PROGRESS: Greater Sandpoint Chamber celebrates past as it shapes future

The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce continues to stand as a steady and welcoming force at the heart of our community, helping local businesses not only navigate change — but thrive in it.

Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of our local economy, and the chamber works closely with partners to ensure visitors experience the very best of Sandpoint. At the same time, there’s a growing emphasis on year — round economic stability — supporting industries beyond tourism and encouraging sustainable growth that benefits residents as much as visitors.

Of course, no organization is without its challenges. Like many chambers across the country, membership engagement and evolving business needs require constant attention. Today’s business owners are looking for value, flexibility, and meaningful connections — and the chamber is listening. Efforts are underway to modernize programming, enhance communication, and ensure members feel supported.

Looking ahead to next year, the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce is preparing to celebrate 100 years of serving and strengthening the local business community. A centennial is more than just a birthday — it’s a moment to reflect on a century of progress, partnerships, and the people who helped shape Sandpoint into the vibrant place it is today.

Founded in 1927, the chamber has long been a cornerstone of the community, supporting local businesses through times of growth, challenge, and change. From the early days of a small, resource — based economy to today’s diverse mix of retail, tourism, and professional services, the chamber has evolved alongside the community it serves. Through it all, its mission has remained consistent: to connect and promote local businesses.

The centennial celebration will not only honor the chamber’s history but also highlight the people and businesses that have helped shape Sandpoint over the past 100 years. Organizers envision a year filled with special events, storytelling, and opportunities for the community to come together. From commemorative gatherings and business spotlights to partnerships with local organizations, the goal is to reflect both the legacy and the future of the chamber.

One of the most anticipated elements of the celebration is the chance to share stories — stories of longtime businesses that have weathered decades of change, entrepreneurs who took a chance on Sandpoint, and community leaders who have helped guide its growth.

The centennial will also be a time to look forward. As the business landscape continues to evolve, the chamber remains focused on supporting innovation, workforce development, and sustainable growth. The next 100 years will bring new challenges and opportunities, and the chamber is committed to being a strong, adaptable partner for businesses of all sizes.

Milestone anniversaries not only offer a chance to pause and reflect ― they also inspire momentum and provide a launch point for the future. It’s an opportunity to reaffirm what makes this community special and to continue building a place where businesses thrive and people feel connected.

As preparations continue, one thing is certain: the 100 — year celebration will be a meaningful and memorable chapter in Sandpoint’s history — one that honors where we’ve been and looks ahead with optimism to where we’re going next.

Joan D. Urbaniak is the Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce's executive director. She can be reached at [email protected].