Honoring 120 Years of Business Growth and Community Leadership

The Boulder Chamber is proud to celebrate 120 years of service to the region’s businesses, economy and community.  

Founded in 1905 as the Boulder Commercial Association with the mission of promoting economic vitality by attracting businesses and visitors to support the growing community, the organization marked its first milestone achievement in attracting public investment to build the landmark Hotel Boulderado. 120 years later, the Boulder Chamber stands as the region’s leading voice for economic interests and partner in support of business success. 

Over its 120 years of service, the Boulder Chamber has supported businesses in navigating the ever-changing economic and public policy landscape, while working to enhance the economic ecosystem. It was the Boulder Chamber that recognized the need to diversify the local economy, leading to recruitment of the first federal laboratories and tech companies to Boulder and to construction of the US36 Highway. That commitment to advancing a strong and resilient economy continues today, with the Boulder Chamber’s active hand in securing everything from the new quantum tech hub status, providing businesses like Google and BEA systems with the opportunity to expand their operations, and marketing and advocacy support for local startups and small businesses. 

“By advocating for economic interests, providing business support resources, and fostering collaboration to address community challenges, the Boulder Chamber has played a crucial role in making Boulder one of the world’s most desirable places to live and work,” said Boulder Chamber President and CEO John Tayer. “Its 120-year legacy of accomplishments reflect the innovative, collaborative and resilient character of our community and an unwavering commitment to the success of local businesses and the broader regional economy.” 

A Revitalized Look for an Evolving Organization 

In preparation for this 120th anniversary year, the Boulder Chamber launched a revitalized brand identity that reflects its expanding role in the community and features its new slogan, "Your Chamber Does That." This revitalized branding is indicative of an organization that continuously evolves its economic development programs and business support services to address new challenges and opportunities. 

True to form, the Boulder Chamber’s influence continues to grow, strengthening Boulder’s regional economy through key partnerships and strategic expansions. Recent integration of Boulder Transportation Connections (2019), the Commercial Brokers of Boulder (2024), and the Boulder County Film Commission (2025) under the Boulder Chamber umbrella highlights its cross-sector wide-ranging support. Along with the addition of expanded DE&I, economic data analysis and workforce development programming, the Boulder Chamber is further building its capacity to enhance the region’s economic landscape and address ever-changing business needs. It’s a synergy that advances economic vitality goals while remaining true to community cultural and sustainability values. 

“On behalf of the Boulder community, I congratulate and thank the Boulder Chamber for its leadership role in shaping our vibrant and resilient economy,” said Boulder Mayor Aaron Brockett. “We will always confront forces that impact our businesses, economy and community. Yet we know the Boulder Chamber will continue to evolve to meet the challenges and secure the opportunities that keep our economy strong, while respecting core community values.”  

A Year of Milestone Anniversary Celebration 

To commemorate its milestone anniversary, the Boulder Chamber will host a year-long celebration featuring a variety of events, activities and programming that unite its business members and the community to honor Boulder’s economic legacy: 

• Celebration of Leadership: This year’s event will highlight the elegance and influence of the Art Deco era, drawing inspiration from the 1920s through the 1940s, with an Oscar-style twist. Guests are invited to embrace the theme with period-inspired attire. In a new twist, no honorees will be announced ahead of time—the winners will be unveiled live at the Celebration of Leadership, creating an unforgettable moment of surprise and joy for all attendees.  

• Historic Golf Tournament Benefiting the Foundation: The beloved annual golf tournament will see a unique twist on the classic golf experience, inviting participants to dress in themed attire while supporting the Boulder Chamber Foundation. Proceeds from the tournament will help advance the Foundation’s mission to foster economic vitality, support workforce development, and promote community well-being. 

• Anniversary Mega Mixer: This special summer networking event will bring together members from the Northwest Chamber Alliance in celebration of the anniversary. This collaborative gathering will offer attendees the opportunity to connect across business communities, fostering new relationships and regional partnerships. 

• Historic Exhibit at Museum of Boulder: The Museum of Boulder will host a three-month long exhibit showcasing 120 years of history through a curated collection of photographs, artifacts, and research materials, offering an insightful look at the organization's legacy and impact. 

For a complete list of 2025 events, visit the events calendar. 

Learn more about how we're celebrating our 120th anniversary by visiting boulderchamber.com/120th-anniversary/.