Chambers of commerce may seem like they work magic—and in many ways, they do. But the real results come when you get involved. Joining is a smart move, but the true value comes when you actively engage.
If you’ve been wondering whether you’re making the most of your membership—or if you’re just starting out and you’re not sure how to get the most out of it—here are ten practical ways to tap into the value your chamber offers.
1. Show Up and Be Seen
The simplest way to maximize your membership is to attend events. Monthly meetings, ribbon cuttings, Chamber after hours, and annual events like Red Carpet Corridor Festival and Autumn Festival of Crafts all put you face-to-face with other members, community leaders, and potential customers.
Visibility builds trust, and trust builds business.
2. Introduce Yourself Online
Your chamber directory listing is often one of the highest-ranking links in local search results, so take advantage of it! Ensure your business profile is up to date, includes a compelling description, and links to your website and social media. Send us a logo to use if there isn’t one on your listing. Membership listings rank highly on search engines and are often an overlooked member benefit. Be sure you’re getting the most out of yours.
Want something updated on your profile? It’s as easy as sending us a note.
3. Use Member-Only Marketing Perks
Chambers often provide exclusive opportunities to advertise, sponsor events, or be featured in business spotlights. These are often far more affordable than traditional advertising and directly reach a targeted local audience. Ask about upcoming opportunities to make sure you’re included.
4. Host or Sponsor Events
Sponsorships aren’t just about logos on banners—they create recognition, trust, and deeper engagement. Whether you sponsor or co-host an event, or provide space for a community event, you position your business or organization as a local leader and supporter of the community.
Not into event sponsorships? We have other opportunities from time to time such as sponsoring giveaways or in-kind donations. We’d love to talk about how we can do more to promote your business. Maybe you have a new idea of your own? Be sure to let us know about it!
5. Participate in Advocacy Efforts
Your chamber is your voice at city hall and beyond. Stay informed about local legislation, zoning issues, and economic development initiatives that affect your business. We recently hosted a candidate forums, just one example of how you can stay informed and shape our community’s future. Always be willing to voice your concerns and opinions so your chamber knows best how to advocate for you and your industry.
6. Promote Job Openings and Find Talent
Hiring? As a member you can submit postings to our online job board. Tapping into this resource not only helps you find qualified candidates, but it also supports the chamber’s mission to grow the local workforce.
7. Connect with Other Members
Chambers are a goldmine of potential partnerships. Need a CPA? Looking for a nonprofit to support? Want a trusted supplier? Look to your fellow members first. When you do business with others in the chamber, you contribute to a stronger, more connected local economy. These new partners may also send business your way. Chambers are full of potential partners, collaborators, and customers.
8. Tell Your Story
People want to do business with people they know, like, and trust. Share your milestones, success stories, or community impact with the Chamber. We are happy to highlight member achievements in newsletters and on social media—it’s great exposure and helps build your reputation.
9. Get Your Team Involved
Your membership isn’t just for you, the business owner—it’s for your whole team. Encourage team members to serve on committees, volunteer at chamber events, or represent your business at community functions. It builds leadership skills, deepens their connection to your mission, and spreads your visibility across more touchpoints.
10. Ask Questions and Offer Ideas
Finally, know chambers are member-driven organizations. If you’re unsure how to plug in or have an idea for a new program or service, speak up. The Wilmington Chamber is member-driven. We’re powered by volunteers—not full-time staff—so your ideas and questions matter. Your input helps shape future initiatives and can lead to programs that benefit the entire community
Your Chamber is a Partner, Not Just a Provider
Chamber membership benefits your business even if you don’t partake in all its offerings, but you’ll get a lot more if you’re an active member. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a nonprofit director, or the CEO of a growing company, your chamber is there to support your success. Get involved, build relationships, and use the tools available. You’ll not only grow your business—you’ll strengthen your community in the process.
