The Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce is an ever-evolving institution dedicated to fostering business growth, economic development, and community prosperity. With a leadership team that understands both tradition and innovation, the Chamber continues to be a pillar of support for local enterprises, ensuring that Fort Worth remains a thriving business hub.
A Leader Rooted in Fort Worth
Steve Montgomery, Chamber President, was born and raised in Fort Worth, brings a deep understanding of the city’s unique business landscape. Prior to taking on the role, he was President of MontgomeryGR, a government relations consulting firm, and held executive positions in healthcare information technology, local healthcare, and the oil and gas industry. This diverse background equips him with the insight needed to lead a Chamber that supports businesses across multiple sectors.
The Power of a Dynamic Team
A strong Chamber relies on a balance of experienced and new talent. Long-term employees bring institutional knowledge, helping to navigate challenges based on historical insights. ”I’ve found my more tenured staff to be coolheaded and deliberate in their approach to challenges and finding solutions,” says Montgomery. Meanwhile, new team members are just as valuable to keeping the Chamber adaptable. “New folks bring fresh ideas and energy. They are not limited by what’s been done before or someone’s idea of what it’s supposed to look like,” says Montgomery. Recent hires have been carefully selected to ensure the Chamber remains relevant and impactful, aligning with the evolving needs of Fort Worth’s business community. Evolution and Change: A Necessity for Growth
Like any forward-thinking organization, the Chamber continuously evaluates its strategies to maintain its value to members. Recent staffing changes reflect this commitment, ensuring that leadership, engagement, and advocacy remain at the forefront. Says Montgomery, “Our approach has been to listen to our community and respond by making sure we’re delivering on the fundamentals, like leadership, engagement, and advocacy.”
Collaboration with Local Chambers and the City
One of the Chamber’s key initiatives is strengthening relationships with peer organizations and city officials. By fostering respect and partnership, the Fort Worth Chamber collaborates with other local Chambers to achieve common goals. Similarly, its work with the city ensures that businesses have the support they need, whether it’s addressing permitting issues or improving public policies that enhance the business climate.
The 2025 Playbook: A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Montgomery and the chamber staff have embraced “The Playbook” as its theme for 2025—a strategic plan that outlines the organization’s future direction. Like any winning sports team, they are committed to executing a game plan that benefits its members and the community at large. This approach aligns with the Chamber’s long-term vision of not only guiding Fort Worth’s growth but anticipating its future needs.
The Role of Events and Engagement
Chamber events and workshops play a crucial role in business development. Networking opportunities allow members to forge valuable connections, while educational sessions provide insights that busy entrepreneurs might not otherwise have time to explore. The Chamber is also committed to reaching members who may not have time to attend events by finding innovative ways to deliver value remotely or through direct support.
Educating Businesses on the Chamber’s Impact
Many business owners may not fully understand what the Chamber does. The Chamber actively works to change that perception by clearly communicating its value. Whether it’s connecting businesses with key stakeholders, advocating for policies that benefit the local economy, or providing platforms for brand elevation, the Chamber delivers tangible benefits that help businesses thrive.
Economic Development at the Core
At its heart, the Chamber’s mission is economic development. With 80% of investment and employment growth coming from existing businesses, the Chamber focuses on retention and expansion, ensuring that Fort Worth remains a prime destination for business success.
A Passion for Community Impact
For the Chamber President, leading this organization is about more than business—it’s about community impact. From his early days running a small airplane-washing business to leading a major civic organization, his journey is one of entrepreneurship, leadership, and dedication to Fort Worth. Montgomery has a clear vision. He says, “While we always need to plan, execute, refresh, and repeat, I believe deeply that a high-performing chamber has true civic-value. We must simultaneously help guide our community’s path forward, but also anticipate where it is going to help it get there. And, at the end of the day, we must always remember that it’s not about us, it’s about our members.”
Through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment to Fort Worth’s businesses, the chamber remains a cornerstone of economic and civic progress. As it continues to evolve, its mission stays the same: driving success for Fort Worth and everyone who calls it home.
