5 Key Reasons Why The Canby Area Chamber Of Commerce Is Essential To Clackamas County's Growth In 2025

The Canby Area Chamber of Commerce (CACC) is undergoing a significant transformation in 2025, marked by a fresh leadership appointment and a renewed focus on strategic economic development for the region. As of December 15, 2025, the Chamber is actively championing its over 250 member businesses, serving as the largest non-governmental, private membership nonprofit in Canby, Oregon. This deep dive explores the new direction, critical events, and core functions that solidify the CACC’s essential role in driving the prosperity of the Canby area and the broader Clackamas County.

Founded on March 22, 1911, the Chamber has a long and storied history of supporting local commerce. Today, its mission extends far beyond traditional networking, positioning the organization as a vital hub for advocacy, education, and community-building, ensuring that Canby remains a vibrant place to live, work, and do business. The recent changes at the top signal a robust commitment to operational excellence and a proactive approach to regional challenges.

The New Era: Executive Director Shatrine Krake's Vision and Biography

A major development for the Canby Area Chamber of Commerce in 2025 was the selection of Shatrine Krake as its new Executive Director, a move announced on May 13, 2025. Krake's appointment ushers in a new era of leadership, bringing a wealth of experience from both the private and nonprofit sectors across the Portland metro region.

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Shatrine Krake: A Profile in Business Development

Shatrine Krake is recognized for her extensive background in organizational growth and member support. Her career highlights include a strong focus on operational excellence and a proven track record in business development.

• Previous Leadership Roles: Prior to joining the CACC, Krake served as the Executive Director of the West Linn Chamber of Commerce.
• Industry Recognition: Her work in West Linn earned her the prestigious Rising Star Award for the Portland metro region, highlighting her innovative approach to chamber management.
• Diverse Experience: Her professional experience also spans work with Krake Designs, the South Clackamas County BRC (Business Resource Center), and involvement in the Lake Oswego & West Linn business communities.
• Cultural Involvement: Krake is also an active participant in the community, serving on the Clackamas County Cultural Coalition, connecting the Chamber's mission with local history, heritage, and cultural creatives.

Krake’s vision for the CACC is centered on transparent leadership and a passionate commitment to the growth of businesses in and around Canby. Her experience is expected to significantly enhance the Chamber’s ability to serve its members through structured programs like Ambassador Training and expanded advocacy efforts.

Strategic Pillar 1: Championing Local Advocacy and Economic Development

The Canby Area Chamber of Commerce is a critical voice for local businesses, engaging in high-level advocacy that shapes the economic environment of the entire area. The Chamber’s advocacy role includes more than just local policy; it extends to regional and state-level issues.

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Advocacy in Action

The CACC serves and supports its members through focused advocacy, education, and a dedicated resource center. This work is often done in collaboration with other regional entities:

• Regional Coalition: The Executive Director represents a coalition of leaders from regional Chambers of Commerce to the Oregon Legislature, ensuring Canby's business interests are heard in Salem.
• Transportation Policy: The Chamber is actively involved in discussions, including participation in the Transportation Policy Alternatives Committee (TPAC), which addresses crucial infrastructure and mobility issues impacting local commerce.
• Economic Growth Initiatives: The CACC works closely with the City of Canby’s Economic Development Department on priority projects aimed at managing and capitalizing on the city's recent growth.

This strategic positioning allows the Chamber to influence decisions related to city planning, infrastructure, and resource allocation, which are vital for the long-term health of Canby's business ecosystem.

Strategic Pillar 2: High-Profile Community Events and Outreach in 2025

A key function of the CACC is to create opportunities for community engagement and business visibility. The 2025 calendar is packed with signature events, many of which are managed or co-sponsored by the Chamber, demonstrating its commitment to connecting businesses with residents and visitors.

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Signature Events Driving Community Engagement

These events not only provide entertainment but also serve as crucial economic drivers for local businesses, drawing attendees from Canby, Clackamas County, and the greater Portland area:

• Canby Dahlia Run (2025): Organized by the Chamber, this beloved community race attracts hundreds of participants. Following a successful run in 2024 with nearly 400 attendees, the 2025 event aims for even greater participation, raising the profile of Canby’s famous dahlia industry.
• Canby's Big Night Out Street Dance (August 22, 2025): The Chamber has taken on the new management of this major summer event, signaling an expansion of its role in community entertainment and gathering. This street dance is a prime example of the Chamber building connections between local businesses and the public.
• Canby Area Shred-It Day (2025): A practical and valuable service event, this initiative is co-sponsored by the CACC, Kahut Waste Services, and the Canby Police Department, providing secure document disposal for area residents and businesses.
• Outreach Marketing: A core initiative involves marketing Canby and its major events—such as the Canby Fair and other local attractions—outside of the immediate area, specifically targeting the Portland area to boost tourism and commerce.

By managing these large-scale events, the Chamber generates direct economic activity and provides invaluable networking and promotional opportunities for its members.

Strategic Pillar 3: Membership Value and Business Development

For its members, the Canby Area Chamber of Commerce offers a comprehensive suite of benefits designed to foster growth and stability. Representing over 250 dynamic businesses, the CACC is dedicated to helping every member thrive, from established corporations to new small businesses.

The Value Proposition for CACC Members

Membership is structured around three core areas: connection, opportunity, and resources:

• Networking and Connections: The Chamber provides regular opportunities for members to build connections and strengthen relationships. This includes formal events, business-after-hours mixers, and specialized industry luncheons.
• Education and Resources: Access to workshops, seminars, and a dedicated resource center is a key benefit, helping members navigate complex issues like regulatory changes, workforce development, and operational best practices.
• Promotional Power: Members benefit from increased visibility through the Chamber’s directories, event sponsorships, and co-marketing efforts. This ensures local support for shops, eateries, and family-friendly attractions.
• Leadership Development: Programs like the Ambassador Training focus on cultivating future business leaders with a commitment to transparent leadership and community engagement.

The Chamber’s foundational commitment, dating back to 1911, is to champion and promote the local businesses that form the foundation of the Canby community.

The Future of Business in Canby and Clackamas County

As of late 2025, the Canby Area Chamber of Commerce is poised for a period of dynamic growth under its new leadership. With Shatrine Krake at the helm, the focus remains on enhancing the Chamber's role as a proactive partner in economic development, rather than just a reactive networking group. The Chamber continues to embody its mission of supporting businesses through a three-pronged approach: robust advocacy, high-impact community events, and tangible membership value.

The ongoing initiatives—from marketing Canby to the Portland area to managing signature community events like the Canby Dahlia Run and Canby's Big Night Out—demonstrate a commitment to a vibrant local economy. For any business operating in the Canby area or looking to expand into Clackamas County, the Chamber remains the essential non-governmental resource for building connections, accessing opportunities, and ensuring a powerful voice in regional policy discussions. The next few years promise to be transformative for Canby's business landscape, with the CACC leading the charge.