What Does a Chamber of Commerce Do and Why Should You Join One?
The best way to spread the word about your business is by making connections. Whether you're new to the local community or a veteran company that has been around for decades, your reputation grows as you engage in other influential entities within your community. That's why so many businesses choose to join a chamber of commerce. These resourceful organizations are made to help local businesses thrive.
From building your brand's presence to increasing sales, learn how you can use your membership to foster your company's growth.
How We Support Our Business Community
At the Glenwood Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, our mission is to connect, advocate, and promote — and everything we do is centered around supporting the success of our local businesses and organizations. We offer a variety of opportunities for connection and growth throughout the year, including monthly Rise & Shine networking events, educational workshops, and training sessions designed to build knowledge and community. Signature events like the Chamber Cup Golf Tournament and the Pope County Salute to Business & Industry Luncheon celebrate and spotlight local business leaders. The Chamber also plays a vital role in organizing major community events such as the Pope County Community Expo and the Waterama Boardwalk Sales, drawing residents and visitors alike to experience all our area has to offer.
Ongoing initiatives like our Member of the Week program and the Minnewaska Dollars local gift certificate system are designed to keep dollars local and help businesses stay visible and vibrant. Through every event, initiative, and partnership, we are committed to growing a strong, connected business community in the Glenwood Lakes Area.
What Is a Chamber of Commerce?
A Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization that supports local businesses through advocacy, promotion, and connection. While the U.S. Chamber of Commerce began in 1912, local chambers like ours exist to focus on the needs and growth of our own business community.
What We Do
At the Glenwood Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, our mission is to connect, advocate, and promote.
We do this by offering:
Networking & Exposure: Monthly Rise & Shine events, ribbon cuttings, member spotlights, and a digital member directory.
Promotional Support: Marketing opportunities, sponsorships, and programs like Minnewaska Dollars and Member of the Week.
Community Engagement: We host or support large events like the Pope County Community Expo, Waterama Boardwalk Sales, the Chamber Cup Golf Tournament, and the Pope County Salute to Business.
Advocacy: We serve as a voice for local businesses and stay engaged in community and regional development.
Resources & Referrals: We connect members with other businesses, community partners, and potential customers through referrals, updates, and educational opportunities.
Why Join?
Credibility & Trust: Chamber members are seen as trusted, community-minded businesses.
Affordable Promotion: Gain visibility through newsletters, social media, and chamber-hosted events.
Connections That Matter: Grow your network, find partners, and stay in the loop on local happenings.
Influence: Be part of the collective voice that helps shape a stronger business climate in the Glenwood Lakes Area.
Get Involved
With over 200 members and growing, we offer a wide range of ways to engage at every level. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur, nonprofit, or major employer, there's a place for you in the Chamber community.
The Glenwood Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Mission
The Chamber strives to support our area businesses and organizations by hosting monthly networking events, educational & training opportunities, the Chamber Cup Golf Tournament, and the Pope County Salute to Business & Industry Luncheon. The Chamber also has a hand in organizing both the Pope County Community Expo and Waterama Boardwalk Sales. The Glenwood Lakes Area Chamber also has a strong Member of the Week program, promotes the use of Minnewaska Dollars to keep business local, and hosts Rise & Shine networking events monthly.
