Voice of Business Blog

Last week, Greater Rochester Chamber joined leaders from across the state in Lake George for the Business Council of New York State’s 2025 Annual Meeting. President & CEO Bob Duffy and Director of Advocacy, Intergovernmental Relations, and Public Policy Joe Leathersich attended on behalf of our region, connecting with key policymakers and business leaders to advance the priorities that matter most to our members.

The event was a reminder of the importance of partnership and persistence in shaping the future of New York’s economy.

Lessons for the Road Ahead
Throughout the sessions and conversations, several clear themes emerged:

• Keeping New York competitive. This year’s legislative session marked important wins for the business community, most notably the payoff of New York’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) debt. That progress means businesses can reinvest dollars back into their people and growth. Equally critical were the efforts to stop legislation that would have made it harder to do business in New York, such as the Expanded Producer Opportunity Act and the 21st Century Anti-Trust Act.
• Energy is a growth barrier. Panelists underscored a shared concern: New York’s ability to deliver the energy required for future development. Without additional access to reliable energy, the state risks stalling projects and limiting economic opportunity.
• Collaboration is key. In his keynote address, David Axelrod, former senior advisor to President Obama, emphasized the importance of bipartisanship. Working together—across communities and across political lines—remains the only way to build lasting solutions for businesses and families.

Building Relationships That Matter
Equally important to the panels were the conversations happening in hallways and around tables. We connected with Governor Kathy Hochul, New York State Budget Director Blake Washington, and Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, among other state leaders. These relationships will be crucial as we head into budget season in Albany, ensuring that the needs of Greater Rochester businesses are understood and prioritized.

Successful advocacy efforts stem from long-term trust, dialogue, and results. The connections built at this annual meeting will continue to strengthen our ability to represent our members and secure policies that help businesses thrive.

Growing Together
Greater Rochester Chamber exists to equip, advocate for, and connect people and businesses, fueling a region that rises together. That spirit was on full display in Lake George. By building strong relationships, learning from partners across the state, and advocating with clarity and conviction, we are helping to shape a more competitive New York.

The work doesn’t stop here. We’ll carry forward the lessons learned, the partnerships strengthened, and the momentum built as we continue to push for a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous future—for our region and for all of New York.