Key Facts
Key Information
About
The Greater Washington Board of Trade, established in 1889, is the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area's oldest and premier non-partisan membership organization dedicated to fostering economic prosperity. It serves as a leading business advocacy and networking organization focused on influencing regional economic policy, urban development, and regional growth. The organization represents a diverse array of stakeholders including businesses, nonprofits, universities, and government agencies across the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia. It plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall business climate and competitiveness of Greater Washington through policy advocacy, networking events, and collaborative projects addressing infrastructure, workforce development, and innovation. The Board of Trade works to bridge public and private sectors, ensuring member voices shape legislative and regulatory decisions at local, state, and federal levels. Its membership includes prominent entities such as Wells Fargo, Georgetown University, Bechtel, The Washington Post, AT&T, and Pepco, along with numerous regional, national, and international organizations. Through these partnerships, it drives economic initiatives that support sustainable growth and position the region as a hub for commerce and innovation. The organization is led by a President and CEO and operates with a board of directors comprising senior executives from its member organizations. It has been instrumental in major regional initiatives, including advocacy for transportation projects like Metro funding and the Silver Line expansion, as well as workforce development programs. In 2023, it merged with the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce to form the Greater Washington Partnership, expanding its regional impact, though the Board of Trade name and certain functions continue.