Great reasons to join your local Chamber of Commerce

Published on April 27, 2020 | Webster Bank

Business owners are always looking for new opportunities to network and meet other small business owners and expand their business network. One great way to do this is to become a member of your local Chamber of Commerce! Many small businesses increase their business exposure and grow revenues through involvement in the Chamber.

Here are some great reasons to join your local Chamber of Commerce:

1. Make business contacts

The chamber initiates numerous monthly business-to-business opportunities for networking and connecting with other local business professionals.

2. Receive chamber newsletters

Newsletters provide new member information, interesting information about operating a local business, articles about the local business community, and details about up-and-coming chamber events.

3. Acquire customer referrals

Every day, your local chamber receives calls from individuals and businesses looking for referrals of local businesses

4. Bring credibility to your business

You increase the positive perception among consumers and business owners when you’re identified as a member of a chamber of commerce.

5. Increase your visibility in the community

As a member of the chamber of commerce, you will be listed in the chamber newsletter, and online directory, and will have the opportunity to be highlighted in other chamber publications. You also can grow your business by advertising with the chamber and sponsoring events. The chamber may also promote your grand opening/ ribbon-cutting ceremonies.

6. Networking opportunities

Chambers have numerous committees and serving on one of them provides additional networking opportunities as well as professional leadership development.

7. Gain a voice in government

Chambers of Commerce take on the tough issues and may oppose new regulations, taxes, assessments and costs that will negatively impact small businesses.  While you may not personally have the time to get involved, the Chamber will use its resources for the betterment of small business owners.

There are many Chambers of Commerce that exist on both the local and regional levels, and you should determine if it would be more advantageous to join your local chamber or regional chamber commerce, or both depending on your business size and scope.

• Connecticut Chambers of Commerce
• Massachusetts Chambers of Commerce
• Rhode Island Chambers of Commerce
• New York Chambers of Commerce