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We’re More Than a Chamber. We’re Your Ground Game.

You didn’t start a business to get comfortable. You started to build something that lasts. If you're stuck in loops of meetings with no momentum, you're in the wrong place. Here? We give you the blueprint, the tools, and the strategy to turn ambition into action.

OUR DIFFERENCE

  • Builder’s Blueprint Delivered — Not arm-waving: data-backed strategy, mentorship, and measurable progress.

  • Ground-Up Momentum — We don't make noise, we move dirt. You don’t get ribbons—you raise walls. You don’t cut tape—you break ground.
  • Clarity in the Midst of Chaos — While most businesses network themselves in circles, we lane-change the track altogether.
  • Built for Zero-Fillers, All Builders — New or scaling, if you want real-world traction—not fluffy meet-and-greets—you belong here.
CHALLENGE FOR THE BUILDER

Are you still spinning alone? Or ready to join the builders, dominate the ground game, and win where it counts?

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Join the Ground Game. Build Something That Lasts.
Because sustainable growth isn’t built in the boardroom—it’s built in the trenches.

Lori Williams

Lori Williams, President/CEO

Lori's journey began long before her tenure at the Chamber. Since 2001, she has served as a trusted Advisor and Trainer across diverse sectors, including the Business Community, Military, Professional Baseball, Retail, and Staffing Industries. From budding local entrepreneurs to global Fortune 500 giants, Lori's expertise has spanned both national and international horizons.

Embracing the philosophy that "change is the only constant," Lori believes that every business will inevitably face growth plateaus. At these junctures, the imperative for change emerges, reigniting the spark for further growth. Without embracing change, businesses risk stagnation and decline.

Lori's professional odyssey commenced in 1982 with a role in outside sales. Her prowess saw her ascend rapidly through the ranks, from Branch Management to Area and Regional Management. Her foray into training began as the Area Vice President of Franchise Support, where she oversaw 43 offices across five states. Recognized as an Agent of Change, Lori wears multiple hats - a seasoned Trainer, eloquent Public Speaker, Published Author, and astute Business Consultant.

With a strategic mindset, Lori possesses the uncanny ability to envision myriad possibilities, transforming abstract ideas into tangible actions. She has a keen eye for identifying individual strengths, fostering collaborative synergy. Always a step ahead, Lori's forward-thinking approach keeps her attuned to impending changes and the strategies to navigate them.

At her core, Lori's mission is clear: To ignite transformative change and drive growth in everyone she meets.

lori@mansfieldchamber.org

PaulaBeavers

Paula Beavers, Director of Member Engagement

As the Director of Member Engagement at the Mansfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Paula is on a mission to elevate everything—and everyone—she touches. With a natural gift for connection and a relentless drive to serve, she ensures members don’t just join the Chamber—they thrive in it. Paula crafts meaningful relationships, curates high-impact experiences, and aligns every touchpoint with members’ real business goals. Her work turns transactions into transformation, building a Chamber community that’s not only connected but empowered.

paula@mansfieldchamber.org

Mansfield Business Ecosystem

Who Does What — and Where the Chamber Fits
Purpose of This Guide

This guide explains how the local business ecosystem works in Mansfield, Texas, and clarifies the distinct roles of organizations that often get confused with one another. It helps ensure businesses are directed to the right resource at the right time.

Mansfield Area Chamber of Commerce

Role: Business Growth, Advocacy, and Education

The Mansfield Area Chamber of Commerce is a member-based nonprofit business organization focused on helping businesses start smarter, grow stronger, and make better decisions.

What the Chamber Does:

  • Supports business growth through education and strategy

  • Connects businesses to relevant people and resources

  • Advocates for pro-business policies and a healthy business climate

  • Hosts business-focused events, programs, and leadership initiatives

  • Provides tools and guidance to help business owners know what to do next

What the Chamber Does NOT Do:

  • Manage city services or operations

  • Issue permits, licenses, or zoning approvals

  • Handle complaints, disputes, or enforcement

  • Act as a visitor center or tourism office

  • Track every business in the city

Best For:
Business owners seeking growth, clarity, connections, advocacy, and long-term success.

City of Mansfield

Role: Government Operations & Public Services

The City of Mansfield is the municipal government responsible for operating the city and delivering public services.

Handles:

  • Permits, licenses, and inspections

  • Zoning, planning, and development approvals

  • Utilities (water, trash, sewer)

  • Public safety and code enforcement

  • City ordinances and regulations

Does NOT:

  • Provide business coaching or growth strategy

  • Promote individual businesses

  • Manage Chamber membership or events

Best For:
Residents and businesses needing city approvals or services.

Mansfield Economic Development Corporation (EDC)

Role: Business Attraction, Retention & Expansion

The EDC focuses on economic development initiatives, particularly related to jobs, investment, and large-scale development.

Handles:

  • Business relocation and expansion

  • Incentives and economic development tools

  • Workforce and employer recruitment strategies

  • Commercial and industrial development

Best For:
Businesses considering expansion, relocation, or large-scale investment.

Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Role: Technical Business Assistance

SBDC provides one-on-one technical assistance to small businesses, often at low or no cost.

Handles:

  • Business plans and financial projections

  • Startup fundamentals

  • Operational guidance

  • SBA loan preparation support

Best For:
Startups and early-stage businesses needing foundational help.

SCORE

Role: Mentorship & Experience-Based Advice

SCORE offers volunteer business mentors, typically retired executives or experienced professionals.

Handles:

  • One-on-one mentoring

  • General business advice

  • Experience-based guidance

Best For:
Business owners who value mentorship and perspective from seasoned professionals.

How These Organizations Work Together

These organizations are complementary, not competitive.

  • The City manages rules and services

  • The EDC drives economic development and investment

  • The SBDC and SCORE provide technical and mentoring support

  • The Chamber connects, educates, advocates, and supports business growth over time

The Chamber often acts as the connector, helping businesses navigate this ecosystem effectively.

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