the Cost of Chamber of Commerce Membership

I opened a small custom printing business in Tualatin,OR which is near Portland. I joined the local Chamber of Commerce in order to gain additional exposure to the business community and to become part of the organization. The cost was $25 for the initial application and $250 annual membership dues.

I feel that a Chamber of Commerce plays an important role in the development of a community and in forming good business relationships and in helping a community to grow. I attend meetings and volunteer to serve on various committees. The Chamber annually selects a charity to support and we hold several fund raising events to help that charity. I find no negatives in belonging to this organization of business leaders and have forged strong friendships through it. It is a very good value for only $250 a year plus the time that you choose to donate to help a good cause and to give something back to help other people. The people you will be working with may need to use your business services, which will be a secondary benefit.

Talk with some friends or community leaders to see if such an organization is right for you. You will make some business contacts and perhaps gain additional business. But also be prepared to volunteer to help the organization.