Rebekah Arthur, President & CEO, Seminole County Chamber

April 2026 — Invest: sat down with Rebekah Arthur, president and CEO of the Seminole County Chamber, to discuss the organization’s recent momentum, evolving priorities, and Seminole County’s position within Central Florida’s growth landscape. Arthur reflected on a year marked by national and statewide recognition, expanded engagement initiatives, and a sharpened focus on advocacy. “We’re placing a strong emphasis on advocacy, because when the business community grows, it positively impacts nonprofits, schools, and overall quality of life,” Arthur said.

Over the past year, what major changes have most impacted the chamber, and in what ways?

2025 was an exciting year for us. In March, we were named a five-star chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which is the highest ranking we can receive. We’re one of a small number of chambers in Florida with that designation, and it validated the work our team has been doing to serve members at a very high level.

More recently, we were recognized as Chamber of the Year in our budget category by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals. Both honors helped build momentum and gave our members something to celebrate with us. They also reinforced that we’re moving in the right direction while pushing us to continue raising the bar.

You’ve introduced initiatives like the new West Seminole Council. How do these efforts strengthen member engagement?

We’ve been looking at expanding into that area for more than a year, and the West Seminole Council gives us another way to serve a growing part of our region. It helps connect businesses based there with one another, as well as with community leaders who want to be invested in that side of the county.

This council will be our eighth area council, launching on Feb. 2, 2026. It’s about meeting members where they are and recognizing that different parts of the county have different needs. As Seminole County grows, localized engagement becomes even more important.

From your perspective, what makes Seminole County an ideal location for businesses and new investment?

Seminole County is a special place. We’re close to Orlando and the theme parks, but we’re also close to Volusia County and the beaches, which gives businesses and employees access to a wide range of lifestyle options. That balance is a big advantage.

We also have A-rated schools and a growing community, which are critical factors for companies looking to relocate or expand. Connectivity is another strength. We have an international airport in Seminole County, which adds convenience and access for business travel and logistics.

On a personal level, I was born and raised here, so I’m deeply passionate about the county. I’ve seen firsthand what makes it work, and I believe there’s still significant opportunity for smart, sustainable growth.

Talent and workforce development are top concerns across Florida. How is the chamber supporting employers in this area?

Workforce development is a major focus for us, and partnerships play a central role. We’re located on a Seminole State College campus and are strong supporters of the institution. Two of their leaders serve on our board, and they’re very focused on aligning education and training with employer needs.

We also benefit from proximity to UCF, which expands the talent pipeline. Businesses want to help shape programs that prepare students for real-world roles, and these close relationships make that possible.

At the K–12 level, we launched our first “State of Our Schools” annual luncheon with Seminole County Public Schools, the school board, and the Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools. It features the superintendent’s annual address and highlights magnet programs and career-focused tracks. Workforce readiness starts early, and we want businesses connected to those efforts from the beginning.

What key trends are shaping Seminole County’s business environment, and how is the chamber helping members navigate them?

Seminole County continues to see strong business formation and growth, particularly among small and mid-sized companies. Our role is to support that momentum by providing resources, tools, and meaningful connections.

We’re also seeing increased manufacturing activity, which adds depth and resilience to the local economy. At the same time, incubator programs are helping foster emerging technologies and new industries, signaling a diversifying business base.

Information and connection are critical as businesses navigate change. We focus on making both accessible so members can adapt, collaborate, and seize new opportunities.

Community engagement is a defining strength of Seminole County. How is the chamber reinforcing that through advocacy and partnerships?

Connections are at the heart of everything we do. Our logo is a tapestry because it represents how working together strengthens not just individual organizations, but the entire community.

We prioritize connecting businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders. When employees are engaged in their community, they’re more invested, and retention improves. Those relationships matter.

This year, we launched a new advocacy section on our website to help businesses better understand how to engage and advocate effectively. We also introduced a YouTube series called ”Chamber Works,” where I spend a day working in local businesses, from the zoo to a florist. It’s a way to showcase industries and highlight the ripple effects one business can have across the local economy.

Looking ahead, what are your top priorities for the Chamber over the next two to three years?

We released our five-year strategic plan earlier this year, and our mission remains consistent: supporting businesses, providing resources, and advocating on their behalf. What evolves is how we deliver on that mission.

We’re placing a strong emphasis on advocacy, because when the business community grows, it positively impacts nonprofits, schools, and overall quality of life. We’re also focused on helping new businesses connect quickly with the right resources and relationships so they can succeed.

There’s nothing out of the blue, but there is a clear commitment to building on what’s working, expanding thoughtfully, and adapting our approach to meet the changing needs of our members.

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