Local Shop to Regional Brand
Chamber Networking and advocacy helped a family-owned retailer secure new locations, expand its workforce, and launch an e-commerce presence serving customers across Central Florida.
Backing Big Moves in Mobility
Member-led coalitions supported key investments in Orlando International Airport, I-4, and high-speed rail—connecting our region to visitors, talent, and new markets.
Building a High-Tech Corridor
Through partnerships with universities and industry, Chamber members helped grow Orlando's modeling & simulation, aerospace, and digital media sectors into national leaders.