Origin of the chamber concept

The concept of various businesses joining together in a mutual effort to increase commerce has its beginnings in Europe hundreds of years ago. Primarily as a defensive tactic, traders banded together for protection against common enemies and to establish policies to govern trade. This was eventually extended as a means of exerting influence on governments and legislation.

The first organization of businesses was in Marseilles, France, where the term “chamber of commerce” was first documented. This fledgling group was established by the city council in 1599. The idea caught on and spread to Germany and eventually throughout Europe.

The concept comes to America

The modern Chamber of Commerce is more of an American development. The New York State Chamber is the oldest Chamber of Commerce in America, formed in 1768 and chartered by King George III in 1770. That makes it older than the Declaration of Independence; chambers of commerce are not a new development.

Local chambers

The first local chamber was founded in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1773. This was followed by one in New Haven, Connecticut, and then another in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1800. The trend rapidly spread across the country. By 1870 there were forty local chambers of commerce in the United States. Today there are over 5,000 chambers of commerce.

The purpose of the Chamber of Commerce has evolved from simply the protection and promotion of commerce to many of the things presented on this website. The primary function of protecting commerce remains the same, but it is interesting to follow the changes and adaptations of chamber functions through the years as chambers have adjusted to the changing needs of society. Today the role of a chamber of commerce has expanded to address socioeconomic concerns and social needs, going far beyond its original intent several centuries ago.

National chamber

President William Howard Taft sent a letter to Congress in 1911 addressing the need for a “central organization “in order to “keep purely American interests in a closer touch with different phases of commercial affairs.” A few months later in 1912 the U.S. Chamber of Commerce was born.

Today the U.S. Chamber of Commerce claims a direct membership of 300,000 businesses and 3 million entities in state and local chambers. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is not the same as local and state chambers, which focus on local and state issues. The U.S. Chamber is concerned with national issues and dealings with the federal government.

International chamber

The chamber concept functions on a global scale as well. The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is the largest business organization in the world. Founded in 1919, it now has hundreds of thousands of companies under its umbrella in over 130 countries. With headquarters in Paris, it keeps organizations like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization in touch with international business issues.

The primary purpose of the ICC is to promote trade and investment,and to encourage open markets for goods and services and the free flow of capital.

Chambers require free enterprise and private initiative

America as a nation stands for freedom and the chamber concept can only be found where private initiative and free enterprise exist. The Chamber of Commerce serves a function internationally, nationally and locally, with a proven record of success for the benefit of business and commerce on both the large and small scale.

Your chamber

Historically, and to this day, the Chamber of Commerce remains the most trusted source of information on local businesses and services and the most dependable ally in commerce. There is not a better partner for success than your local Chamber of Commerce.

• You are now listed in the Chamber’s powerful business directory for easy access to other members, but primarily to members of the public who may be looking for your business or service.
• You provide the public with a location where visitors can find information on the community and local businesses. Chamber members can utilize the headquarters for projects, business promotions, board meetings and various Chamber and business needs.
• You have full-time representation and full-time results.
• You have a "watchdog" protecting your interests politically and economically.
• You have access to the only recognized business support center in the community with online selling tools to increase your sales through the internet.
• You also have access to new technology which expands your web influence, your access to information, and your ability to communicate through the internet and the use of mobile devices. This is an important application in today's economy.

Search Engine Ranking

Most Chambers of Commerce make investments in their online presence and social networks to be sure that they are found. Since they are a Chamber of Commerce, and known as a trusted source, they rank highly on search engines. This connection is very important because people looking at a Chamber's website will also find the member businesses.

Directory Connection

Chambers of Commerce usually have a good membership directory. These directories are used as an official guide to reputable businesses and organizations. Joining the Chamber insures that you are presented properly through a trusted source.

This is a terrific benefit if you have an online business. Showing people that you are part of a Chamber helps them feel confident in doing business with you even from long distances.

Calendar Connection

Many Chambers will allow their members to post events on the Chamber calendar, which is used by thousands to find out what is going on within the community.

This popular internet service could be a successful way to promote your own venue or events.