M E M B E R S H I P G U I D E
A MESSAGE FROM OUR LEADERSHIP
MARIO A BARRERA
For over 130 years, your Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce has been a pillar of our community, fostering relationships and communication within the business community. We focus on addressing our region's needs and serving as a force for good.
This year, we are excited to strengthen connections between industry and education, advocate for our local military missions, and support our military families' quality of life and well-being As a member and volunteer leader, I’ve witnessed firsthand the Greater
Chamber's profound impact on our community The opportunities for active participation in councils and committees, attending events, and networking with fellow members are endless
We invite you to use this guide as a road map to discover the many opportunities the Greater Chamber provides its members. When you are ready to engage, we encourage you to attend a Membership Orientation, a committee meeting, or an event. Member engagement drives our collective success, and your involvement is critical to our work. We are delighted to have you join us and eagerly anticipate collaborating with you in the upcoming year and beyond.
Chair of the Board Partner, Norton, Rose & Fulbright
San Antonio distinguishes itself as a city of remarkable character and opportunity. Its energetic growth, coupled with its enduring small-town charm, makes it a desirable environment for both residents and businesses alike. Furthermore, the city benefits from a vibrant and engaged business community renowned for its collaborative spirit in addressing pivotal issues crucial to our collective prosperity.
With over 40 years of experience in both private and public sectors I understand the importance of the business community. The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce
membership has evolved with strategically evolved, offering a more exciting and beneficial experience In our dynamic economy and political climate, businesses require a strong advocate for supportive business policies, a platform to amplify their voices, and access to invaluable connections and resources As a member, you'll gain these benefits and unlock unique opportunities to set you up for unparalleled success I invite you to join us and experience the transformative power of the Chamber for yourself, as we look forward make great strides together
President & CEO
ABOUT THE GREATER SAN ANTONIO CHAMBER
The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce is the preeminent voice of the business community and moves the collective thinking of our members into action. Since 1894 we’ve championed businesses to prosper and enhanced the quality of life for current and future residents by promoting our region’s rich culture along with its economic and civic well-being.
OUR VALUES
INTEGRITY
Always doing the right thing.
COLLABORATION
SERVICE
Working together for the good of all Demonstrating a committment to others.
EXCELLENCE
Continuously working to improve
LET THE CHAMBER BE YOUR CHAMPION
To Grow Your Business
The Greater Chamber team of nationally recognized experts advocates for you. Our expanding resources enable members to gain access to people, businesses, information, the community, and capital The Greater Chamber offers regular networking functions ranging in size from 100 to 300 members in attendance. You have opportunities to learn about issues impacting the business community and provide leadership in our response.
To Amplify Your Business Voice
The Greater Chamber strives to provide a strong representative voice on important local, regional, state, and federal issues Through our membership Councils & Committees, we identify the most relevant issues for member companies, deepen our understanding, educate the membership, and advocate on behalf of the business community. We also reach 75,000 members of the community through our various communication and marketing vehicles, thereby giving your business opportunities for additional exposure.
To Foster Economic Prosperity
Economic prosperity depends on a vibrant business climate The Greater Chamber is working to ensure a favorable environment in which all businesses, small and large, can grow and prosper We actively advocate for our business community at the local, state, and federal levels of government. Business owners must contend with a variety of responsibilities, we work to make sure your business can operate in a climate that will help you thrive with our efforts in public policy and economic development. We are a resource for understanding what is happening in our community and how it can impact your business
To Develop the Community’s Future
The Greater Chamber brings together the resources of our members to support initiatives making a positive impact in our community today and in the future. Ensuring a highly trained, qualified, and educated workforce is a major task. In partnership with elected officials and education partners, we develop the future through collaboration between our members, business leaders and educators Participation in the Greater Chamber’s councils and initiatives like Leadership San Antonio provides leadership development opportunities and improve our quality of life.
We are the connectors of San Antonio business.
MEMBERSHIP HAS ITS BENEFITS
Interested in learning more?
Scan here to learn more about the various benefits of Greater San Antonio Chamber membership!
Stay in the know!!
Scan here to sign up for Chamber Today, our monthly e-newsletter.
MEMBERSHIP MAKES CENTS
As a member of the Greater San Antonio Chamber, you can instantly take advantage of savings opportunities from Chamber partners
Tax Deductible Membership
Your member dues are 95% tax deductible
Office Depot National Chamber Purchasing Program
Discounts of up to 60% on a variety of products and services that businesses purchase most Streamline your ordering with free delivery on orders of $50+, via online, phone, fax, or in-store
Infintech Payment Processing Member Program
Payment processing doesn’t have to be complicated and costly. Infintech helps members process payments at a fraction of the cost.
Member Coupons
Offer discounts to your fellow members while promoting your business on the members-only portal
EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES
As San Antonio’s largest pro-business organization, we are proud to serve as a resource and offer a variety of ways to market your business Use the Chamber as a platform to share your story and utilize our tools as a part of your marketing strategy (Prices shown below are exclusive to Chamber members.)
Stand alone ads will appear on Events & Chamber News pages
$250 week/page
SOCIAL WEB CHAMBER TODAY
Ads will appear on Chamber social media channels
$50 a post
Banner Ads: Your image placed at the top of our monthly e-newsletter, plus social media posts
$300 $450 $600 *FREE* 1 month/3 social posts 2 months/3 social posts 3 months/3 social posts 4th month/1 additional post
Marketing credit can be applied toward marketing opportunities
Contact Samantha Rendon, VP of Image & Communications at srendon@sachamber org or 210-229-2112
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Email Content: Your content in the body of our monthly e-newsletter
$600
$400
$250 Sponsor CT Article Event w/100 word description
Email Blast: Stand alone email blast to Chamber membership (sent by Chamber)
$500 Limit one per month
The Greater San Antonio Chamber is pleased to offer a community calendar that aligns with both our mission of being the preeminent voice of the business community and moving the collective thinking of our members into action and our values of integrity, collaboration, service, and excellence We invite you to submit community events reaching an audience of thousands and participate in the many great events that are happening in and around the Alamo City.
EVENTS WITH IMPACT
CHAMBER EVENTS
Mayor Ron Nirenberg delivers his annual United State of the City address to a sold-out crowd of over 700 attendees
Join us at our Greater San Antonio Chamber events to meet other professionals and learn about business-critical issues in and around the San Antonio area. (And, have fun, too.)
By sponsoring an event, you can gain exposure to potential clients and build relationships with key community leaders. With various opportunities available, from the Annual Gala to Celebrating America’s Military (CAM), you will be investing in events strategically meeting your company’s goals and helping you generate brand awareness, reach your target audience, and boost your marketing efforts
To learn more, visit sachamber.org/events or contact us at events@sachamber.org or (210) 229-2129.
Scan here to learn more about the various events you are invited to take part of as a Chamber member!
Scan here to learn more about the various event sponsorship opportunities availableexclusive to Chamber members!
“The Chamber has opened doors and made it really easy for me to be able to put myself our there and utilize the network for advice, for partnership, and for business growth.”
Melissa Holden Regional Marketing, Complete
Care Emergency Room
ENGAGE & ADVOCATE
The Greater Chamber’s advocacy and impact work happens through Councils and Committees, which convene and connect business and community leaders to fuel the growth and vitality of the Alamo region We engage various institutions, industries, organizations, and individuals to energize the business community and promote opportunities that drive change.
These volunteer-led workgroups lead collaboration amongst member businesses by gathering regularly to ensure business issues are front and center. Our core group of world-class staff at the Chamber is central to our successful engagement Our in-house experts facilitate the Councils and Committees, supporting our volunteers and moving initiatives forward while achieving measurable outcomes.
While not required, membership in Councils and Committees is a great way to stay engaged with the Chamber, enabling you to fully leverage your membership. It also offers a valuable return on investment by allowing you to contribute to the Chamber's ongoing efforts to make San Antonio a better place to live, work, and play.
The Chamber's Committees are targeted, focused groups that create the foundation that guides the Chamber's projects, initiatives, and advocacy efforts. Scan here to learn more about the various committees you are invited to join as a member of the Greater San Antonio Chamber!
As the primary voice of business in our city, the Chamber mobilizes members to promote and drive important initiatives that benefit our region’s business environment. This work is primarily accomplished through our Councils. Scan here to learn more about the various councils you are encouraged to lend your expertise to as a member of the Greater San Antonio Chamber!
COUNCILS
PUBLIC POLICY COUNCIL
As the premier voice of the business community in the Bexar County region, the Public Policy Council connects member companies with key stakeholders at all levels of government to advocate for pro-business policies that ensure the prosperity and economic growth for our region while maintaining a high quality of life for all.
Most businesses lack the resources, time, relationships, and/or clout to advocate for supportive policy independently. We inform our members about policy developments through regular updates in meetings and newsletters. We also host events, workshops, and candidate forums to provide insights into policymaking and equip our members with the knowledge they need to engage effectively
The Greater Chamber engage public and private sectors to position our region for economic leadership and competitiveness We collaborate with other organizations, chambers of commerce, and industry associations to amplify our advocacy efforts. By joining forces, we strengthen our collective impact and increase our ability to influence policy decisions directly impacting the business community.
MILITARY AFFAIRS COUNCIL
The Military Affairs Council mission is to promote San Antonio by engaging the greater San Antonio community and especially its business community to demonstrably celebrate, support, maintain, and grow the military presence in San Antonio.
For more than 130 years the Chamber has worked to create a businessfriendly climate while focusing on passionate and sustained support for our military installations and service members The Chamber’s Military Affairs Council works year-round to support the men and women of our armed forces ensuring they know their community recognizes and celebrates the sacrifices they and their families make in support of our nation and our community.
*JBSA is the largest joint base in the Department of Defense (DOD).
We are the change makers of San Antonio business.
EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
Connecting business with education to build local talent is more necessary than ever before. The Chamber’s Education and Workforce Development department mobilizes the business community to be more engaged partners in education and workforce development and help drive regional economic success These partnerships help expand access to higher education, provide meaningful work-based learning opportunities, and support homegrown talent to secure our future
Our community needs its skilled workforce to grow We support the development of programs to up-skill today’s job-seekers and provider employers with the workers they need. The mission of the Chamber’s Education & Workforce Development Council is to develop workforce talent for our region, advocate for innovative and successful education initiatives, encourage meaningful academic and business partnerships, and connect the workforce with employers
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
The Economic Development Council is a group of businesses and key community stakeholders who advance critical industries and jobs across our region. The Council is the one place where economic development leaders dissect trends to identify needs and opportunities for growth, while setting a solid foundation for the years ahead. The Economic Development Council facilitates candid discussions on barriers to growth, examines options for public policy advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, and focuses on business retention and expansion.
AEROSPACE COUNCIL
The Aerospace Council convenes the region’s aviation and space industry to raise the profile of the sector in San Antonio and across the state Business and civic leaders come together through this forum to enable industry growth, create jobs, and develop a trained and ready workforce through strategic planning, partnering within sector and across industries, and through policy advocacy
CYBERSECURITY COUNCIL
Did you know San Antonio is the second largest cyber hub in the United States? The Cybersecurity Council convenes and connects the cybersecurity and information technology industry of San Antonio, which has the second-largest concentration of cybersecurity professionals in the nation. The Council is committed to growing the industry in our region, and ensuring our region has a world-class workforce for the decades to come. The Cybersecurity Council is a key gathering place for cybersecurity and technology professionals and organizations seeking to enhance their capabilities, help create the next generation workforce, and improve the resiliency of our community
HEALTHCARE COUNCIL
The Healthcare Council connects and advances healthcare and its related industries in the region through the effective mobilization of resources to close gaps and ultimately realize better health outcomesforallresidents.
As a leading employer and a vital economic generator with impact of $44.1 billion, San Antonio’s healthcare industry is one of the region’s leadingindustries.
“Whether addressing transportation issues, water supply, education, or economic development, The Greater Chamber continues to move the needle in a positive direction. This city would not be where it is today without the leadership and involvement of the Greater Chamber.”
Sam Dawson CEO, Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc.
COUNCILS
INFRASTRUCTURE COUNCIL
The Infrastructure Council works with the city, state and federal on a range of issues from transportation and regional mobility to online connectivity, energy, and natural resources The council identifies commonsense solutions and financing mechanisms for critical infrastructure projects that support our rapidly growing population, provide regional economic development, and ensure quality of life The council also advocates for strategies and regional priorities that serve our members interests and convene with stakeholders to share valuable information and insight.
SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL
The Small Business Council gathers small businesses and small business advocates from around the city to discover ways to accelerate the growth of companies in the region. The Council identifies challenges and examines solutions for small business in San Antonio and recommends advocacy approaches The Council is the primary conduit for alerting Greater Chamber members to emerging programs that support small businesses and provides a way for members to shape policy aimed at helping business owners and companies, offering a valuable return on investment for small business owners
*The Greater San Antonio Chamber has over 1,200 small business members –more than any other chamber’s total membership in San Antonio - and 70% of our total membership.
COMMITTEES
SENIOR ENLISTED ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Senior Enlisted Advisory Committee is a forum for select Senior Enlisted Leaders from all military branches to communicate across service lines with business and community partners to support organization leaders, address challenges to the quality of life for our service members, and share resources between the business and military communities
CELEBRATE AMERICA’S MILITARY COMMITTEE
Since 1970, the Chamber has hosted its annual salute to the military in Military City, USA, which occurs in early to mid-November and involves more than 35 events. The CAM Committee coordinates, executes, and promotes multiple events to highlight servicemen and women across all branches of service, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard All of these events are free to Active, Guard, and Reserve military service members and showcase the great appreciation San Antonio has for their service and dedication This includes our invaluable military partners within Joint Base San Antonio and its eight other operating locations with more than 200 mission partners
AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE
Ambassadors provide ceremonial assistance to members at commemorative events such as grand openings, re-dedications, and groundbreakings Participation as an Ambassador provides opportunities for business networking and community outreach
*The Greater San Antonio Chamber features the largest ambassador program, providing primary access to key decision-makers within the community.
We are the advocates for San Antonio
KEY LEADERSHIP INITIATIVES
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP PROGRAM (ELP)
Designed for executive members at the Board of Investor level and above, the ELP is a small-group immersion into the region's critical issues, introducing participants to top community leaders actively addressing these challenges in a unique and intimate setting Participants gain a deep understanding of our region’s formal and informal decision-making channels within its economic, political, and civic structure. Additionally, the program aims to support the group in establishing relationships with fellow executives new to the region and fostering a strong sense of community.
LEADERSHIP SAN ANTONIO (LSA)
LSA was created in 1975 by the Greater San Antonio Chamber to help identify and develop community leaders and is now considered the premier program for existing and emerging leaders in their industries and career fields. The program, one of the first of its kind in Texas, has graduated more than 2,000 participants and focuses on delivering these leaders an opportunity to develop an understanding of the promise and challenges of our community. The program extends beyond personal and professional development, aiming to educate and inform participants about vital aspects affecting San Antonio It also encourages Chamber business involvement, community advocacy, and active engagement, thereby connecting leaders to serve our community
WOMAN TO WOMAN LEADER TO LEADER (WWLL)
The WWLL mission is to connect top Military and C-Suite women leaders to authentically deepen relationships through engagement, while creating opportunities to help emerging leaders of the future. WWLL meets once per quarter as an evening networking reception that promotes women in business while highlighting venues, organizations, and initiatives that build collaboration and partnership for women in leadership positions
KEY MILITARY INITIATIVES
SUPPORTING MILITARY FAMILIES SAN ANTONIO (SMFSA)
Launched in June 2024, SMFSA is a groundbreaking initiative designed to enhance the quality of life for military personnel and their loved ones, focusing on key priorities identified by senior military leaders and families SMFSA will secure support and connect valuable existing resources to address critical needs such as healthcare accessibility, military spouse employment, and servicemember transition into the civilian workforce In response to feedback from our community leaders and military families, we have two initial primary focus areas – Healthcare and Military Spouse Support.
TEXAS COALITION OF DEFENSE COMMUNITIES (TCDC)
During Texas' 86 Legislative Session, the Greater San Antonio Chamber launched the Texas Coalition of Defense Communities (TCDC). The Chamber created the TCDC to take a collective approach to advocating for policies, legislation, and initiatives that impact military missions –active, guard, and reserve Texas’ military installations, infrastructure and personnel generate more than 136 6 billion to the state’s economy and make invaluable contributions to national security TCDC partners include civic and business leadership of Texas’ militaryconnected communities and organizations that best represent the most active and engaged members from a business, industry, and economic development perspective
Want to become involved?
Scan here to learn more about the various initiatives you can become involved with as a member of the Greater San Antonio Chamber!
We are the leaders of San
A LEGACY DATING BACK 130 YEARS
Since 1894, the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, along with the support and contribution of our members, has been propelling business success and impacting San Antonio’s infrastructure, economic development, workforce, military installations, and more
In 2024, we’re proudly celebrating our 130th anniversary. As the state’s oldest active Chamber, and one of it’s largest - you can bet we’ll continue taking our commitment of service to the San Antonio business community seriously. (And, in true San Antonio style, celebrating a little, too. )
2015 2017
Took a leadership role in discussions on modernizing NAFTA, inevitably leading to the passage of the USMCA Agreement
2016
Created the Good to Great to Global Task Force to develop and provide specific recommendations to enable San Antonio to be more globally competitive
Successfully advocated for $32 million in funding for Alamo Redevelopme nt and for $30 million in appropriations for DEAAG funding to sustain our military bases
2021 2020 2019
During Texas’ 86th Legislative Session, successfully advocated for Public School Finance Reform and the passing of House Bill 3, which included money for free, full-day pre-K for eligible 4-year-old students; created a more complex method of funding the cost of educating low-income students; paid school districts that want to offer merit pay programs for teachers; and created a permanent state fund to lower school district tax rates
Launched SA Chamber Rapid Response to share valuable resources and assist our members experiencing difficulty during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Collaborated and advocated for the help and relief our business community needed in order to recover from the pandemic as part of our One City priority
2022
Successfully completed a board governance restructure, creating a small Executive Board and a larger Board of Investors
2023
At the State level, we executed a focused legislative agenda that centered around economic development, infrastructure investment, military affairs, workforce and education and property tax relief
ACCESS
FFERS SOLUTIONS TO YOUR REAL ISSUES...
ility of your business and brand through direct networking with other business ners through attendance at our many events.
the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce instantly lends credibility to your rand. Aligning yourself with our esteemed institution signifies a commitment to integrity, bolstering trust among clients, partners, and stakeholders alike
spect base, meet new customers directly, develop synergy with other business ge in community problem solving, and develop top of mind awareness with ngaging in Chamber committees and councils.
THE SAN ANTONIO COMMUNITY FORWARD.
Gain unparalleled access to influential leaders, industry experts, and decision-makers across various sectors through our extensive network and exclusive events Forge meaningful connections, unlock new opportunities, and gain insights that can shape the trajectory of your business and career
INFLUENCE
You are a thought leader within your industry. Join our committees and councils and shape the agenda tackling the issues facing our region. Engage with others in leadership programs, and bring your expertise to the table
RESOURCES
Need an introduction? Through your GSACC membership, you have access to a staff highly trained in fostering connections and making introductions. Utilize our web portal and your Info Hub to reach your future customers and clients!
MAKE THE MOST ROI OUT OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP
With more than 1,800 members, the Greater San Antonio Chamber is the largest and most influentialpro-businessorganizationinSanAntonio.64%ofourmembershipismadeupofsmall businessowners.
Havingastrong,powerfulcollectivevoiceandnetwork gives an advantage only the Greater San Antonio Chambercanoffer.
Attend a Greater San Antonio Chamber Networking Event
While you have many networking and marketing channels at your fingertips, nothing can replace meeting someone face-to-face and building a personal relationship or being associated with a trusted business resource.
Engage with Your Business Community
Becoming a member of the Greater Chamber is just the beginning. As the primary voice of business in our city, the Chamber mobilizes members to promote and drive important initiatives that benefit our region We encourage you to join a council or committee and add your voice to the growing business community in San Antonio.
Utilize the Marketing Opportunities at Your Fingertips
Use the Chamber as a platform to share your story and utilize our tools as a part of your marketing strategy Our digital platforms and annual events reach over 75,000 individuals Members enjoy exclusive pricing, additionally, the membership marketing credits can be applied to many of these opportunities.
Invest in Your Personal and Professional Development
Build your skills (or those of your employees) and your network, while building lasting relationships with key business and community leaders as a part of our leadership and military initiatives
“Being a member of the Greater San Antonio Chamber provides the opportunity to network with local business, the fulfillment of giving back to your community, and has helped our organization financially succeed. ”
Todd Bufalino
OUR STELLAR STAFF
JEFF WEBSTER
President & CEO
210-229-2130
KATIE FERRIER
Vice President, Public Policy, Education, & Workforce Development
210-229-2134
LORI STINSON
Vice President, Military Affairs & Leadership Development
210-229-2122
CAROLINA CALDERON
Director, Special Events 210-229-2129
JEFF FAIR
Vice President, Economic Development 210-229-2199
SAMANTHA RENDON
Vice President, Image & Communications 210-229-2112
A CHAMBER WITH IMPACT
A SMALL SAMPLING OF OUR 2023 ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Thanks to the unending support of our members, volunteers, and partners, the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce had an incredibly productive 2023, despite unprecedented challenges With your help, we are continuing our work in 2024 and beyond Together, let’s continue to grow our economy and make a positive difference in San Antonio.
Successfully executed a focused legislative agenda that centered around economic development, infrastructure investment, military affairs, workforce and education and property tax relief.
The defeat of Proposition A by a sound 72-28 margin, which, if passed, would have been devastating to our community
Organized the 2023 ¡VIVA San Antonio! with more than 100+ business and community leaders traveling to Austin to participate in our biennial legislative day at the Capitol to advocate for the needs of the San Antonio region. The abbreviated public-facing document from the Restructured State Legislative Agenda guided our 10-issue teams toward productive and collaborative meetings with over 50 state leaders.
Chamber staff members testified before the Senate and House Committees more than a dozen times on behalf of advocacy efforts for the Greater San Antonio business community
Hosted the State of the State with Governor Abbot in San Antonio Topics covered included priorities of the legislative session, infrastructure along the San Antonio – Austin corridor, job growth in Texas, workforce retention, and enhancing the quality of life for military service members and their families.
Organized the 2023 SA to DC annual fly with 150+ Chamber members, community partners, and elected officials.
Testified in support of the use of the eminent domain process to the City of San Antonio City Council regarding the acquisition of a building to construct a world-class Visitors Center and Museum for the Alamo
We are the champion for San Antonio business.
The Greater San Antonio Chamber
602 E Commerce St
San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 229-2100
Fax: (210) 229-1600
Website: sachamber.org
Facebook: @greatersachamber
Instagram: @greatersachamber
X: @gr8tersachamber
LinkedIn: /Greater San Antonio Chamber
#WeMeanBusiness
Membership Guide designed by Shannon Communications Group, LLC
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