Advocacy & Economics

Business Development

Workforce & Innovation

Chamber Event Calendar

Membership News

The Week Ahead

We strengthen the local economy. That's a powerful statement. However, the Chamber isn’t just about increasing business transactions—it’s about people, relationships, and community. The Chamber exists not just to host events, but to build something bigger: a thriving, supportive network where businesses of all sizes can succeed.


When you support the Chamber, you’re not just investing in your own business—you’re investing in the future of your local economy. You’re helping a new entrepreneur find their footing, advocating for laws and policies that benefit all businesses, and creating opportunities for others to flourish alongside you.


This isn’t about what you get today—it’s about what we build together for tomorrow. Your support fuels the connections, the advocacy, and the shared success that make our community stronger. Because when businesses lift each other up, that positive momentum moves all of us forward.


As you read through the events and ways to get involved below, we hope that you choose to maximize your Chamber membership by engaging with our network of members and community supporters. Now is the time to make a positive impact, not only for your own business, but for our entire region.


Thank you for your partnership in this exciting work. We wish you a productive week ahead!

Daytona Regional Chamber Happenings

Connecting You with a Click or Two

Things to Do

Leadership Daytona Alumni Reunion: March 26

The March 26 Leadership Daytona Reunion will focus on sports tourism and its impact on our community, current activities, and exciting new opportunities in the near future. These reunions keep our Leadership Daytona Alumni in the know on topics of importance across the region.


For more information, contact Ken Phelps, Vice President of Resource Development at ken@daytonachamber.com.

Things to Know

2025 Volusia Days in Tallahassee: March 31 - April 1

Are you still on the fence about attending Volusia Days? Time is running out to join us in Tallahassee as we deliver our 2025 legislative priorities. Secure your spot today! Click HERE to register.

 

For more information on hotel accommodations, please contact David Robinson, Director of Advocacy, at 386.255.7174 or david@daytonachamber.com.

Eggs & Issues: April 10

Join us at our April Eggs and Issues presented by AdventHealth for an engaging discussion with Cyrus T. Callum, Director of Aviation and Economic Resources for the Daytona Beach International Airport, as he shares valuable insights and his vision for maximizing economic impact through: Air Service Expansion and Business Retention and Attraction.

 

For more information, please contact David Robinson, Director of Advocacy, at 386.255.7174 or david@daytonachamber.com.

Business After Hours: April 15

Offering an elevated mini-golf experience and an array of fan-favorite dishes, all crafted in-house from scratch, PopStroke is excited to welcome the Daytona Regional Chamber for April's Business After Hours networking. Bring those business cards and be ready to learn more about our host business.


For more information, contact Ken Phelps, Vice President of Resource Development at ken@daytonachamber.com.

2025 Business Links Golf Tournament: April 28

The 2025 Business Links Golf Tournament presented by Brown & Brown Insurance is scheduled for Monday, April 28. Register today to be part of this event held at the beautiful LPGA International.


Interested in being a sponsor? Contact Ken Phelps, Vice President of Resource Development at ken@daytonachamber.com. Make your plans to join us! 

Things to Share

Emergency Operations Center Tour: March 26

As the countdown to the 2025 hurricane season inches closer, now is the time to get your business and home prepared. If you have ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes, this tour is for you. Learn how agencies work together to keep everyone in Volusia County safe.


This tour is sponsored by VMA. To register, go to VMAonline.com and click on events.

Community Survey: Open through March 28

The Environmental, Cultural, Historical, and Outdoor Recreation (ECHO) program invites you to participate in our strategic planning survey. Your feedback is crucial in guiding our blueprint for the program's growth and resource allocation through 2040. The survey focuses on sustainability, community impact, and ensuring the long-term success of ECHO's initiatives.


The survey will remain open through March 28. Click HERE to take the survey.

Celebrate Your Business with a Ribbon Cutting

Are you launching a new business, relocating, expanding your space, or relocating? A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce is the perfect way to showcase your business to the community!


As a Chamber member, you gain access to our extensive network, promotional resources, and media outreach—helping you maximize visibility and attract potential customers. A ribbon cutting isn’t just a photo opportunity; it’s a strategic way to engage with the community, build brand awareness, and generate excitement around your business.


Eligibility:


✔ Must be a current Chamber member in good standing

✔ Opened within the last year as a new business in the region

✔ Existing member expanding or relocating



Let us help you spread the word! Contact Lori McMullin, APR, at 386.523.3680 or lori@daytonachamber.com to schedule your ribbon cutting today!

Why Chamber Ambassadorship Might Be Right for You


Are you outgoing, community-driven, and passionate about supporting local businesses? Have you participated in Daytona Regional Chamber-specific events and programming for at least the past nine months in your current or previous professional role? If so, the Daytona Regional Chamber Ambassadors program could be a perfect fit!


As an Ambassador, you’ll play a vital role in welcoming new businesses through ribbon cuttings, fostering connections at Business After Hours events, and identifying prospective members. You’ll also help promote Chamber members through social media engagement and ensure existing members are connected to the resources that best support their success.


Beyond making a meaningful impact, being an Ambassador enhances your own networking opportunities, visibility, and professional growth within the region.


Want to learn more about the application process? Contact Lori McMullin, Director of Business Development, at 386.523.3680 or lori@daytonachamber.com.


Warmest Welcome to Our Newest Members

Congratulations on Your Membership Investment

New Member Tips


Use social media to build your business network:


  • Follow the Daytona Chamber on social media
  • Engage with posts by liking and sharing
  • Tag the Chamber in your posts during events
  • Follow other Chamber members on social media


Stay connected. Engage online. Let’s keep building a stronger business community—together.


Need more information? Reach out to Kelly Amy, Member Engagement & Communications Director, at 386.229.5759 or kelly@daytonachamber.com.

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Picture This!

The Week in Pictures

Business After Hours at the Thirsty Turtle Seagrill was a hit! Over 100 attendees from both the Ormond Beach Chamber and the Daytona Regional Chamber came out for a great evening of networking, food, and fun.

Rob Loy with Mugwump often stops in to our lobby to check on projects between meetings. Always grabs his favorite table in front of the Daytona International Speedway media wall.  

Children who had a booth at the Children's Business Fair were named "Honorary Daytona Regional Chamber Members" for the day! We loved supporting our community's youngest entrepreneurs!

Mike Sandler, Daytona Tortugas Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships, presented to the Thursday RBC group. Attendees learned about the Tortugas' exciting building project and walked away with some merch!

March Focus: Nonprofits & Volunteerism

Family Renew Community Inc.: A Hand Up, Not a Handout


By Jennifer Robertson, Family Renew Community Director of Development


For over three decades, Family Renew Community Inc. has been a beacon of hope for homeless families in Volusia and Flager Counties. With a mission to provide a safe, stable environment for parents and children experiencing homelessness, Family Renew Community Inc. empowers families through temporary housing, case management, financial literacy, as well as parenting and nutrition education programs.


The journey to self-sufficiency is challenging, but with the right support system, families can overcome obstacles and thrive. Family Renew Community Inc. offers fully furnished apartments for single parents, and two parent households, with children under the age of eighteen, where families can focus on regaining financial stability. Each family works closely with a dedicated Program Manager to develop a personalized plan, ensuring they acquire the necessary skills and resources to transition into permanent housing successfully.


One of the most recent inspiring stories of transformation comes from a single mother who sought help from Family Renew in April 2024. Homeless with her two-year-old daughter, she was working two jobs but still unable to afford stable housing. Every day was a struggle, balancing work and childcare while barely making ends meet.


After joining Family Renew Community, she finally had the breathing room to save money, access support services, and plan for a better future. With guidance from her Program Manager, she decided to pursue a career with the Florida Department of Corrections, a path that offered better pay, benefits, and long-term job security. Recognizing her dedication, a donor to Family Renew provided her with a car, enabling her to attend a rigorous four-month training academy. The program tested her resilience, but with support, she persevered through the challenges. On March 6th, she proudly graduated and is now preparing to take her state exam.


Her journey exemplifies Family Renew’s philosophy: “A hand up, not a handout.” Through hard work, determination, and the right support system, she transformed her life and secured a stable future for herself and her daughter.


Family Renew Community Inc. continues to provide families with the resources and encouragement they need to break the cycle of homelessness. As an integral part of the Volusia County community, we invite local businesses and community members to support our mission—because when we uplift one family, we strengthen our entire community.


www.familyrenew.org

March is Red Cross Month: Honoring Humanitarians who Selflessly Serve Communities Across the Country When Help Can’t Wait


By Duhane Lindo, Regional Communications Manager American Red Cross


The American Red Cross of Central Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands is celebrating Red Cross Month in March, a national tradition that began in 1943 by presidential proclamation and continues today. The month-long observance recognizes generation after generation of compassionate individuals driven by a humanitarian spirit to deliver relief and care in emergencies.


“During Red Cross Month, we proudly recognize the individuals who represent the best of humanity by stepping up to care for our neighbors in times of crisis,” said Christian Smith, Regional CEO of North and Central Florida. “As disasters become more intense across the country and families face everyday threats like home fires, the support of these local heroes is critical to the health of communities. You can join them to help ensure no one faces an emergency alone by donating, volunteering or taking a class to learn lifesaving skills.”


The power of the Red Cross relies on generous donations and the tireless efforts of volunteers -- dedicated people who will continue to make a difference for thousands of lives in 2025 and beyond.

Read More

Monthly Member Focus


During the month of March, members from the nonprofit and volunteerism categories will have the opportunity to submit content to be featured in The Edge newsletter, on social media, and on the Chamber website.


Content could include an article, white paper, business spotlight, testimonial, or video. Content submission deadlines are 2/28, 3/7, 3/14, 3/21, and 3/28.


Direct questions to Kelly Amy, Member Engagement & Communications Director, at 386.229.5759 or kelly@daytonachamber.com.

Member POV: JJ Royer, MOAS

Joint Business After Hours at The Thirsty Turtle Seagrill

"The March 18 Business After Hours at Thirsty Turtle Seagrill was a fantastic evening of networking, great conversations, and some seriously delicious wings!


It was wonderful catching up with familiar faces from both the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce and Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce and making new connections. I even managed to close a business deal while there!


Big thanks to both chambers for hosting such a valuable event. If you’re looking to expand your circle, meet like-minded professionals, and maybe even seal a deal over some great food, these events are a must-attend!


I'm looking forward to the next one!" 

Resources to Bookmark

Volunteer to Make a Difference in Your Community

Thousands of residents are making positive changes in our community by lending their time and talents through Volusia County Government’s volunteer programs. Volunteers rescue stranded sea turtles, clean riverbanks, help prevent crime, assist library staff, serve on advisory boards, and more.


Volusia County Government has 29 advisory boards composed of citizen volunteers who are appointed by the Volusia County Council. These boards serve an essential role in the policy-making process by providing the county council with in-depth assessments of issues related to their area of expertise. Qualified citizens are encouraged to apply to become a board member by completing an application available in the county manager's office or online.

Affiliates in Action

Get to Know our Community Partners

Volusia County Association for Responsible Development


Join VCARD and SEVMTC for a joint Social Hour, Thursday, April 3 at The Grille at New Smyrna Beach from 5:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m.


For more information, contact Kelly Cosentino at kelli@responsibledevelopment.com

Volusia Young Professional Group


VYPG is excited to host our March Social at Sugar Works Distillery—a perfect chance to connect, unwind, and support a great cause!


When:

Wednesday, March 20th

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Social at: 5:30 pm

New Member Orientation at 5:15 PM


Where:

Sugar Works Distillery

214 N. Orange St.,

New Smyrna Beach, FL


Help support the Falcon Hope Center Food Drive at Daytona State College by bringing non-perishable microwaveable items. Let's give back while we network!


volusiaypg.com

Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Central Florida


Join us, March 26, for a community recognition event sponsored by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Central Florida. The Annual Healthcare Awards will spotlight outstanding professionals in the community. Nominations are being accepted. For more information regarding sponsorship opportunities and ticket purchase, go to HispanicChamberCFL.org.

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