Why Chamber??

If someone asked you to define “chamber of commerce” would you know what to say? The easy answer most people default to is the opportunities for networking and events. Chambers definitely do those things, but it is actually only a small part of the work of a chamber.

A chamber of commerce is a concept found only where private initiative and free enterprise exist. It gives expression to the business and professional community’s natural instincts to improve the total economic and social environment in which it functions.

The chamber’s strength lies in attracting the greatest number of businesses as member investors, thereby creating a pool of resources from which it can draw ideas, talents, energies, and financial support for its program of work. These resources are combined to solve problems in the Greater Augusta area and beyond.

In brief, the chamber of commerce is an organization of people who know the wisdom of coordinating their efforts under effective leadership for the advancement and development of the community and area. It enables members to accomplish collectively what none would or could do individually. It gives a voice to the business community. It provides a forum for discussion and development of ideas and initiatives without bureaucratic constraints. It opens the door for member investors to gain access to people and resources that will help them grow.

Your Chamber is working daily to hold meaningful conversations with local stakeholders on issues that affect employers. Like the availability of childcare, navigating the complex behavioral health climate, transportation (with recent I-81 success!!), gaining some traction on access to broadband, finding and keeping a quality workforce, and new opportunities for regional collaboration. In all these discussions, and in working to identify community solutions, we are ALWAYS representing the needs of our businesses, we are ALWAYS wearing the business hat. We are doing this, in very intentional ways, while you are busy with the business of your business. This is why investing in the chamber is so valuable to your business. It ensures there is an organization that is staying educated, up to date, and connected with all the things that help everyone succeed. 

We are coming up on the launch of a very important moment in the life of our chamber. We need a LOT of volunteers, willing to give us three hours of their time, during a nine-day period from September 3 - September 13. If you can help us become even Greater Together, please reach out and we will get you all the details you need to help us with this event. We are definitely, Greater Together!! Thanks for your investment in YOUR Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Annette Medlin, IOM
President/CEO
Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce