*Dependant on sponsorship event.

Top Reasons to Be a Sponsor

• Sponsorship brings credibility to your business. You can increase positive perception among consumers and business owners when you’re identified as a member of a chamber of commerce.

• Increase your visibility in the community. As a new member of the chamber of commerce, you will be listed in the chamber e-newsletter, on Facebook and have the opportunity to be highlighted in other chamber publications. You also can grow your business by advertising with the chamber and sponsoring events. The chamber may also promote your grand opening/ ribbon-cutting ceremony and assist with any public relations efforts.

• Create networking opportunities. Chambers have numerous committees and serving on one of them provides numerous networking opportunities as well as professional leadership development. You can build your business while promoting developments of keen interest to local businesses and the community at large.

• Gain a voice in government. The local chamber takes on the tough issues and opposes new regulations, taxes, fees, assessments and costs directed at small businesses. It also helps protect the principles of free enterprise and aids businesses in being treated fairly.– Yuma Chamber of Commerce in California

• Make business contacts. The chamber’s most fundamental mission is to generate more business activity for the community. The chamber initiates more business-to-business commerce and more opportunities for networking and connecting local professionals than is available through most other local organizations.

• Receive chamber newsletters. Newsletters provide new member information, upcoming events and member-to-member discounts. 

• Acquire customer referrals. When asked chambers recommend their members for services.

• Chamber events and programs. Chamber events and programs provide members with great opportunities to get to know new people and expand their prospect base. 

• Promotion and publicity. With a chamber membership, you can reach potential clients through member exclusive advertising and opportunities for business-to-business advertising and publicity.

sponsorship Guidelines

1. Plan early! Plan at least 10 business days ahead of event date. Notify the chamber early — the earlier the better in order to be sure the mayor and other officials are available or if you wish to mail invitations.

2. Schedule It! Schedule your event during normal business hours.

3. Be prepared! Be prepared to briefly tell about your business.

4. Plan for Tours! You may want to give a tour, if so, designate tour leaders (You will be too busy to give tours yourself).

5. Handouts Available! You may wish to have handouts prepared.

6. Invite Everyone! Feel free to invite employees (and maybe their families), neighboring businesses, vendors, suppliers, clients, those who may have helped with your start up, such as an attorney, banker, accountant, investors, and of course, friends and family members.

7. Additional Refreshments! You may also wish to provide additional refreshments, depending on the time of day.

8. Utensils, plus! Members, please remember to have small plates, cups, napkins, forks, and trash receptacle, on hand for the cake and perhaps a drink.

(Generally, ribbon cuttings are held once a year, per business.)