Chamber promotes Leadership Gainesville program amid changes to the organization

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - The Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for the 53rd class of Leadership Gainesville as the organization charts a new path forward.

Leadership Gainesville

In a sit-down with TV20, Ian Fletcher, COO and interim managing director of the chamber, explained that Leadership Gainesville is a program designed to give community leaders the tools they need to grow their impact in Gainesville.

The program gives attendees a behind-the-scenes look into important institutions in the Gainesville area, such as the University of Florida, local governments, and regional nonprofits.

“One thing that Leadership Gainesville does is it exposes you to so many things,” said Fletcher. “My mom did it and loved it.”

Applications for the 2026-2027 Leadership Gainesville class are open through July 31; click here to apply.

Changes at the Chamber

The chamber is in the process of transitioning several aspects of the organization after a quarter of the staff were laid off due to a budgetary shortfall last December.

The organization also put its office suite inside the Commerce Building at 300 E. University Ave. up for sale.

“In terms of the condo sale, that’s in progress. We’ve had someone put in an offer, and it’s with the attorneys and the realtors right now,” said Fletcher.

Long-time chamber president Eric Godet ended his tenure at the organization on December 31. Fletcher says they will start searching for a permanent managing director after the office space is sold.

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