Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce: 125 Years of Impact
Serving Businesses. Strengthening Communities. Shaping the Future.
Our Legacy: 125 Years Strong
Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership, Innovation, and Impact
From securing major manufacturing investments and building our first hard-surface road, to shaping the future of transportation, infrastructure, and innovation, this organization—later known as the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce—has never stopped moving our region forward.
We’ve met the demands of wartime, championed economic diversification, and empowered women in leadership through the globally recognized ATHENA Award. We stood united to Keep GM, ensuring new jobs and facilities at a critical time for our community. And we’ve consistently recognized excellence through the Regional Growth Awards, honoring those who drive us forward.
Through every challenge and every triumph, one thing has remained constant: our commitment to Lansing’s people, businesses, and future.
Today, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce stands on the shoulders of generations who dared to believe in a better tomorrow. We are proud of where we’ve been—and even more excited about where we’re going. Together, we continue to connect, collaborate, and create opportunity.
Since January 4, 1901, we’ve been more than a Chamber—we’ve been a catalyst. And we couldn’t have done it without you.
Celebrate with Us!
Celebrating 125 years is a significant milestone for the Chamber. This achievement shows the Chamber's lasting value and the strong leadership that has kept it relevant during economic ups and downs, global changes, and technological advancements. This anniversary lets us reflect on how far the community has come and where it will go next.
This celebration is not just about the past; it is a chance to inspire the next era of innovation and inclusion. By recognizing this moment, we emphasize the importance of investing in local businesses and working together as a region. It also invites the next generation of leaders and visionaries to step up and continue this important work.
Join us throughout 2025 as we commemorate this historic milestone with a year-long celebration. Events will include:
- Anniversary Gala - A night to honor our history and toast to the future
- 125 stories campaign - Spotlighting members, milestones, and moments that shaped our future.
- Logo competition - Submit a logo that will be displayed during our celebration!
Become a Sponsor Today!
Becoming a sponsor at our event not only enhances your brand's reputation but also plays a vital role in shaping the future of our community.
- Increased Visibility: Sponsoring the event provides your brand with prominent exposure to a diverse audience, enhancing your visibility within the community and beyond.
- Networking Opportunities : Engage with local business leaders, entrepreneurs, and influencers, creating opportunities for valuable connections and partnerships.
- Community Impact: By sponsoring the event, you demonstrate your commitment to the local community and contribute to the development of regional business ecosystems.
The Past Presidents
Since 1873, when the Lansing Improvement Association first planted the seeds of progress, our region has been built on bold vision, tireless effort, and the unshakable belief that we are stronger when we work together. By the dawn of the 20th century, Lansing was growing rapidly—but still waiting for its moment to shine.
That moment came in 1901, when a determined group of business leaders formed the Lansing Businessmen’s Association. With grit and ingenuity, they took a bold step to spark economic growth—purchasing land to bring Olds Motor Works home to Lansing. It worked. And it was only the beginning.
The Lansing Improvement Association President
John J. Bush - 1873
The Second Lansing Improvement Association
Edward W. Sparrow - 1892 - 1906
Presidents of the Lansing Business Men’s Association - Established January 4, 1901.
Fred Thoman - 1901
Harris E. Thomas - 1902
James J. Baird - 1903 & 1904
A.A. Piatt - 1905
Lawrence Price 1906
S. Porter - 1907 & 1908
Charles P. Downey - 1909 & 1910
R.E. Olds - 1911
Our Future Vision!
As we celebrate 125 years, we're also looking ahead.
A clear vision for the future is essential for shaping a thriving business community. That’s why the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) has retooled its strategic plan—a roadmap designed to empower businesses, influence policy, and foster regional collaboration.
LRCC’s refreshed Strategic Plan builds on the foundation established in 2018 and redefines our goals to meet the challenges and opportunities of today. With the input of 74 business and community leaders, the updated strategic plan is centered on four key pillars.
With a renewed focus on delivering value and driving results, the LRCC is dedicated to empowering and elevating the Greater Lansing business community as a unified force for growth and progress. Let’s build the future of Greater Lansing together.
Stay Connected!
Staying connected through our newsletter or social media channels is essential for our event celebration:
- Exclusive Updates: By subscribing, you’ll receive timely information about event details, speaker announcements, and special activities before anyone else.
- Insider Content: Get access to behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, and interviews with speakers and participants, giving you a deeper understanding of what to expect.
- Special Offers: Subscribers often get exclusive promotions, discounts on tickets, or early bird specials, ensuring you can take advantage of the best deals.
- Community Building: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your interests. Our channels are a space for fostering community and building lasting relationships.
- Feedback and Input: Stay updated on how you can contribute your ideas and feedback, helping to shape the direction of future events and ensure they meet the community's needs.
- Celebration Reminders: Don’t miss any important dates! Regular updates will keep you informed about key milestones leading up to our event.
Follow us on Social Media!
Hashtag Promotions: #LRCC125 | #125YearsStrong