Whether it’s an idle chat with the guy in line at the coffee shop, or a conversation with the young businesswoman at the networking event, everyone always asks me, “So what exactly is a Chamber of Commerce?”  When I started at the Chamber my answer was, “It’s like a club of businesses.”  As I spend more time working with this organization, I have come to understand how oversimplified that explanation is. 

In discussing what a Chamber is, one must first clarify what a Chamber is not.  A Chamber is not an exclusive club of businesses.  While the chamber frequently works with the local and state government to promote community progress and unity, a Chamber is not a government entity.  Similarly, though the interests of both frequently align, a Chamber is not a visitor’s bureau. 

So what is a Chamber of Commerce?  According to Investopedia, “A chamber of commerce is an association of businessmen and businesswomen designed to promote and protect the interests of its members.”  Better put, a chamber is a group of business professionals who want to invest in their futures.  A Chamber of Commerce works to bring its members information about the economy and current political environment.  The Chamber creates initiatives to give members a medium for community betterment.  For example, many chambers have groups that promote excellence in education, economic development, and young professional community involvement.     

Anyone can choose to make the investment in Chamber.  Managers of large plants work together with small business owners and professional individuals alike.  The common quality of someone who has chosen to be a part of the Chamber is a desire to see their businesses succeed.  Success comes with healthy business relationships, recognizable business identity, and a strong community affinity, all of which the Chamber facilitates.

My answer to the last person who asked me to define the Chamber was a joking, “Well, it’s a many-headed beast.”  After thinking about for a few seconds I said, “It’s an organization that wants to see the people who work hard succeed.”  I stand by my answer, and by my Chamber.  The Chamber is an amazing organization, and I hope that the readers of this article can see the value of investing in the Chamber today.