THROUGH A CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE
CEO’S WELCOME
On behalf of the entire Coastal Alabama Business Chamber (CABC) staff, I would like to extend a warm welcome to you and your business We are thrilled to have you join our evergrowing network of successful businesses and entrepreneurs in our little piece of paradise
Over the past five years, we’ve seen tremendous growth - our membership has expanded to over 1,100 businesses and counting This is a direct result of the strength of our community and the commitment of members like you As President & CEO, I’m proud of how we’ve been able to connect and support so many diverse businesses, large and small, across our region.
Our team of eight dedicated staff members works hard every day to ensure that our members have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. From networking events and cobranding opportunities, to committee involvement and specialized programs, we offer a wide range of ways to get engaged and make meaningful connections.
Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain exposure for your business, or take part in initiatives that support the growth of our region, there’s a place for you here I encourage you to explore all that we have to offer and take full advantage of your membership
If you have any questions or want to learn more about how to get involved, feel free to reach out I’m here to help, and I look forward to the opportunity to meet you in person soon
Greg Alexander President & CEO
WELCOME TO OUR CHAMBER!
Greetings! As VP of Membership & Marketing, it is my pleasure to introduce you to the numerous benefits and opportunities that come with being a member Our chamber is dedicated to supporting and promoting the growth of businesses like yours in our community Whether you are a small startup or an established company, we believe that by working together, we can achieve great things
One of the key advantages of being a member is the chance to participate in our networking events. We organize various gatherings throughout the year, specifically designed to foster connections and collaborations among our members. These events provide a fantastic platform for you to meet other members of the business community. Building relationships and expanding your professional network is crucial in today's competitive business environment, and we are here to help you do just that in fun and relaxed formats. You can learn more about these events and even RSVP for them at mygulfcoastchamber.com.
As a member, your success is our priority If you have any concerns, questions, or need assistance with anything, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly I am here to ensure that you have a seamless experience with the CABC and to point you in the right direction for any resources or support you may require
We look forward to working together and helping you achieve your business goals I encourage you to explore the various opportunities and benefits available to you through your membership We believe that your participation will not only contribute to your own success but also enhance the strength and prosperity of our business community as a whole.
Sharon Wiese VP of Membership & Marketing
ORGANIZATIONAL GOALS
Mission Statement:
The Coastal Alabama Business Chamber is a business based, volunteer driven, member supported not-forprofit organization that strives to make Coastal Alabama the best place to live, work and play.
Core Values:
Excellence, Stewardship, Integrity, Vision, Inclusion, & Courage.
Vision:
Strengthening our members, businesses, and community through a culture of excellence!
BY THE NUMBERS IN REVIEW:
1,100+ New Members Since 2022
500+
Total Membership
359 Member Retention Rate
89%
Events Held Since 2022
20,000+
Chamber Event Attendance Since 2022
MEET YOUR CHAMBER TEAM!
Greg Alexander
IOM, AACE
President & CEO
greg@mygulfcoastchamber com
Steve Jones
VP of Special Events & Community Relations
steve@mygulfcoastchamber com
Suzette Hataway
IOM
Accounting Manager
hataway@mygulfcoastchamber com
Ellen Marinaccio
Special Projects Coordinator
ellen@mygulfcoastchamber.com
Sharon Wiese
IOM, TMP, FEP
VP of Membership & Marketing
sharon@mygulfcoastchamber com
Kimberly Ray
VP of Events & Sponsorships
kimberly@mygulfcoastchamber com
Ale Lewis
Education & Programs Coordinator
ale@mygulfcoastchamber com
Ryan Moberly
Communications Director
ryan@mygulfcoastchamber.com
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
Business Exposure & Workforce Support:
Workforce recruitment, training, job postings, and retention for your business through our partnership in the Gateway Initiative
Listing on chamber website (65,000+ unique visitors in 2024)
Two optional web packages available to enhance your online presence!
Telephone & web referrals.
Free lobby display in two offices of your brochures, flyers, business cards, etc.
Community ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate your chamber membership!
Discounts & More:
Savings on office supplies & more through our Office Depot chamber discount program.
Columbia Southern University chamber advantage discount.
Information, Education, Advocacy, & Civic Involvement:
Ability to serve on chamber committees.
Chamber 101 sessions to teach you how to take advantage of your membership benefits!
A weekly Chamber Chat e-mailed newsletter with chamber and community happenings
Business advocacy agenda input through the Baldwin County Chamber Coalition
Co-Branding Opportunities:
We offer a wide variety of opportunities to promote your business to our Coastal Alabama community!
Fun Networking, Informative, & Community Events:
First Friday Forum breakfast gatherings with keynote speakers
The Annual National Shrimp Festival, a Gulf Coast tradition since 1971
V I B E @ 5:00, evening networking experience
Special events like the Coastal Tailgate Cook-Off Challenge and the Coastal Christmas Market
Socials with a philanthropy twist through our Lower Alabama Young Professionals.
The Gulf Coast's premier golfing outing, Golf Challenge for Education.
Annual meeting/awards ceremony/dinner/dance party, Black & White Night!
Smaller social events like Breakfast Club, Chamber Lunch Bunch, & Speed Networking
The Gateway Initiative is a rapidly evolving workforce development leader in Baldwin County, and is cutting edge, while still holding true to the core value of “business-driven programming”, in partnership with the Coastal Alabama & South Baldwin Chambers. The five-year initiative kicked-off in January 2018 as the "Gateway Initiative, One Voice, One Vision, Moving South Baldwin Forward " Three programs of work were initiated, each with a specific mission, detailed objectives, and projected outcomes, all guided by some of the top business minds of the region
We recently launched our new locally based and free to use online job board Here companies are able to easily connect with prospective talent in the job market This is a FREE benefit for Chamber members.
MEMBERSHIP PRICING
Accommodations:
Base Rate: 1-35 units (includes up to five representatives): $426
Additional units: $9 each (Maximum amount: $2,700)
Apartments & General Businesses (businesses not noted by other categories):
1-5 employees: $361
6-10 employees: $416
11-15 employees: $494
16-20 employees: $560
21-40 employees: $694
41-70 employees: $839
71-100 employees: $994
101+ employees: $1195
Coffee & Ice Cream Shops:
1-35 seats: $361
36-99 seats: $582
100+ seats: $783
Corportate Business:
Base Rate: $1185
Clubs, Organizations, Churches, & Non-Profits:
Base Rate: $216
Education Institutions, Financial Institutions, Utility Companies, & Hospitals:
Base Rate (will include Gulf Shores & Orange Beach locations only): $1,807
Each additional locations: $613
Golf Courses:
Base Rate: $783
Additional 18-hole course at same location : $393
Additional 9-hole course at same location: $304
Individual Member & Retirees:
Base Rate: $148
Add married spouse: $75
Note: An individual may not use this type of membership to promote a business at any Chamber event. This is not a business membership and is also not tax-deductible as a charitable contribution. Additional guests at chamber events are normally free to members subject to applicable a la carte rate.
RV Resorts:
1-65 sites: $727
60-99 sites: $917
Real Estate Sales:
Base Rate (includes broker and up to 4 non-agent): $361
Additional agent rate (only if company is full member - event admission included): $194 each
Restaurants/Theaters:
1-35 seats: $404
36-99 seats: $565
100+ seats: $760
Shopping Centers:
Base Rate (includes up to five representatives): $361
Add for additional tenant space: $9 each
BOOST YOUR WEB PRESENCE!
Did you know you can enhance your presence on our website and overall SEO to garner more attention towards your business? Don't miss out on reaching people, like the 65,000+ unique visitors that hit our website in 2024
Basic Web Package: $85 a year
Link to your website & social media platforms
Web description (200 characters) & keywords (240 characters)
Hours, driving directions, map location
Enhanced Web Package: $185 a year
All basic package features, plus web description (1,000 characters) and unlimited keywords. Five bulleted feature links
Bonus search results description
Add logo, photos, video links, etc
CHAMBER PROGRAMS & SPECIAL EVENTS
A GULF COAST TRADITION SINCE ‘71
The story of the Annual National Shrimp Festival traces back to 1970 when Lillian Bemis, a local real estate agent from Gulf Shores, took a trip with her husband to nearby Bayou La Batre, Alabama Inspired by the city’s Blessing of Shrimp Boat Fleet and the crowd it drew, Bemis envisioned a similar celebration in Gulf Shores and set out to make it a reality, teaming up with area business leaders. It was Bill Prime, then director of the Gulf Shores Tourist Association, who pitched the idea of a Shrimp Festival.
The inaugural festival in 1971 drew a crowd of approximately 500 to 1,500 attendees, and from then on, a new Gulf Coast tradition was born The festival has since expanded to four days, held every second full weekend of October, and its growing popularity has been backed by impressive numbers A 2016 study by the University of South Alabama estimated the annual attendance to be between 250,000 and 300,000 people, resulting in a $46 million economic boost to the area, a welcomed change during what is typically considered a slower time of the year.
Attendees enjoy over 250 vendors selling fine arts, crafts, retail goods, and of course some good food! Activities include two entertainment stages featuring national and local touring acts, a youth art show, sand castle contest, games, and a whole lot more. There’s something for everyone at the fest!
The festival's success wouldn't be possible without the dedication and passion of a team of volunteers and organizers who gather under the Chamber’s umbrella A volunteer committee of approximately 70 community leaders, business owners, and residents spearhead the event, with a chosen chairman leading the charge and rotating out every few years The support from the community is evident in the approximately 700 on-site volunteers who lend their time to ensure the festival's smooth operation.
AMBASSADORS
Ambassadors
The Ambassadors are just what their name implies! They represent our Chamber as cheerleaders, attending events and volunteering at various events.
Annual E-Cycling & Shred Day
For well over a decade our Annual E-Cycling & Shred Day has served as a free service to keep our Coastal Community clean Held every January, the event draws over 300 cars to safely and securely dispose of unwanted shred and electronic items
Black&WhiteNight
Black & White Night
Black & White Night is our Chamber’s twist on a traditional annual dinner. The evening begins with dinner, an awards ceremony, yearly review and ends with live music and a rocking dance party!
Lunch bunch
Breakfast Club & Lunch Bunch
These smaller networking gatherings serve two purposes: bringing together members in more intimate settings and to support local restaurants and coffee shops Members start by going around the room to introduce themselves and then enjoy their meal, breakfast treats, coffee, etc
Coastal Alabama Kid Entrepreneurs (C.A.K.E.) Day
C.A.K.E. is our elementary school entrepreneurial program. Through workshops put on by the Chamber and local businesspeople, we give students the skills they need to run and operated their very own business The students put the skills to the test one day in the summer as they open their businesses to the general public!
Coastal Alabama Leadership League (C.A.L.L)
Our adult leadership program gives selected area businesspeople a behind-the-scenes look at our local businesses and industries Along with learning leadership skills, the group chooses an annual community service project to work on throughout the semester
Coastal Christmas Market
Coastal Christmas Market acts as our Chamber’s kick-off to the holiday season! Vendors with a variety of great gift ideas fill the room, along with children’s activities, and pictures with Santa!
DIPLOMATS
Diplomats
Our Diplomats are our membership outreach program, designed to put new members in touch with one-on-one peer relationships for the purposes of networking and building business relationships
business EXP
Coastal Alabama Business Expo
The Coastal Alabama Business Expo is produced by our Small Business Committee and connects local business owners, entrepreneurs, and residents while showcasing the products and services of businesses throughout Coastal Alabama
Coastal Tailgate Cook-Off Challenge
A fundraiser for the Chamber’s education programs, the Tailgate Challenge gives attendees the opportunity to sample foods from some of the best professional and amateur cooking teams/individuals in the Southeast region Competitors are gunning for a Golden Ticket to compete at the World Food Championships
Entrepreneur Program Impacting Communities (EPIC)
EPIC is a year-long interactive and educational business program that will teach students the fundamentals of starting a business, offer networking opportunities, and grant resources and funding for student start-ups Students looking to start a business will be paired with a mentor, and classes offer an online curriculum with a monthly in-person meeting.
First Friday Forum
First Friday Forum is a monthly networking and breakfast meeting open to members of the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber Breakfast is sponsored by a chamber member and the speaking portion of the program consists of Chamber updates and a guest speaker to discuss a topic relevant to our area
GOLF CHALLENGE
Golf Challenge for Education
The Annual Golf Challenge for Education is one of Coastal Alabama's premier and longest running golf challenges. The challenge brings more than just a golf outing to players. With help from local businesses, golfers can expect fun activities, food, and drinks between holes.
IslandSpiritAward IslandSpiritAward
Island Spirit Award
Since the 1980's, the Island Spirit Award has been given monthly to an employee in Coastal Alabama who demonstrates exceptional warmth and hospitality Past recipients include waitstaff, service attendants, and clerks, and nominations are open to non-management employees only. Winners receive a plaque, cash prize, custom pin, and the appreciation of the community.
Junior Leadership Coastal Alabama
Junior Leadership Coastal Alabama offers area high school students the opportunity to develop leadership skills through volunteerism, seminars, workshops, and interaction with local leaders The program includes 10 monthly sessions to give students a behind-thescenes look at job opportunities in the area.
Lower Alabama Young Professionals (LAYP)
A project of the Coastal Alabama & South Baldwin Chambers, LAYP targets the 21 to 40 professional age range and brings a fresh new outlook for leadership in our community. Their commitment is to provide community connections education, philanthropy, and opportunities for outreach.
PowHER Hour+
PowHER Hour+ is a quarterly event designed to inspire and empower women in the Coastal Alabama community Each event features a guest speaker with a compelling story or important lessons to share, along with lunch, and a showcase of women-owned businesses
Small Business Committee
The group offers leadership and support to local small businesses through strategic meetings, the Coastal Alabama Business Expo, and lunch & learns. They also recognize outstanding businesses by collecting nominations and voting for the Small Business of the Year Award
V.I.B.E. @ 5:00
V I B E @ 5:00 is the Chamber’s monthly after-hours networking experience Networking, fellowship, food, & drinks are just a few things to expect in a relaxed and fun atmosphere with other members of your Coastal Alabama business community.
CHAMBER TASK FORCES
These task forces meet on an as-needed basis with missions to better serve our community:
Conservation & Natural Resources Task Force
Mission: To preserve and enhance the natural resources of Coastal Alabama through education and communication The group also assists with environmental events such as coastal clean up efforts.
Educational Affairs Task Force
Mission: To position the Chamber to excel in its role as champions of education
Marine Trades Task Force
Mission: To protect the Marine Trades Industry on the Alabama Gulf Coast
Membership Task Force
Mission: To encourage, strengthen, and retain Chamber membership
Public Policy Task Force
Mission: To serve as a proactive advocate for the business community and members on issues, obstacles and strategies regarding civic and governmental affairs Meets on an “as needed” basis during election years or when other public policy issues arise that need to be addressed
Tourism & Special Events Task Force
Mission: To produce events encouraging tourism to the Coastal Alabama area
GET INVOLVED!
The following committees and task forces are actively recruiting Chamber members to get involved:
Chamber Ambassadors
Chamber Diplomats
Island Spirit Award Committee
Small Business Committee
Young Professionals Executive Committee
Conservation & Natural Resources Task Force
Educational Affairs Task Force
Marine Trades Task Force
Membership Task Force
Public Policy Task Force
Small Business Committee
Tourism & Special Events Task Force
There is no obligation or attendance requirement. Even if you cannot actively attend all meetings, you can still receive information and updates pertaining to the appropriate group.
An application is required and can be found on our website: Visit
