Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce

The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Arkansas, known together as State Chamber/AIA, are private, non-profit organizations based in Little Rock, Arkansas. They work to improve the business climate in the state. Dues from their members fund them in full.

They describe themselves as the main business advocate on issues that affect Arkansas employers. Their mission is to promote a pro-business, free-enterprise agenda and to oppose anti-business laws, regulations and rules. They work through a governmental affairs program. They also network with state and local leaders, local chambers, trade associations and economic development groups.

The two groups were established in 1928 to promote economic growth across the state. After World War II they refocused their roles. The State Chamber took on coordinating local chambers across cities and counties. Associated Industries of Arkansas gave political support for business and industry. Together they helped set up bodies such as the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, the Institute for Economic Advancement and the Graduate Institute of Technology.

Each group has its own officers and directors, and each is guided by an executive committee of members from varied businesses. Committees cover health care, national issues, tax, unemployment insurance and HR, workers' compensation and governmental affairs. A political action committee group also exists. These committees give guidance to the governmental affairs team.

ArkanStats is an initiative that offers data and analysis on economic development in Arkansas. The groups have also published a 2035 Arkansas Advantage report. Leadership Arkansas is an executive development program with a class for 2026 and 2027 and an alumni network. A workforce initiative called Be Pro Be Proud is part of the work as well. The affiliated Arkansas Institute for Performance Excellence hosts the Governor's Quality Award ceremony, which took place on 29 October 2026.

Membership brings a member directory and a service to reserve a conference room. Top members join at the Apex and Summit levels, known as Pinnacle Members. Events include the 98th Annual Meeting on 17 November 2026.

Services

• Business advocacy
• Governmental affairs program
• Membership
• ArkanStats data
• Leadership Arkansas
• Committees
• Annual meeting and events
• Conference room reservation