Supporting Local Business: Advocacy, Leadership, and Celebrating Small Business Season

Gina Spagnola, Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO

At the Chamber, our mission is “to promote and advocate for business and community development.” And, as always, we’ve been staying busy focusing on our mission which drives everything we do.

Living on the Texas Gulf Coast has its perks and drawbacks. While we enjoy short commutes and the Gulf breeze, we brace ourselves during storm season and the impact it has on our personal lives and businesses.

On Sept. 23, the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) held a public meeting at Moody Gardens to gather feedback on the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association’s (TWIA) proposed 10% rate increase for residential and commercial properties in 2024. I attended early and had the chance to speak directly with the TWIA president. As President & CEO of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce, my role is to advocate for our businesses.

This has been an exceptionally tough year for small businesses, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl and the lingering bad weather. Now is not the time for additional financial burdens on residents and businesses. I urge you to send an email to PublicComment@twia.org and share your feedback. Your input is vital.

Great leaders inspire, but it’s the collective effort of employees that transforms inspiration into results. For any business to succeed, it requires a shared vision between leaders and employees, both working toward common goals.

For over two decades, the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce has championed leadership development through programs like Leadership Galveston and, more recently, Sail to Success. These initiatives aim to connect and inspire local professionals. With students currently enrolled in Leadership Galveston and Sail to Success, we encourage anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills to apply. These programs offer invaluable insights from the top leaders in Galveston County. Visit our website to learn more.

Supporting small businesses shouldn’t be limited to just one day like Small Business Saturday—it should extend over an entire season. That’s why the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce is joining other Chambers nationwide to promote Small Business Season, running from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31. We announced push at Good Morning Galveston on Oct. 3.

When you feel tempted to shop on large online platforms or at big-box retailers, consider shopping small instead. Shopping small doesn’t just mean buying a product—it’s an investment in a dream, a local family, and our community’s economic well-being. This year, we urge everyone to make small businesses a priority during the holiday season.

Small Business Season reminds us that shopping local brings unique value to our lives. Whether you’re buying gifts or enjoying meals at local restaurants, supporting small businesses enriches the community. These businesses are the heart of Galveston, offering personalized service, distinctive products, and that special touch that only comes from shopping small. This holiday season, rediscover the charm of our local shops, savor the flavors of local dining, and see what makes our area so unique.

Connection and growth are important for small businesses. So, we’re putting together a new “Speed to Success” networking event on Tuesday, Oct. 22 for members and non-members. Think of this as speed dating for business. Secondly, we’ve confirmed new member Falcontail Marketing & Design’s David Landriault to speak on social media for the holidays on Wednesday, Nov. 6 during a “Lunch & Learn” session for Chamber members. Details are posted on our website.

At the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce, we are more than a business network—we are a community committed to shared success. We invite you to attend our events, become a member, and support local businesses. Together, we can shape a bright future for our region.