February 21, 2025

ACAA Day in Columbus

On February 11, the ACAA held its first-ever Day in Columbus at the Ohio Chamber alongside more than 70 leaders from our region! Throughout the day, we met with elected officials and key decision makers who are critically important to the State Operating Budget process and other significant legislative matters.

This event was a pivotal opportunity for the ACAA to directly engage with those who shape policies that impact our community. By bringing together a diverse group of leaders, we were able to present a unified voice on our policy priorities, emphasizing the collective needs and aspirations of our region. The discussions focused on the ACAA's policy priorities and exploring ways to find common ground for actionable solutions.

At this event, we not only advocated for our current priorities, but we also laid the groundwork for future initiatives that will continue to support and enhance the well-being of the Akron-Canton region. We deeply appreciate the participation of members who attended because it's people and organizations like them whose voice and perspective positions our region for success!

State Operating Budget

As the process behind the State Operating Budget progresses, we will continually update members on its development and key priorities within it. We have an internal tracking document focused on items relevant to our Public Policy Agenda and can always answer questions upon request. For those doing your own research, here is a link to the LSC Budget Central where all related documents are available.

NSBA Small Business Congress

On February 6 and 7, the ACAA traveled to Washington, D.C. with small business leaders to participate in the NSBA’s Small Business Congress. As the new legislative session for Congress begins, this event enabled attendees to engage in discussions with Members of Congress, government officials, agency staff, and other key decision makers focused on identifying, prioritizing, and advocating for business-related issues. This conference offered small businesses a valuable opportunity to shape the NSBA's policy agenda and ensure their voices were heard!

As part of this event, attendees had the opportunity to shape the national small business agenda and 2025-2026 NSBA Policy Priorities! ACAA members participated in this exercise, which will inform federal advocacy efforts for the NSBA and its state and local partners. In the coming weeks, we will be sharing additional information on these items, including issue briefs and opportunities for targeted advocacy efforts.

Thank you again to those who were able to join us!

OMCC Policy Priorities

Earlier this month, the Ohio Metro Chamber Coalition (OMCC) released their 2024-2025 policy priorities. The OMCC is made up of nine chambers of commerce – including the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Akron Chamber – that jointly advocate for issues impacting the metropolitan areas of the state. Ohio’s metro areas represent 76% of the state’s population, 82% of its overall GDP and 80% of its overall employment base, making the OMCC’s priorities relevant to a large majority of Ohioans.

During this legislative session, the OMCC’s focus encompasses a wide range of critical issues such as attracting and retaining talent, revitalizing our physical assets, expanding energy resources, and strengthening transportation infrastructure. The goal of the OMCC is to create an Ohio where businesses grow, the workforce thrives, and communities flourish. By addressing these key areas, we aim to build a stronger, more resilient Ohio for everyone.

The OMCC’s Policy Priorities can be found on our website along with other important pieces of legislation introduced by the 136th General Assembly, so be sure to check for updates!

Join Us at an Upcoming Event

On Friday, February 28 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., the ACAA and Ohio Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the Akron-Canton Regional Impact Ohio Conference at MAPS Air Museum with key government officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders to discuss important issues and opportunities facing our region.

March 5 – 6 is the Ohio Birthday and ACAA D.C. Fly-In. During this event, the ACAA will bring members to D.C. to meet with members of Congress and key agency staff to advance our policy and grant efforts. For more information, please contact John Rizzo at jrizzo@akroncantonadvocacy.org.

Interested in Attending?

On June 5-6, the ACAA, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Northeast Ohio Mayors and City Managers Association, and the Cuyahoga County Mayors and City Association are holding their Empowering Local Leadership Conference in D.C. This two-day event will connect the region’s local elected officials and business leaders with Ohio’s congressional delegation and other federal policymakers.

For more information, contact John Rizzo, Vice President, at jrizzo@akroncantonadvocacy.org or Alexis Escobar-Paz, Coordinator, at araineri@akroncantonadvocacy.org.

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