A 5-STAR YEAR IN REVIEW

BUSINESS RELOCATION WINS

GROWTH IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND MORE!

A 5-STAR YEAR IN REVIEW

BUSINESS RELOCATION WINS

GROWTH IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND MORE!

• 7 Irving stations under construction and arriving in 2012• TOD zoning and design standards in place• Civic commitment includes public-private partnerships,

a TIF and fast-tracking approvals• Irving is home to �ive Fortune 500 global headquarters • Adjacent DFW Airport is the third busiest in the world

© 2011 Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

Don’t miss the urban development boom underway in Irving, Texas along the new Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Orange Line.

With construction well underway, high-traf�ic sites are still available near Irving’s new Convention Center and planned Entertainment Complex.

IrvingTOD.com

Light rail stations are about to open in one of the fastest-growing markets in the US.

Projects are moving fast in Irving.

Visit IrvingTOD.com for an update

on Transportation Oriented

Developments in Irving or snap

the QR code below with your

BlackBerry® for more information.

TODAY & TOMORROW

2011-2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ChairwomanJo Ann Goin, Glory House

Immediate Past Chairman & General CounselRobert Martinez, Cotten Schmidt & Abbott LLP

TreasurerBill Brown, CPA

2011-2012 Board of DirectorsLuis Argote, Four Seasons Resort & ClubJohn Arnott, WaveTwoSharon Asinelli, ExxonMobil CorporationDr. Dana Bedden, Irving ISD*Dr. Bobby Burns, Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD* Rose Cannaday, Cannaday & Associates Mediation ServicesJames Cassels, Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau*Christopher Converse, Gardere Wynne Sewell, LLPSteve Cress, Time Warner CableThom Davis, Omega Environmental TechnologiesDaniela Decell, Las Colinas Medical CenterMark Dickenson, TIAA Realty, Inc./Williams SquareEd Dolanski, AviallPhillip Dye, Larsen Dye ArchitectsTamara Fulcher, TeoTios, Inc.Robert Galecke, University of Dallas*Maura Gast, Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau*Christina Gears, Creating & Managing WealthMichael Gonzales, Armstrong Relocation & Commercial CompaniesTommy Gonzalez, City of Irving*Mark Hillis, Citi MortgageGary Huddleston, Kroger StoresJeri Johnson, Microsoft CorporationGreg Kelly, Caris Life SciencesWillie Leggett, Frito LaySean Liu, Barlow Garsek & Simon, LLPYaLonda Lockett, Reliant, an NRG company Ken Lockwood, Fluor CorporationJohn Loyack, Optim Energy, LLCBill Mahoney, Boteler, Mahoney & Gray Law FirmRudy Martinez, AT&TMichael McCall, NCH CorporationTracy Merzi, Dallas Business JournalThomas Mielke, Kimberly-Clark CorporationCesar Moncada, Verizon CommunicationsLonnie Mullen, Shermco IndustriesNancy Navarro, Irving Hispanic Chamber*Dawn Owens, DeVry University*David Park, Atmos Energy CorporationRakesh Patel, The Patel Law Group, PLLCStacey Price, TXU EnergyVernon Proctor, MART, Inc.Vince Puente, Southwest Office Systems, Inc.Shelia Renzulli, Coldwell Banker Residential BrokerageRyan Robinson, Signal Metal Industries, Inc.Wael Salama, EBMTom Sanchez, RIMCindy Schamp, Baylor Medical Center-IrvingDavid Schmid, HMSChrista Slesko, North Lake CollegeLuis Spinola, Azteca-Omega GroupRicky Stephenson, Rick's Independent Car KareLiberty Swift, Allstate Insurance CompanyTeddie Story, Irving Cares, Inc.*Gary Underwood, Exact CommunicationMayor Beth Van Duyne, City of Irving*Daryl Walker, Xerox CorporationAl Zapanta, U.S./Mexico Chamber of Commerce**Ex-Officio Non-Voting Member

2010-2011 Retiring Board MembersKyle Ahlfinger, SIMC, LLC Alicia Dare, Wells Fargo Advisors Gregg Imlach, Imlach & Collins Gail Jackson, Hilton Garden Inn-DFW Rick Lindsey, Dean International Joe McCormick, Allstate Insurance Company Kerri Miene, State Farm Insurance Agency Tom Trotter, IBM-Retired

Table of Contents

2011 Executive Summary

Transportation Management Association

Your Investment Makes a Difference

International Trade Development & Irving Sister Cities

Business Recruitment, Renewals & Expansion

Workforce Development & Education

Governmental Affairs

Investor Relations

Community Wins!Business Relocation Business Retention & ExpansionRetail

5201 North O’Connor Blvd.Suite 100Irving, TX 75039214.271.8484

Design by SoloShoe Communications

Cover Photo by Nick Mallouf

Photo taken at HMS Headquarters

Heritage District Office135 South Jefferson StreetIrving, TX 75060972.721.2200

www.IrvingChamber.com

Annual Report

irvingchamber

2011-2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ChairwomanJo Ann Goin, Glory House

Immediate Past Chairman & General CounselRobert Martinez, Cotten Schmidt & Abbott LLP

TreasurerBill Brown, CPA

2011-2012 Board of DirectorsLuis Argote, Four Seasons Resort & ClubJohn Arnott, WaveTwoSharon Asinelli, ExxonMobil CorporationDr. Dana Bedden, Irving ISD*Dr. Bobby Burns, Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD* Rose Cannaday, Cannaday & Associates Mediation ServicesJames Cassels, Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau*Christopher Converse, Gardere Wynne Sewell, LLPSteve Cress, Time Warner CableThom Davis, Omega Environmental TechnologiesDaniela Decell, Las Colinas Medical CenterMark Dickenson, TIAA Realty, Inc./Williams SquareEd Dolanski, AviallPhillip Dye, Larsen Dye ArchitectsTamara Fulcher, TeoTios, Inc.Robert Galecke, University of Dallas*Maura Gast, Irving Convention & Visitors Bureau*Christina Gears, Creating & Managing WealthMichael Gonzales, Armstrong Relocation & Commercial CompaniesTommy Gonzalez, City of Irving*Mark Hillis, Citi MortgageGary Huddleston, Kroger StoresJeri Johnson, Microsoft CorporationGreg Kelly, Caris Life SciencesWillie Leggett, Frito LaySean Liu, Barlow Garsek & Simon, LLPYaLonda Lockett, Reliant, an NRG company Ken Lockwood, Fluor CorporationJohn Loyack, Optim Energy, LLCBill Mahoney, Boteler, Mahoney & Gray Law FirmRudy Martinez, AT&TMichael McCall, NCH CorporationTracy Merzi, Dallas Business JournalThomas Mielke, Kimberly-Clark CorporationCesar Moncada, Verizon CommunicationsLonnie Mullen, Shermco IndustriesNancy Navarro, Irving Hispanic Chamber*Dawn Owens, DeVry University*David Park, Atmos Energy CorporationRakesh Patel, The Patel Law Group, PLLCStacey Price, TXU EnergyVernon Proctor, MART, Inc.Vince Puente, Southwest Office Systems, Inc.Shelia Renzulli, Coldwell Banker Residential BrokerageRyan Robinson, Signal Metal Industries, Inc.Wael Salama, EBMTom Sanchez, RIMCindy Schamp, Baylor Medical Center-IrvingDavid Schmid, HMSChrista Slesko, North Lake CollegeLuis Spinola, Azteca-Omega GroupRicky Stephenson, Rick's Independent Car KareLiberty Swift, Allstate Insurance CompanyTeddie Story, Irving Cares, Inc.*Gary Underwood, Exact CommunicationMayor Beth Van Duyne, City of Irving*Daryl Walker, Xerox CorporationAl Zapanta, U.S./Mexico Chamber of Commerce**Ex-Officio Non-Voting Member

2010-2011 Retiring Board MembersKyle Ahlfinger, SIMC, LLC Alicia Dare, Wells Fargo Advisors Gregg Imlach, Imlach & Collins Gail Jackson, Hilton Garden Inn-DFW Rick Lindsey, Dean International Joe McCormick, Allstate Insurance Company Kerri Miene, State Farm Insurance Agency Tom Trotter, IBM-Retired

Table of Contents

2011 Executive Summary

Transportation Management Association

Your Investment Makes a Difference

International Trade Development & Irving Sister Cities

Business Recruitment, Renewals & Expansion

Workforce Development & Education

Governmental Affairs

Investor Relations

Community Wins!Business Relocation Business Retention & ExpansionRetail

5201 North O’Connor Blvd.Suite 100Irving, TX 75039214.271.8484

Design by SoloShoe Communications

Cover Photo by Nick Mallouf

Photo taken at HMS Headquarters

Heritage District Office135 South Jefferson StreetIrving, TX 75060972.721.2200

www.IrvingChamber.com

Annual Report

irvingchamber

3 4

Executive Summary

Business Recruitment, Renewals & Expansion

The Chamber's Economic Development Team knows Irving—its businesses, its government, its available sites and its resources. They serve as committed advocates and effective liaisons for both new and existing companies. From site selection through move-in—and beyond, to networking within the business communities—Irving’s Economic Development Partnership helps pave the way for successful relocations and expansions in Irving.

The following information will provide a detailed summary of our Chamber’s accomplishments in 2011, demonstrating the continuation of our first-class business atmospherein Irving.

We pride ourselves as being one of the only cities in the country with 11 National Small Business Blue Ribbon Winners and the home of five Fortune 500 Global Headquarters. In 2011, we created strong economic activity through an exceptional array of private and public partnerships, advanced over 1,600 business investors who represent more than 145,000 employees, and promoted our membership base through lead generating initiatives.

With your help, we can continue to fulfill this mission by enabling strong business opportunities that enhance the quality of life in Irving. We are proud that our investors have chosen to locate and grow in the pro-business city of Irving!

Robert D. Martinez, Chamber Past ChairmanCotten, Schmidt & Abbott LLP

Chris E. Wallace, President and CEO

Despite many challenges in our economy, 2011 was a year of growth, development and excitement for the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce. The continued efforts of our investors, board, committee members and staff resulted in the successes that continue our mission to create, advance and promote economic growth for our investors and our community.

We are strengthening the economic climate of Irving and the North Texas region and furthering the free enterprise system. Your Chamber has developed our 2011 Annual Report for your review and includes the significant accomplishments in the following areas:

• Lead Generation for Small Businesses

• Business Recruitment, Retention and Job Growth

• Transportation and Infrastructure

• Investor Relations

• International Trade Development

• Governmental Affairs

• Education and Workforce Development

Actively taking part in various trade shows and target marketing throughout the country, Irving’s Economic Development Team continued to spread the message of our first-class reputation as a business friendly environment in Irving. The Texas and National-International Council of Shopping Center Trade Shows in Grapevine and Las Vegas presented several successes for the City of Irving. In-N-Out Burger, Jos A. Bank, Freebirds

World Burritos, QuikTrip, and other business relationships were established due to the benefits of doing business in Irving. The Chamber promoted a “Live, Work, Play, Shop and Learn in Irving” campaign through key media distributions for the purpose of providing an effective and direct marketing approach to a segment of our target market residing outside the Irving-Las Colinas borders.

The national campaign exposed the Chamber’s first-class reputation in five target markets and presented opportunities to businesses for relocation and expansion in Irving. Local CEOs gave their perspective of the Irving Economic Development Partnership and were recognized nationally in editions of Smart Business Magazine. Supplementing and accompanying each article was quick information about Irving’s speed-to-market and pro-business strategies.

Consequently, the Irving Economic Development Partnership won a substantial amount of business relocations, retentions, and businesses expansions for 2011. A combined total of 26 Economic Development “Wins” included 8 corporate relocations, 10 new retailers, and 6 corporate retentions. The direct result of these “Wins” created 1,974 new jobs, 2,940 retained jobs, $97 million in taxable investment and netted 1.8 million square feet leased/purchased. The Chamber also celebrated the addition of another Fortune 500 Company’s Global Headquarters relocation to Irving. The relocation of Celanese Corporation establishes long-term benefits for the City of Irving and the pro-business environment will supply Celanese with the resources to accomplish their long-term goals.

Irving also had four of its small businesses recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Big State Drug Store, Car Concepts Inc./Rick's Car Kare, Cooksey Communications, and Glory House Catering Company received the 2011 Blue Ribbon Award while Kerri Miene’s State Farm Agency, Larsen Dye Associates Architects, and Express Employment Professionals were voted as Free Enterprise Honorees. The Blue Ribbon awards are bestowed each year by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to small businesses that demonstrate excellent business practices in several areas, including business strategy, employee development, community engagement and customer service. Irving is proud to have the most Blue Ribbon Winners in the country with 11 small businesses having received the award.

Equally important was the creation of new lead generating events and programs that produce meaningful business relationships, strengthening the Chamber’s network of opportunities for business in Irving. The Chamber explored new partnerships and created new campaigns, keeping the Irving brand on the forefront. One new partner was Austin-based Strategic Partnerships Inc. (SPI), a full-service government affairs and procurement consulting firm who works with clients who strive to win government contracts (RFPs) and other public sector objectives.

Without solicitation and as a testament

to our message, Bloomberg’s

BusinessWeek named Irving one of the

nation’s Top 50 Best Places to Live!

2011

Additionally, through a program held jointly with the Texas Comptrollers Office’s HUB Program and the City of Irving, 28 business owners participated in the Minority and Woman-Owned Business (MWOB) Enterprise Certification seminars at North Lake College. The seminars demonstrated the importance of the statewide HUB program and encouraged Irving businesses to achieve MWBE/HUB certification.

To promote shopping in Irving, the Shop in Irving and Best in Irving campaigns aimed to identify and publicize the best businesses in Irving by a community-wide vote. Paired with small business seminars hosted at the Chamber’s Business Resource Center (North Lake College-South) and the Chamber’s four networking events scheduled every month, businesses developed meaningful relationships and expanded their customer base.

Lastly, the Chamber hosted the Third Annual North Texas Small Business Summit/Breakfast of Champions & Business to Business EXPO in partnership with 12 other regional chambers of commerce. These events exposed the public to a vast array of small businesses and gave small business professionals the tools to growtheir business.

To continue promoting commercial real estate, Irving’s team focused on high profile broker-oriented events to boast the advantages of doing business in Irving. Industry Outlook for 2011, Stemmons Award (NTCAR), Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame (NTCAR), D-Magazine Best Realtor Award, NTCAR Commercial Real Estate Expo, Broker Office Road Shows, Retail Symposium, Transit-Oriented Development Forum, Irving-Las Colinas Brokers Largest Deals Contest Give-Away, Senior Commercial Real Estate Broker Focus Group and the HP Byron Nelson Championship were the focal point of real estate publications. National broker events with Deloitte & Touche, Jones Lang LaSalle, CB Richard Ellis, and Ernst & Young are helping to close deals in Irving.

Overall, the wealth of information and successes by the Irving Economic Development Partnerships has provided an orchestrated network of new opportunities for job creation while selling the Chamber’s unmatched reputation for business professionalism. The economic development “Wins” and new additions to the city created high-quality corporate positions, new capital expenditures and taxable investment, opportunities for local businesses, new opportunities for corporate tourism and welcomed new families into our schools.

Robert D. Martinez, 2010-11 ChairmanChris E. Wallace, President and CEO

Annual Report

3 4

Executive Summary

Business Recruitment, Renewals & Expansion

The Chamber's Economic Development Team knows Irving—its businesses, its government, its available sites and its resources. They serve as committed advocates and effective liaisons for both new and existing companies. From site selection through move-in—and beyond, to networking within the business communities—Irving’s Economic Development Partnership helps pave the way for successful relocations and expansions in Irving.

The following information will provide a detailed summary of our Chamber’s accomplishments in 2011, demonstrating the continuation of our first-class business atmospherein Irving.

We pride ourselves as being one of the only cities in the country with 11 National Small Business Blue Ribbon Winners and the home of five Fortune 500 Global Headquarters. In 2011, we created strong economic activity through an exceptional array of private and public partnerships, advanced over 1,600 business investors who represent more than 145,000 employees, and promoted our membership base through lead generating initiatives.

With your help, we can continue to fulfill this mission by enabling strong business opportunities that enhance the quality of life in Irving. We are proud that our investors have chosen to locate and grow in the pro-business city of Irving!

Robert D. Martinez, Chamber Past ChairmanCotten, Schmidt & Abbott LLP

Chris E. Wallace, President and CEO

Despite many challenges in our economy, 2011 was a year of growth, development and excitement for the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce. The continued efforts of our investors, board, committee members and staff resulted in the successes that continue our mission to create, advance and promote economic growth for our investors and our community.

We are strengthening the economic climate of Irving and the North Texas region and furthering the free enterprise system. Your Chamber has developed our 2011 Annual Report for your review and includes the significant accomplishments in the following areas:

• Lead Generation for Small Businesses

• Business Recruitment, Retention and Job Growth

• Transportation and Infrastructure

• Investor Relations

• International Trade Development

• Governmental Affairs

• Education and Workforce Development

Actively taking part in various trade shows and target marketing throughout the country, Irving’s Economic Development Team continued to spread the message of our first-class reputation as a business friendly environment in Irving. The Texas and National-International Council of Shopping Center Trade Shows in Grapevine and Las Vegas presented several successes for the City of Irving. In-N-Out Burger, Jos A. Bank, Freebirds

World Burritos, QuikTrip, and other business relationships were established due to the benefits of doing business in Irving. The Chamber promoted a “Live, Work, Play, Shop and Learn in Irving” campaign through key media distributions for the purpose of providing an effective and direct marketing approach to a segment of our target market residing outside the Irving-Las Colinas borders.

The national campaign exposed the Chamber’s first-class reputation in five target markets and presented opportunities to businesses for relocation and expansion in Irving. Local CEOs gave their perspective of the Irving Economic Development Partnership and were recognized nationally in editions of Smart Business Magazine. Supplementing and accompanying each article was quick information about Irving’s speed-to-market and pro-business strategies.

Consequently, the Irving Economic Development Partnership won a substantial amount of business relocations, retentions, and businesses expansions for 2011. A combined total of 26 Economic Development “Wins” included 8 corporate relocations, 10 new retailers, and 6 corporate retentions. The direct result of these “Wins” created 1,974 new jobs, 2,940 retained jobs, $97 million in taxable investment and netted 1.8 million square feet leased/purchased. The Chamber also celebrated the addition of another Fortune 500 Company’s Global Headquarters relocation to Irving. The relocation of Celanese Corporation establishes long-term benefits for the City of Irving and the pro-business environment will supply Celanese with the resources to accomplish their long-term goals.

Irving also had four of its small businesses recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Big State Drug Store, Car Concepts Inc./Rick's Car Kare, Cooksey Communications, and Glory House Catering Company received the 2011 Blue Ribbon Award while Kerri Miene’s State Farm Agency, Larsen Dye Associates Architects, and Express Employment Professionals were voted as Free Enterprise Honorees. The Blue Ribbon awards are bestowed each year by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to small businesses that demonstrate excellent business practices in several areas, including business strategy, employee development, community engagement and customer service. Irving is proud to have the most Blue Ribbon Winners in the country with 11 small businesses having received the award.

Equally important was the creation of new lead generating events and programs that produce meaningful business relationships, strengthening the Chamber’s network of opportunities for business in Irving. The Chamber explored new partnerships and created new campaigns, keeping the Irving brand on the forefront. One new partner was Austin-based Strategic Partnerships Inc. (SPI), a full-service government affairs and procurement consulting firm who works with clients who strive to win government contracts (RFPs) and other public sector objectives.

Without solicitation and as a testament

to our message, Bloomberg’s

BusinessWeek named Irving one of the

nation’s Top 50 Best Places to Live!

2011

Additionally, through a program held jointly with the Texas Comptrollers Office’s HUB Program and the City of Irving, 28 business owners participated in the Minority and Woman-Owned Business (MWOB) Enterprise Certification seminars at North Lake College. The seminars demonstrated the importance of the statewide HUB program and encouraged Irving businesses to achieve MWBE/HUB certification.

To promote shopping in Irving, the Shop in Irving and Best in Irving campaigns aimed to identify and publicize the best businesses in Irving by a community-wide vote. Paired with small business seminars hosted at the Chamber’s Business Resource Center (North Lake College-South) and the Chamber’s four networking events scheduled every month, businesses developed meaningful relationships and expanded their customer base.

Lastly, the Chamber hosted the Third Annual North Texas Small Business Summit/Breakfast of Champions & Business to Business EXPO in partnership with 12 other regional chambers of commerce. These events exposed the public to a vast array of small businesses and gave small business professionals the tools to growtheir business.

To continue promoting commercial real estate, Irving’s team focused on high profile broker-oriented events to boast the advantages of doing business in Irving. Industry Outlook for 2011, Stemmons Award (NTCAR), Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame (NTCAR), D-Magazine Best Realtor Award, NTCAR Commercial Real Estate Expo, Broker Office Road Shows, Retail Symposium, Transit-Oriented Development Forum, Irving-Las Colinas Brokers Largest Deals Contest Give-Away, Senior Commercial Real Estate Broker Focus Group and the HP Byron Nelson Championship were the focal point of real estate publications. National broker events with Deloitte & Touche, Jones Lang LaSalle, CB Richard Ellis, and Ernst & Young are helping to close deals in Irving.

Overall, the wealth of information and successes by the Irving Economic Development Partnerships has provided an orchestrated network of new opportunities for job creation while selling the Chamber’s unmatched reputation for business professionalism. The economic development “Wins” and new additions to the city created high-quality corporate positions, new capital expenditures and taxable investment, opportunities for local businesses, new opportunities for corporate tourism and welcomed new families into our schools.

Robert D. Martinez, 2010-11 ChairmanChris E. Wallace, President and CEO

Annual Report

The Chamber's Economic Development Team knows Irving—its businesses, its government, its available sites and its resources. They serve as committed advocates and effective liaisons for both new and existing companies. From site selection through move-in—and beyond, to networking within the business communities—Irving’s Economic Development Partnership helps pave the way for successful relocations and expansions in Irving.

Actively taking part in various trade shows and target marketing throughout the country, Irving’s Economic Development Team continued to spread the message of our first-class reputation as a business friendly environment in Irving. The Texas and National-International Council of Shopping Center Trade Shows in Grapevine and Las Vegas presented several successes for the City of Irving. In-N-Out Burger, Jos A. Bank, Freebirds

World Burritos, QuikTrip, and other business relationships were established due to the benefits of doing business in Irving. The Chamber promoted a “Live, Work, Play, Shop and Learn in Irving” campaign through key media distributions for the purpose of providing an effective and direct marketing approach to a segment of our target market residing outside the Irving-Las Colinas borders.

The national campaign exposed the Chamber’s first-class reputation in five target markets and presented opportunities to businesses for relocation and expansion in Irving. Local CEOs gave their perspective of the Irving Economic Development Partnership and were recognized nationally in editions of Smart Business Magazine. Supplementing and accompanying each article was quick information about Irving’s speed-to-market and pro-business strategies.

Consequently, the Irving Economic Development Partnership won a substantial amount of business relocations, retentions, and businesses expansions for 2011. A combined total of 26 Economic Development “Wins” included 8 corporate relocations, 10 new retailers, and 6 corporate retentions. The direct result of these “Wins” created 1,974 new jobs, 2,940 retained jobs, $97 million in taxable investment and netted 1.8 million square feet leased/purchased. The Chamber also celebrated the addition of another Fortune 500 Company’s Global Headquarters relocation to Irving. The relocation of Celanese Corporation establishes long-term benefits for the City of Irving and the pro-business environment will supply Celanese with the resources to accomplish their long-term goals.

Irving also had four of its small businesses recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Big State Drug Store, Car Concepts Inc./Rick's Car Kare, Cooksey Communications, and Glory House Catering Company received the 2011 Blue Ribbon Award while Kerri Miene’s State Farm Agency, Larsen Dye Associates Architects, and Express Employment Professionals were voted as Free Enterprise Honorees. The Blue Ribbon awards are bestowed each year by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to small businesses that demonstrate excellent business practices in several areas, including business strategy, employee development, community engagement and customer service. Irving is proud to have the most Blue Ribbon Winners in the country with 11 small businesses having received the award.

Equally important was the creation of new lead generating events and programs that produce meaningful business relationships, strengthening the Chamber’s network of opportunities for business in Irving. The Chamber explored new partnerships and created new campaigns, keeping the Irving brand on the forefront. One new partner was Austin-based Strategic Partnerships Inc. (SPI), a full-service government affairs and procurement consulting firm who works with clients who strive to win government contracts (RFPs) and other public sector objectives.

Additionally, through a program held jointly with the Texas Comptrollers Office’s HUB Program and the City of Irving, 28 business owners participated in the Minority and Woman-Owned Business (MWOB) Enterprise Certification seminars at North Lake College. The seminars demonstrated the importance of the statewide HUB program and encouraged Irving businesses to achieve MWBE/HUB certification.

To promote shopping in Irving, the Shop in Irving and Best in Irving campaigns aimed to identify and publicize the best businesses in Irving by a community-wide vote. Paired with small business seminars hosted at the Chamber’s Business Resource Center (North Lake College-South) and the Chamber’s four networking events scheduled every month, businesses developed meaningful relationships and expanded their customer base.

Lastly, the Chamber hosted the Third Annual North Texas Small Business Summit/Breakfast of Champions & Business to Business EXPO in partnership with 12 other regional chambers of commerce. These events exposed the public to a vast array of small businesses and gave small business professionals the tools to growtheir business.

To continue promoting commercial real estate, Irving’s team focused on high profile broker-oriented events to boast the advantages of doing business in Irving. Industry Outlook for 2011, Stemmons Award (NTCAR), Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame (NTCAR), D-Magazine Best Realtor Award, NTCAR Commercial Real Estate Expo, Broker Office Road Shows, Retail Symposium, Transit-Oriented Development Forum, Irving-Las Colinas Brokers Largest Deals Contest Give-Away, Senior Commercial Real Estate Broker Focus Group and the HP Byron Nelson Championship were the focal point of real estate publications. National broker events with Deloitte & Touche, Jones Lang LaSalle, CB Richard Ellis, and Ernst & Young are helping to close deals in Irving.

Overall, the wealth of information and successes by the Irving Economic Development Partnerships has provided an orchestrated network of new opportunities for job creation while selling the Chamber’s unmatched reputation for business professionalism. The economic development “Wins” and new additions to the city created high-quality corporate positions, new capital expenditures and taxable investment, opportunities for local businesses, new opportunities for corporate tourism and welcomed new families into our schools.

IRVING BUSINESS RELOCATION COMMUNITY WINS!

Adpop, Inc. Devcon Security MothernodeAerostar DiHydro Services Inc. Munilla Construction ManagementALPS Corporation Ecolab National Society of Hispanic MBAsAmerican Concrete Electronic Security Association New York Brake Corp.American Income Life Insurance Ensite Solutions Noah’sAmerican Locker Group, Inc. Exeter Finance Pepco EnergyAmruth Indian Banquet Fairfield Residential QBE Holdings, Inc.Anaissance Corporation (Durachoice) Fairway Supply Recovco MortgageAppia Fiesta Foods RS InterestsAquire Workforce Solutions Gateway Mortgage Russell IndustriesAslam Biryani House Global Power Saxon GlobalAtlas REO Services GSA Shirdi Sai Center of TexasAvero Diagnostics Holden & Hami Spencer Cox Heating & Air ConditioningBCD Travel Homemax Imports Sterling National CorporationBigelow Management, Inc. HUB Suncoast Post-Tension Ltd.Cano Petroleum Infosoft Terminal RealityCelanese Insight Global The Murph GroupCintas – RUS, LP Internet Business Group The Rose GroupCloud 9 Aviators KidKraft Trakk FulfilmentConsolidated Electrical Distributors Inc. Landmark Healthcare Inc. U.S. General Services GroupCompushare Lee Company US Home SystemsCook’s Children’s Home Health Libir Volt Information ServicesDallas Chiropractic Center Maximum Industries Wentz & ZavarelliDeep South MJB Wood Yardi Systems

IRVING BUSINESS RETENTION & EXPANSION COMMUNITY WINS!

AHC, Inc. Centrada Solutions MedSynergiesAleris Custom Assembly Nissan North AmericaAAMCO DG Fast Channels Prime TherapeuticsAs Needed Party Rental Diversified Technologies Professional Installation NetworkAustin Bridge & Road ESPN TerremarkAviall FedEx TriStarCanno Insight Global Union StandardCapital Commercial JP Morgan Chase Union Supply CompanyCartus Mach B Technologies

IRVING RETAIL COMMUNITY WINS!

Beauty Town Supply Joseph A. Bank Scooter BeansBurger King Panera Bread SfuzziDickey’s Barbeque Pit Petco Taco BellFish City Grill QuikTrip The CellarFreebirds World Burrito RaceTrac Vintage & CollectiblesIn-N-Out Burger Schlotzsky’s/Cinnabon WingstopJimmy John’s

Did you know? $1,291 in Economic Activity

$426 in Wages & Income$23.1 in Retail Spending$20.5 in Local Property Tax$19.6 in Local Sales Tax

1 Full-Time Job

Held by an Irving/North Texas Resident

The City of Irving’s investment in ED marketing is the amount of $1,675,000. An additional $345,000 came from local businesses.

Through the economic development activities of the Chamber, 1 job was created or retained for every $179 spent.

$1

For every $179

5 6

Annual Report

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

The Chamber's Economic Development Team knows Irving—its businesses, its government, its available sites and its resources. They serve as committed advocates and effective liaisons for both new and existing companies. From site selection through move-in—and beyond, to networking within the business communities—Irving’s Economic Development Partnership helps pave the way for successful relocations and expansions in Irving.

Actively taking part in various trade shows and target marketing throughout the country, Irving’s Economic Development Team continued to spread the message of our first-class reputation as a business friendly environment in Irving. The Texas and National-International Council of Shopping Center Trade Shows in Grapevine and Las Vegas presented several successes for the City of Irving. In-N-Out Burger, Jos A. Bank, Freebirds

World Burritos, QuikTrip, and other business relationships were established due to the benefits of doing business in Irving. The Chamber promoted a “Live, Work, Play, Shop and Learn in Irving” campaign through key media distributions for the purpose of providing an effective and direct marketing approach to a segment of our target market residing outside the Irving-Las Colinas borders.

The national campaign exposed the Chamber’s first-class reputation in five target markets and presented opportunities to businesses for relocation and expansion in Irving. Local CEOs gave their perspective of the Irving Economic Development Partnership and were recognized nationally in editions of Smart Business Magazine. Supplementing and accompanying each article was quick information about Irving’s speed-to-market and pro-business strategies.

Consequently, the Irving Economic Development Partnership won a substantial amount of business relocations, retentions, and businesses expansions for 2011. A combined total of 26 Economic Development “Wins” included 8 corporate relocations, 10 new retailers, and 6 corporate retentions. The direct result of these “Wins” created 1,974 new jobs, 2,940 retained jobs, $97 million in taxable investment and netted 1.8 million square feet leased/purchased. The Chamber also celebrated the addition of another Fortune 500 Company’s Global Headquarters relocation to Irving. The relocation of Celanese Corporation establishes long-term benefits for the City of Irving and the pro-business environment will supply Celanese with the resources to accomplish their long-term goals.

Irving also had four of its small businesses recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Big State Drug Store, Car Concepts Inc./Rick's Car Kare, Cooksey Communications, and Glory House Catering Company received the 2011 Blue Ribbon Award while Kerri Miene’s State Farm Agency, Larsen Dye Associates Architects, and Express Employment Professionals were voted as Free Enterprise Honorees. The Blue Ribbon awards are bestowed each year by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to small businesses that demonstrate excellent business practices in several areas, including business strategy, employee development, community engagement and customer service. Irving is proud to have the most Blue Ribbon Winners in the country with 11 small businesses having received the award.

Equally important was the creation of new lead generating events and programs that produce meaningful business relationships, strengthening the Chamber’s network of opportunities for business in Irving. The Chamber explored new partnerships and created new campaigns, keeping the Irving brand on the forefront. One new partner was Austin-based Strategic Partnerships Inc. (SPI), a full-service government affairs and procurement consulting firm who works with clients who strive to win government contracts (RFPs) and other public sector objectives.

Additionally, through a program held jointly with the Texas Comptrollers Office’s HUB Program and the City of Irving, 28 business owners participated in the Minority and Woman-Owned Business (MWOB) Enterprise Certification seminars at North Lake College. The seminars demonstrated the importance of the statewide HUB program and encouraged Irving businesses to achieve MWBE/HUB certification.

To promote shopping in Irving, the Shop in Irving and Best in Irving campaigns aimed to identify and publicize the best businesses in Irving by a community-wide vote. Paired with small business seminars hosted at the Chamber’s Business Resource Center (North Lake College-South) and the Chamber’s four networking events scheduled every month, businesses developed meaningful relationships and expanded their customer base.

Lastly, the Chamber hosted the Third Annual North Texas Small Business Summit/Breakfast of Champions & Business to Business EXPO in partnership with 12 other regional chambers of commerce. These events exposed the public to a vast array of small businesses and gave small business professionals the tools to growtheir business.

To continue promoting commercial real estate, Irving’s team focused on high profile broker-oriented events to boast the advantages of doing business in Irving. Industry Outlook for 2011, Stemmons Award (NTCAR), Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame (NTCAR), D-Magazine Best Realtor Award, NTCAR Commercial Real Estate Expo, Broker Office Road Shows, Retail Symposium, Transit-Oriented Development Forum, Irving-Las Colinas Brokers Largest Deals Contest Give-Away, Senior Commercial Real Estate Broker Focus Group and the HP Byron Nelson Championship were the focal point of real estate publications. National broker events with Deloitte & Touche, Jones Lang LaSalle, CB Richard Ellis, and Ernst & Young are helping to close deals in Irving.

Overall, the wealth of information and successes by the Irving Economic Development Partnerships has provided an orchestrated network of new opportunities for job creation while selling the Chamber’s unmatched reputation for business professionalism. The economic development “Wins” and new additions to the city created high-quality corporate positions, new capital expenditures and taxable investment, opportunities for local businesses, new opportunities for corporate tourism and welcomed new families into our schools.

IRVING BUSINESS RELOCATION COMMUNITY WINS!

Adpop, Inc. Devcon Security MothernodeAerostar DiHydro Services Inc. Munilla Construction ManagementALPS Corporation Ecolab National Society of Hispanic MBAsAmerican Concrete Electronic Security Association New York Brake Corp.American Income Life Insurance Ensite Solutions Noah’sAmerican Locker Group, Inc. Exeter Finance Pepco EnergyAmruth Indian Banquet Fairfield Residential QBE Holdings, Inc.Anaissance Corporation (Durachoice) Fairway Supply Recovco MortgageAppia Fiesta Foods RS InterestsAquire Workforce Solutions Gateway Mortgage Russell IndustriesAslam Biryani House Global Power Saxon GlobalAtlas REO Services GSA Shirdi Sai Center of TexasAvero Diagnostics Holden & Hami Spencer Cox Heating & Air ConditioningBCD Travel Homemax Imports Sterling National CorporationBigelow Management, Inc. HUB Suncoast Post-Tension Ltd.Cano Petroleum Infosoft Terminal RealityCelanese Insight Global The Murph GroupCintas – RUS, LP Internet Business Group The Rose GroupCloud 9 Aviators KidKraft Trakk FulfilmentConsolidated Electrical Distributors Inc. Landmark Healthcare Inc. U.S. General Services GroupCompushare Lee Company US Home SystemsCook’s Children’s Home Health Libir Volt Information ServicesDallas Chiropractic Center Maximum Industries Wentz & ZavarelliDeep South MJB Wood Yardi Systems

IRVING BUSINESS RETENTION & EXPANSION COMMUNITY WINS!

AHC, Inc. Centrada Solutions MedSynergiesAleris Custom Assembly Nissan North AmericaAAMCO DG Fast Channels Prime TherapeuticsAs Needed Party Rental Diversified Technologies Professional Installation NetworkAustin Bridge & Road ESPN TerremarkAviall FedEx TriStarCanno Insight Global Union StandardCapital Commercial JP Morgan Chase Union Supply CompanyCartus Mach B Technologies

IRVING RETAIL COMMUNITY WINS!

Beauty Town Supply Joseph A. Bank Scooter BeansBurger King Panera Bread SfuzziDickey’s Barbeque Pit Petco Taco BellFish City Grill QuikTrip The CellarFreebirds World Burrito RaceTrac Vintage & CollectiblesIn-N-Out Burger Schlotzsky’s/Cinnabon WingstopJimmy John’s

Did you know? $1,291 in Economic Activity

$426 in Wages & Income$23.1 in Retail Spending$20.5 in Local Property Tax$19.6 in Local Sales Tax

1 Full-Time Job

Held by an Irving/North Texas Resident

The City of Irving’s investment in ED marketing is the amount of $1,675,000. An additional $345,000 came from local businesses.

Through the economic development activities of the Chamber, 1 job was created or retained for every $179 spent.

$1

For every $179

5 6

Annual Report

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

6

Without question, this legislative session, one of the longest in history, was a good one for the businesses in North Texas – thanks in part to the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee.

Throughout the session, the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Board of Directors, the Committee and Chamber staff worked closely with members of the executive and legislative branches of government to educate and advocate on behalf of our members throughout Austin and Washington, D.C. Whether proving written or oral testimony in support for Comprehensive Development Agreements, House and Senate Committee on Redistricting, House and Senate Committee on Homeland Security, Transportation and Infrastructure or the Las Colinas Master HOA Bill, the Committee engaged in local and regional lobby initiatives.

“Through the continued efforts of the Chamber’s strong governmental affairs program, we accomplished much this year. By enhancing relationships with legislators and discussing hot topics ranging from small business

development, budget and job initiatives, the Committee advocated for all members by creating policy priorities which advocate for the pro-business environment Irving is known for,” said Rudy Martinez of AT&T and the Chamber‘s Vice Chairman, Governmental Affairs. Partnership initiatives have focused on Congressmen Pete Sessions, Kenny Marchant, Ted Poe, Joe Barton, Francisco Canseco and Bill Flores.

Priority policies have also been developed to help create, advance and promote business in Irving such as: The Cross State Air Pollution Rule, Texas Public Education Funding Priorities, Evergreen Bonding Authority for the Texas Water Development Board, STEM Curriculum for Middle School Students, and the Improving Texas’ Electric Ratemaking Process.

Additionally, through the commitment of its members, the Committee was able to coordinate several site visits with Congressional leadership to businesses in Irving to communicate on key issues that impact specific industries.

The Chamber’s Governmental Committee also helped host the Texas League of Women Voters annual summer conference, co-sponsored mayoral and city council election debates, worked with city partners on insuring pro-business local ordinances and also worked diligently raising funds for the Chamber’s PAC, the Committee to Inform Voters on Business Issues (CIVBI).

Business cannot remain phlegmatic with their marketing abilities and must explore new options to establish their brand. The Chamber’s first class reputation for investor relations enhances the image of our members and promotes their products and services to customers throughout North Texas. The Chamber boasts an extraordinary selection of lead generation opportunities, media publications and various committees to address the needs of our members and investors.

Our major role as a Chamber of Commerce is to provide unique and invaluable opportunities to create economic activity and promote our members and investors through lead-generating. The Irving Business Network, Coffee Break on Main Street, Five-Star Business Mixers and Women’s Alliance Luncheons are monthly events that expose our members to new contacts and strengthen the Chamber’s orchestrated network of business professionals in Irving. Our networking events drive business-to-business connections throughout Irving and North Texas.

Governmental Affairs

With hundreds of bills debated each legislative session, it can be difficult to understand what happened – and more importantly how it impacts your business.

Investor RelationsOne of the greatest challenges businesses confront on a daily basis is how to locate their customers during an era of shrinking attention spans and the availability of information almost instantly.

7 8

Annual Report

In addition to networking events, the Chamber is the central point of contact for information distribution in the community. The weekly Monday Business Report is an e-mail based publication sent to nearly 12,000 professionals that highlights all of the weekly Chamber and community activities. In addition, the Chamber updates and refines our daily blog that promotes Irving business news, local events, ribbon cuttings, infrastructure news, political news and other community-related activities. Our daily Biz Brief section highlights successful economic activity from all Irving-based businesses and raises awareness of business activity in the region. Both the blog and Biz Briefs are always viewable in every Monday Business Report and can be viewed at www.IrvingChamber.com

The Chamber also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Quarterly luncheons and eight annual events, each with their own topics addressed regional issues and featured well-known keynote speakers, like Dr. Robert Dye, Chief Economist from Comerica Bank.

Representatives Linda Harper-Brown and Rodney Anderson with the Irving Delegation at Irving Day in Austin

Economist Dr. Robert Dye, keynote for North Texas Small Business Summit/Breakfast of Champions

Without question, this legislative session, one of the longest in history, was a good one for the businesses in North Texas – thanks in part to the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee.

Throughout the session, the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Board of Directors, the Committee and Chamber staff worked closely with members of the executive and legislative branches of government to educate and advocate on behalf of our members throughout Austin and Washington, D.C. Whether proving written or oral testimony in support for Comprehensive Development Agreements, House and Senate Committee on Redistricting, House and Senate Committee on Homeland Security, Transportation and Infrastructure or the Las Colinas Master HOA Bill, the Committee engaged in local and regional lobby initiatives.

“Through the continued efforts of the Chamber’s strong governmental affairs program, we accomplished much this year. By enhancing relationships with legislators and discussing hot topics ranging from small business

development, budget and job initiatives, the Committee advocated for all members by creating policy priorities which advocate for the pro-business environment Irving is known for,” said Rudy Martinez of AT&T and the Chamber‘s Vice Chairman, Governmental Affairs. Partnership initiatives have focused on Congressmen Pete Sessions, Kenny Marchant, Ted Poe, Joe Barton, Francisco Canseco and Bill Flores.

Priority policies have also been developed to help create, advance and promote business in Irving such as: The Cross State Air Pollution Rule, Texas Public Education Funding Priorities, Evergreen Bonding Authority for the Texas Water Development Board, STEM Curriculum for Middle School Students, and the Improving Texas’ Electric Ratemaking Process.

Additionally, through the commitment of its members, the Committee was able to coordinate several site visits with Congressional leadership to businesses in Irving to communicate on key issues that impact specific industries.

The Chamber’s Governmental Committee also helped host the Texas League of Women Voters annual summer conference, co-sponsored mayoral and city council election debates, worked with city partners on insuring pro-business local ordinances and also worked diligently raising funds for the Chamber’s PAC, the Committee to Inform Voters on Business Issues (CIVBI).

Business cannot remain phlegmatic with their marketing abilities and must explore new options to establish their brand. The Chamber’s first class reputation for investor relations enhances the image of our members and promotes their products and services to customers throughout North Texas. The Chamber boasts an extraordinary selection of lead generation opportunities, media publications and various committees to address the needs of our members and investors.

Our major role as a Chamber of Commerce is to provide unique and invaluable opportunities to create economic activity and promote our members and investors through lead-generating. The Irving Business Network, Coffee Break on Main Street, Five-Star Business Mixers and Women’s Alliance Luncheons are monthly events that expose our members to new contacts and strengthen the Chamber’s orchestrated network of business professionals in Irving. Our networking events drive business-to-business connections throughout Irving and North Texas.

Governmental Affairs

With hundreds of bills debated each legislative session, it can be difficult to understand what happened – and more importantly how it impacts your business.

Investor RelationsOne of the greatest challenges businesses confront on a daily basis is how to locate their customers during an era of shrinking attention spans and the availability of information almost instantly.

7 8

Annual Report

In addition to networking events, the Chamber is the central point of contact for information distribution in the community. The weekly Monday Business Report is an e-mail based publication sent to nearly 12,000 professionals that highlights all of the weekly Chamber and community activities. In addition, the Chamber updates and refines our daily blog that promotes Irving business news, local events, ribbon cuttings, infrastructure news, political news and other community-related activities. Our daily Biz Brief section highlights successful economic activity from all Irving-based businesses and raises awareness of business activity in the region. Both the blog and Biz Briefs are always viewable in every Monday Business Report and can be viewed at www.IrvingChamber.com

The Chamber also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Quarterly luncheons and eight annual events, each with their own topics addressed regional issues and featured well-known keynote speakers, like Dr. Robert Dye, Chief Economist from Comerica Bank.

Representatives Linda Harper-Brown and Rodney Anderson with the Irving Delegation at Irving Day in Austin

Economist Dr. Robert Dye, keynote for North Texas Small Business Summit/Breakfast of Champions

Without question, this legislative session, one of the longest in history, was a good one for the businesses in North Texas – thanks in part to the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee.

Throughout the session, the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Board of Directors, the Committee and Chamber staff worked closely with members of the executive and legislative branches of government to educate and advocate on behalf of our members throughout Austin and Washington, D.C. Whether proving written or oral testimony in support for Comprehensive Development Agreements, House and Senate Committee on Redistricting, House and Senate Committee on Homeland Security, Transportation and Infrastructure or the Las Colinas Master HOA Bill, the Committee engaged in local and regional lobby initiatives.

“Through the continued efforts of the Chamber’s strong governmental affairs program, we accomplished much this year. By enhancing relationships with legislators and discussing hot topics ranging from small business

Transportation Management Association

The Transportation Management Association (TMA) develops and implements successful transportation programs involving both private and public sectors within Irving and the North Texas region. Through the leadership of the Chamber and the City of Irving, the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Transportation Management Association

development, budget and job initiatives, the Committee advocated for all members by creating policy priorities which advocate for the pro-business environment Irving is known for,” said Rudy Martinez of AT&T and the Chamber‘s Vice Chairman, Governmental Affairs. Partnership initiatives have focused on Congressmen Pete Sessions, Kenny Marchant, Ted Poe, Joe Barton, Francisco Canseco and Bill Flores.

Priority policies have also been developed to help create, advance and promote business in Irving such as: The Cross State Air Pollution Rule, Texas Public Education Funding Priorities, Evergreen Bonding Authority for the Texas Water Development Board, STEM Curriculum for Middle School Students, and the Improving Texas’ Electric Ratemaking Process.

Additionally, through the commitment of its members, the Committee was able to coordinate several site visits with Congressional leadership to businesses in Irving to communicate on key issues that impact specific industries.

The Chamber’s Governmental Committee also helped host the Texas League of Women Voters annual summer conference, co-sponsored mayoral and city council election debates, worked with city partners on insuring pro-business local ordinances and also worked diligently raising funds for the Chamber’s PAC, the Committee to Inform Voters on Business Issues (CIVBI).

Business cannot remain phlegmatic with their marketing abilities and must explore new options to establish their brand. The Chamber’s first class reputation for investor relations enhances the image of our members and promotes their products and services to customers throughout North Texas. The Chamber boasts an extraordinary selection of lead generation opportunities, media publications and various committees to address the needs of our members and investors.

Our major role as a Chamber of Commerce is to provide unique and invaluable opportunities to create economic activity and promote our members and investors through lead-generating. The Irving Business Network, Coffee Break on Main Street, Five-Star Business Mixers and Women’s Alliance Luncheons are monthly events that expose our members to new contacts and strengthen the Chamber’s orchestrated network of business professionals in Irving. Our networking events drive business-to-business connections throughout Irving and North Texas.

9 10

Annual Report

As economies continue to become more global, challenges faced by international urban centers like Irving have become more urgent. These challenges drive Irving’s Transportation Management Association to discover and implement innovative solutions that improve mobility in North Texas in the face of growing traffic and shrinking resources.

(GILCTMA) worked with the business community, North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTGOC), local governments and transit agencies and established an Advisory Board and Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC) network that developed the program.

“The group provides advice on transportation issues and promotes alternatives to the single-occupant vehicles within the greater Irving area. The Chamber facilitated TMA meetings with the LBJ Express Project, DART and Qantas Airlines regarding the methodology in choosing DFW as a destination and providing an overview of expected services for Irving,” said Bill Mahoney, Board Vice Chairman, Transportation Management Association.

The TMA also assisted many businesses in Irving that are on the forefront of the State Highway 183 project, which covers east-west transportation needs from State Highway 360 to Interstate Highway 35E, and the Diamond Interchange Project at Loop 12 and 114.

To assist these businesses that were impacted by the construction projects, the Chamber established retention-oriented support to include: advertising, marketing

and relocation consulting. Additionally, the Chamber partnered with transportation leaders to continue the Irving Lecture Series to showcase the many state and federal highway initiatives currently under construction in the North Texas region.

The Chamber remains proactive on the completion of local highway and light rail system projects in a variety of ways including hosting TOD forums with area stakeholders and worked with local and state governments to secure funding.

As an alternative to driving, our partner, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has made significant progress on the Orange Line Light Rail which will connect Irving with Downtown Dallas and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. The 14-mile Orange Line is a key component of a regional rail expansion. The Orange Line will run parallel with the Green Line through Downtown Dallas to Bachman Station in Northwest Dallas. From Bachman Station, the Orange Line heads northwest to the Las Colinas Urban Center in July 2012 and to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport in 2014.

The Chamber has continued to advocate the need for high speed rail in Texas. The Chamber sponsored Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Forum helped lead region wide discussions revolving around TOD’s in North Texas, TOD development successes and the current plans and progress of the North Shore Development. Jointly partnering with the North Central Texas Council of Governments to secure funding for the TMA, the Chamber brought focus to ride share programs and on-demand transportation in the Las Colinas Urban Center.

In addition to networking events, the Chamber is the central point of contact for information distribution in the community. The weekly Monday Business Report is an e-mail based publication sent to nearly 12,000 professionals that highlights all of the weekly Chamber and community activities. In addition, the Chamber updates and refines our daily blog that promotes Irving business news, local events, ribbon cuttings, infrastructure news, political news and other community-related activities. Our daily Biz Brief section highlights successful economic activity from all Irving-based businesses and raises awareness of business activity in the region. Both the blog and Biz Briefs are always viewable in every Monday Business Report and can be viewed at www.IrvingChamber.com

The Chamber also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Quarterly luncheons and eight annual events, each with their own topics addressed regional issues and featured well-known keynote speakers, like Dr. Robert Dye, Chief Economist from Comerica Bank.

DART’s future Orange Line Las Colinas Station, Spring 2011

Congressman Ted Poe visits the Chamber.

Without question, this legislative session, one of the longest in history, was a good one for the businesses in North Texas – thanks in part to the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee.

Throughout the session, the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Board of Directors, the Committee and Chamber staff worked closely with members of the executive and legislative branches of government to educate and advocate on behalf of our members throughout Austin and Washington, D.C. Whether proving written or oral testimony in support for Comprehensive Development Agreements, House and Senate Committee on Redistricting, House and Senate Committee on Homeland Security, Transportation and Infrastructure or the Las Colinas Master HOA Bill, the Committee engaged in local and regional lobby initiatives.

“Through the continued efforts of the Chamber’s strong governmental affairs program, we accomplished much this year. By enhancing relationships with legislators and discussing hot topics ranging from small business

Transportation Management Association

The Transportation Management Association (TMA) develops and implements successful transportation programs involving both private and public sectors within Irving and the North Texas region. Through the leadership of the Chamber and the City of Irving, the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber’s Transportation Management Association

development, budget and job initiatives, the Committee advocated for all members by creating policy priorities which advocate for the pro-business environment Irving is known for,” said Rudy Martinez of AT&T and the Chamber‘s Vice Chairman, Governmental Affairs. Partnership initiatives have focused on Congressmen Pete Sessions, Kenny Marchant, Ted Poe, Joe Barton, Francisco Canseco and Bill Flores.

Priority policies have also been developed to help create, advance and promote business in Irving such as: The Cross State Air Pollution Rule, Texas Public Education Funding Priorities, Evergreen Bonding Authority for the Texas Water Development Board, STEM Curriculum for Middle School Students, and the Improving Texas’ Electric Ratemaking Process.

Additionally, through the commitment of its members, the Committee was able to coordinate several site visits with Congressional leadership to businesses in Irving to communicate on key issues that impact specific industries.

The Chamber’s Governmental Committee also helped host the Texas League of Women Voters annual summer conference, co-sponsored mayoral and city council election debates, worked with city partners on insuring pro-business local ordinances and also worked diligently raising funds for the Chamber’s PAC, the Committee to Inform Voters on Business Issues (CIVBI).

Business cannot remain phlegmatic with their marketing abilities and must explore new options to establish their brand. The Chamber’s first class reputation for investor relations enhances the image of our members and promotes their products and services to customers throughout North Texas. The Chamber boasts an extraordinary selection of lead generation opportunities, media publications and various committees to address the needs of our members and investors.

Our major role as a Chamber of Commerce is to provide unique and invaluable opportunities to create economic activity and promote our members and investors through lead-generating. The Irving Business Network, Coffee Break on Main Street, Five-Star Business Mixers and Women’s Alliance Luncheons are monthly events that expose our members to new contacts and strengthen the Chamber’s orchestrated network of business professionals in Irving. Our networking events drive business-to-business connections throughout Irving and North Texas.

9 10

Annual Report

As economies continue to become more global, challenges faced by international urban centers like Irving have become more urgent. These challenges drive Irving’s Transportation Management Association to discover and implement innovative solutions that improve mobility in North Texas in the face of growing traffic and shrinking resources.

(GILCTMA) worked with the business community, North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTGOC), local governments and transit agencies and established an Advisory Board and Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC) network that developed the program.

“The group provides advice on transportation issues and promotes alternatives to the single-occupant vehicles within the greater Irving area. The Chamber facilitated TMA meetings with the LBJ Express Project, DART and Qantas Airlines regarding the methodology in choosing DFW as a destination and providing an overview of expected services for Irving,” said Bill Mahoney, Board Vice Chairman, Transportation Management Association.

The TMA also assisted many businesses in Irving that are on the forefront of the State Highway 183 project, which covers east-west transportation needs from State Highway 360 to Interstate Highway 35E, and the Diamond Interchange Project at Loop 12 and 114.

To assist these businesses that were impacted by the construction projects, the Chamber established retention-oriented support to include: advertising, marketing

and relocation consulting. Additionally, the Chamber partnered with transportation leaders to continue the Irving Lecture Series to showcase the many state and federal highway initiatives currently under construction in the North Texas region.

The Chamber remains proactive on the completion of local highway and light rail system projects in a variety of ways including hosting TOD forums with area stakeholders and worked with local and state governments to secure funding.

As an alternative to driving, our partner, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has made significant progress on the Orange Line Light Rail which will connect Irving with Downtown Dallas and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. The 14-mile Orange Line is a key component of a regional rail expansion. The Orange Line will run parallel with the Green Line through Downtown Dallas to Bachman Station in Northwest Dallas. From Bachman Station, the Orange Line heads northwest to the Las Colinas Urban Center in July 2012 and to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport in 2014.

The Chamber has continued to advocate the need for high speed rail in Texas. The Chamber sponsored Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Forum helped lead region wide discussions revolving around TOD’s in North Texas, TOD development successes and the current plans and progress of the North Shore Development. Jointly partnering with the North Central Texas Council of Governments to secure funding for the TMA, the Chamber brought focus to ride share programs and on-demand transportation in the Las Colinas Urban Center.

In addition to networking events, the Chamber is the central point of contact for information distribution in the community. The weekly Monday Business Report is an e-mail based publication sent to nearly 12,000 professionals that highlights all of the weekly Chamber and community activities. In addition, the Chamber updates and refines our daily blog that promotes Irving business news, local events, ribbon cuttings, infrastructure news, political news and other community-related activities. Our daily Biz Brief section highlights successful economic activity from all Irving-based businesses and raises awareness of business activity in the region. Both the blog and Biz Briefs are always viewable in every Monday Business Report and can be viewed at www.IrvingChamber.com

The Chamber also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Quarterly luncheons and eight annual events, each with their own topics addressed regional issues and featured well-known keynote speakers, like Dr. Robert Dye, Chief Economist from Comerica Bank.

DART’s future Orange Line Las Colinas Station, Spring 2011

Congressman Ted Poe visits the Chamber.

Over the past year, the Chamber’s Workforce Development programs incorporating the Education Committee, Technology Leadership Council and Workforce Enrichment Council have continued to grow. By design, these programs bring together business leaders and students from the community to advance and improve Irving’s education systems and thus improve Irving’s workforce pipeline.

Through a variety of events, awards and programming, the efforts of the committees have enhanced business leaders’ knowledge of education issues and empowered them to become better partners and advocates for strengthening education in Irving.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Continuing a 56-year tradition with Irving ISD, the Chamber hosted the Annual Back to School Luncheon at Travis Middle School. Elected officials and civic leaders connected with an exciting and vibrant group of teachers in honor of their tremendous service to educate our youth and prepare Irving's future business leaders.

Due to an increase in demand from the realtor community, the Chamber's Education Committee hosted three targeted education forums over lunch in 2011. These events focused on Irving’s private schools, charter schools and

public schools, and attracted regional residential realtors, HR relocators, and local business and community leaders. Keynote speakers included Irving ISD and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD superintendents, principals, and administrators who offered information on education advancements and answered important questions for more than 100 local residential realtors who received additional tools to sell real estate in Irving.

FUTURE LEADERS OF IRVING

Helping prepare the future workforce that resides in Irving, the future leaders of Irving program developed into an essential Chamber initiative that garnered national attention. Created to identify, educate and develop our local students to become future business and civic leaders, Future Leaders of Irving’s programming includes monthly sessions, team building activities, leadership skills development and communication skills development. Topics of discussion vary from local resources, colleges, non-profit organizations and volunteer opportunities, city government, transportation and the private sector. This year marked the third class to have graduated, with the most recent participants reporting exciting results:

• Gained exposure to Irving opportunities (91%)

• Increased leadership skills (82%)

• Received exposure to positive adult role models (72%)

• Personal growth (72%)

The fourth FLI class is expected to reach up to 50 participants and will span over a period of six months during the 2011-12 school year.

LEADERSHIP IRVING-LAS COLINAS

The Leadership Irving-Las Colinas Program graduated its largest class in its 30-year history. The incoming 2012 Leadership Irving-Las Colinas class is again strong with 30 participants.

Program participants represented numerous local private, public and non-profit organizations who engaged in team building, leadership skills development and communication

skills development. The program also allowed participants to establish a close network of colleagues through its systematic program, which enhanced awareness of community opportunities and resources.

Prior to graduation and as the final project, the 2011 class worked collectively to raise more than $41,000 and secured priceless donations of volunteer time to dramatically enhance the playground at Our Children’s House at Baylor Irving.

TECHNOLOGY LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

Helping to further STEM education in Irving, the Technology Leadership Council (TLC) connects business technology resources with opportunities at local educational institutions and helps educate in regard to new trends in technology while promoting the advancement of innovation, entrepreneurship and competition.

Workforce Development & Education

The Technology Leadership Innovation Award honored three Irving high schools students who are committed to making a positive impact on technological advances. The winners also participated in the TLC’s incubator program; giving them the necessary resources from top businesses in the Irving-Las Colinas community to continue to develop their ideas into reality.

The 2011 Chamber’s Technology Leadership Council’s Innovation Award winners are Saul Membremo, Colton Collis and Elias Baez (picture below with Robert Martinez, and John Arnott).

The Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber was the first chamber of commerce in Texas accredited with a Five-Star Rating. Of the approximate 7,800 chambers of commerce in the U.S., less than one percent meet the criteria to be accredited with Five-Stars!

Fun Fact!

11 12

Annual Report

Past Chairman Robert Martinez at the 56th Annual Back to School Luncheon

2011 Leadership Irving-Las Colinas class site visit to Microsoft

2011 Leadership Irving-Las Colinas Class

Additionally, the Technology Leadership Council through partnership with the Chamber’s Education Foundation, continues to assist Irving students by offering various internships and scholarship money. Thanks to a grant received from AT&T, the Chamber funds its internship program and employs multiple interns each semester, exposing each to numerous projects and events, gaining solid work experience.

Over the past year, the Chamber’s Workforce Development programs incorporating the Education Committee, Technology Leadership Council and Workforce Enrichment Council have continued to grow. By design, these programs bring together business leaders and students from the community to advance and improve Irving’s education systems and thus improve Irving’s workforce pipeline.

Through a variety of events, awards and programming, the efforts of the committees have enhanced business leaders’ knowledge of education issues and empowered them to become better partners and advocates for strengthening education in Irving.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Continuing a 56-year tradition with Irving ISD, the Chamber hosted the Annual Back to School Luncheon at Travis Middle School. Elected officials and civic leaders connected with an exciting and vibrant group of teachers in honor of their tremendous service to educate our youth and prepare Irving's future business leaders.

Due to an increase in demand from the realtor community, the Chamber's Education Committee hosted three targeted education forums over lunch in 2011. These events focused on Irving’s private schools, charter schools and

public schools, and attracted regional residential realtors, HR relocators, and local business and community leaders. Keynote speakers included Irving ISD and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD superintendents, principals, and administrators who offered information on education advancements and answered important questions for more than 100 local residential realtors who received additional tools to sell real estate in Irving.

FUTURE LEADERS OF IRVING

Helping prepare the future workforce that resides in Irving, the future leaders of Irving program developed into an essential Chamber initiative that garnered national attention. Created to identify, educate and develop our local students to become future business and civic leaders, Future Leaders of Irving’s programming includes monthly sessions, team building activities, leadership skills development and communication skills development. Topics of discussion vary from local resources, colleges, non-profit organizations and volunteer opportunities, city government, transportation and the private sector. This year marked the third class to have graduated, with the most recent participants reporting exciting results:

• Gained exposure to Irving opportunities (91%)

• Increased leadership skills (82%)

• Received exposure to positive adult role models (72%)

• Personal growth (72%)

The fourth FLI class is expected to reach up to 50 participants and will span over a period of six months during the 2011-12 school year.

LEADERSHIP IRVING-LAS COLINAS

The Leadership Irving-Las Colinas Program graduated its largest class in its 30-year history. The incoming 2012 Leadership Irving-Las Colinas class is again strong with 30 participants.

Program participants represented numerous local private, public and non-profit organizations who engaged in team building, leadership skills development and communication

skills development. The program also allowed participants to establish a close network of colleagues through its systematic program, which enhanced awareness of community opportunities and resources.

Prior to graduation and as the final project, the 2011 class worked collectively to raise more than $41,000 and secured priceless donations of volunteer time to dramatically enhance the playground at Our Children’s House at Baylor Irving.

TECHNOLOGY LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

Helping to further STEM education in Irving, the Technology Leadership Council (TLC) connects business technology resources with opportunities at local educational institutions and helps educate in regard to new trends in technology while promoting the advancement of innovation, entrepreneurship and competition.

Workforce Development & Education

The Technology Leadership Innovation Award honored three Irving high schools students who are committed to making a positive impact on technological advances. The winners also participated in the TLC’s incubator program; giving them the necessary resources from top businesses in the Irving-Las Colinas community to continue to develop their ideas into reality.

The 2011 Chamber’s Technology Leadership Council’s Innovation Award winners are Saul Membremo, Colton Collis and Elias Baez (picture below with Robert Martinez, and John Arnott).

The Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber was the first chamber of commerce in Texas accredited with a Five-Star Rating. Of the approximate 7,800 chambers of commerce in the U.S., less than one percent meet the criteria to be accredited with Five-Stars!

Fun Fact!

11 12

Annual Report

Past Chairman Robert Martinez at the 56th Annual Back to School Luncheon

2011 Leadership Irving-Las Colinas Class site visit to Microsoft

2011 Leadership Irving-Las Colinas Class

Additionally, the Technology Leadership Council through partnership with the Chamber’s Education Foundation, continues to assist Irving students by offering various internships and scholarship money. Thanks to a grant received from AT&T, the Chamber funds its internship program and employs multiple interns each semester, exposing each to numerous projects and events, gaining solid work experience.

International Trade Development & Irving Sister CitiesTrade, investment projects, and economic benefits are major components of establishing and expanding businesses relationships with other countries. Resources at the Irving-Las Colinas Chamber are helping pave the way for international opportunities benefiting businesses across North Texas.

Irving was the proud host of a visiting delegation from the City of Yangzhou, China, which began the process of building a relationship that will provide mutual benefits in cultural, educational and economic pursuits for Yangzhou, China and Irving.

Accounting for this past year alone, the International Trade Development & Assistance Center has assisted more than 150 local companies and entrepreneurs in expanding their international footprint. The center has also organized and participated in three

international trade missions/delegations. To the same token, the Chamber received delegations from the State of Veracruz, Mexico, Yangzhou, China and Poland. The Chamber also led a delegation to Irving’s Sister City of Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico.

Your InvestmentMakes a Difference

The business community has benefited locally from multiple conferences and events focusing on international business. Furthermore, the Chamber continued its active role in the Sister Cities Program with Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico; Marino, Italy; Merton, England; Boulogne, France; Darkhan, Mongolia, Poland and Espoo, Finland.

With pro-business relationships across the globe, the Chamber helps businesses create new opportunities, and can guide your business through the process of consummating international transactions.

In an attempt to establish greater trade opportunities, a delegation from the American Chamber of Commerce in Poland presented an overview of Poland and its economy.

The Irving Chamber trade mission to Panama, hosted by the U.S. Panama Business Council, was also a success for international relations in Irving. Panama is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, expanding 6.2% in 2010, with a growth outlook of 9% in 2011. 15% of U.S. trade and 5% of world trade passes through the Panama Canal per year and approximately two-thirds of this cargo is bound to or from U.S. ports including the Port of Houston, thus creating an opportunity for Irving’s Supply Chain Logistic Center.

The Chamber’s mission, to create, advance and promote is reflected in Bloomberg’s BusinessWeek ranking of Irving as one of the nation’s Top 50 "Best Places to Live." BusinessWeek.com evaluated the country's largest cities based on 16 criteria, most of which relate to the business environment. Along with the Chamber’s Investors, the Chamber has positively impacted our city as a whole and is part of the reason Irving is now nationally recognized as a great place to live, work and play!

13 14

Annual Report

International Relationships

Irving Sister Cities presented the “Sounds of Mexico.” The international event, with guests traveling from as far as Leon, Mexico, demonstrated the Chamber’s strong commitment to embrace the cultural diversity in Irving.

EXPENSES

MEMBERSHIP

0

$1,000,000

$2,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

$5,000,000

Actuals for2008-09

$3,067,958

Actuals for2009-10

$3,517,066

Actuals for2010-11

$4,079,537

Projections for2011-12

$4,635,712

0

$1,000,000

$2,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

$5,000,000

Actuals for2008-09

$3,124,996

Actuals for2009-10

$3,472,475

Actuals for2010-11

$4,023,025

Projections for2011-12

$4,614,209

0

500

1000

1500

2000

Actuals for2008-09

1518

Actuals for2009-10

1697

Actuals for2010-11

1703

Projections for2011-12

1772

INCOME

Chinese Delegation, 2011

Poland Delegation, 2011

Your InvestmentMakes a Difference

The Chamber’s mission, to create, advance and promote is reflected in Bloomberg’s BusinessWeek ranking of Irving as one of the nation’s Top 50 "Best Places to Live." BusinessWeek.com evaluated the country's largest cities based on 16 criteria, most of which relate to the business environment. Along with the Chamber’s Investors, the Chamber has positively impacted our city as a whole and is part of the reason Irving is now nationally recognized as a great place to live, work and play!

14

EXPENSES

MEMBERSHIP

0

$1,000,000

$2,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

$5,000,000

Actuals for2008-09

$3,067,958

Actuals for2009-10

$3,517,066

Actuals for2010-11

$4,079,537

Projections for2011-12

$4,635,712

0

$1,000,000

$2,000,000

$3,000,000

$4,000,000

$5,000,000

Actuals for2008-09

$3,124,996

Actuals for2009-10

$3,472,475

Actuals for2010-11

$4,023,025

Projections for2011-12

$4,614,209

0

500

1000

1500

2000

Actuals for2008-09

1518

Actuals for2009-10

1697

Actuals for2010-11

1703

Projections for2011-12

1772

INCOME

A 5-STAR YEAR IN REVIEW

BUSINESS RELOCATION WINS

GROWTH IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND MORE!

A 5-STAR YEAR IN REVIEW

BUSINESS RELOCATION WINS

GROWTH IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND MORE!

• 7 Irving stations under construction and arriving in 2012• TOD zoning and design standards in place• Civic commitment includes public-private partnerships,

a TIF and fast-tracking approvals• Irving is home to �ive Fortune 500 global headquarters • Adjacent DFW Airport is the third busiest in the world

© 2011 Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved.

Don’t miss the urban development boom underway in Irving, Texas along the new Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Orange Line.

With construction well underway, high-traf�ic sites are still available near Irving’s new Convention Center and planned Entertainment Complex.

IrvingTOD.com

Light rail stations are about to open in one of the fastest-growing markets in the US.

Projects are moving fast in Irving.

Visit IrvingTOD.com for an update

on Transportation Oriented

Developments in Irving or snap

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TODAY & TOMORROW