Grand Rapids Area Chamber Of Commerce

Programs: Public policy and government affairs - identify issues of concern and work with elected officials to promote policies and programs to stimulate the area's economic growth and create job opportunities. Our chamber and members held a street summit showing the business case for road funding to state legislators and local officials. Held an impact of the affordable care act forum and 3 health care reform workshops, educating our members before the rollout of the afc. Our key advocacy issues were early childhood expansion, asset management for stormwater and medicaid expansion reform.

member services - strengthen the chamber's membership and improve services to members with special emphasis on member recruitment, retention and activation through continued communication with members. Discount programs for members included office supplies, workers comp insurance, payroll services and gas discounts. Publication of the monthly chamber newspaper and our e-news highlight members and offer advertising opportunities. We welcomed 287 new members to the chamber and retained 87% of our current membership.

programs and events - provide opportunities for business networking through a variety of member events. The chamber held over 100 events with over 8,000 attendees to our educational programs and networking events. Our new monthly event business matters breakfast series showcased community and business leaders. We provided assistance to more than 70 businesses by connecting them to resources to facilitate business growth. Monthly networking events included business exchange luncheons and new member connection. All of these activities encourage our members to use other members and helps promote our mission to help business connect, grow and succeed.