Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce sets strategic vision for 2026 and beyond

The Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce has unveiled a clear vision, mission, and set of strategic priorities to guide its work in 2026 and into the next decade. The plan follows a comprehensive strategic planning process facilitated by the University of Northern Iowa’s Department of Decision Making.

Throughout the process, the Chamber held multiple planning sessions and met with key community and organizational partners to gather input, assess local needs, and ensure alignment across initiatives. The goal was to strengthen collaboration and position the Chamber to support Fairfield’s long-term growth.

“This planning process allowed us to step back, listen, and align,” said Ryan Swanson, Chamber Board President. “By working closely with our members and partners, we can all pull on the same side of the rope and make meaningful progress for Fairfield.”

A Refreshed Vision and Mission

The planning effort resulted in a renewed vision and mission that clearly define the Chamber’s role:

Vision: To be the trusted connector, voice, and champion of Fairfield’s community — leading with purpose, partnerships, and progress.

Mission: To support Fairfield’s growth by connecting members with tools, resources, and experiences that build a thriving, engaged community.

Strategic Priorities with a Long-Term Focus

The Chamber identified six strategic priority areas, each paired with a vision extending through 2030:

· Business Support & Retention: Serving as a trusted advocate and connector, providing consistent, high-value support and training to help businesses succeed.

· Organizational Operations & Member Relations: Building a high-performing organization with strong staff support, engaged leadership, and sustainable funding.

· Partnerships: Leveraging the Chamber’s convening power to align efforts with community organizations without duplicating work.

· Telling the Story / Branding: Establishing a clear, recognizable identity and effectively communicating the Chamber’s impact and value.

· Volunteer & Stakeholder Engagement: Creating meaningful roles and leadership opportunities for volunteers and community stakeholders.

· Events: Delivering mission-driven events that strengthen connections, support businesses, and celebrate the Fairfield community.

Strengthening the Chamber and the Community

These priorities are designed to strengthen the Chamber’s effectiveness while delivering direct benefits to members and the broader community. By sharpening its focus on business support, the Chamber aims to be a more proactive advocate for local businesses. Investments in operations and governance will support long-term sustainability, while deeper partnerships will amplify community impact.

A renewed emphasis on storytelling and branding will help clarify the Chamber’s value, and enhanced volunteer engagement will bring new energy and leadership. Chamber events will continue to serve as important connection points, guided by purpose and measurable impact.

“This plan positions the Chamber for long-term sustainability and impact,” Swanson said. “Most importantly, it positions our members and our community for shared success.”

The strategic priorities will serve as a road map for Chamber programming, partnerships, and decision-making. Together, these changes ensure the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce is not only prepared for 2026 but positioned for long-term success — serving as a trusted connector, voice, and champion for Fairfield’s business community.

For more information about the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce or to get involved, email Chamber@FairfieldIowa.com or visit FairfieldIowa.com.