WASHINGTON, D.C. — At its board meeting last week, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce awarded the Accreditation designation to 11 chambers of commerce for their sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on their communities.
“Accredited chambers of commerce are impactful advocates for the business community” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President, Federation Relations and IOM. “When chambers of commerce earn the distinction of becoming Accredited, it is a mark of excellence for the organization, its staff, and its leadership. This rigorous review includes all aspects of a chamber’s policies, operations, and programming. 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. It is an extraordinary accomplishment.”
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
- Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce (Nacogdoches, TX)
Accredited with 5 Stars
- Branson Chamber of Commerce & CVB (Branson, MO)
- Greater Louisville Inc. (Louisville, KY)
- Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce (Port Arthur, TX)
- Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce (Utica, NY)
- Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce (Wausau, WI)
- McLean County Chamber of Commerce (Bloomington, IL)
- Olathe Chamber of Commerce (Olathe, KS)
- Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce (Paducah, KY)
- The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce (Springfield, IL)
- Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce (Winter Haven, FL)
