Foundation Events & Programs

The Gilbert Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the future of our community through leadership development, workforce readiness, civic engagement, and business retention initiatives. Through generous support from donors, sponsors, and partners, the Foundation empowers students, professionals, and residents alike to thrive.

This hands-on career exploration initiative connects high school and college students with professionals in their field of interest. Each cycle includes 16–20 hours of mentoring and wraps with a celebratory reception. Interested in becoming a mentor? Fill out our interest form HERE.

All participants must upload a résumé and a Release of Liability form.

Each year, the Foundation awards scholarships to students entering accredited vocational, two-year, or four-year institutions. A new GED-focused award helps remove financial barriers for non-traditional students.

This interactive, elimination-style event sharpens students' job readiness skills through mock interviews judged by business leaders. Schools will soon have access to a customizable program toolkit.

Our annual summit brings together educators, business owners, and civic leaders to collaborate on workforce solutions through small-group dialogue and strategic action planning.

Educators are connected with business professionals who volunteer for guest speaking, project judging, and classroom support—bringing real-world insight directly to students.

New this year, SEA is a 16-week immersive entrepreneurship program for middle and high school students. Participants collaborate with local mentors and industry experts to develop and pitch business plans.

Hosted in partnership with the Mayor’s Office and Gilbert's Office of Economic Development, these roundtables gather businesses by industry or corridor to identify challenges and inform Town and Chamber priorities. Post-meeting debriefs turn conversations into action.

Operated by the Gilbert Chamber Foundation in partnership with Gilbert's Office of Economic Development, The CATALYST serves as a business resource and technical assistance center designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners in all phases of growth. Programming includes workshops and seminars, vendor and procurement fairs, business pitch contests, business mentorships, Ask the Expert Office Hours, and more.

Each holiday season, volunteers adopt wishlists from income-challenged and homebound senior citizens. The program includes a holiday party, donation drive, and gift delivery that spreads cheer and dignity to our older neighbors.

A Civic Event series comprises gatherings addressing civic issues and fostering community engagement. Through discussions and presentations, participants explore topics relevant to the community's development and collaborate on potential solutions, aiming to promote civic engagement, activate the community, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce partners with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a civics competition encouraging young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th, and 8th graders flex their civics knowledge to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington, DC, to compete in the National Civics Bee® championship.

One of our largest fundraisers, this tournament blends networking, team-building, and charitable giving. Featuring 18 holes of golf, contests, raffles, and an energetic after-party.

As a rebroadcast of the world’s largest one-day leadership event, Leadercast delivers powerful insights from global thought leaders. Local attendees benefit from networking, discussion, and inspiration.

A western-themed evening of food, games, and fun. Attendees enjoy an evening of dinner and casino-style games using play money good only at the event. Winnings are exchanged for raffle tickets which can be entered into drawing for prize items.

Founded in 1991, Gilbert Leadership brings together individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences to develop their leadership potential and to expose participants to the issues impacting our community. By understanding the needs and concerns in a wide variety of areas, these individuals will be better able to contribute their resources to making a difference in many ways. Class applications are accepted between March 1st and July 5th of each year.

Support the Mission Every program of the Gilbert Chamber Foundation is made possible through community support. Contributions from general donors, corporate sponsors, and grant funders make possible scholarships, mentorships, student programs, and civic initiatives.

Help us shape the future of Gilbert. Contact our team to get involved, make a donation, or sponsor a Foundation initiative today.