DENVER, CO, JULY 16, 2025 —Metro Denver city council members, county commissioners, former and current mayors, and over 400 business and community leaders convened today to discuss the topical business issues impacting our metro region during the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce (DMCC)’s annual State of the Cities, sponsored by United Airlines.
The event featured a mayoral panel to discuss collaboration between cities and pertinent issues facing their constituents, as well as small tables for intimate conversations between businesspeople and lawmakers. The event highlighted the importance of bolstering collaboration between local government and the business community, underscoring the collective effort needed to address the region’s challenges and opportunities.
The mayoral panel was moderated by CBS Colorado political reporter Shaun Boyd and featured Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, and Northglenn Mayor Meredith Leighty. Panel discussions focused on small business development, regional collaboration, cost of living, economic competitiveness, and more.
One question that Boyd asked during the panel was how the cities of Aurora, Denver, and Northglenn were seeing impact on small businesses in their communities, given current economic conditions.
“Small businesses are seeing the impact that the trends are showing nationwide,” said Mayor Leighty. “Our sales tax in Northglenn is down—in May we’re looking at a decrease of 2%... We try to keep a personal connection, streamlining services for our businesses. Whether it’s permits and licensing, many of them will comment that we do it faster than other cities, and we’re pretty proud of that to make sure that our businesses get up and running.” She then stressed the importance of Northglenn connecting directly with small businesses to keep conversations about needs flowing.
Mayor Johnston emphasized the importance of ensuring that cities are both safe and conducive to the growth of small businesses. “We want to make sure our neighborhoods and employees are safe, and make sure they can afford to live in this city.” The mayor noted Denver achieved a 45% reduction in street homelessness over the past few years, along with a 58% decrease in the homicide rate this year, emphasizing how these improvements are positively impacting businesses in the city
“There’s no question that we’re witnessing a slowdown in the economy,” said Mayor Coffman. “While there’s still significant room for growth, we’ve seen commercial development slow down by about a third, alongside a similar decline in residential development. This slowdown has a collateral effect on our small businesses, which is reflected in our sales tax revenue. While there is some growth, it is sluggish, and our costs as a city have risen at a faster rate.”
Following the panel, a community leader facilitated small table discussions with guests, allowing community members to share their perspectives about business issues in their cities.
The event saw overwhelming participation and a robust positive response, with true optimism about the future of the entire metro area. Mayors from surrounding regions also highlighted the continued growth and development within their cities. The facilitation style received praise from attendees and prompted discussions on how to further improve the region, with conversation focused on small business support, cost of living, economic competitiveness, and other pertinent issues.
“[Today’s] spirit of collaboration is why we appreciate the work of the Metro Mayors Caucus and others working across jurisdictions to build a stronger Colorado,” said Vice President of External Affairs for HCA HealthONE and Chair of the DMCC’s Board of Directors, Maureen Tarrant. “As I wrap up my term as Board Chair, I’m reminded that these conversations build the foundation for smarter policymaking and more intentional growth.”
At the end of the event, the DMCC also announced their new Vice President of External Affairs, Leslie Oliver. Oliver will step into her new role in August and will represent the voice of Metro Denver’s business community. Read more about Oliver and her new role.
The presenting sponsor for this event was United Airlines.
About the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce (DMCC) is the architect of tomorrow, igniting change and driving progress to build dynamic economies and communities. We champion innovation, forge powerful partnerships, and relentlessly advocate for our members and all Coloradans. With more than 150 years of trust and impact, we help business flourish.
The DMCC’s vision is Economic Empowerment for Every Coloradan and is achieved by advocating for effective public policy, developing civic leaders, and driving a sustainable economy. We promote a vibrant economy by fostering a business-friendly environment, supporting a skilled workforce and facilitating connections. Dedicated to boosting business and employee opportunities, the Chamber drives sustainable growth and prosperity across Colorado.
DENVER—July 16, The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the appointment of Leslie Oliver as its new Vice President of External Affairs. Oliver brings nearly 30 years of experience in Colorado public affairs, political strategy, communications, and issue advocacy. Her role at the Chamber will be instrumental in advocating for the Chamber’s members and Metro Denver’s business community. She will step into this role in August.
“I’m honored to lead the Chamber’s advocacy and policy efforts,” said Oliver. “These actions promote business growth, economic development, and strong policy that ensures Colorado remains a place where businesses thrive, communities grow, and people feel connected. The Denver Metro Chamber is one of the most influential voices for Colorado’s business community, and I’m proud to help elevate that voice in conversations that shape our region’s future.”
Oliver has built a strong reputation in both the private and public sectors for her authentic and effective representation of some of Colorado’s most diverse and complex organizations and corporations. She brings a deep appreciation for the vital role the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce plays in championing policies that support small businesses, fostering economic growth and opportunity, and ensuring Colorado remains one of the best places in the country for businesses to be, communities to thrive, and people to work and live .
Oliver’s career spans influential roles across corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors, including her tenure at Comcast, where she managed high-profile external affairs initiatives, engaged with strategic business and civic partnerships and established vital connections with communities across Colorado. Earlier in her career, she served as Policy and Communications Director and spokesperson for U.S. Congressman Ed Perlmutter, advising on key legislative priorities and leading strategic communications efforts in Colorado and nationally.
Oliver has a deep understanding of Colorado’s business community and the complex challenges businesses of all sizes in all sectors face, and she brings a proven ability to help institutions navigate the changing landscape and complexities impacting Colorado’s economy and national competitiveness.
“Bringing Leslie onto our team is a huge win for the Chamber and our members,” said J. J. Ament, President and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. “She’s one of the most respected and effective voices in Colorado’s public affairs landscape, and we’re better for having her on our side. Smart, effective public policy is essential to building a strong economy and vibrant communities, and Leslie brings the expertise, relationships, and passion to make that happen. With the Chamber deeply engaged in the issues that matter most to businesses across the state, her leadership will ensure our members’ voices are not only heard but prioritized at every level of government.”
As Vice President of External Affairs, Oliver will lead the Chamber’s policy and advocacy team, helping drive strategic external engagement and partnerships, represent the Chamber’s members, and oversee the Chamber's policy councils and initiatives. Oliver will also collaborate with advocacy organizations, policymakers and government officials to implement strategies and tactics to accomplish policy goals.
About the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce (DMCC) is the architect of tomorrow, igniting change and driving progress to build dynamic economies and communities. We champion innovation, forge powerful partnerships, and relentlessly advocate for our members and all Coloradans. With more than 150 years of trust and impact, we help business flourish.
The DMCC’s vision is Economic Empowerment for Every Coloradan and is achieved by advocating for effective public policy, developing civic leaders, and driving a sustainable economy. We promote a vibrant economy by fostering a business-friendly environment, supporting a skilled workforce and facilitating connections. Dedicated to boosting business and employee opportunities, the Chamber drives sustainable growth and prosperity across Colorado.
"As leaders, I think we often get so busy and consumed by daily problem-solving that we miss opportunities to find tools, resources and strategies that can help us tackle them more efficiently — even when those opportunities are staring us in the face." -Wes Parham, Leadership Fellows 2022
1. What has been a defining moment in your leadership journey, and how did it shape you?
Many leaders are afraid to share uncomfortable feedback with their teams. However, early in my career, I received challenging feedback from a leader about my public speaking. But to their credit, this leader not only recommended a weekly Toastmasters group but also offered to join me for several months.
Who knew that I’d actually enjoy it; and, after several years, the experience refined public speaking into a strength and unlocked a rewarding career path. But more importantly, it hardwired communication and leadership strategies that help me navigate uncertainty — because it’s having the tools to lead during those uncertain moments that have created defining opportunities along the way. Someone else’s willingness to share honest feedback was a true catalyst for my career path and opened doors I never knew existed.
2. How did your DMCLF experience shift your perspective on leadership and prepare you to face the challenges that come with leading?
As leaders, I think we often get so busy and consumed by daily problem-solving that we miss opportunities to find tools, resources and strategies that can help us tackle them more efficiently — even when those opportunities are staring us in the face.
We also tend to assume that traditional management skills will win the day, without putting them in context with our natural leadership style — who we are as people, our strengths and weaknesses, our ability to influence others, and how they respond to us. In other words, personal growth and professional growth go hand in hand.
Leadership Fellows was a game-changer for beginning to blend those two worlds. I’m fortunate to have had mentors and leaders who not only introduced me to Leadership Fellows but were just as invested in my growth as they were in their own. Working through these layers with a cohort of peers built trust and a professional network that will sustain me throughout my career.
3. What’s a lesson you’ve learned as a leader that you wish more people talked about openly?
Without question, it’s about understanding strengths and weaknesses. As leaders, we need to invest the time to truly understand who we are — both professionally and personally. What are we good at, and what are we not? What do we enjoy, and what do we dislike? What can we realistically improve, and what might never be our strength?
We spend so much time early in our careers trying to be all things to all people. It’s an exhausting approach that often leaves us frustrated and feeling like we’re not progressing. While we should always look to improve our weaknesses — and we need to know what they are — sometimes our energy is better spent understanding ourselves, so we can surround ourselves with people whose strengths complement our own.
This allows us to spend more time doing what we’re good at and enjoy. We also become more valuable experts in those areas, yielding stronger results for ourselves and our teams.
It takes even more courage to share these insights with your boss or others in your organization, but it’s a sign of mature leadership. And if you’re afraid to share them, you might be in the wrong organization altogether.
4. How do you see civic and business leadership evolving in Denver — and what gives you hope about the future?
We are all navigating an ever-changing and complex world — and that brings tremendous opportunity for our community. It also brings risk and uncertainty.
I recently took on a new mentor whose leadership style and experience I deeply respect. One thing that stands out about this leader is the diversity of their accomplishments — having served on executive teams for four Fortune 500 companies across a range of disciplines.
One of the first questions I asked them was how they found continued success through the ups and downs — the organizational shifts, career transitions, risks and rewards, and inevitable uncertainty. Their answer? “I focused on leadership.”
That simple, spot-on response validated our community’s investment in the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation and gives me real hope for the future of our region.
5. If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Understanding the value of time. I often tell folks that I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up because I’m just not wired that way. However, I’m a firm believer in the power of opportunity; it compounds and grows over time.
We have to recognize opportunity when it comes along. We also need to have the foundational skills to take advantage of it. Like any investment, the sooner we build those skills — understanding who we are, the value of time, engaging mentors, networking, communication, leadership development, how others respond to us, etc. — the more opportunities we’ll recognize and be prepared to take advantage of, which will hopefully create even more pathways.
By J. J. Ament and Dave Davia
Colorado’s thriving tech sector has supercharged our state’s economy and positioned us as a global innovation leader. However, clashing regulations cropping up across the country threaten to derail this progress, and it is clear that we need a pragmatic national AI policy to keep this success story moving forward.
A snapshot across the country reveals that an increasing number of states are advancing fragmented AI rules that threaten to stifle innovation and create a fractured regulatory system for emerging technologies. Each new law that goes into this patchwork is one more hoop for innovators to jump through, as well as a risk to holistic economic growth.
Colorado’s experience should serve as a cautionary tale. Last year, the Centennial State enacted the nation’s first comprehensive AI legislation (SB 24-205) following an 11-hour sprint to jam the bill through both chambers of the General Assembly before the end of legislative session. Governor Polis signed the bill into law with reservations and vowed to work with stakeholders to fix the measure’s flaws in subsequent years. Fast forward to the Spring of 2025, and legislators, in the waning days of session, once again tried to fast-track a “legislative fix” to SB24-205. This move drew significant concern from the tech community and triggered a letter from Governor Polis and other state, federal, and local policymakers asking for the delayed implementation of SB24-205 and urging a more thoughtful and collaboratively approach to the policy.
This is just a sample of the turmoil that lies ahead as more states push their own competing AI bills. Across the nation, over one thousand AI bills have been introduced this year alone. All of which contain differing definitions, requirements, and rulemakings, creating a patchwork of mismatched policies. While this is burdensome for companies of all sizes, small- and medium-size businesses are the ones bearing the brunt of implementation. Many of those companies lack the legal resources to navigate the maze of novel tech regulations that pop up more and more each day.
As representatives of Colorado’s top businesses, we believe that a better approach would be a comprehensive federal framework that delivers consistency and predictability for developers, deployers, and users of AI tools. Preemption of state legislation gives federal lawmakers a window in which to develop and enact sensible AI policies that protect consumers while spurring economic growth.
This issue is too important to get wrong. Colorado has nurtured an incredibly competitive tech ecosystem that supports the ongoing ingenuity of our unrivaled entrepreneurs, university networks, and federal labs. This flourishing innovation economy has made us leaders in critical technologies that are shaping our future like AI and quantum computing—a hard-fought success we risk forfeiting if we keep pushing anti-growth policies. The tech sector now accounts for 10 percent of our state’s total employment, and has added more than 47,000 net jobs from 2018 to 2023, more than any other industry in the state. Additionally, 42 percent of Colorado small businesses are using AI tools to improve their business models, and 84 percent of those have expanded their workforce and grew their profits. Colorado ranks among the top 15 states for AI hiring and for AI jobs as a share of total jobs. Denver, specifically, is among the top 20 metro areas for AI hiring and ranks 21st for AI job creation. This growth highlights our region’s rising influence in the AI economy.
Our ability to develop and innovate in the AI space is more critical than ever, especially as other nations advance policies that reflect and adapt to multicultural and fast developing contexts. Moving forward with a patchwork of disjointed regulations, instead of passing responsible federal policy, serves only to erode our leadership and give our competitors an advantage.
Congress has a chance to get AI policy right and prepare Colorado and the U.S. for years of economic success. Let’s seize this moment.
Each month, we spotlight a local leader and explore their unique journey and insights. By sharing their experiences, we aim to inspire future leaders with practical ways to get involved, grow, and make a lasting impact.
This month, we’re proud to feature Eduardo Gonzalez, Community Engagement and Outreach Coordinator at CSU Spur and a graduate of Impact Denver 2025.
Being surrounded by brilliant minds from every corner of Denver helped me see leadership in a broader context, one that extends beyond the walls of my organization. It reminded me that our missions are part of something much larger and that real change happens when we understand and collaborate with the broader ecosystem we're a part of. This program provided me with the tools and vision to lead not just with strategy, but with context.
Not knowing the answer isn’t a weakness or a flaw; it’s an opportunity. There's strength in saying, “Let’s figure this out together.” I’ve learned that authentic leadership is less about having all the answers and more about asking the right questions and building trust through collaboration in the face of uncertainty.
What gives me the most hope is the unshakable commitment people have to their communities. Some people aren’t waiting for change; they’re creating it, block by block. Leadership in Denver is becoming more inclusive, more locally grounded, and more courageous. It’s rooted in collaboration, and that makes our city stronger with every step forward.
Accept help. Ask for guidance. Growth doesn’t mean doing it alone. And listen to your mom, as she knows what she is talking about.
Photo courtesy of Dave Anderson at InSync Photography + Design.
DENVER, CO—May 13, 2025—At the 2025 State of the State, leaders from the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce (DMCC) and the Colorado Competitive Council (C3) highlighted the anticipated effects of the 2025 legislative session on the business community and Colorado's competitiveness in attracting talent and businesses. With more than 600 business leaders in attendance, this annual event, presented by Xcel Energy, also featured an address from Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who explored the biggest outcomes of session from his perspective. The event featured a dynamic panel discussion on the importance of transparency and how communities, business leaders, and constituents stay informed and engaged. Panelists included Alayna Alvarez of Axios Denver, Marianne Goodland of Colorado Politics, and Jesse Paul of The Colorado Sun, with moderation by Westword Editor-in-Chief Patty Calhoun.
During his address, Governor Polis highlighted the issues of housing, public safety, and affordability in the legislative session. The Governor celebrated how, just yesterday, he signed House Bill 1272, Construction Defects & Middle Market housing. “This [bill] will allow condo construction and give our state more starter homes [and] condos that people can buy,” said Governor Polis.
The Governor also highlighted the success of Colorado bringing the Sundance Film Festival to Boulder, stating, “we also had a major economic development victory this year, where we are the new home of the world renown Sundance Film Festival.” He emphasized that Sundance is predicted to bring in more than $2 billion in economic activity over the next decade for Colorado.
While Governor Polis celebrated some of the legislature’s wins, he also warned that looming federal cuts for Medicaid could still heavily impact Colorado. “If the federal government cuts Medicaid significantly,” said Governor Polis, “that is something obviously the state can’t backfill… commercial insurance would go up substantially if the federal government cuts Medicaid.”
In addition to takeaways from Governor Polis, attendees heard from DMCC and C3 leadership on the overall impact on the business community from this legislative session. Vice President of Government Affairs for the DMCC, Carly West, and the Vice President of Statewide Engagement for DMCC and Executive Director of C3, Rachel Beck, summarized some of the biggest business bills in the session, primarily focusing on affordability for Coloradans and businesses alike.
“The legislature is asking more and more without fully considering the costs, the complexity, or the consequences,” said West. “We hear every day about how affordability is impacting every aspect of life in Colorado – we need policies that are more in step with that reality.”
Beck continued off this, stating, “When we add up the full tab—regulations, wages, supplies, inflation, tariffs—all trending upward—it’s no wonder that we’ve fallen in every economic ranking we know of for cost of living and cost of doing business.”
Closing out the event, DMCC President and CEO, J. J. Ament, stressed the back-and-forth throughout the session that was negotiations between businesses and labor on Senate Bill 5, which would eliminate the protection workers in Colorado currently have on when they can be forced to pay fees to a labor union. “The proponents introduced the bill as a litmus test for Democrat legislators—a loyalty and allegiance standard, that quite frankly has no place in balanced policy-making,” said Ament.
“In order to protect Colorado’s unique position as a labor peace state that has served our people and our competitiveness so well, the business community faithfully and authentically offered numerous compromises with legislative leadership and organized labor to avoid this extreme an outcome,” continued Ament. “There could be no deal achieved despite the best efforts and leadership of Governor Polis… we appreciate the Governor’s sentiment on these issues, and his desire to keep Colorado competitive.”
Ament used this image as an analogy and visual representation of the business community’s willingness to compromise on negotiations for Senate Bill 5, versus the lack of compromise seen from labor during these conversations.
Ament ended by saying, “We, along with a statewide coalition of business and economic development organizations, are respectfully requesting the Governor to veto Senate Bill 5.” That call to action elicited applause from the audience.
The media panel highlighted some of the biggest issues for their readers from throughout the session as well, stressing that the state budget deficit, federal tariffs and regulations, and the increase in fees and costs for businesses were popular topics this session.
“The State of the State event is a powerful reflection of the Chamber’s influence during the legislative session, and it's so crucial at a time where we're seeing challenges to business friendliness take hold in Colorado," said Vice President of External Affairs for HCA HealthONE and Chair of the DMCC Board, Maureen Tarrant. "Getting a clear, concise understanding of where businesses stand at the legislature is one of the greatest takeaways I get from this event. Thanks to strong partnerships with elected officials, engaged business leaders, and a consistent presence at the Capitol, our business community’s voice is not only heard — it's respected.”
“C3 and the Denver Metro Chamber are arguably the best Chamber and membership organizations in the state,” said Manager of State Government Affairs at Xcel Energy, Michael Sapp, in a video played at the event. “Not only do they connect folks like myself… to legislators… they are collective in their membership, they’re deep in their policy… they’re all about moving the needle to help advance Colorado.”
See all the stances taken by the DMCC and C3 during the 2025 legislative session.
Support for the 2025 State of the State included Presenting Sponsor, Xcel Energy; Platinum Sponsor, Southwest Airlines; and Gold Sponsor, Flintco Construction.
About the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce
The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce (DMCC) is the architect of tomorrow, igniting change and driving progress to build dynamic economies and communities. We champion innovation, forge powerful partnerships, and relentlessly advocate for our members and all Coloradans. With more than 150 years of trust and impact, we help business flourish.
The DMCC’s vision is Economic Empowerment for Every Coloradan and is achieved by advocating for effective public policy, developing civic leaders, and driving a sustainable economy. We promote a vibrant economy by fostering a business-friendly environment, supporting a skilled workforce and facilitating connections. Dedicated to boosting business and employee opportunities, the Chamber drives sustainable growth and prosperity across Colorado.
About the Colorado Competitive Council (C3)
The Colorado Competitive Council (C3), a part of the Denver Metro Chamber family of organizations, provides direct lobbying and advocacy at the Colorado State Capitol and supports like-minded organizations that are dedicated to the mission of enhancing Colorado’s economy. For more information, go to coloradocompetes.org.
"Leadership Denver has been one of the most transformative experiences of my career. I’m walking away with new friendships, a deeper love for this city, and a renewed commitment to lead with courage, humility, and heart."
What an incredible ride these past 11 months have been! Being part of Leadership Denver has stretched me, inspired me, and connected me with some of the most thoughtful, passionate changemakers in the city. As I reflect on this journey, here’s a little glimpse into what I’ve learned along the way…
A defining leadership moment
One of the biggest turning points in my leadership journey happened early in my role as CEO of the Global Livingston Institute. I had to make the tough call to transition some of our signature programs to local leadership in East Africa—a move that required me to let go, trust, and release control. It was scary (okay, terrifying at times!), but it taught me this: real leadership isn’t about holding on tightly—it’s about building others up to lead. That decision changed how I see my role, and it’s made our work more sustainable and community-driven than ever.
How Leadership Denver shifted my perspective
Before this program, I saw leadership mostly through the lens of my own organization. But Leadership Denver cracked that wide open. Through site visits, deep discussions, and bold conversations about housing, healthcare, education, and more, I’ve learned just how interconnected everything is. It’s taught me that leadership isn’t just about leading your team—it’s about showing up for your city, building bridges, and solving problems together.
What gives me hope about Denver’s future
Honestly? I’m blown away by how civic and business leaders in Denver are leaning into equity, collaboration, and innovation like never before. I see leaders willing to listen more deeply, co-create solutions, and challenge the status quo. There’s a boldness AND a humility emerging in this next generation of leadership—and that gives me so much hope for the future of our city.
Advice to my younger self
Oh, I’d tell her: “Trust your voice—even when it shakes.” Stop waiting to feel fully ready or perfectly qualified. Leadership isn’t about being flawless—it’s about showing up, speaking up, and learning as you go. You’re more capable than you think, right now.
Here’s to what’s next!
