July 2025 Board Member Newsletter Article

From the Workplace to the Ballot Box: Why Chambers Must Lead the Charge in Candidate Cultivation

Shannon Full
President & CEO
Moorhead Fargo West Fargo Chamber of Commerce

Across the country, we’re seeing a sharp decline in civic engagement—fewer people voting, fewer running for office, and a shrinking pool of leaders willing to step up and serve. This is particularly concerning at the local level, where school boards, commissions, and councils shape the future of our communities.

Chambers of commerce are uniquely positioned to reverse this trend.

We sit at the crossroads of business, community, and policy. As trusted conveners and connectors, we can mobilize the private sector to reengage in public life. That’s why the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber has launched the Center for Civic Engagement—a signature initiative under Innovate28 that aims to rebuild the leadership pipeline from the ground up.

Our belief is simple: civic engagement is not a sideline issue. It is core to our mission.

Through this work, we’re helping people see themselves as public servants and helping employers support their team members in that journey. Our programming will include:

• Candidate Development Tools: A Candidate Institute, one-on-one mentorships, and a robust Employee Toolkit to help potential candidates understand the process and prepare to run.
• Employer Engagement: Resources and private-sector convenings to help companies foster civic participation among their employees.
• Civic Insights: Bringing elected officials and thought leaders directly into workplaces for real, inspiring conversations.

This work benefits more than just our democracy—it strengthens our workforce and the businesses we serve.

Employees who serve in public roles return with sharpened leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Civic engagement builds a sense of purpose and pride, especially among emerging leaders looking for ways to make an impact. Employers benefit from more engaged, informed, and connected team members.

Yet, many people hesitate to run. They don’t think they’re qualified or worry about balancing work and service. Many companies don’t know how to help. Chambers can bridge that gap.

The moment to act is now. If we want better leaders, stronger boards, and more competitive elections, we must invest in candidate cultivation—and we’re in the right place to lead it.

The next generation of leaders is already here. They’re just waiting for the invitation.

Let’s give it to them