A chamber of commerce is a voluntary partnership of businesses and professionals working together to build a healthy economy and improve the quality of life in a community. The intention is to advance the goals and interests of local businesses and community organizations operating in the area. A Chamber of Commerce is focused on being an advocate for small businesses within a specific region and can provide tools and resources to expand the outreach of local businesses. Membership in the Chamber of Commerce is alsoa cost-effective marketing opportunity for your company.

Benefits of Being a Member

The Chamber is an advocate for business in the community and works to remain aware of issues that could affect Carleton Place and District businesses and our community in a positive or negative way. The Chamber engages in dialog with representatives at all levels of government. The Chamber also works to connect the local business community, provide educational and networking opportunities, and encourage local partnerships and collaborations. There are many benefits to membership:

• Access to Networking and Learning Opportunities
• Member-to-Member Discount Program
• Business Listing and Referrals
• Marketing and Promotional Opportunities
• Group Health Care Coverage
• Community Involvement and Betterment
• Discounted Training
• Lobbying and Representation
• Access to Business Tools and Resources
• Regular Member Updates

How a Chamber Operates

The Chamber board of directors’ positions are all voluntary. They are the policy-making body of the Chamber of Commerce. Its chair and members are elected and consist of the number of board members and executive members. The actions of the board are directed by its Bylaws. The chair of the board presides over all meetings of the board and minutes are taken.

How it is Financed

The Chamber of Commerce is primarily financed by member funding in the area of membership fees and/or corporate sponsorships and non-dues revenue. Support from business and professional interests in the community is essential to finance the Chamber programs that are vital to community growth and development. Non-dues income includes:

• Memberships
• Networking Events (Business at Breakfast, After Five Mixers)
• Fundraising Events (Chamber Golf Classic)
• Corporate Sponsorships

We are also involved in the Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan. The membership dictates membership fees and any changes must be approved at the Annual General Meeting.

What does the Chamber do?

Encourages relationship building through networking opportunities
Offers professional development opportunities
Provides creative business leadership and effective coordination of all interested parties in solving community problems and initiating constructive community action
Coordinates the efforts of commerce, industry, and the professions in maintaining and strengthening a sound a healthy business climate in the surrounding area
Creates broad understanding and appreciation of the great opportunities in the surrounding area and promotes the advantages and assets of the community
Promotes a better understanding of our private enterprise system
Delivers assistance to the community through engagement in community events
Brings encouragement and engagement to the young leaders of tomorrow (including the awarding of bursaries)