Dear Members, Friends, and Partners,
As we launch into 2026, I am reflecting on the remarkable momentum we built last year. 2025 was a period of unprecedented growth. With Asian Americans remaining the fastest-growing demographic in Central Texas, GAACC continues to exceed its mission to serve both our community and the region at large.
Together, we have done much more than just enjoy a dynamic economy; we have built stronger connections and fortified the cultural and economic fabric of Central Texas, proving that our Chamber and the community we serve is a vital catalyst for Austin’s regional prosperity.
Following our recent announcement, I am thrilled to welcome Mick Hawton to the GAACC Board of Directors and to celebrate David Teo’s confirmation as our 2027 Chair-Elect.
These appointments reflect the strength, depth, and continuity of our organization’s leadership, and I am excited to work with them and our entire leadership as we execute our very ambitious vision for the year ahead.
2025 Reflections
Last year was defined by our commitment to our three pillars: Advocacy, Connection, and Education. A few highlights that made 2025 a landmark year for the Chamber:
- Philanthropy in Action: Through the GAACC Foundation, we hosted the second annual Asian Eats ATX. This expanded event celebrated Austin’s awesome Asian culinary scene while raising funds for Asian Texans for Justice, supporting their essential work.
- Cultivating Emerging Leaders: The GAACC Leadership Accelerator successfully graduated our inaugural cohort, and we confidently welcomed an expanded Cohort #2.
- Vibrant Commerce & Culture: From the growing Women’s Club and popular Member Mixers to the incredible NightMarket.fun in Cedar Park, we saw record-breaking engagement, proving that when we collaborate and share culture, we strengthen commerce.
- Regional & International Expansion: We deepened partnerships with the City of Austin, Travis County, Williamson County, DECA, neighboring local chambers in cities like Taylor and Hutto, and other great regional organizations like the Better Business Bureau, The Lunar Foundation and the Economic Growth Business Incubator. Notably, we partnered with WilCo EDP to lead a historic delegation of 35+ Central Texas representatives to Korea in October, and expanded the presence of the 2025 Asia x Austin Summit during SXSW.
- Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 Ovation Gala honored the visionary leaders pushing the boundaries of innovation and business, including Firefly Aerospace (Business of the Year) and Cristina Imperial Carl (Entrepreneur of the Year).
2026 and The Year Ahead: Fire Horse Momentum
In the Chinese Zodiac, 2026 is the year of the Fire Horse—a time characterized by energy, speed, and decisive action. You can expect a new intensity this year as we:
- Grow member engagement and connection with an all new regional Member Luncheon series. (RSVP for February’s luncheon now!)
- Expand our international trips to include Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam, and India.
- Enjoy an even larger footprint during Austin’s Spring festival season with the 2026 Asia x Austin Summit becoming an official SXSW event!
- Launch exciting new initiatives: the GAACC Creator Collective, our new AI for Business Program and activate a Regional Infrastructure Working Group.
I invite you to join us on February 12 at our 2026 State of the Chamber meeting to learn more about our impressive plans for the Year of the Fire Horse!
A Message of Gratitude
None of this stellar work and incredible growth would be possible without our dedicated Board of Directors, our tireless (and sleepless) staff, and most importantly, you – our members and partners. Your enthusiasm, resilience, and spirit of collaboration are the very heartbeat of this Chamber.
Again, I invite you to join us next month at State of the Chamber as we set the stage for an incredible year in 2026. Let’s continue to build a community where every business thrives.
Warmly,
Mark Duval
President & CEO
Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce