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Chambers of Commerce are professional associations of local businesses that promote local business opportunities and lead civic projects. Membership is voluntary and ranges from small businesses to large corporations. The first Chamber of Commerce was likely started during the Middle Ages.
A Chamber of Commerce is a professional affiliation of local businesses, often associated with other civic organizations such as the Visitors and Tourism Bureau. Membership is generally voluntary, although most local businesses find strength in numbers. The organization does not serve as a watchdog for its members, however, and is not associated with the Better Business Bureau. There are local, state, and national chambers of commerce, with members ranging from small mom-and-pop shops to large corporations.
The main function of a Chamber of Commerce is to promote interest in local business opportunities. If a major automotive manufacturing plant were considering building a new plant in Huntsville, Alabama, for example, the Huntsville Chamber of Commerce would most likely set up a meeting with company representatives. This gathering will promote the number of products and services available within Huntsville, including engineering companies, construction companies, automotive component suppliers, and transportation lines. A persuasive representative can attract a number of outside investors to the area.
A Chamber of Commerce also works within the community as a leader of civic projects. Sponsorship of local beautification programs is often provided by the local organization as a means of enhancing the town’s appeal. Local government often approaches the group first when seeking the opinion of the business community. Membership in a Chamber of Commerce is generally seen as a strong endorsement from prominent local leaders.
The first Chamber of Commerce was probably started during the late Middle Ages as various guilds sought protection and promotion through unity. One group in Scotland has been in continuous operation since 1780. These organizations have no legal mandate or government sponsorship. There is some interconnectivity between local, state and national chambers of commerce, although each local chapter remains relatively autonomous.
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