What is a Chamber?

A chamber of commerce (also referred to in some circles as a board of trade) is a form of business network, e.g., a local organization of businesses whose goal is to further the interests of businesses. Business owners in towns and cities form these local societies to advocate on behalf of the business community. Local businesses are members, and they elect a board of directors or executive council to set policy for the chamber. The board or council then hires a President, CEO or Executive Director, plus staffing appropriate to size, to run the organization.

For more information about joining the Chamber contact:

Diane Stephenson
Phone: 905-522-1151 Ext. 220
E-mai: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Mission Statement

The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, as the voice of ethical enterprise, is committed to making the City of Hamilton and all of its communities a great place to live, work, play, visit and invest, by promoting private sector jobs and prosperity growth of individuals, organizations and businesses.

Motto

"Vision to See!  -  Faith to Believe!  -  Courage to Do!"

Our Strategic Goals

1. Membership Value

Communications: Keep members informed and knowledgeable of all the benefits and advantages enjoyed by belonging to the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce.

Programs: Provide outstanding value added support and services that will engage our members and increase value of membership.

Events: Provide Networking and learning venues, including the creative use of technology, to assist members in growing their business, encouraging involvement, and have fun.

2. Advocacy

Be the recognized and effective "Voice of Hamilton Business" particularly encouraging business investment to create jobs and prosperity for a truly sustainable community.

3. Membership Growth

To grow the membership over a period ending 2012 by a net of 50% through a combination of enhanced membership recruiting and improved retention.

4. Organizational Development

To provide Chamber Staff and Volunteers with a stable, challenging, and productive environment that promotes a cohesive team to provide strong support for members.

Core Values

• Consistently championing free enterprise and open competition; and ethical business practices.
• Embracing a Hamilton of Many Communities with one Economy, working in a strong Ontario within a united Canada.
• Encourage compliance with legal authority, but working to limit undue government intervention.
• Maximize local jobs and prosperity, within a Triple Bottom Line context; preferring a collaborative approach, but not at the expense of other core values.

Related Links

	Chamber Brochure
	Chamber Affinity Program
	Public Policy Positions
	Chamber By-Laws Brochure

Annual Report 2009

Financial Statement 2009