Don’t Have Time for Events?
A Chamber Membership Is Worth a Lot More Than That.
When I speak to businesses about the chamber, the businesses that have let their memberships lapse often make it sound like a gym membership. “I didn’t really use it.” What they’re missing when they make comments like that is the behind-the-scenes benefits of chamber membership. Just as your investment grows in a savings account in a bank, your business investment in chamber membership is growing even when you aren’t actively participating. Here’s what you’re getting that you may not even realize:7 Ways A Chamber Membership is Always Working For You1. Advocacy2. Economic Development3. Educational Resources4. Marketing & Promotion5. Community Engagement6. Tourism7. Infrastructure & Grants | |
1. AdvocacyEven if you never attend a single event, the Chamber is advocating for the needs of business. We work with local, state and federal governments to influence policies and regulations that impact businesses. This advocacy often leads to favorable business conditions, tax incentives, and regulatory changes that benefit businesses without the members having to actively lobby for them. We are also instrumental in protecting businesses from harmful legislation and "job killers." During COVID local leaders turned to the chamber to learn more about business needs. We were essential to helping businesses remain or reopen by advocating for more outdoor dining areas and other protocols. This advocacy is occurring behind the scenes, but you will get more out of it if you work with the chamber in promoting your own voice and industry / business needs. 2. Economic DevelopmentChambers are typically involved in initiatives to promote economic growth within their communities. We work along side our local Economic Development office to attract new businesses, fostering innovation and improving infrastructure. We have collaborated with Economic Development and Visitors & Tourism to create a county brand, that will promote our county. As a result, businesses within the Chamber's area experience increased economic opportunities and growth even if they're not directly involved. 3. Educational ResourcesWe offer valuable educational resources and workshops on topics like business management, marketing and regulatory compliance. Members can benefit from these resources to improve their skills and knowledge, ultimately enhancing their business operations. Even if you never attend a single session, chamber membership (and thus, the learning opportunities associated with such) extends to all your employees. We are also a great source for speakers and may bring in people to share their knowledge and skills for a very affordable price, an additional asset to the community. 4. Marketing & PromotionWe frequently promote our members through the directory, website, social media, radio, digital sign and community events. This exposure can boost a business's visibility and reputation, attracting potential customers or clients who might not have discovered the business otherwise. 5. Community EngagementThe Chamber plays a vital role in fostering a sense of community and social responsibility among businesses. We often support local charitable causes, events and community development projects. When a business is a part of a chamber, it indirectly contributes to these efforts, enhancing the overall quality of life in the area and potentially improving its reputation. 6. TourismWe are about community and collaboration. In addition to the GoGibson initiative, we help support our local Visitors & Tourism Bureau by displaying helpful guides, brochures and maps about the local attractions, restaurants, accommodations and activities. We serve as a valuable resource for tourists and encourage them to explore the area, thus boosting member businesses. 7. Infrastructure & GrantsWe often advocate for improved infrastructure for business and neighborhoods, such as better broadband accessibility and the development of tourist-friendly amenities. These efforts can enhance the overall visitor and resident experience, making the area more attractive to tourists, relocating businesses, and resident retention, while boosting local commerce. We get involved with bringing money into the area for quality-of-life projects through grants and other forms of funding. Our ability to work with the public and private sectors is unparalleled. We can easily act as a bridge between groups and bring leaders of all areas together for the betterment (and funding) of the community. The Chamber provides a range of benefits to businesses beyond what may be immediately apparent. Even if you don't have the time to give t the chamber membership activities, the chamber is working on things like advocacy, economic development, marketing, community engagement and tourism initiatives to improve the quality of life and add to our member's potential for growth. We work tirelessly to create a more favorable business environment, helping our members thrive without requiring them to take individual action on these fronts |
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