Founded in 1979 to promote Wyoming's economy, the Wyoming Business Society and the Wyoming Heritage Foundation initially focused on Federal land issues challenging basic industry development in Wyoming: mining, timbering, tourism, oil and gas, and ranching.

Once the Heritage Society's and Heritage Foundation's base membership and identity were established, it began to focus aggressively on both Wyoming's traditional industries and economic diversification. For over 20 years our Annual Wyoming Forum has involved national speakers. Targeted problem solving mini-forums on the economy, telecommunications, education, taxes and health care have been held. An active lobbying presence with the state legislature was established in 1990. A state leadership program was developed in 1999/2000.

In 1998, the Alliance/Heritage embarked on the Heritage 2000 Campaign. The name Wyoming Heritage Society was changed to the Wyoming Business Alliance. More importantly, two long-term priorities were identified: establishment of a state leadership program and development of a business oriented Policy Center. Leadership Wyoming was established in 1999/2000 with the first class graduating in 2001. The Heritage Policy Center is currently being developed after two years of research and many productive conversations across Wyoming.

The Wyoming Business Alliance/Wyoming Heritage Foundation mission today is to advocate involvement, improvement and stewardship of Wyoming's vital assets.

Vision & Mission Statement

A strong, prosperous, diverse and sustained economy benefits the businesses and citizens of Wyoming.

On behalf of the business community, the Wyoming Business Alliance / Wyoming Heritage Foundation advocates investment, improvement, and stewardship of our vital economic assets. To advance this mission, it facilitates leadership development, promotes education and responsible debate, convenes public forums, researches viable alternatives, and recommends policy actions.