WASHINGTON, D.C. — At its board meeting earlier this month, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce awarded the Accreditation designation to nine chambers of commerce for their sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on their communities.
“Accreditation is a tremendous accomplishment.” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President, Federation Relations and IOM. “Earning this prestigious designation sets chambers apart in the industry and shines a light on the impactful work this organization is doing on behalf of its members and local business community.”
The U.S. Chamber's Accreditation Program facilitates continuing excellence in the chamber industry and fosters a pro-business environment across America. In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, communications, and technology. This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete.
Local and regional chambers are rated “Accredited,” “Accredited with 3 Stars,” “Accredited with 4 Stars,” or “Accredited with 5 Stars.” State chambers are rated “Accredited State Chamber,” or “Accredited State Chamber with Distinction.” The final determination is made by the accrediting board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members, and chamber CEOs from across the country.
The following chambers of commerce received accreditation:
Accredited with 4 Stars
- Brownsville Chamber of Commerce (Brownsville, TX)
- Lancaster Chamber (Lancaster, PA)
Accredited with 5 Stars
- Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce (Broken Arrow, OK)
- Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce (Castle Rock, TX)
- Central Fort Bend Chamber (Rosenberg, TX)
- Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce (Joplin, MO)
- Longview Chamber of Commerce (Longview, TX)
- McKinney Chamber of Commerce (McKinney, TX)
- Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce (Newnan, GA)
