Monroe Chamber of Commerce Named 2026 Large Chamber of the Year


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monroe Chamber of Commerce Named 2026 Large Chamber of the Year
 

Statewide honor recognizes the Chamber’s leadership, growth and impact on the Northeast Louisiana business community
 

MONROE, La. — The Monroe Chamber of Commerce has been named the 2026 Large Chamber of the Year by the Louisiana Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (LACCE), recognizing the organization’s outstanding leadership, innovation and service to the business community.
 

The statewide award recognizes chambers of commerce that demonstrate excellence across key areas of chamber work, including member engagement, business development, advocacy, communication and community impact.
 

“This recognition belongs to our entire business community,” said Mike Downhour, President and CEO of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce. “Our members, Board of Directors, volunteers, community partners and Chamber team continue to show what is possible when people work together with a shared commitment to moving our region forward. We are incredibly proud to represent Monroe and Ouachita Parish and honored to have that work recognized on a statewide level.”
 

For more than 120 years, the Monroe Chamber has served as an advocate, connector and resource for businesses throughout Monroe, Ouachita Parish and Northeast Louisiana. Today, the Chamber represents a growing network of businesses and organizations while providing opportunities for professional development, leadership, advocacy, networking and community engagement.
 

Over the past year, the Chamber has continued to expand its reach through membership growth, hundreds of business and community events, ribbon cuttings, educational programs, Young Professionals initiatives, business alliances and partnerships designed to strengthen the region’s workforce and business environment.
 

Being named Large Chamber of the Year reflects not only the Chamber’s growth, but the strength and involvement of the businesses and people it represents.
 

“We have tremendous momentum in Monroe and Northeast Louisiana right now,” Downhour said. “This award is something we are proud of, but more importantly, it challenges us to keep raising the bar for our members and our community. There is a lot of exciting work ahead.”
 

The Monroe Chamber of Commerce extends its appreciation to its members, investors, Board of Directors, Ambassadors, volunteers, partners and community leaders whose continued involvement makes the Chamber’s work possible.
 

About the Monroe Chamber of Commerce

Established more than 120 years ago, the Monroe Chamber of Commerce works to create an environment where businesses thrive in Monroe and Ouachita Parish. Through advocacy, connections, business development, leadership initiatives and community partnerships, the Chamber works to strengthen the regional economy and improve the overall business environment.

###

Media Contact:
Monroe Chamber of Commerce
1811 Auburn Avenue, Suite 1
Monroe, LA 71201
318-323-3461

www.monroe.org

mdownhour@monroe.org