ECPR’s work with the Austin Chamber of Commerce was especially crucial considering the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Tesla’s headquarters relocation announcement, and the unprecedented amount of economic growth in the region. We worked hand in hand over the last year with the Chamber to develop messaging highlighting the benefits of doing business within the Austin region, resulting in the area’s best year to-date for economic development. We also partnered with the Chamber’s economic development initiative, Opportunity Austin, to welcome new businesses into the region with press releases and media advisories distributed nationwide. Additionally, the Chamber of Commerce CEO, Laura Huffman, is now considered an expert and trusted voice in Austin and beyond thanks to our strategy and positioning of her knowledge in the field of economic development and major issues impacting the region and our growing city.

ECPR helped the Chamber cultivate relationships with local organizations by drafting marketing materials and media announcements on hiring notices, construction and significant events within the community. We also fostered a reputation in the philanthropic space by developing messaging for altruistic events including Cheers to the Year, which highlighted the incredible achievements of Huston-Tillotson University, Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette.

Over the course of the year, ECPR has served the Chamber of Commerce on several fronts to bolster the growth and opportunity found across the Austin region. Our work resulted in about $15 million of earned media—an average of $1 million per month— while reaching close to half a billion people through earned media and our “home-base” messaging will be the backbone of the Chamber’s mission for years to come.