What does the Chamber even do?
A common question we hear being employees of the Fresno Chamber of Commerce is, “What does the Chamber even do?” And if I am being honest, for the first couple months of working here I couldn’t tell you.
This is What We Do
The Fresno Chamber of Commerce, like other Chambers (Clovis Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, etc.), wants to help further the interests of businesses in the Central Valley. This happens through effective advocacy, education and relationship building. And while Chambers are not a government entity, it will often lobby the government at the local, state, or national level.
You Should Become a Member
Like I mentioned earlier, for the first couple months I worked here I couldn’t tell you what the Chamber did, so I definitely couldn’t tell you why you should join. Well, once I really got settled in and understood my position I began to see why someone would become a member.
While there are many benefits to becoming a member, in full transparency (I tell everyone who asks about membership), you will get from it what you put in. You will have the opportunity to network and build relationships. There will be a variety of resources you will have access to. Your business will get exposure and grow. And, you will see all those benefits if you show up. Something I see too often is a business becoming a member and never getting involved.
Show Up
Whether it is one of our monthly mixers, a new members’ ribbon cutting, becoming an ambassador, or attending any of our signature events, show up! I have been to every event and ambassador meeting since August 2021 and have seen many connections made.
Advance Auto Parts is now giving Fresno Pacific University’s nursing program an ongoing scholarship because of the connection they made at a Fresno Chamber Coffee & Commerce. SanDayv CBD made a connection with Fresno State Athletics at our Tailgate Mixer and is now the first CBD company to partner with them. This is huge, and it proves the opportunity is there for big and small companies alike.
You have to show up! You will get what you put in.
Interested in becoming a member? Click here.
