'Year of the Entreprenuer': Chamber names new chair at 111th annual meeting

The Chamber of Commerce serving Johnson City, Washington County and Jonesborough held its 111th annual meeting on Wednesday and appointed a new chair to its Board of Directors. Previous Chamber Chair Kim Hall passed the gavel to David Nelson, executive director of FoundersForge. Nelson served as chair of the Chamber's Business and Development Council for the past two years and created the region's annual Startup Mountain Summit event. "I'm thankful for the past several years getting to work with David on our Chamber," Hall said. "He has been inspirational. He's always there with fresh, new ideas and thoughts about how we can continue progressing in this area." Nelson announced his theme as "Year of the Entrepreneur". With FoundersForge a catalyst for supporting startups and entrepreneurs launching their business ideas, Nelson's theme corresponds with his passion and personal experience as an entrepreneur, as well as helping to grow the Chamber in its endeavors. "This year, having it be the Year of the Entrepreneur, it's going to be pivotal for not just the Chamber and membership, but also the region," Nelson said. Some of the ideas branching from Nelson's theme will be business small groups to help businesses network with one another, as well as industry round tables for large-scale business owners and solidifying a continued partnership between FoundersForge and the Chamber with more joint programs and events. "This is going to be a big year," Nelson said. "It's going to be a big year of announcements and business openings." Nelson added while businesses might face challenges heading into 2026, he believes the resiliency of the region and its adaptability to change will help weather any issues faced. "Together, I really believe and know that we can continue to build and help Johnson City thrive through business growth," he said. "I think by working together, we're building a more incredible place for us to live, work and enjoy." Other highlights of the 111th meeting included inducting Melissa Stegall-Jones into the Chamber Hall of Fame, as well as recognizing Corey Blaske of Greater Impact Realty as Young Professional of the Year. Bo Whittaker was also chosen as the Chamber's Volunteer of the Year, and a new award, Small Business of the Year, was given to Go Mini's, a Johnson City portable storage container business.