Published
May 21, 2026
The private sector is essential to solve global challenges and drive economic growth—and the B20 USA Summit is where business leadership takes center stage this year. For the first time since its founding, America is hosting the B20 Summit, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is leading the charge.
The U.S. Chamber is seizing this opportunity to advance the policies, partnerships, and investments that keep American business competitive on the global stage.
This is a critical moment to refocus our commercial relationships. Here's what every business leader needs to know about the B20 Summit in Washington, DC:
1. The U.S. Is Hosting the B20 for the First Time Ever
The B20 (Business 20) is the private sector counterpart to the G20, the forum where business leaders from the world's 20 largest economies come together to shape global economic policy. G20 nations account for 85% of world GDP and conduct 75% of global trade, making this one of the most consequential gatherings in international commerce.
The U.S. Chamber helped establish the B20 coalition in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis to ensure the private sector had a seat at the table in global economic policymaking and has been an active participant. This year, for the first time, the U.S. holds the B20 Presidency and the Chamber is making it count.
2. November 9th Is a Date American Business Leaders Can't Afford to Miss
Starting November 9th, The Wharf in Washington, D.C. will become the epicenter of global commerce. The B20 USA Summit will be the culmination of a year-long series of convenings designed to forge and strengthen the relationships that drive growth. The summit itself will bring together international business leaders that represent two-thirds of global trade, all at once in one convenient venue.
This isn't just a conference. It's a platform unlike any other in the world.
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3. Four Task Forces Are Driving the Policy Agenda
The U.S. Chamber is mobilizing private sector leaders around four critical pillars of global economic growth:
- Economic Growth — Building the workforce the global economy demands, from strengthening the skilled trades pipeline to reskilling workers for the jobs of tomorrow.
- Innovation — Championing policies that support private sector R&D investment to accelerate new technologies and drive competitiveness.
- Trade — Ensuring trade is fair for business, improving supply chain resilience, and expanding participation in global markets.
- Energy — Advancing the infrastructure investment needed to deliver reliable, secure energy to power economic growth and meet surging power demands.
Together, these task forces will develop concrete policy recommendations to present directly to G20 governments.
4. B20 USA Is Laser-Focused on Attracting Investment to America
While the B20 has always been about promoting policies that attract global investment and spur growth, this year the U.S. Chamber is adding a sharper focus: inking deals and bringing foreign investment to American shores.
The Summit will feature a "Hall of States and Cities,” connecting global investors directly with American communities, and an "Embassy Row" designed to bridge international opportunity with U.S. business. G20 nations are already responsible for two-thirds of the $5.7 trillion in foreign direct investment in the United States. B20 USA is built to grow that number.
5. This Moment Is Bigger Than Business: America at 250
America’s B20 presidency coincides with America 250, the semiquincentennial celebration of the United States. That makes this a uniquely powerful moment to showcase what American business and free enterprise have built, and what they will continue to deliver for the next 250 years.
Every day, the Chamber works to expand market access, lower trade barriers, and shape policy on behalf of American business. This year, we're bringing the full weight of our commercial diplomacy into one historic platform: B20 USA.
The B20 will take place in Washington, DC on November 9th.
Want to learn more or get involved? Stay tuned for updates on summit registration and how your business can be part of this landmark event.
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About the author
Jen Scungio
Jen Scungio is the Senior Director, Editorial and Digital Media at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
