Frequently Asked Questions
General
What is a Chamber of Commerce?
A chamber of commerce is a membership-based organization that provides support to the business community it serves. Most cities, communities, and regions have their own local chamber of commerce. Not all chambers function exactly the same, provide the same benefits to members, or focus their efforts on exactly the same priorities. Most chambers of commerce however either directly provide or connect their members with educational workshops, networking events, marketing and promotional initiatives, and advocacy for the businesses served. The emphasis each chamber places on these initiatives, however, varies from chamber to chamber. Most chambers of commerce – including the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce – are 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations.
What does the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce do?
The mission of the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce is to create and support a thriving business environment. We harness our marketing, education, networking, and advocacy programs to increase commercial activity and strengthen existing businesses and Chamber members in the Edgewater community. We are a 501(c)(6) non-profit membership-based organization.
Edgewater
How many businesses are in Edgewater?
There are approximately 600 businesses with a bricks and mortar presence within the area of Edgewater that we serve.
How many members are in the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce?
The Edgewater Chamber of Commerce has approximately 200 members.
What are the boundaries of Edgewater?
To the east, Lake Michigan. To the west, Ravenswood. To the north, Devon Avenue. To the south, Foster Avenue. All businesses within Edgewater or with an interest in Edgewater are eligible to apply for membership in the Chamber. The portion of Edgewater that comprises Andersonville has its own chamber of commerce, although businesses who wish to maximize their exposure and presence are encouraged to be members of both chambers.
I’m looking for a business in the Edgewater community. How can I find it?
Try the business directory on our website. Our online directory lists all active Chamber members. It’s a great way to find local businesses.
Membership
How much are the annual Chamber dues?
Annual dues currently range from $150 to $500. Nonprofit organizations are eligible for a 50% discount on their annual dues. Feel free to contact us at 773-561-6000 with additional questions. You can read more about the benefits of membership here.
Are dues tax deductible?
Chamber dues are deductible for federal income tax purposes as a business expense. Because we are a 501(c)(6) organization, dues and contributions to the Chamber are NOT deductible in the same way as contributions to 501(c)(3) organizations.
How do I join?
Please visit our Join page for details on how to join the Chamber, including a link to our membership application.
Chamber Operations
What are the Chamber’s hours of operation?
Monday-Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm
How can I make a complaint about a business?
Please contact the Better Business Bureau at 706-324-0712.
Events
Can non-members attend Edgewater Chamber events?
Yes. Most of our events are open to non-members. However, non-members usually pay a higher fee to attend events since members often receive a discount.
