Chamber's Stance on 2024 State Measures

PROP 2 Education Bond

SUPPORT

PROP 5 Infrastructure & Housing Bond

SUPPORT

PROP 32 Establishing $18 Minimum Wage

OPPOSE

PROP 33 Housing & Rent Control

OPPOSE

PROP 36 Penalties for Drug & Theft Crimes

SUPPORT

Policy Updates

Opposition to local ordinance banning a specific AI technology

The Chamber opposed a proposed ban of a specific type of AI to be used in the City of San Jose. Federal and State regulations already ensure robust oversight of technology companies; adding a local ban could have hindered San Jose’s competitiveness, limited access to technology, and discouraged new investments. City by city ordinances risk creating inconsistent governance, stifling economic growth, and overburdening city staff to focus on the complexities of modern technologies. We urged the City to allow federal processes to conclude and regulate the technology in question.

Supported single bore construction of BART Phase II extension 

The Chamber urged the VTA’s BART Silicon Valley Phase II Oversight Committee to commit to single bore construction for the BART Phase II Extension, ensuring minimal disruption to downtown businesses as conversation of returning to dual bore has re-surfaced. Single bore technology keeps streets open, supports the local economy, and protects Santa Clara Street, a vital downtown thoroughfare. Shifting to double bore construction could deter investment, disrupt revitalization efforts, and deter new businesses and residents from downtown. 

Support of TREBA Business Improvement District

A Business Improvement District (BID) is a designated area where local businesses pay an additional levy to fund projects and services that enhance the commercial environment and promote economic growth within the district. The BID would fund business development, capital improvements, enhanced public safety, and beautification projects, fostering a vibrant environment that attracts customers and sustains the city’s tax base. We applaud the businesses in this district for their effort and initiative to further support their own businesses. The Chamber will be organizing business walks in 2025 to explore and support the business corridors throughout the City.

Network Building & Member Opportunities

11/5 Coffee & Connections

Join us over coffee to network with other members and learn about the San Jose Chamber of Commerce benefits and services on Tuesday, November 5.

Register

11/6 Women in Leadership Reading Series: ABCs of Speaking

Join us for the next Women in Leadership Reading Series on November 6th, featuring The ABCs of Speaking, an A–Z guide for speakers of all experience levels. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned professional, this book offers valuable insights on everything from securing speaking engagements to delivering memorable presentations and building a profitable speaking business. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your speaking career and connect with fellow leaders!

Register

11/13 Chamber Compass: Navigating Cash Flow, Presented by Chase

Join us on Wednesday, November 13 for the final workshop in the Small Business Series, presented by Chase.


Navigating Cash Flow: In this virtual session, we will review cash flow basics, maximizing cash in and minimizing cash out. Make cash work for you!


English: Wed 11/13 11 AM - 12 PM

Spanish: Wed 11/13 12:30 - 1:30 PM


Register your spot today. Lunch is not provided, please feel free to bring your own.

Register (English)
Register (Spanish)

11/14 Impact Investor Exclusive: Fireside Chat with Matt Mahan

Chamber Impact Investors are invited to join a post-election fireside chat with Mayor Matt Mahan and Chamber CEO Leah Toeniskoetter on November 14. The conversation will explore the results of the 2024 election and their impact on San Jose’s future.


Interested in becoming an Impact Investor? Reach out to Angela Kelly at angelak@sjchamber.com.

11/19 Chamber Compass: Understanding the Corporate Transparency Act, Presented by Hoge Fenton

Join us on November 19 from 12-12:30 PM for a concise webinar on the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), presented by Hoge Fenton. The webinar will cover the CTA’s purpose, outline which businesses must comply, and walk you through key reporting obligations. Plus, get expert insights on when legal support may be needed to stay compliant and avoid penalties.

Register

11/19 Webinar: New Member Orientation

Are you a new member of the San Jose Chamber or interested in learning more about the amazing benefits of being a San Jose Chamber of Commerce member? Join us for our New Member Orientation Webinar on Tuesday, November 19.

Register

11/20 Women in Leadership Speaker Series: The Art of Public Speaking

On November 20, join us for an inspiring session on authentic leadership and communication with renowned speaker, author, and business coach Caterina Rando. This event will dive into the art of public speaking—whether you’re running a meeting, presenting to a team, or speaking one-on-one—and explore how to captivate, motivate, and inspire. Caterina, founder of The Thriving Women in Business Center, will share strategies for building "insta-influence" and engaging audiences for lasting impact. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your leadership and communication skills!

Register

In the Community

Berliner Cohen Small Business Grant Applications Close 11/4

Berliner Cohen, LLP is offering the 2024 Small Business Grant, a limited

grant of legal services and $5,000, to one minority-owned business in San Jose, CA. Eligible businesses must be at least 51% owned by individuals identifying as Black, Latino, Asian, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Middle Eastern, or Alaskan Native, have fewer than 25 employees, and be in business for over a year.


Applications are due by 5:00 PM on November 4, 2024. Click below for more information.

Apply Now

The Tech Interactive's Polar Play Days Return

Polar Play Days, the annual Winter Event at The Tech Interactive, returns for another season from November 23, 2024-January 5, 2025. This beloved event is made even more special through the support of community partners. Explore sponsorship opportunities at the link below to connect with local families and help provide accessible, educational programming for children

Learn More


Know someone who might benefit from added visibility and credibility within the business community?

For all membership inquiries, please contact info@SJChamber.com

or 408-291-5250



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