You've likely heard of a Chamber of Commerce but.. what is it? "What do they even do?"

A chamber of commerce is a local organization made up of businesses, professionals, and community leaders who work together to promote and support the economic interests of a specific area. Think of it as a business network with a civic twist—its goal is not just to help companies grow, but to build a stronger, more connected community.

They are usually non-profit entities, and they operate independently of government, though they often collaborate closely with local governments, schools, and nonprofits.

Chambers of commerce offer a wide range of services, but here are a few of the most common for the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce:

• Business Advocacy: We represent the interests of local businesses to government officials, advocating for economic growth and fair regulations.
• Networking Opportunities: We host mixers, luncheons, and events. We provide these opportunities for members to connect, collaborate, and build relationships.
• Marketing and Promotion: Our chamber promotes our members through our new state of the art website, up and coming mobile app, social media spotlights, business recommendations and community events that reach tens of thousands of consumers across the four state area each year.
• Education and Resources: We offer workshops on marketing, health insurance options, web safety and more. We offer these educational opportunities to help businesses stay informed and competitive.
• Economic Development: The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce has a dedicated partnership with our local government. Together we work with officials, developers, business owners, investors, community leaders and stakeholders to attract new businesses to the area as well as build up our existing businesses.
• Community Events: We host numerous events throughout the community each year. These events build community connections, small town pride and promote businesses and small town living. We are the proud hosts of Concerts in the Park, Independence Day at Duncan, Fall Festival and Candlelight Walk. We are proud to provide these safe family friendly events to the community with help from our local emergency services, City and County workers, community volunteers and our sponsorship supporters.  

At our core, the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce is about connection and advocacy. We help turn individual business goals into a voice, one that strengthens this community. Whether you’re running a storefront on our historical square, launching a startup from your home, looking to grow your business or are just looking to make community connections we want to be your ally on the road to success.

To join the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce please visit: https://www.chamberorganizer.com/members/newmem/new-mem-reg.php?org_id=SAVA

For more information email me at: savannahmochamber@gmail.com

-Katie Graham

Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director