The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce strives to promote the continuous improvement of the common good and the quality of life in the community through the pursuit of new business; the cultural, social, and economic education of our citizens; and by providing accurate and timely assistance to the business community. The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce provides leadership through member engagement, business advocacy and civic partnerships to strengthen our community and business environment. The Chamber believes in “Better Business. Better Community.” The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce provides access to valuable resources, discounts, and relationships that help businesses save money and market their products and services. We are an organization of businesses seeking to further our collective interests, while advancing our community, region, state, and nation.
About Us
Your Chamber team members are all active in Bloomington and Monroe County... and across the region. We all have our different roles within the organization, but one of the many things we have in common is our appreciation for what Bloomington has to offer. From local business to volunteer opportunities, arts and music to great food, educational experiences to a walk on the B-Line trail, your Chamber team is active and engaged in multiple ways.
Mission & Vision
Our Mission |
The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce provides leadership through member engagement, business advocacy and civic partnerships to strengthen our community and business environment.
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Our Vision |
Greater Bloomington will be a vibrant community in which to live, learn, invest and work with collaborative support from a thriving business sector.
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History
Since the start of the twentieth century, Bloomington business leaders have collaborated in merchant organizations to support the city and attract employers to the area. The success of their efforts is clear from Bloomington’s modern-day reputation as a stable and attractive city.
The Retail Merchants’ Bureau and the Commercial Club were two groups that formed in the early 1900s to address business concerns in the community. The Commercial Club was a loosely-organized predecessor to the Chamber of Commerce. It published “Souvenir of Bloomington,” a booklet highlighting community features and opportunities.
In spring 1915, local businesses and organizations came together to officially form the Chamber of Commerce. It quickly gained members and expanded its business-focused efforts to include advocacy in city government.
Early Chamber of Commerce efforts focused on improving roads, publicizing the town and bringing a sense of unity to the Bloomington business community.
The Retail Merchants’ Bureau and the Commercial Club were two groups that formed in the early 1900s to address business concerns in the community. The Commercial Club was a loosely-organized predecessor to the Chamber of Commerce. It published “Souvenir of Bloomington,” a booklet highlighting community features and opportunities.
In spring 1915, local businesses and organizations came together to officially form the Chamber of Commerce. It quickly gained members and expanded its business-focused efforts to include advocacy in city government.
Early Chamber of Commerce efforts focused on improving roads, publicizing the town and bringing a sense of unity to the Bloomington business community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chamber of Commerce?
A chamber of commerce is a voluntary organization that represents the interests of businesses in a particular city or region.
What does a chamber of commerce do?
A chamber of commerce serves as a voice for the business community, advocating on behalf of its members to local and state governments. They also provide networking opportunities, promote economic development, and offer business resources and educational programs.
How do I become a member of a chamber of commerce?
Contact Stacy Bruce, Director of Member Services, to learn more about membership. Or visit our webpage on Membership. Or you can fill out an application online.
What are the benefits of joining a chamber of commerce?
Benefits of joining a chamber of commerce can include networking opportunities, access to business resources and services, advocacy and representation on legislative issues affecting businesses, and exposure to potential customers.
Can non-profit organizations join a chamber of commerce?
Yes, the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce offers membership to non-profit organizations.
Can individuals join a chamber of commerce?
The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce does allow individuals to join. It is our civic level membership.
What is the difference between a local chamber of commerce and a national chamber of commerce?
Local chambers of commerce represent businesses within a specific city or region, while national chambers of commerce advocate for the interests of businesses across the country.
How are chambers of commerce funded?
Chambers of commerce are funded through membership dues, sponsorships, and events.
Can a chamber of commerce endorse political candidates?
Although many Chambers of commerce can endorse political candidates or issues if they are a registered 501(c)(6) organization and follow certain guidelines, the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce does NOT endorse political candidates. See our Endorsement Policy here.
Do you have to be a Chamber member to go to Bloomington Women in Leadership (BWIL) or Young Professionals Bloomington (YPB) event?
No. Both of these groups are affinity groups of the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce, but membership is not required.
Does the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce have a foundation?
Yes. The Success School is the Chamber’s Foundation.
Is the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce a part of the city?
No. The Chamber is a separate entity and is a non-profit organization.
The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce Brand
Our Brand |
Welcome to the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce's Brand Guidelines. This document contains all you need to know about how our brand should be used in print and digital materials ensuring it remains consistent throughout. Using our brand correctly is extremely important to us, so we ask that the guide is always referred to and adhered to. We hope you enjoy getting to know our brand better. To download our Brand Guide, click here.
To use a logo in the brand guide, please contact Kaytee Lorentzen, Director of Communications & Events, for permission and the correct logo files. |
