Carol Johnson, Southern Indiana Business Report
Today is Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day, an annual observance to highlight the ways local chambers support their business communities.
Across the eight-county Radius Indiana region, there are about a dozen chambers providing resources and networking opportunities to everything from small businesses to large manufacturing companies. Most chambers in rural communities have limited staff and resources themselves, yet continue to work at creating and promoting activities to promote a healthy business climate.
Chambers partner with other agencies such as WorkOne, the Small Business Development Center and Indiana Main Street to bring programs to its members.
Chambers are also a clearinghouse for information about local job openings, housing, tourism, rental facilities, nonprofits and community events. Many of them maintain community calendars and send out weekly and monthly newsletters, making them a reliable source for new and established residents.
Looking around the Radius region, chambers serve their communities in a variety of ways. Here’s a snapshot of a few chambers.
Bedford Chamber
the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce has been around for more than 100 years and during the month of October is encouraging the community to post to social media what the chamber has done for their business or organization and tag the chamber in the post.
“For more than 100 years, the Bedford Chamber’s goal has been to nurture growth of new and existing businesses while facilitating collaboration between businesses, policymakers and members of the community,” said Sally Miller, membership and communications director.
Jasper Chamber
The Jasper Chamber of Commerce will celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2024. With 400 members, the Jasper Chamber represents more than 12,000 employees.
In observance of Support Your Local Chamber Day, Jasper Chamber Executive Director Nancy Eckerle and Chamber Board President Ruger Kerstiens provided information about the Jasper Chamber.
“The Jasper Chamber not only connects businesses to other businesses, the Chamber builds dynamic business relationships with its members, adds linkages to valuable community resources and information that is essential to maintaining a business. It’s a one-stop shop for business success and prosperity.”
The Jasper Chamber also produced a “Welcome to Jasper” resource guide.
Paoli Chamber
The Paoli Chamber of Commerce recently launched a morning networking event open to members and non-members. Morning Mingle will take place twice a month beginning Nov. 2 at Dub’s Custard and Coffee.
Washington County Chamber
Activities at the Washington County Chamber of Commerce include an upcoming educational seminar on nonprofit board membership and the chamber is hosting an outdoor event with Grapes and Hops: Music in the Village Oct. 20 at the John Hay Center.
In July, the Washington County Chamber of Commerce announced the launch of a new magazine, “Explore & Experience Washington County, Indiana.” The magazine will be a yearly publication that will highlight the businesses, organizations and citizens who make Washington County a great place to live, work, raise a family, and run a business.
“We are excited to launch this magazine as a way to showcase all Washington County has to offer,” said Erik Bush, CEO of the Washington Chamber of Commerce. “The magazine will feature stories about our businesses, community events, and citizens. We believe this magazine will be a valuable resource for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
If you’re a business looking for new opportunities, consider becoming a member of your local chamber of commerce.