Is your organization a member of the local chamber of commerce? If so, are your members actively involved?

Many nonprofits have found success in partnering with the local chamber of commerce. However, to truly benefit from your chamber membership, an organization needs to do more than simply write an annual dues check. You need to attend meetings, participate in volunteer opportunities, show up at events, and read chamber communications. When you become an active and engaged part of your chamber community, your club stands to gain significant value in return.

Ten Benefits of a Chamber Membership for Nonprofits: 

1. Discover ideas for community recognition and involvement. Chamber connections can help you uncover individuals in your area who are doing amazing things you may not yet know about. These relationships also provide insight into service needs that could benefit from your organization’s support—or gaps that may exist altogether. With this understanding, you can make more informed decisions about how to serve your community based on real needs, rather than assumptions or preferred projects.
2. Gain visibility through chamber communications. Being featured in chamber publications, emails, social media, websites, and directories helps spread your name. This exposure is even more powerful when paired with effective messaging about your mission.
3. Increase brand awareness. People can’t support what they don’t know about. Chambers are often made up of influential community leaders, making them a strong platform for visibility.
4. Identify new speakers. Chambers are a great resource for finding engaging speakers, whether you invited a recenter presenter or connect with a fellow member who has expertise to share.
5. Support your fundraising efforts. Chamber meetings and networking events may present new opportunities to sell raffle tickets or promote upcoming fundraisers. Just be sure to follow chamber rules and avoid over-promoting.
6. Build relationships that support your mission. Your chamber membership connects you with businesses and organizations that help you achieve your mission goals, as well as identify new beneficiaries and community partners.
7. Recruit new volunteers. Chamber members are already community-minded and ready to connect. They can be great volunteers for your organization’s events. Getting volunteers involved can be a great first step toward eventual membership.
8. Grow your membership. Joining a chamber introduces your nonprofit to a new pool of potential recruits. When people see your passion and enthusiasm, they are more likely to want to join.
9. Become a sponsor. Sponsoring chamber events often includes promotional benefits such as speaking opportunities, table displays and inclusion in marketing materials. This involvement shows that your organization is actively engaged in and committed to your shared community.
10. Leverage chamber leaders. The chamber’s executive director or president can be an engaging speaker for a “state of business” address. They may also have ideas for collaborative opportunities for community projects or mission work.

As with anything, it’s important that we reiterate that you are only going to get out of your membership what you put into it. It’s much like your own organization in that way. Success comes from showing up, getting involved, and staying engaged

To find a local chamber in your area, visit uschamber.com/co/chambers.