BOARD HANDBOOK
GREATER MACON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
DATES
Board of Directors
January 23, 2024
9:30 a m – 10:30 a m
Executive Board Meeting
11:00 a m
Chamber Board Orientation
February 27, 2024
11:00 a m
Executive Board Meeting
March 26, 2024
9:00 a.m.
Executive Board Meeting
3:00 p.m.
Chamber Board Meeting (Zoom)
April 25, 2024
11:00 a.m.
Executive Board Meeting
May 28, 2024
9:30 a m
Executive Board Meeting
11:00 a m
Chamber Board Meeting
June 25, 2024
11:00 a m
Executive Board Meeting
July 23, 2024
9:30 a.m.
Executive Board Meeting
11:00 a.m.
Chamber Board Meeting
August 27, 2024
11:00 a.m.
Executive Board Meeting
September 24, 2024
9:30 a.m.
Executive Board Meeting
11:00 a.m.
Chamber Board Meeting
September 26-27, 2024
Chamber Board Retreat
Athens, GA
October 22, 2024
11:00 a.m.
Executive Board Meeting
November 19, 2024
9:30 a.m.
Executive Board Meeting
11:00 a.m.
Chamber Board Meeting
As a member of our Board of Directors, you serve as a voice of the business community, sharing the Greater Macon Chamber’s efforts to advance the economic prosperity of our region. Together, we work towards our vision for Macon-Bibb to be the best community for business.
In 2024, the Greater Macon Chamber will turn 139-years-old. You are here as we experience an increase in engagement and new relevance – from significant momentum with our regional workforce strategy to working closely with supplier diversity, the Ocmulgee National Park initiative and more.
As an organization, the Chamber demonstrates impact by bringing the business community together. Connection is what we do best. Collaboration is where we are making a difference.
To serve successfully, it is important to gain a clear understanding of the purpose of our organization and your roles and responsibilities as a member of the Board. This handbook will provide insight to your important role and serve as a companion guide to our annual Board work session and board binder that contains our bylaws.
Your selection to the Greater Macon Chamber board of directors is a testament of your commitment to the economic vitality of our Central Georgia Region Thank you for agreeing to serve Your dedication to Macon-Bibb’s most significant, organized business community is appreciated and your commitment of time and resources to our mission is valued greatly
It is an honor to welcome you to the Chamber’s team of leadership We are, indeed, greater together
To our mutual success,
Chair, Tyson Firlotte Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce
President
& CEO, Jessica Walden
To Our 2024 Greater Macon Chamber Board Member, Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce
General Overview
The Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce is the most significant, organized business community in Macon-Bibb County Serving as the voice of local business since 1861, the Chamber creates power in numbers – currently made up of nearly 750 Investors, from the smallest businesses to our biggest industries The Chamber provides connection through its network, education with programming and initiatives, advocacy on behalf of business and avenues of economic opportunity that accelerate businesses, including working collaboratively to attract and retain talent for Macon and the Central Georgia region
As one of more than 5,000 chambers of commerce, the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce is an organization through which the voluntary manpower of our community works effectively to propel the economic vitality of our Macon-Bibb region.
Our Vision and Mission
Vision Statement:
To be the best community for business
Mission Statement:
The Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce will provide the resources and support to advance business success in the region
Core Values:
• Ethical
• Inclusive
• Respectful
• Fiscally Responsible
STAFF
FISCAL YEAR
ANNUAL OPERATING BUDGET
Refer to Budget session of notebook for more information
STAFF
Executive Staff has 25+ years of combined chamber experience, over 35 years of non-profit management
5 SIGNATURE ANNUAL EVENTS
4.5K FACEBOOK 2.3K INSTAGRAM
CHAMBER SIGNATURE PROGRAMMING
State of the Community
Macon Matters
Leadership Macon
Legacy Golf Classic
State of the Community
CHAMBER PROGRAMMING
B.R.E.W. (Business Resources & Engagement Works)
Business After Hours
Future Workforce Friday
Macon & Eggs
M A C Socials (Macon Area Connections)
Star Student
AFFILIATIONS & ACCREDIDATIONS
US Chamber, Georgia Chamber
ACCE, GACCE
Association of Leadership Programs
Georgia Chamber HUB Council
Drugs Don't Work
Smart Plan Insurance
Middle Georgia Military Affairs Committee (MGMAC)
Board of Directors
The government and policy making responsibilities of the Chamber shall be vested in the Board of Directors, which shall control its property, be responsible for its finances and direct its affairs
Committees & Task Forces
Chambers of Commerce are successful primarily because of their ability to activate a broad cross-section of voluntary business and professional leadership on short notice. These volunteers are organized into committees or task forces.
Committee: A standing group that meets on a regular basis to investigate a variety of issues. The committee does the work. Staff assistance is provided in attaining the goal of the committee.
Task Force: A group recruited on short notice to work on a particular issue or project, which is usually disbanded after a recommendation is made to the Board of Directors Again, staff assistance is provided in attaining the goal of the task force
Committee appointments shall be at the will and pleasure of the Chairperson and in no event shall exceed the term of the appointing Chairperson It shall be the function of the committee or division to make investigations, conduct studies and hearings, make recommendations to the Board of Directors and to carry out such activities as may be delegated to them by the Board of Directors. The Chairperson, respective Vice-Chairperson and President shall be ex-officio members of all committees.
Appointed Committees
Personnel Committee
Nominating Committee
Finance Committee
Audit Committee
Forward Macon (Vice Chair, Robbo Hatcher)
Volunteer Committees
Engagement – Vice Chair, Walter Stafford
Workforce - Vice Chair, Christy Kovac
Government & Military Affairs
Vice Chair, Chrissy Miner
The following is a guide to serving on the Greater Macon Chamber Board of Directors. While it is intended to be thorough, there will be situations and questions that arise not answered in this short guide. Should a situation require additional clarification, please contact Chamber CEO or board chair for guidance on the matter
Determine the Organization's Mission and Purpose
The statement of mission and purposes articulates the organization's goals, means, and primary constituents served. It is the board of directors' responsibility to create the mission statement and review it periodically for accuracy and validity. Each individual board member should know it, fully understand it and support it.
Select the CEO
Boards must reach a consensus on the CEO's job description and undertake a careful search process to find the most qualified individual for the position. The business management of the Chamber is the responsibility of the President & CEO, who must operate within the framework of budgets established, programs adopted, and policies developed by the directors.
Support the CEO and Assess Performance
The board should ensure that the CEO has the moral and professional support he or she needs to further the goals of the organization The CEO should receive periodic performance evaluation (typically performed by the Personnel Committee with input from the Executive Committee)
Ensure Effective Organizational Planning
As stewards of an organization, boards must actively participate with the staff in an overall planning process and assist in implementing the plan's goals
Attend board meetings and actively participate in decision-making
Be prompt and prepared for meetings Board materials (agenda, minutes, committee reports, proposals, etc ) will be available prior to meetings Every director is responsible to review materials before each meeting.
Ensure Adequate Resources and Manage Effectively
The board sets membership investment schedules, raises necessary fund for sound operation, adopts the budget, approves non-budgeted expenditures and assures that necessary fiscal procedures are adhered to.
Enhance the Organization’s Public Image
An organization's primary link to the community - constituents, the public, and the media - is the board. Clearly articulating the organization's mission, accomplishments, and goals to the public, as well as garnering support from important members of the community, are important elements of a comprehensive public relations strategy.
While the CEO is the organization's official spokesperson, occasions may arise when a Director (Board Chair or designee) may serve as the Chamber's official or unofficial spokesperson. As a spokesperson for the Chamber, each Director will reflect the official Chamber position. This responsibility requires the exercise of careful judgment, for a Director's own personal views may sometimes differ from policies or official positions adopted by the Chamber. In such cases, the Director must use great care not to express personal views as such views might be misinterpreted as representing the views of the Chamber
A Director, during a term, may expect to encounter criticism of the organization The Director has an obligation to defend it against unfair criticism or to initiate any necessary action to eliminate the cause if the criticism is justified
Ensure Legal and Ethical Integrity and Maintain Accountability
Board members are expected to maintain close contact with members of the Chamber and various leaders of the community Board meetings will be on a definite schedule throughout the year Each Director should make every effort to maintain good attendance and be on time. Upon the absence of a Director from three (3) meetings of the Board for reasons which the Board fails to declare sufficient, that Director's resignation may be required at the request of the executive committee.
Each Director is a representative-at-large of all Chamber members. Each Director, in order to serve the Chamber effectively, must take an active interest in the organization and its activities. This means keeping informed and abreast of activities.
Maintain appropriate board/staff relationships following Chamber protocol/chain of command.
Board governs/directs Staff executes direction under the guidance of the CEO
CEO reports to the board Staff reports to CEO
Recruit and Orient New Board Members; Assess Board Performance
All boards have a responsibility to articulate and make known their needs in terms of member experience, skills, and many other considerations that define a "balanced" board composition Boards must also orient new board members to their responsibilities and the organization's history, needs, and challenges By evaluating its performance in fulfilling its responsibilities, the board can recognize its achievement and reach a consensus on which areas need to be improved
Board members endeavor to enlist the talents and energies of Chamber members in committee activities.
A Director must use every possible effort for maintaining and increasing, both in number and caliber, membership in the Chamber.
Identifying new volunteers in the Chamber maintains our sustainability. Make it your goal to identify and nominate at least one individual for leadership roles on a committee or the board.
SUPPORTS
DYNAMIC SUCCESS
U R WAYS BOARD THE
Know the WHY.
Understand the answer when you are asked: why get involved with the Greater Macon Chamber? Here are our five priority reasons WHY the Chamber exists to connect, educate, accelerate and advocate in our Central Georgia region:
The Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce is Macon-Bibb’s most significant, organized business community
The Chamber demonstrates impact by bringing the business community together
Our Chamber works collaboratively to attract and retain talent for Macon and our region.
We provide opportunities in programming and initiatives to build the future leaders of our businesses and community.
The Chamber is a trusted steward of investment, with excellent opportunities to promote your business and brand
Engage in our programming. Encourage others to do the same.
Your presence at our programming, from Business After Hours to signatures like State of the Community, is valued, recognized and makes a statement in demonstrating the Chamber’s impact. When you bring guests, clients or prospective Investors to Chamber programming, you are creating connections the Chamber exists to uphold.
Stay informed and connected.
Are you receiving our emails? Do you follow the Chamber on social media? Better yet, can you like, share and comment to boost our engagement? Forwarding our emails to others is one of the easiest and most effective ways to leverage our marketing Use our website as a reference for business content and an easy way for businesses to join the Chamber today – just look for the Join Now button
Support our Investors.
From the small business to the major industry who choose to make Macon home, support the economic drivers who have invested in the mission of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce. As we work together to make Macon the best place to do business in Georgia, lean on our Chamber network for your business and community needs. When you see a sponsor of Chamber programming and initiatives, thank them. Take the time to recognize their brand as a trusted partner in our community.
Take Advantage of Your Tier.
At the end of 2022, the Greater Macon Chamber rolled out a new tiered-dues investment structure Now businesses can select the tier where the benefits best serve their needs As board members of the Macon Chamber, you are also an instrumental investor Please review your benefits associated with your investment tier Leverage those benefits for your business And if you haven’t already, consider a higher tier of investment to leverage those benefits even more
Connect STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
GREATER MACON CHAMBER
investors with the community at large
2024
Be the premier resource for businesses and entrepreneurs to connect with the community
Keep Chamber Investors positively engaged through social media, monthly newsletter, and website updates
Provide a variety of networking opportunities
Offer valuable marketing efforts
Provide numerous volunteer opportunities
Engage Investors with programming
Showcase new businesses to the community with ribbon cutting ceremonies
Connect the Chamber stakeholders and Board of Directors with the Chamber membership
Connect minority businesses to educational programs and business growth opportunities in the community
Educate with impactful programs and opportunities
Develop our region's next generation of business leaders and community stakeholders
Increase the diversity and inclusivity of our programs
Provide relevant learning resources for business and leadership development
Educate new business owners and entrepreneurs through our partnerships with local entrepreneur support organizations (ESOs)
Provide an extensive resource guide to help our business community stay engaged and business economy growing
Educate Investors on chamber engagement opportunities
Advocate at the local, state and federal level
Increase the awareness of the Chamber's advocacy efforts and success
Develop and promote an inclusive local, state, and federal agenda with broad input from stakeholders
2024 Accelerate economic growth through workforce development and talent retention
Connect business and community leaders to local, state, and federal officials through signature legislative programs
Advance issue-based, grassroots advocacy among Chamber Investors
Collaborate and strengthen coalitions with regional business organizations
Maintain an active role in supporting Robins Air Force Base and Military
Serve as a conduit between businesses, citizens and community leaders
Advocate for the development and protection of 'business-friendly' ordinances and legislation
Implement workforce strategies where local employers know that students educated in Bibb County are work-ready
Sustain and grow our workforce pipeline and talent retention, where job seekers and students in Bibb County know how to connect with internships, apprenticeships and job opportunities in Macon-Bibb
Engage the new and emerging talent in Macon
Provide increased awareness of career opportunities
Promote the quality of life for residents
Support and retain businesses and entrepreneurs
Partner with our regional education eco-system for career pathway development
Launch initiatives for talent recruitment and retention that include:
GreaterCareerWorks.com
ChooseMacon.com
Leadership Macon
Macon Area Connections (M.A.C.)
Future Workforce Friday
TOP FIVE LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES FOR MACON-BIBB
2024 GREATER MACON CHAMBER
Support and advocate for federal funding for the Ocmulgee National Historic Park along with the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative (ONPPI) to become Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve.
Support, promote and protect the military presence in Georgia, in particular Robins Air Logistics Complex. Advocate for Georgia’s military population (the fifth largest military population in the country) and support Robins Air Force Base with its $3 57 billion economic impact on the Georgia economy and workforce of 22,635 people
Support and promote increasing access to mass transit opportunities for our workforce
Support legislation that improves high school completion rates to provide an employable and adaptable workforce.
Maintain focus on developing sensible tax and regulatory policy solutions which encourages investment and maintaining a healthy economic environment for business 1 2 3 4 5
GOVERNMENT & MILITARY AFFAIRS AGENDA
2024 GREATER MACON CHAMBER
Economic Development
Support the Macon-Bibb Government and the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority in the advocacy for the Middle Georgia Regional Airport expansion to enhance air transportation, industrial investment, and sustainable economic growth
Support and advocate for federal funding for the Ocmulgee National Historic Park along with the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative (ONPPI) to become Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve
Support and advocate for the business revitalization of the Eisenhower Corridor
Support and advocate for the merging of Bibb and Houston County’s Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA).
Military Support
Support, promote and protect the military presence in Georgia, in particular Robins Air Logistics Complex Advocate for Georgia’s military population (the fifth largest military population in the country) and support Robins Air Force Base with its $3 57 billion economic impact on the Georgia Economy and workforce of 22,635 people
Pursue opportunity for Macon-Bibb representation on Georgia Joint Defense Commission. Support policies and programs that work with Military families as they transition in and out of our community and region at large.
Support business-friendly policies for military and Veteran-owned enterprises.
Transportation
Collaborate with Georgia Transportation Alliance and the Freight and Logistics Commission on transportation recommendations, particularly in regard for advancing truck designated lanes on I-75 from Macon to Atlanta
Support policies that improve pedestrian safety and improve trail systems and multi-modal connectivity
Support and promote increasing access to mass transit opportunities for our workforce
GOVERNMENT & MILITARY AFFAIRS AGENDA
2024 GREATER MACON CHAMBER
Education & Workforce
Promote policies that increase awareness and access to College and Career Academy and higher education options for Macon-Bibb County, as well as promote policies that bolster the full workforce talent pipeline in partnership with K-12 education, technical colleges, colleges and universities and the business community
Support policies that increase access to funding for in-school youth, technical, STEAM, CTAE and higher education training (such as HOPE and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act)
Support legislation that improves high school completion rates to provide an employable and adaptable workforce
Promote and advance Greater Career Works across the region to address and advance workforce alignment and career attainment.
Fiscal
Maintain focus on developing sensible tax and regulatory policy solutions which encourages investment and maintaining a healthy economic environment for business
Support and promote tax incentives that facilitate capital investment and retention to spur job creation
Support existing and new tax incentives to promote ongoing development of workforce housing options throughout the State and promote legislation that diversifies housing options in Macon-Bibb
Promote strategic tax policies that target high demand sectors which thrive in Central Georgia
A signature program of the Greater Macon Chamber, Chamber Ambassadors invest their time and resources to represent the Chamber as premier volunteers and engagement partners of our organization. Ambassador
Chamber Headquarters
The new office location of the Greater Macon Chamber: 338 Poplar Street Headquarters includes a Community Room, Business Resource Room, staff offices, meeting areas and workspaces
Choose Macon
A workforce initiative with a talent recruitment website: ChooseMacon com This website is the starting point to living and working in Macon and instant tool for industry’s talent recruitment This recruitment tool lays the foundation for a shared message in Macon – it showcases Macon as both rooted and rising We are the place in Georgia where history and your future meet These key messages, as well as information on our major employers, industry, neighborhoods and its cost of living calculator make this site useful for both the potential resident and the potential employer
Forward Macon
A collaborative initiative that the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce supports as a fiscal agent and implementation partner. The Chamber, under the OneMacon community and economic development strategy, focuses on key initiatives for Macon’s forward trajectory Forward Macon focuses on building the Macon-Bibb workforce, attracting and retaining talent and revitalizing neighborhoods The Chamber partners with United Way, the Community Foundation of Central Georgia and SparkMacon to execute the Forward Macon plan The Forward Macon plan is expected to increase jobs through its workforce development initiative By 2025, Forward Macon is expected to have played a role in creating 2,400 to 3,100 direct and indirect jobs in Macon-Bibb County These additional jobs will bring an additional$56 million in consumer expenditures Forward Macon is funded by community investors, both public, private and grant-funded
Greater Career Works
An interactive workforce development platform found at GreaterCareerWorks com that links recruitment, skill building and career navigation into one collaborative system, deployed both online and as a mobile app The online hub was developed to close the workforce gaps by informing, educating and developing students and job seekers, while directly connecting them to employers, career pathways and local jobs.
Initiatives
Community collaboration opportunities, strategic focuses, leadership advancement, ongoing engagement opportunity and advocacy work serve as initiatives of the Greater Macon Chamber
Investor
Instead of members or sponsors, you will more often hear reference to investors. An investor is a financial supporter of the Greater Macon Chamber. Investors join the Chamber at any tiered investment levels, invest sponsorship dollars in programming and/or pledge financial commitments to the Forward Macon plan.
Leadership Macon
A signature initiative of the Greater Macon Chamber to encourage local leaders to engage in community and find a place to serve This annual community leadership program focuses on group leadership skills, Macon-Bibb overview and issues pertaining to our community This initiative has an advisory board of directors, alumni program and the class concludes with a community project.
Programming
Educational forums, signature events and connection opportunities are referred to as Chamber programming
Tiered Dues
The annual investment benefit structure for joining the Greater Macon Chamber For detailed investment benefits, refer to pages 18-29 The investment tiers are:
Basic Investor: $440
Business Catalyst: $750
Economic Driver: $1,300
Community Advocate: $2,500
Lead Investor: $5,000
Key Stakeholder: $10,000
Regional Influencer: $25,000
TRC
Acronym for the Total Resource Campaign, a concerted, volunteer-driven fundraising effort organized by Chambers that incentivizes volunteers to engage the business community in Chamber investment.
Basic embership
Annual Investment: $440 | Valued at $855
The Basic Membership level provides you opportunities to engage with over 700 Chamber investors throughout the year, gain visibility among Chamber investors and within the community, stay informed and access business resources. The Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce provides a platform for members to build relationships, participate in learning opportunities and meet experts to foster business growth
Your Benefits at this level
Marketing & Promotion
Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce window cling (digital logo upon request)
Professional business referrals
Opportunity to market events, accomplishments and milestones in weekly newsletter (upon request)
Opportunity to sponsor Chamber programs
Standard listing in Chamber's online business directory (company name, address, phone number, hours of operation, website link, social media links, one category and 240-word description)
First ribbon cutting within first year of initial investment (includes scissors, ribbon, promotion on Chamber's digital platforms and Chamber staff and Ambassador attendance)
Opportunity to purchase additional ribbon cuttings (subject to availability)
Advocacy and Communications
Chamber advocacy of investor interests at the Local, State and Federal levels
Guide direction of Chamber by engaging in surveys and polls
Subscription to Chamber newsletters and e-blasts
First to be updated on Leadership Macon, ChooseMacon com, GreaterCareerWorks com and Macon Area Connections (M A C )
Relationship & Business-Building
Invitation to Chamber programs
Opportunity to serve as an Ambassador
Opportunity to participate on Chamber committees
Opportunity to purchase Chamber investor mailing labels (email address not provided, two-week lead time requested)
Discounts and Savings
Investor pricing on Chamber programs, including Leadership Macon
Opportunity to rent community room and business resource room at discounted investor rate (subject to availability)
Health insurance discounts through Georgia Chamber SMART Plan and Chamber Plus Plan (if eligible)
Retirement plan discounts through Georgia Chamber EXCHANGE Program
Georgia Chamber Federation Membership (for businesses with 10 or fewer employees)
7.5% discount on investor dues upon implementing Drugs Don't Work Program
Access to investor-to-investor coupons and discount portal
This tier is only available for investors with fewer than 10 employees.
Business Catalyst
Annual Investment: $750 | Valued at $1,225
Whileyouarebusyrunningyourbusiness,theGreaterMaconChamberofCommerceworksfor youthroughouttheyear TheBusinessCatalystlevelprovidesmarketingtoolsandopportunities topromoteyourbusiness Peer-to-peerengagement,educationandsharingbestpracticeswill saveyoutimeandhelpgrowyourbusiness
ThisinvestmentlevelincludesallbenefitsintheBasicMembershipLevelPLUSadditional benefitsdesignedforagrowingenterpriselikeyours
Your Benefits at this level
Marketing & Promotion
Basic Membership Plus:
1 Chamber social media post per calendar year to promote a business event (marketing collateral must be provided)
Advocacy and Communications
Chamber advocacy of investor interests at the Local, State and Federal levels
Guide direction of Chamber by engaging in surveys and polls
Subscription to Chamber newsletters and e-blasts
First to be updated on Leadership Macon, ChooseMacon.com, GreaterCareerWorks com and Macon Area Connections (M A C )
Relationship & Business-Building
Basic Membership Plus:
2 tickets to Business After Hours (must redeem in calendar year)
Discounts and Savings
Basic Membership Plus:
2 Chamber meeting room rentals (subject to availability)
Economic Driver
Annual Investment: $1,300 | Valued at $3,255
Your business is growing and with growth comes new challenges and opportunities You want to save time, learn from other businesses and make smart investments in positioning your company for growth The Economic Driver level provides strategic opportunities to explore best practices from successful companies, develop your team and position your brand in the region
This investment level includes all benefits in the Basic Membership Level PLUS additional benefits designed for a growing enterprise like yours
Your Benefits at This Level
Marketing & Promotion
Basic Membership Plus:
2 Chamber social media posts per calendar year to promote a business event (marketing collateral must be provided)
Opportunity to host a virtual or inperson workshop/seminar/B R E W (based on availability and approval)
Opportunity to purchase an enhanced Milestone Ribbon Cutting Celebration (one request/calendar year; Chamber-promoted on social media, in newsletter and on events calendar; includes scissors, custom ribbon and Chamber CEO, staff and Ambassador attendance; invitations sent to Macon Mayor and Chamber Board of Directors)
Advocacy and Communications
Chamber advocacy of investor interests at the Local, State and Federal levels
Guide direction of Chamber by engaging in surveys and polls
Subscription to Chamber newsletters and e-blasts
First to be updated on Leadership Macon, ChooseMacon.com, GreaterCareerWorks com and Macon Area Connections (M A C )
Relationship & Business-Building
Basic Membership Plus:
4 tickets to Business After Hours (must redeem in calendar year)
1 Annual Awards Celebration ticket
Discounts and Savings
Basic Membership Plus:
4 Chamber meeting room rentals (subject to availability)
Community Advocate
Annual Investment: $2,500 | Valued at $4,320
YouappreciatethattheGreaterMaconChamberofCommerceisworkingonyourbehalfto keepthecostofdoingbusinessaffordableandadvocatingforfavorablebusinesspolicies. TheCommunityAdvocateleveloffersopportunitiesforyoutoengagewiththecommunity, influencebusinesspoliciesandprovideprofessionaldevelopmentforyourstaff.
ThisinvestmentlevelincludesallbenefitsintheBasicMembershipLevelPLUSadditional benefitsdesignedforacommunityinvestorlikeyourbusiness
Your Benefits at This Level
Marketing & Promotion
Basic Membership Plus:
3 Chamber social media posts per calendar year to promote a business event (marketing collateral must be provided)
Opportunity to host a virtual or inperson workshop/seminar/B R E W (based on availability and approval)
Opportunity to purchase an enhanced Milestone Ribbon Cutting Celebration (one request/year; Chamber-promoted on social media, in newsletter and on events calendar; includes scissors, custom ribbon, Chamber CEO, staff and Ambassador attendance; invitations sent to Macon Mayor and Chamber Board of Directors)
Up to 2 additional location listings in the Chamber online business directory
Community Advocate name recognition in quarterly Cornerstone update newsletter (4th level)
Community Advocate name recognition on Annual Meeting program (4th level)
Community Advocate name recognition in Chamber annual report (4th level)
Discounts and Savings
Basic Membership Plus:
8 Chamber meeting room rentals (subject to availability)
Relationship & Business-Building
Basic Membership Plus:
6 tickets to Business After Hours (must redeem in calendar year)
2 Annual Awards Celebration tickets
2 Macon Matters tickets
1 set of Chamber investor mailing labels (email address not provided, two-week lead time requested)
Advocacy and Communications
Chamber advocacy of investor interests at the Local, State and Federal levels
Guide direction of Chamber by engaging in surveys and polls Subscription to Chamber newsletters and e-blasts
First to be updated on Leadership Macon, ChooseMacon com, GreaterCareerWorks.com and Macon Area Connections (M A C )
Leading Investor
Investment: $5,000 | Valued at $8,864
Youunderstandtheimportanceofinvestinginadvocacy,economicdevelopment,regional brandingandensuringMaconemployerscontinuetohaveastrongandgloballycompetent workforce AttheCornerstoneInvestorlevel,youhaveaseatatthetablewithleaderswhoare settingthedirectionoftheChamberandtheregion.YoureceiveVIPrecognitionatsignature eventsandthehighestnotorietyinmarketingopportunitiesandinChambercommunications.
Your Benefits at This Level
Marketing & Promotion
Basic Membership Plus:
4 Chamber social media posts per calendar year to promote a business event (marketing collateral must be provided)
Opportunity to host a virtual or inperson workshop/seminar/B R E W (based on availability and approval)
Opportunity to purchase an enhanced Milestone Ribbon Cutting Celebration (one request/year; Chamber-promoted on social media, in newsletter and on events calendar; includes scissors, custom ribbon, Chamber CEO, staff and Ambassador attendance; invitations sent to Macon Mayor and Chamber Board of Directors)
Up to 5 additional location listings in the Chamber online business directory
Leading Investor logo recognition in quarterly Cornerstone update newsletter (3rd level)
Leading Investor logo recognition on Annual Meeting program (3rd level)
Leading Investor logo recognition in Chamber annual report (3rd level)
Discounts and Savings
Basic Membership Plus:
10 Chamber meeting room rentals (subject to availability)
Relationship & Business-Building
Basic Membership Plus:
12 tickets to Business After Hours
2 Annual Awards Celebration tickets
3 Macon Matters Tickets
3 State of the Community tickets
1 set of Chamber investor mailing labels (email address not provided, two-week lead time requested)
Invitation to CEO roundtable discussions and socials
Advocacy and Communications
Chamber advocacy of investor interests at the Local, State and Federal levels
Guide direction of Chamber by engaging in surveys and polls
Subscription to Chamber newsletters and e-blasts
First to be updated on Leadership Macon, ChooseMacon com, GreaterCareerWorks.com and Macon Area Connections (M A C )
Key Stakeholder
Annual Investment: $10,000 | Valued at $16,477
Youunderstandtheimportanceofinvestinginadvocacy,economicdevelopment,regional brandingandensuringMaconemployerscontinuetohaveastrongandgloballycompetent workforce AttheCornerstoneInvestorlevel,youhaveaseatatthetablewithleaderswhoare settingthedirectionoftheChamberandtheregion YoureceiveVIPrecognitionatsignature eventsandthehighestnotorietyinmarketingopportunitiesandinChambercommunications
Your Benefits at This Level
Marketing & Promotion
Basic Membership Plus:
8 Chamber social media posts per calendar year to promote a business event (marketing collateral must be provided)
Opportunity to host a virtual or inperson workshop/seminar/B R E W (based on availability and approval)
1 enhanced Milestone Ribbon
Cutting Celebration (one request/year; Chamber-promoted on social media, in newsletter and on events calendar; includes scissors, custom ribbon and Chamber CEO, staff and Ambassador attendance; invitations sent to Macon Mayor and Chamber Board of Directors)
Up to 10 additional location listings in the Chamber online business directory
Early opportunity to sponsor Chamber events
Exclusive annual leadership interview (upon request)
Key Stakeholder logo recognition in quarterly Cornerstone update newsletter (2nd level)
Key Stakeholder logo recognition on Annual Meeting program (2nd level)
Key Stakeholder logo recognition in Chamber annual report (2nd level)
Discounts and Savings Program
Basic Membership Plus:
12 Chamber meeting room rentals (subject to availability)
Relationship & Business-Building
Basic Membership Plus: 16 tickets to Business After Hours
4 Annual Awards Celebration tickets
4 Macon Matters Tickets
4 State of the Community tickets
2 sets of Chamber investor mailing labels (email address not provided, two-week lead time requested)
1 seat to serve on Military Affairs Council
1 seat to serve on Chamber Board of Directors
Invitation to CEO roundtable discussions and socials
Advocacy and Communications
Chamber advocacy of investor interests at the Local, State and Federal levels
Guide direction of Chamber by engaging in surveys and polls
Subscription to Chamber newsletters and e-blasts
First to be updated on Leadership Macon, ChooseMacon com, GreaterCareerWorks.com and Macon Area Connections (M.A.C.)
Regional Influencer
Youunderstandtheimportanceofinvestinginadvocacy,economicdevelopment,regional brandingandensuringMaconemployerscontinuetohaveastrongandgloballycompetent workforce AttheCornerstoneInvestorlevel,youhaveaseatatthetablewithleaderswhoare settingthedirectionoftheChamberandtheregion YoureceiveVIPrecognitionatsignature eventsandthehighestnotorietyinmarketingopportunitiesandinChambercommunications Annual Investment: $25,000+ | Valued at $40,278
Your Benefits at This Level
Marketing & Promotion
Basic Membership Plus:
10 Chamber social media posts per calendar year to promote a business event (marketing collateral must be provided)
Logo listed on rotating banner ad on the Chamber's website
Opportunity to host a virtual or inperson workshop/seminar/B R E W (based on availability and approval)
1 enhanced Milestone Ribbon
Cutting Celebration (one request/year; Chamber-promoted on social media, in newsletter and on events calendar; includes scissors, custom ribbon, and Chamber CEO, staff and Ambassador attendance; invitations sent to Macon Mayor and Chamber Board of Directors)
Up to 25 additional location listings in the Chamber online business directory
Early opportunity to sponsor Chamber events
Exclusive annual Leadership interview (upon request)
Enhanced listing in online business directory
Regional Influencer logo recognition in quarterly Cornerstone update newsletter (1st level)
Regional Influencer logo recognition on Annual Meeting program (1st level)
Regional Influencer logo recognition in Chamber annual report (1st level)
Relationship & Business-Building
Basic Membership Plus:
24 tickets to Business After Hours
6 Annual Awards Celebration tickets
6 Macon Matters Tickets
6 State of the Community tickets
3 sets of Chamber investor mailing labels (email address not provided, two-week lead time requested)
2 seats to serve on Military Affairs Council
2 seats to serve on Chamber Board of Directors
Invitation to CEO roundtable discussions and socials
Advocacy and Communications
Chamber advocacy of investor interests at the Local, State and Federal levels
Guide direction of Chamber by engaging in surveys and polls
Subscription to Chamber newsletters and e-blasts
First to be updated on Leadership Macon, ChooseMacon.com, GreaterCareerWorks com and Macon Area Connections (M A C )
Discounts and Savings
Basic Membership Plus:
16 Chamber meeting room rentals (subject to availability)
Chamberwindowcling(digitallogouponrequest)
ProfessionalBusinessReferrals
Automaticsubscriptiontonewslettersande-blasts&theopportunitytomarketbusinessnews innewsletter
OpportunitytosponsorChamberprograms
Standardlistinginonlinebusinessdirectory
Complimentaryfirstribboncuttingwithinfirstyearofinvestment&opportunitytopurchase additionalribboncuttings
InvitationtoChamberprograms
OpportunitytoserveasanAmbassador&participateonChambercommittees
Opportunitytopurchaseinvestormailinglabels
AdvocacyofinvestorinterestsatLocal,State,andFederallevels
OpportunitytoguideChamber'sdirectionbyengaginginsurveysandpolls
FirsttobeupdatedonLeadershipMacon,ChooseMacon,GreaterCareerWorks&MAC
InvestorpricingonChamberprograms,includingLeadershipMacon
GeorgiaChamberFederationMembership(ifeligible)
HealthinsurancediscountthroughSMARTPlanorChamberPlusPlan(ifeligible)
RetirementdiscountthroughEXCHANGEProgram
7.5%discountoninvestorduesuponimplementingDrugsDon'tWorkProgram
Accesstoinvestor-to-investorcouponsanddiscountportal
OpportunitytorentChambermeetingroomsatdiscountedinvestorrate
THANKYOU CORNERSTONE INVESTORS THANKYOU CORNERSTONE INVESTORS
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FORRESTB.JOHNSON&ASSOCIATES
GEORGIAVOCATIONAL
REHABILITATIONAGENCY
IRVINGCONSUMERPRODUCTS
JONESCORK,LLP
KUMHOTIREGEORGIA,INC
L.E.SCHWARTZ&SON,INC.
MACONCOCA-COLABOTTLINGCO. MCNAIR,MCLEMORE, MIDDLEBROOKS&CO.,LLC
NEWTOWNMACON
ORTHOGEORGIA
RENASANTBANK
STRATFORDACADEMY
SYNOVUSBANK
TURNERJOBCORPS
WESLEYANCOLLEGE
YKKAPAMERICA
