Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
When there's a need to fulfill, someone has to speak up. If your neighbor's house were on fire, you'd call 911.
If a child darted toward the street, you'd yell for them to stop.
The same principle applies to the community at large. There are urgent needs in Utah that may not be as visible as flashing lights or screeching brakes, but they still require attention — and a voice. That's where advocacy comes in.
The Salt Lake Chamber's role is to be the business voice on issues that impact Utahns every day.
While the Chamber represents businesses, its work helps everyone. Strong businesses fuel thriving communities, and policies that strengthen the economy also improve the quality of life for families across the state.
If you're a business owner, being aware of and involved in finding solutions to local issues isn't just the right thing to do — it's good for business.
According to an article by Alison Taylor in the Harvard Business Review, companies that get involved in advocacy can not only shape real change but also build stronger connections with their communities.
The Chamber agrees: advocacy ensures businesses and residents alike have a seat at the table when it's time to make important decisions about jobs, families and the economy.
But you can't speak up if you don't know what to advocate for.
Each year, the Chamber outlines its federal priorities, highlighting the areas where speaking up matters most. Here are a few you should know about — and why they affect you.
Workforce
Affordable housing. Reliable child care. Access to education. These aren't just "policy points" — they're everyday concerns for Utah families. Without them, employers struggle to find workers, and families struggle to stay afloat.
The Chamber supports programs that help build affordable housing, increase child care access and make higher education more attainable.
They also back changes that help employers meet seasonal and year-round workforce needs.
When Utah invests in its people, businesses gain the talent they need and families gain the stability they deserve.
Energy
Energy keeps Utah moving by powering businesses, homes and innovation — but it has to be reliable, affordable and sustainable.
The Chamber supports an "all-of-the-above" strategy: developing new energy sources, such as nuclear and geothermal energy, while continuing to use traditional resources such as coal, oil and natural gas.
By making permitting faster and encouraging innovation, Utah can stay a leader in energy.
That means stable power bills, secure jobs and long-term economic strength.
Infrastructure and natural resources
Anyone who has hit a pothole or worried about water shortages knows that infrastructure isn't just about convenience — it's about quality of life. Strong roads, broadband networks and water systems are all essential for Utah's economy.
The Chamber advocates for federal investments that let Utah address these needs efficiently.
At the same time, it supports science-based water management and wildfire prevention to protect Utah's landscapes and natural resources.
The goal is balance: growth that keeps pace with demand while preserving the state's beauty.
National security and trade
Utah plays an important role in America's defense and global competitiveness. Military bases, defense contractors and research institutions here support national security and create thousands of jobs.
The Chamber backs continued investment in defense infrastructure, supply chains and advanced technologies. It also supports fair trade policies that open markets for Utah exporters and protect local businesses. Strength in these areas doesn't just keep Utah safe — it keeps its economy strong.
How you can get involved
Reading about these issues is one thing. Taking action is another. Advocacy isn't reserved for policymakers — it's something every Utahn can do.
One great way to get started is through the Chamber's Government Affairs Boot Camp.
This two-day program teaches participants how to advocate effectively and understand the process of how Utah policy is made.
The next session takes place this November, with limited space for just 35 participants. Graduates learn the necessary skills to make their voices heard on the issues that matter most.
Be part of the voice of the community
At the end of the day, advocacy isn't about politics — it's about people. It's about ensuring Utah continues to be a place where families can thrive, businesses can grow and communities can prosper.
Your voice matters. Use it. Stay informed, get involved and partner with the Salt Lake Chamber to help shape a brighter future for Utah.
For more information, visit slchamber.com.
