Resources

History of the Oklahoma Business Roundtable

The Oklahoma Business Roundtable was formed in 1991 to provide greater support for Oklahoma’s statewide economic development program.

​

The Roundtable concept was suggested by then Governor David Walters, who felt that an aggressive economic development program would require additional private sector funding support. The Governor reviewed “best practices” efforts by other states and initially suggested a model used by the State of Mississippi.

​

At its onset, the organization’s mission was to promote and advance the economic development of the State of Oklahoma.

​

Support was targeted to activities that created new jobs and investment throughout the state – through business start-up, expansion and recruitment. Roundtable funds were made available for enhanced marketing, travel and hosting activities where state appropriated funds were not available or could not be used. Program funds were directed to the economic development work of state leaders, the Department of Commerce and community partners.

​

The charter formation meeting was held at the Governor’s Mansion on April 4, 1991 – attended by the Governor, several CEO’s and state commerce officials.  Initial organizational bylaws were approved and it was agreed that annual dues be set at $5,000. It was agreed that the Roundtable would meet just twice annually – in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Seven companies became charter members of the 501 c (6) non-profit, non-partisan corporation.

​

Oklahoma City businessman and civic leader, Stanton Young, served as the first Chairman. Donald D. Paulsen was selected as the President. Paulsen was former Manager at Fife Corporation in Oklahoma City and former Oklahoma Commerce Department Director under Governor Henry Bellmon.  

​

To date, the Roundtable has provided support for hundreds of economic development projects, including domestic and international marketing, trade missions, corporate expansions, and new business recruitment. In 2025 alone, Oklahoma announced a record $14.7 billion in capital investment and more than 6,200 new jobs — results made possible in part by the sustained private-sector support OBR's members provide.