This Month's Member Matters is Sponsored by: 

A New Opportunity For Oshkosh Chamber Members 

Oshkosh Chamber is looking for the next member who wants to be in the "Member Spotlight". Any and all members can apply each month and all applicants will be voted on by Oshkosh Chamber representatives on the following criteria:

• Involvement with the Oshkosh Chamber
• #of events attended, program involvement, sponsorships, etc.
• Summary of “what it it means to be an Oshkosh Chamber member and how your business has benefited from becoming/being a member”.
• Supporting materials/testimonials

Looking to Connect with Other Oshkosh Chamber Members? 

Get to know other people at the Oshkosh Chamber with this internal networking opportunity, Oshkosh Chamber Network Builder, presented by Elsewhere Market &Coffee House + Rise & Grind! Sign up and start connecting now!

Volunteers Needed!!!

We are still looking for a few more book elves (volunteers) to hand out the collected books at the holiday parade. For more information or to sign up contact trina@oshkoshchamber.com

The Oshkosh Area School District and the Oshkosh Public Library are excited to launch a new community-wide reading initiative: Read More! Our Reading Makes Better campaign is here to spark the joy of reading all across Oshkosh.

This year’s Holiday Parade, presented by Amcor, has the theme—Stories that Spark the Season—the Oshkosh Chamber is hosting a community book drive, and our cheerful Book Elves will be handing out books during the parade on December 4th!

A book in a child’s hands can brighten their season and shape their future. For many kids, owning a book of their own is the spark that ignites a lifelong love of reading.

This magical effort is made possible by these collaborating partners from across Oshkosh, including the Oshkosh Chamber, Discover Oshkosh, Downtown Oshkosh, E-Power Marketing, JEK Foundation, Oshkosh Area Community Foundation, Oshkosh Public Museum, Oshkosh Area United Way, UW–Oshkosh, and the Winnebago Area Literacy Council.

Books can be purchased at Caramel Crisp Corner. Once purchased, books may be dropped off or shipped to:  

Oshkosh Chamber

120 Jackson Street, Oshkosh, 54901

attn: Trina Woldt

Deadline: Tuesday, December 2nd.

To learn more, contact trina@oshkoshchamber.com

Oshkosh Updates

Oshkosh Chamber Hires Josh Koteski as New Economic Development Director

The Oshkosh Chamber has hired Josh Koteski as its Economic Development Director. With 20 years of experience in business operations and management, Josh brings a practical, results-driven perspective to help organizations succeed. A life-long Oshkosh resident with strong ties to the community, he is committed to strengthening the city’s economic landscape and fostering opportunities for local employers, residents, and entrepreneurs. In this role, Josh will lead efforts to attract and retain businesses, support workforce and talent initiatives, and champion strategic projects that drive sustainable growth. His collaborative approach and deep understanding of Oshkosh’s unique strengths position him to make an immediate and meaningful impact as the Oshkosh Chamber continues its mission to advance economic vitality throughout the region.

Resources for You

Recent headlines span local government, budget decisions, political campaigns, and financial updates — from the candidates stepping up to fill the Oshkosh Common Council seat vacated by Kris Larson and Winnebago County’s approval of a $238 million 2026 budget, to how Oshkosh’s own 2026 budget may impact taxes. On the political front, WAOW highlights Gubernatorial candidate Josh Schoemann’s effort to rally Republican voters, while nationally, CNBC reports the IRS is raising 401(k) contribution limits for 2026, offering savers more room to invest in their retirement.

Who applied for Oshkosh Common Council seat vacated by Kris Larson? - an article from Oshkosh Northwestern

Winnebago County executive signs $238 million budget for 2026 - an article from Fox11News

Oshkosh raising or lowering taxes in 2026 budget? -an article from Oshkosh Northwestern

'I'm that guy': Schoemann looks to win support of Republican voters | News | waow.com - an article from WAOW

401(k) contribution limits 2026: IRS increases savings cap - an article from CNBC

• Amplify Holiday Mixer 2025
• AM Oshkosh-Aquire Restoration Inc
• Propel Oshkosh Young Professionals: Morning Mingle at First Weber Realtors Oshkosh
• OC Connection Breakfast-December 2025
• Propel Oshkosh Young Professionals: Night Shift at The Gibson Social Club
• Business After Hours-December 2025
• 118th Annual Meeting

Youth Leadership Oshkosh

Youth Leadership Oshkosh spent Public Safety Day immersed in the real work that keeps our community safe. Students visited the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office, the Oshkosh Correctional Institution, and the Oshkosh Fire Department for a full day of hands-on learning. They stepped inside the 911 Call Center, discovered how detectives solve cases, saw how drones support public safety, explored equipment, tried on gear, and gained a clearer picture of the many career paths in public safety. Gratitude to the dedicated teams at the Sheriff’s Office, Fire Department, and OCI for an eye-opening, unforgettable day.

Their favorite quote of the day was, “If not you, who?”

Leadership Oshkosh

The Leadership Oshkosh Class of 2026 dove headfirst into Government Day last Wednesday—and what a day it was. They explored the full landscape of Federal, State, County, and City government, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at how each level shapes policy and impacts our daily lives. Our presenters delivered dynamic, insightful sessions, and the class had the unique opportunity to hear candid perspectives from government officials during a lively panel on what it takes to run for office—the challenges, the rewards, and everything in between.

The day also included a highlight that won’t soon be forgotten: the Mock City Council meetings. Let’s just say the class brought Oscar-worthy energy to their roles. And their visit to the Fire Department was equally memorable. The new Chief, Tim Heiman and team rolled out a warm welcome and offered an eye-opening look at their critical work in our community.

The day ended with a gathering at Chamber member’s, Barley & Hops. Leadership Oshkosh Alumni and owners Diana Stiefvater LO’22, Nate Stiefvater LO’23, and Manager, Dave Clark, LO’24 are celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Barley & Hops on December 1st. Congratulations!

This year’s class has selected the Oshkosh Area Community Pantry as the beneficiary of their Trivia Night fundraising efforts. Mark your calendar-Trivia Night is Thursday, April 30th.

Your support makes all the difference. Please consider backing your participants through sponsorship or by donating raffle items. And in the spirit of friendly persuasion… the class is also selling 50/50 raffle tickets for $20 each. They chose to cap sales at 500 tickets—boosting the odds and adding a little extra excitement.

A heartfelt thank-you to our generous class sponsors, Bergstrom Automotive and Horicon Bank.

Propel Oshkosh Young Professionals

Propel Oshkosh Young Professionals is a development and networking group for young professionals aged 18-40 in Oshkosh. Propel’s mission is to engage and empower young professionals through community involvement, networking, and professional and personal growth.

Some exciting events are coming up for Young Professionals in the Oshkosh Area! Check out our calendar and 

become a member today . 

Amplify