The new year is always a time for reflecting and for looking ahead. There’s no shortage of reasons to be grateful to live, work, and play in Folsom, but I’m more excited about what’s on the horizon for 2025. Here are a few highlights:
Folsom Business Community: Our businesses play a significant role in our community’s successes. I can’t thank all of you enough for your continued dedication to Folsom and for creating a culture that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. Last year again showed that collectively, we’re #FolsomStrongerTogether, and I have no doubt that energy will continue this year.
The Choose Folsom Team: In 2024, the Choose Folsom team brought a new level of excellence to everything they accomplished. They were extremely busy modernizing our platforms, delivering programs and events for Choose Folsom, Visit Folsom, the Folsom Pro Rodeo, the Foothill Wine Fest, plus the Northern California Innovation District and the 50 Economic Alliance!
Then, there were also the numerous sold-out events (too many to name, but the Folsom Pro Rodeo is at the top of that list). No doubt about it, our team was unstoppable. I know that momentum will only continue in 2025.
Innovation Continues to Thrive : The Folsom business community continued thriving in 2024. Several startups, tech companies, and others, including Allworth Financial, OnSight Technology and ELEVAI Labs Inc., gained momentum and recognition.
Similarly, Choose Folsom unveiled the Innovation Center at Granite School. The Center, based in historic Granite Grammar School, bridges Folsom’s rich history with its vibrant future. It’s the headquarters for Choose Folsom and serves as a home for cutting-edge programs, thriving businesses, and impactful initiatives to drive economic growth. From business accelerator programs to co-working opportunities, the Innovation Center is a Folsom’s new hub for innovation and inspiration.
State of the City: The team at Choose Folsom continues its mission of supporting economic development, innovation, and growth for our business community. We’re kicking off 2025 with an opportunity for you to prepare yourself for the year ahead. Join me on January 23 for the State of the City at Lakeside Folsom. Hear newly appointed Mayor Sarah Aquino’s address and a forecast on what businesses should expect in the coming year.
I look forward to seeing you there.
Joe Gagliardi is the CEO of Choose Folsom and the Folsom Chamber of Commerce. Folsom Times is a Chairman’s Circle Partner with the Chamber of Commerce and Choose Folsom.