Each year, the third Wednesday in October is National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day — and this year, that means the day to celebrate is October 18. This holiday is a chance to thank local chambers across the country for all they do to help businesses of all sizes.
There are approximately 4,000 local chambers of commerce across the United States that all seek to support job creation and the economic development of local communities. Whether or not you’re a member of our local Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, it’s a great day to come together, meet other business owners in your area, and recognize the power of small businesses.
Your local Emporia Chamber exists to support the interests of businesses in our area. By becoming a member, you can take advantage of networking opportunities, advertise to customers in your area, access discounts, and more.
Each chamber of commerce is made of members from the business community — entrepreneurs and business owners like you. It’s a great resource for getting advice and finding the right resources to help grow your business.
If you’re already a member, you probably know that one of the best parts of joining a chamber is the chance to support and be supported by fellow business owners. National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day offers an opportunity to do just that. Consider hosting an event at your storefront, restaurant, or office for existing and prospective members of your local organization.
If you’re able, consider giving a discount to members of your local chamber who shop at your store on October 18. Discounts are a great way to increase foot traffic to your storefront or online site, as well as to show your appreciation to your organization. You may find that the bump in sales is well worth the effort!
Consider partnering with your local chamber on a volunteer effort. Cleaning up a park, delivering meals to those in need, or spending time at a nearby animal shelter is a great way to give back to the community and gain visibility for chamber members. Getting out around the city is a chance to meet potential customers and promote your business, as well as your local chamber.
Take to social media on or before Wednesday, October 18, to celebrate the day and tag the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce! Highlight events you’ve attended and positive experiences you’ve had thanks to your local Emporia Chamber.
Ultimately, this day is all about how chambers of commerce around the country empower businesses to grow and thrive, even in challenging circumstances. Take the time to celebrate this October 18!
The Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce offers many resources to help you start, run, and grow your business–including our annual Leadership Emporia Academy, monthly Group Lunches, Ribbon Cuttings, Business After Hours events, Legislative Dialogues, and more. Stop by the Trusler Business Center at 719 Commercial St., call 620-342-1600, or visit our website at www.emporiakschamber.org to learn more.
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“Let’s Talk Business” is a weekly column of the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Emporia. The mission of the Chamber is to be proactive in creating an environment for business and community success, guided by the vision that positive attitudes promote positive actions. Contact us at 620-342-1600 or chamber@emporiakschamber.org and visit our website at www.emporiakschamber.org.