U.S. Chamber Awards Five Local Chambers with Accreditation

WASHINGTON, D.C.— The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, at its board meeting earlier this month, awarded accreditation to five chambers of commerce for their sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on their communities.

“These local chambers are an essential part of the business community’s efforts to promote economic growth and job creation across the country,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber vice president of Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “This designation recognizes the positive impact these organizations have had within their communities, and it honors their commitment to continuing to serve local businesses.”

The only program of its kind in the country, U.S. Chamber accreditation recognizes excellence in chamber planning and performance. To achieve accreditation, a chamber must demonstrate quality programs, clear organizational procedures, and effective communications by meeting minimum operation and program standards in the areas of governance, program development, government affairs, and technology.

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:

Recommended for Accreditation

Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce, Big Rapids, MI

Recommended for 4-Star Accreditation

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, Fitchburg, MA

Recommended for 5-Star Accreditation

Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, Cheyenne, WY
Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, Metairie, LA
Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce, Paducah, KY