The Louisa County Chamber of Commerce initiated the Louisa Forward Foundation, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit, to support their mission and programs in Louisa County.

“The need for a foundation was brought to light during the pandemic,” states Marie Snyder, Board Chair. “Several of the Chamber initiatives were at risk due to the cancellation of fundraising activities typically held. While there were several grants available, we (the Chamber) were not eligible to apply.”

The foundation will focus on programs that will support local business, workforce development, and community collaborations. Existing programs like the Quad County Summit, Louisa Biz Expo & Developer Showcase and the Non-Profit Summit will be enhanced with support from the foundation. Each of these programs provide opportunities for organizations to learn, develop partnerships for efficiencies and reach the community. Leadership Louisa, a new program is in the planning stages targeted to launch in 2021.

“Economic support to local business is vital to our community. With a tax-exempt foundation supporting Chamber efforts,” said Tracy Hale Clark, executive director, “we will have the ability to gain much needed financial support for existing and future projects. As we move FORWARD together, we can all benefit.”

Most immediately, the foundation is directing their efforts towards technology enhancements to support virtual programming for the Chamber and member businesses. To find out more, or support the foundation please contact Julie Manzari, foundation director at treasurer@louisachamber.org.