WNY News Now

(WNY News Now) – A new nationwide survey underscores the vital role of chambers of commerce in boosting local economies, fostering business growth, and addressing community challenges.

Results from a nationwide public opinion poll indicate chambers of commerce are vital to the prosperity of their communities. The Harris Poll survey, conducted on behalf of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), finds 81% of U.S. adults agree that their local chamber of commerce is a trusted resource and partner for businesses. Around nine in 10 feel that their local chamber has an impact on growing the local economy (90%) and addressing challenges within their community (88%).

“The poll’s findings assert the crucial role chambers of commerce play for businesses, economies and communities,” said Sheree Anne Kelly, ACCE president & CEO. “Chambers are trusted and innovative organizations. As a result, we are seeing tremendous momentum to bring even more bold leadership and lasting impact on the communities we serve.” 

Key findings of the poll include: 

• Chambers are Trusted: 81% of U.S. adults agree that their local chamber is a trusted resource and partner for businesses. 90% feel that their local chamber has an impact on growing the local economy. 
• Chamber Membership Strengthens a Business’s Reputation: 64% of adults who are familiar with their local chamber are more likely to purchase goods and services from a business that they know is a member of their local chamber. 63% of these adults are more likely to recommend that business to someone else.
• Chambers Serve Businesses and Communities: 76% of U.S. adults agree that local chambers are stewards of a strong local economy. 74% believe local chambers create jobs and promote local community development. 72% believe local chambers play a key role in addressing community challenges.  
• Business Owners See the Value: 65% of business owners see their local chamber as an advocate for initiatives and policies that are in the best interest of their business. 62% believe the chamber supports the growth and prosperity of their business. 
• People Want to Learn More About Their Local Chamber: 70% of U.S. adults wished they knew more about the work their local chamber does in the community. Specifically, they are most commonly interested in learning more about the type of impact local chambers have in their community (49%), more general information about chambers of commerce (43%), and which local businesses are members (42%).

Here in Chautauqua County, the CHQ Chamber is focused on supporting our local businesses in a variety of ways and connecting businesses with the community. Our mission is to build vital connections, provide professional resources, and champion our local businesses in Chautauqua County. We know that when our local businesses thrive, the community thrives. Our ShopLocalCHQ Gift Card drives sales for local businesses to the tune of over $70,000 annually. Our online business directory creates over 5,000 average daily referrals to local businesses. And since the beginning of 2024 of this year, we have assisted 57 start-up businesses with grand openings, and there are more to come before the year’s end.

Chamber membership makes a difference. Our team works every day to provide resources and programs that make a positive impact for local businesses and our community. 

This survey was conducted online within the United States between September 5-9, 2024 among 2,075 adults (aged 18 and over) including 141 respondents who are business owners (i.e., employed with a title of CEO, partner or owner) by The Harris Poll on behalf of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) via its Harris On Demand omnibus product.