Why should I become a member of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber?

Joining the Southwestern Vermont Chamber has never been easier! As the #1 business and nonprofit organization in Southwestern Vermont, the Chamber promotes, leads and advocates a unified effort, on behalf of its members, to maintain and improve a healthy business climate and rewarding quality of life for the entire Shires of Southwestern Vermont region.

Here are the top 9 reasons to join the Southwestern Vermont Chamber:

  1. Networking Opportunities: The chamber often hosts events, seminars, and networking gatherings, which can be an excellent way to connect with other businesses and professionals in the region. Networking can lead to potential partnerships, collaborations, and new business opportunities.

  2. Business Exposure: By being a member, your business will be listed in the chamber's directory and promotional materials. This exposure can help increase your visibility within the local community and potentially attract more customers.

  3. Advocacy and Support: The Chamber advocates for businesses in the region, representing their interests at the local, regional, state and national levels of government. They can provide support and resources for navigating regulatory issues and other challenges that businesses may face.

  4. Educational Resources: The Chamber offer workshops, seminars, and training sessions to help businesses develop and grow. These educational resources can be valuable for improving your business skills and knowledge.

  5. Community Involvement: Joining the Chamber allows you to become more actively involved in the local community. By supporting the Chamber's initiatives and events, you can contribute to the overall economic development and well-being of the area.

  6. Access to Benefits and Discounts: Some chambers offer their members exclusive benefits and discounts on services, products, or events. These perks can potentially save your business money and enhance its overall competitiveness.

  7. Market the Region: As part of the Chamber’s enterprise model, The Shires of Southwestern Vermont Destination Marketing Organization, charged with marketing the region through all forms of media, is overseen by the Chamber. The Shires DMO seeks to foster and use the combined energies and assets of the North and South Shires of Bennington County, to promote entrepreneurial spirit and to support the cultural, scenic, environmental, agricultural, historic, and recreational assets of the entire Shires region.

  8. Empower Young Professionals: The Shires Young Professional is an organization formed by the Southwestern Vermont Chamber with the mission to help young professionals and families create deep roots in our community that encourage them to stay and build a prosperous life in the Shires of Vermont. The SYP looks to engage, emerge, and empower young professionals throughout the region.

  9. Credibility and Trust: Being a member of a reputable chamber of commerce can add credibility and trustworthiness to your business. Potential customers may view your affiliation with the chamber as a positive indicator of your commitment to ethical business practices and community involvement.

Before becoming a member, it's essential to assess the specific benefits offered by the Southwestern Vermont Chamber and determine if they align with your business's goals and needs. Consider reaching out to current members or attending some of their events to get a better sense of how membership could benefit your business.