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1. Doesn’t the Chamber primarily serve the needs of
big businesses?
Many people are surprised to learn that 85% of all Chamber
members are small businesses with 25 or fewer employees.
Many programs are designed with small business needs in
mind.
2. How much business should I expect as a result of my
membership in the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce?
One of the primary missions of the Chamber is to provide
opportunities to business executives to interact and make
new connections. Another is to encourage members to buy from
other members. The Chamber also does all it can to promote
name recognition of and referrals to its members. While the
Chamber works very hard to create opportunity for its
members, the ultimate responsibility to growing your
business rests with you.
3. I would like to volunteer to serve on a committee
or task force at the Chamber. Who do I call?
Any question about your membership can usually be answered
by calling the Member Services Coordinator or the Membership
Manager at 956-542-4341.
4. I don’t have time to become heavily involved in
Chamber activities. Does that decrease the value of my
membership?
Not at all. As a matter of fact, only about 15% of all
members participate actively in volunteer positions with the
Chamber. Your membership is designed to give you a
tremendous return on your investment even if you don’t have
time to get heavily involved. If you do have the time, you
can certainly reap extra benefits.
5. How do I submit press releases to the Chamber for
use in the Member News section of the “Progress”?
All members in good standing with the Chamber may submit one
press release per month for possible publication in the
Member Highlight section of the “Progress”. Press releases
should be brief and comply with the editorial standards
published on page 2 of the “Progress”. Press releases should
be faxed or emailed to: Communication Manager, Fax:
956-504-3348 or emailed to
angela@brownsvillechamber.com.
6. How does the Chamber decide how to assess dues to
members?
In the vast majority of cases, the formula for setting the
level of dues is based on the number of full time permanent employee. The system is designed to
result in a "fair share” contribution by businesses of all
sizes. In some special business categories a different
formula is sometimes used, but the goal is always fairness.
Click
here for dues schedule.
7. I would like to let my customers and vendors know I
am a member of the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce. Can I
use the Chamber’s logo on my letterhead and business cards?
You are encouraged to show the pride you have in your
membership by using the Chamber’s logo on your printed
materials and on your website. You can contact the Chamber’s
communication department at 956-542-4341 to request a copy
of the logo.
8. It seems like the Chamber is always trying to raise
funds and is always asking for donations or sponsorships. What does the
Chamber do with all that money?
Sponsorships and other donations to the Chamber are used to
deliver the quality of programs and resources our members
expect and deserve. The Chamber is a non-profit
member-driven organization. Without those contributions we
are not able to represent the best interests of business as
well as our members expect us to.
9. Does the Chamber receive any tax dollars for its
operation?
No. The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit,
501(c) 6, organization and derives 100% of its income from
membership dues, non dues income, donations and gifts.
10. What does the Chamber do (beyond helping business)
to improve the quality of life in Brownsville?
There are a number of ways the Chamber adds to the quality
of life we all enjoy. The areas in which we are most active
are education, transportation and international business
affairs.
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