YOU need to join your local chamber of commerce.
I am talking to you. Small business owners, freelancers, solopreneurs, the little guy or gal. YOU. Absolutely large corporations should too, but this post isn’t about them, it’s about YOU and ME!
You know I have been in business since 2004. I photographed my first solo wedding in 2005. So almost 20 years in the trenches. A freaking long time.
Some people would say I am a small business, or a freelancer, or maybe a solopreneur. To me, it’s always been all of those things. They have all applied to me along my journey.
But where has the Chamber of Commerce fit in my opinions?
For a very, very long time I thought that the Chamber of Commerce was for the big guns. I guess the word commerce kind of threw me and I assumed as a solopreneur that it did not apply to me or my fellow owner operators. I was wrong. Probably not the first time and I doubt the last.
For over a year a beautiful friend in business had been asking me to attend chamber events and I resisted, until I didn’t anymore. I bit the bullet and went along.
I ended up attending my first
Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce Business at Dusk on a freezing cold night, and we were outdoors for the most part with little pub heaters in a windy laneway. The way strangers and non-strangers gathered around the flames to chat and support and come up with new ideas was beautiful and I loved it.
There were so many other micro business owners there that I knew that I realised I had been wrong about Chamber all along, there were also many of Toowoomba’s biggest enterprises represented. They are for every business!
I officially joined the next day!
I met with the team at the chamber and we discussed what makes an organisation like theirs thrive, how members can help, how I could help the chamber to grow and thrive.
Being a
Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce member has been a wild ride, with the Chamber Board headshots a short while later and so many amazing events it has opened my eyes to the connection between small businesses like mine and the massive businesses that employ thousands in our region and keep our economy strong.
My love for the chamber has grown and grown and I believe they are one of the most important community organisations in our region: supporting all of the businesses that make our economy strong and successful and make Toowoomba an area where thousands flock each year to live and hundreds of thousands visit each year to enjoy all that we have to offer.
The best way to support our chamber (which in turn supports our local businesses) is to become a financial member and attend events and workshops. If, like me, you had previously thought Chamber wasn’t for you – I hope that I have convinced you that you were wrong too (just like I was for so long).
If you need my help just reach out, I would love to attend an event with you as my guest. I would love for you to ask questions and get involved. The Chamber is there to support you and your business, no matter the size or industry.
So, what are you waiting for? Join the Chamber of Commerce and see what amazing opportunities await. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a chamber of commerce?
A chamber of commerce is a non-profit organization that advocates for businesses and promotes economic growth within a specific region or community.
2. What do chambers of commerce do?
Chambers of commerce offer a range of services to their members, including networking opportunities, educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of businesses.
3. Who can join a chamber of commerce?
Typically, any business or individual can join a chamber of commerce, regardless of the industry or size of the business. Chambers welcome freelancers, solo traders, and other small business owners.
4. What are the benefits of joining a chamber of commerce?
The benefits of joining a chamber of commerce can include increased visibility and credibility for your business, networking opportunities, access to resources and education, and the chance to get involved in the community.
5. How can I get involved with my local chamber of commerce?
You can get involved with your local chamber of commerce by attending meetings and events, volunteering for committees or special projects, and taking advantage of the resources and programs offered to members.
Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce Contact Details:
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