Written by: Colleen Frein, Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce
This year’s Annual Meeting is designed to do more than celebrate our members and community. It is also an opportunity to take a closer look at the work of the Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce and the ways we help businesses connect, grow, and engage in the future of our region. These breakout sessions offer a fast-paced, behind-the-scenes look at three areas of Chamber work, giving attendees practical ideas, new connections, and a better understanding of how member involvement helps move our community forward.
Civic Engagement
How do you make sure the voice of business is heard at every level of government? This panel will bring together Mason City City Administrator Aaron Burnett, State Representative Christian Hermanson, and Clayton Brown from U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley’s office. Congresswoman Ashley Hinson has also been invited to participate.
Together, they will offer a practical look at how businesses can engage with local, state, and federal leaders, build productive relationships, and communicate effectively on the issues that matter to them. The conversation will also highlight the Chamber’s role in creating connections between members and decision-makers and helping ensure the business community has a seat at the table when important decisions are being made.
Small Business Roundtable
Our monthly Small Business Roundtable gives local business owners and leaders a place to share what is working, talk through challenges, and learn from one another. This condensed Annual Meeting edition will bring that same spirit into a shorter, high-energy format.
Attendees can expect quick conversation, practical takeaways, and the chance to exchange ideas with other business leaders who understand the realities of running and growing a business. It is a snapshot of the kind of member-driven programming the Chamber is continuing to build, creating more opportunities for businesses to connect with peers, find solutions, and strengthen their organizations.
Meet the Nominees
Get to know the six finalists for the Chamber’s 2026 Boss of the Year and Business of the Year awards. This session will move beyond the nomination summaries and give attendees an opportunity to hear directly from the people and organizations being recognized.
Through a conversational format, nominees will share perspectives on leadership, workplace culture, community involvement, growth, and the lessons they have learned along the way. Their stories reflect the many ways businesses and business leaders contribute to a thriving region, from investing in employees and creating opportunity to strengthening their communities.
It is both a celebration of achievement and a chance to learn from local leaders.