WASHINGTON, D.C. — At its board meeting last week, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce awarded the Accreditation designation to 20 chambers of commerce for their sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on their communities.
“Chambers of commerce that achieve an Accreditation designation are truly leaders in their industry.” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President, Federation Relations and IOM. “This rigorous review includes all aspects of a chamber’s policies, operations, and programming. When chambers of commerce earn the distinction of becoming Accredited, it is a mark of excellence for the organization, its staff, and its leadership. Accredited chambers are recognized for their ability to serve as a resource to their region’s businesses while maintaining transparent governance practices, sound financial controls, safe work environments, effective communications, and value in programming. They are commended for their continued advocacy of free enterprise, and for their commitment to serving members and their local businesses.
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
- Delaware Area Chamber of Commerce (Delaware, OH)
- Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce (Denver, CO)
- Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce (Murray, KY)
- Wilson Chamber of Commerce (Wilson, NC)
Accredited with 5 Stars
- Albany Area Chamber of Commerce (Albany, GA)
- Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce (Bowling Green, KY)
- Columbia County Chamber of Commerce (Evans, GA)
- Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce (Edmond, OK)
- Frisco Chamber of Commerce (Frisco, TX)
- Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce (Irving, TX)
- Greater Jackson Chamber (Jackson, TN)
- Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce (Taylor, TX)
- Lakeland Chamber of Commerce (Lakeland, FL)
- Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce (Lee's Summit, MO)
- Pearland Chamber of Commerce (Pearland, TX)
- Roseville Area Chamber of Commerce (Roseville, CA)
- South Shore Chamber of Commerce (Rockland, MA)
- St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce (St. Cloud, MN)
- St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce (Covington, LA)
- Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce (Kennewick, WA)
