Local Chambers of Commerce are good for businesses and the community

A Many have heard of the Chamber of Commerce, but few seem to actually know what it is and what it does. With so many people starting side hustles with the hope of turning it into a bigger business, it’s more important than ever to figure out how to grow that business. Your local Chamber of Commerce may very well be a major key in unlocking your business potential.

Kathleen Leavitt, President and CEO of the Spanish Fork Chamber of Commerce explained that there are a lot of misconceptions about what a local Chamber of Commerce is and what it does. She wants people to know that while it may sound complicated, that it is simple and quite effective.

“The Chamber of Commerce was formed so that small businesses could have a voice and make an impact on their community,” Leavitt explained. “It’s a collective voice of what the business community needs and wants.”

By Ariel Higgs

There are several advantages for businesses to join the local chamber, even for the microbusiness owner who may be working out of their garage or basement.

Being able to network with other business owners is a great way to get to know and support other business owners, not to mention giving you a built in community that you can learn from. Joining the Chamber of Commerce gives you access to a vast network of more than 300 local business leaders who have been where you are and are excited to help give local business owners guidance.

The goal of the Chamber is to support businesses as they grow at the pace that is comfortable for them, which is why being a member doesn’t have a required time commitment; it is just there if and when you need it. Like many aspects of business, the more time you invest, the more you get out of it. Taking advantage of the networking opportunities that the Chamber offers, such as summits on subjects like social media marketing, will only help your business. Additionally, the Chamber has membership options for every budget.

The Chamber isn’t just advantageous for business owners. In fact, it is an organization that provides services and events for the community. You may not be aware that many events that you might think are put on by the city, are actually organized and sponsored by local Chambers of Commerce to give back to the community. For example, the Spanish Fork-Salem Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors the Spanish Fork Easter Egg Hunt scheduled to take place on April 1. Other events include the Spanish Fork Light Parade and Spanish Fork Farmers Market.

The South Utah County Chambers of Commerce lead by example by collaborating on events and community outreach. Recently, the Spanish Fork Area, Springville/Mapleton and Payson/ Santaquin Chambers of Commerce hosted

Bills and Bagels, which was a free Breakfast meeting with local State Legislators that represent the local community. This unique opportunity was made possible by local business owners working together with local governments and the community to amplify local voices and enact positive change for the community.

Strong small businesses make stronger communities. Whether you’re a micro, small, or medium business, the Chamber has opportunities for you to grow your business. Chamber officials are there to talk with you to figure out what’s best for your unique business and answer any questions you might have. If you’re not a business owner, you can still support your local Chamber of Commerce by shopping locally and attending the many fun community events they provide every year.

For more information visit: spanishforkchamber.com, springvilleutahchamber.org or paysonsantaquinarea.com.